Renting in Suburban Columbus, OH: Save Money and Live Within 20 Minutes of Downtown

Columbus – the capital city of Ohio – has all the attractions you would expect from a major metropolitan area: a thriving art scene, family events, and an exciting nightlife. Also home to the top-tier Ohio State University and Columbus College of Art and Design, Columbus has a large student population and, consequently, an on-going demand for rentals. Apartments for rent in Columbus, OH cost in average $740 for a one-bedroom unit.

If you’re a student on a budget, consider these very attractive and affordable rental options within a short drive to downtown:

Hilliard, OH

Commute time to downtown Columbus: 17 minutes
Best find: Hilliard Village
Perks: $640 for a 615 sq. ft. 1-bedroom apartment, pool, sundeck, basketball court, volleyball court, tennis court, and fitness room

Located in Franklin County, Hilliard is one of the best-rated suburbs of Columbus. It has a scenic downtown area that is home to the annual Old Hilliard Fest, and its well-known Fourth of July parade. The Franklin County Agricultural Society hosts the annual Franklin County Fair in Hilliard, which draws crowds from the entire state of Ohio. When you live at Hilliard Village, you are close to the city, and at the same time enjoy more space and amenities for less than living in the city.

Reynoldsburg, OH

Commute time to downtown Columbus: 18 minutes
Best find: Ardsley Ridge
Perks: $695 for 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath, 850 sq. ft. apartment; pool, beach volleyball court, tennis court, picnic area and beautifully finished units

Located in Reynoldsburg, OH – a sought-after suburb east of the city – less than 20 minutes away from the OSU campus, the Ardsley Ridge apartment community offers quality-finished interiors and a-step-above-the-rest amenities. Get more living space for the money, enjoy evenings with friends in the picnic area or by the pool, and be active on the tennis court, volleyball court or fitness center.

Whitehall, OH

Commute time to downtown Columbus: 17 min
Best find: Stonecrest
Perks: $569 for a 1-bedroom apartment, $679 for a 2-bedroom apartment; top-rated community, pool, sundeck, near public transit

Whitehall, OH is a young suburban community right outside of Columbus, that hosts fun events year-round such as the Food Truck and Fun Fest and farmers markets. Our best find in the area is the very affordable Stonecrest community, featuring apartments with large closets and extra storage space, wall-to-wall carpeting and upgraded cabinets and countertops. For $679 in monthly rent you can share a two-bedroom apartment with a roommate and save money for other fun activities.