Off-Campus Housing Guide: Ohio State University

The Ohio State University is one of the largest universities in the country, with a sprawling campus just north of downtown Columbus. OSU is known for major programs across engineering, business, and the sciences, plus a football program at Ohio Stadium that draws over 100,000 fans on home Saturdays.

Columbus is a large, fast-growing city, and OSU students have an unusually wide range of off-campus neighborhoods to choose from, from the streets immediately bordering campus to trendier districts a short bus ride away. This Off-Campus Housing Guide covers the top neighborhoods, what off-campus life looks like, and local spots worth knowing.

Off-Campus Housing Guide: Best Neighborhoods Near Ohio State University

The University District, the streets directly surrounding campus, dense with student rental houses and apartments and the easiest walk to class.

Old North Columbus, just north of the University District, slightly quieter with a similar mix of houses and apartments at a modest discount.

Short North Arts District, a trendy strip of galleries, restaurants, and bars between campus and downtown, popular with upperclassmen who want a nightlife scene beyond the immediate campus area.

Off-Campus Student Life at Ohio State University

The Oval, OSU's large central campus green, is the heart of daily student life, and High Street running the length of campus is lined with the bars, restaurants, and shops that make up most students' everyday routine.

Columbus's growing food and brewery scene, concentrated in the Short North and nearby German Village, gives students easy access to a bigger-city social life without leaving the immediate area.

Nearby Spots Worth Knowing

• The Oval — OSU's iconic central campus green and a hub for student life between classes.

• Ohio Stadium — "The Horseshoe," home of Buckeyes football and one of the largest stadiums in the country.

• Short North Arts District — galleries, restaurants, and nightlife between campus and downtown Columbus.

• German Village — a historic, walkable neighborhood south of downtown known for its restaurants and brick streets.

Find your off-campus home near Ohio State University at Off-Campus Universe — browse verified listings near Columbus by neighborhood and price.

This article is provided by an independent housing resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Ohio State University.