Apartment size in Ohio: Where to start looking for large rentals

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Renting in Ohio offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern living, making it an appealing choice for many. From the buzzing streets of Columbus to the artsy vibe of Cincinnati and the industrial comeback of Cleveland, Ohio’s top cities offer something for every renter. Each one brings its own mix of character, culture, and housing options to suit every lifestyle.

Understanding the apartment size in Ohio is essential for those seeking their ideal living space. Recent trends indicate that new apartments are getting larger, catering to the evolving needs of renters. 

So, where are the biggest new apartments in Ohio? One thing’s for sure: Renters seeking a new place to call home in The Buckeye State are spoiled for choice. Let’s explore the top cities for apartment size in Ohio:

Cleveland

Cleveland, located on the shores of Lake Erie, has seen the biggest increase in apartment size among Ohio’s top cities. New rentals here average 879 square feet, compared to just 716 square feet for older units. This extra space gives renters more room to personalize their homes — whether that means creating a reading nook, setting up a home office, or hosting family gatherings.

The city is also known for its standout cultural attractions, including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Cleveland Museum of Art. A revitalized downtown adds even more appeal, offering plenty of entertainment options and waterfront spots for residents to enjoy.

What’s more, Cleveland’s extensive Metroparks system provides access to beautiful green spaces and outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking, making it easy for renters to maintain an active, healthy lifestyle.

Columbus

Columbus, the capital of Ohio, is known for its lively arts scene, diverse food culture, and the Ohio State University. New apartments here average 875 square feet — just 7 square feet larger than older units. It’s a small increase, but it reflects the growing demand for more space and developers’ efforts to meet it.

The city blends urban energy with suburban comfort, making it a great fit for both young professionals and families. With a strong job market — especially in government, education, and technology — Columbus offers plenty of career opportunities.

Renters also enjoy easy access to outdoor activities. They can hike in nearby parks, bike along the Olentangy River Trail, or picnic at the beautiful Franklin Park Conservatory. These amenities add to the city’s appeal and help create a well-rounded lifestyle.

Cincinnati

Located along the Ohio River, Cincinnati is known for its rich history, great food scene, and beautiful architecture. New apartments here average 851 square feet, which is 20 square feet larger than older units. This added space gives renters more flexibility to create functional layouts, including dedicated areas for work or hobbies.

Often called the Queen City, Cincinnati blends Midwestern charm with an upscale urban vibe. Its neighborhoods range from the historic Over-the-Rhine to the modern Banks district. The city is also a major hub for career growth, with strong industries like aerospace, consumer goods, and financial services — and several Fortune 500 companies.

Renters can also enjoy a wide range of cultural attractions, including the Cincinnati Art Museum, the Contemporary Arts Center, and the annual Cincinnati Music Festival.

Apartment sizes in Ohio vary widely across its major cities, giving renters plenty of options to match their needs. Each city offers its own character, amenities, and lifestyle, making them appealing places to call home.

Whether you’re drawn to the energy of Columbus, the cultural richness of Cincinnati, or the lakeside charm of Cleveland, you’ll find comfortable living spaces that fit your lifestyle. With so many apartment sizes and settings to choose from, Ohio makes it easy for renters to find a place that truly feels like home.

If you’re interested in what other states have to offer in terms of ample living spaces, check out our articles on apartment sizes in California, Texas, New York and Virginia.

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Florin Petrut

Florin Petrut is a real estate writer and research analyst with RentCafe, using his experience as a social media specialist and love for storytelling to create insightful reports and studies on the rental market. With a strong interest in the renter experience, he develops data-driven resources that explore cost of living, affordable neighborhoods, and housing trends, helping renters make informed decisions about where and how they live. Florin holds a B.A. in Journalism and an M.A. in Digital Media and Game Studies.

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