Welcome to Columbus, Ohio. This midwestern city is not only the state’s capital but also a hub for young and artistic residents, who are drawn to the city’s festivals, sports games, sprawling parks, and eclectic boutiques.
Columbus is known for its patchwork of neighborhoods, each with a distinct character.
While history lovers flock to German Village, those in search of high-quality schools are drawn to Clintonville or Upper Arlington. Short North is perfect for artsy folks, and Victorian Village is sprinkled with beautiful architecture that any historic home lover is sure to appreciate.
Read about these neighborhoods in our roundup of the best neighborhoods in Columbus.
German Village
German Village is a historic neighborhood located just south of downtown Columbus. This neighborhood is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, largely due to the beautifully restored 19th-century brick buildings that line the street. But don’t let its old-world charm fool you. Come nightfall, the neighborhood transforms into a lively hotspot with vibrant nightlife. Popular bars in German Village include Club 185 and The Olde Mohawk.
The area boasts an array of boutique shops, trendy restaurants, and relaxing parks, creating a welcoming and lively atmosphere. German Village is particularly sought after by those who appreciate history and a strong sense of community.
Here are some more statistics about German Village.
- Population: 4,331
- Average Home Sale Price: $505,000
- Average Rent Price: $1,500
- Median Household Income: $64,000
- Any Cons? There is limited parking and limited green space. German Village is also a tourist destination, meaning there is higher tourist traffic.
Short North
Situated just north of downtown Columbus, the Short North is a vibrant and eclectic arts district. There is a strong LGBTQ+ community here, and art galleries, boutiques, and bars line the streets. One day every month is dedicated to celebrating the arts, thanks to the neighborhood’s Gallery Hop, a tradition that dates back 30 years.
Short North is also known for its wonderful dining options, from unique desserts at CRMD to fresh oysters at The Pearl. There are also breweries, like BrewDog Short North, and lively bars, like Oddfellows Liquor Bar, sprinkled throughout the neighborhood.
Housing options here include historic structures as well as contemporary living spaces.
- Population: 1,758
- Average Home Sale Price: $350,000
- Average Rent Price: $1,800
- Median Household Income: $53,000
- Any Cons? The area can become noisy, particularly due to the nightlife here. There is also increased traffic congestion and limited parking.
Victorian Village
Adjacent to the Short North, Victorian Village is an enchanting neighborhood characterized by its historic homes and tree-lined streets. The neighborhood boasts a variety of Victorian architectural styles, including Early Gothic Revival, Folk Victorian, Italianate, and Romanesque styles.
The area is also home to Goodale Park, a picturesque green space. Victorian Village is also close to Ohio State University and the Ohio State Campus, which ensures that residents have easy access to fresh local produce, unique eateries, and a vibrant student community.
- Population: 4,157
- Average Home Sale Price: $450,000
- Average Rent Price: $1,700
- Median Household Income: $53,000
- Any Cons? Noise levels could be a concern, especially during peak times or due to events and festivals.
Italian Village
Once home to a large Italian immigrant population, Italian Village has undergone significant revitalization in recent years, transforming into a trendy and sought-after locale. You’ll find a mix of both historic homes and modern developments here, making the neighborhood appealing to a diverse crowd.
The neighborhood is buzzing with growing businesses, cafes, bars, and top restaurants, including Arch City Tavern, The Rossi Kitchen & Bar, and Marcella’s, to name a few. Just a stone’s throw away, you can also explore the vibrant Arena District and the nearby Brewery District.
The neighborhood, one of the many vibrant Columbus neighborhoods, also celebrates its rich Italian cultural background through annual events like the Columbus Italian Festival, which features a wide variety of delicious food and entertainment.
- Population: 2,858
- Average Home Sale Price: $380,000
- Average Rent Price: $1,600
- Median Household Income: $53,000
- Any Cons? Rapid gentrification of this area may contribute to changes in the neighborhood’s character, impacting its historical authenticity. There is also heightened competition for housing here.
Clintonville
Clintonville lies north of downtown. Known for its walkable streets, independent shops, and proximity to Whetstone Park, it is the perfect place to raise a family. The neighborhood also takes pride in its highly-rated schools, including Clintonville Academy, The Graham School, Colerain Elementary School, and Whetstone High School.
Clintonville also offers a diverse array of entertainment and shopping options. From watching movies and sipping beer at Studio 35 Cinema & Drafthouse to exploring Columbus Park of Roses and Overbrook Ravine PArk, there are plenty of things to do here.
- Population: 28,716
- Average Home Sale Price: $300,000
- Average Rent Price: $1,200
- Median Household Income: $71,000
- Any Cons? There are fewer nightlife options in Clintonville, and access to public transportation is limited. Residents here likely need their own vehicle.
Olde Towne East
Olde Towne East is an up-and-coming neighborhood just east of downtown. With its grand historic homes, diverse architecture, and a growing arts scene, the area attracts residents seeking the buzz of an urban space and the close-knit community feel of a small town.
Recently, Olde Towne East underwent a major revitalization, with efforts dedicated to reviving the neighborhood while preserving its rich historic charm. Since then, the neighborhood has seen the emergence of trendy cafes, art galleries, and eclectic boutiques. Popular restaurants include Yellow Brick Pizza and The Olde Towne Tavern.
- Population: 5,380
- Average Home Sale Price: $250,000
- Average Rent Price: $1,100
- Median Household Income: $45,000
- Any Cons? As the area becomes more popular, there may be concerns about rising property values and the potential displacement of long-time residents due to gentrification. There are also occasional safety concerns.
Upper Arlington
Although technically its own city, Upper Arlington is often considered a suburb of Colombus due to its proximity and its role as part of the Columbus metropolitan area.
This area is known for its excellent schools, parks, and upscale residences, which make it an extremely attractive place for families and young professionals. Two notable schools in this area include Upper Arlington High School and Tremont Elementary School.
The Upper Arlington community cherishes public art and offers 23 parks covering some 180 acres. There are tree-lined streets, golf courses, and a variety of recreational facilities, including Tremont Pool.
- Population: 36,295
- Average Home Sale Price: $450,000
- Average Rent Price: $1,800
- Median Household Income: $144,000
- Any Cons? Upper Arlington is more expensive than other areas in Ohio. There is also limited diversity and fewer transportation options.
Tips for Moving to Columbus
From its low cost of living to the many jobs available, Columbus is a fantastic place to live. If you’re gearing up for a move to Colombus, here are a couple of tips to help make the city feel like home.
Embrace Local Culture
Lean into the local culture. Before long, you’ll start to feel a strong sense of belonging in Columbus. Check out the city’s event calendar to stay up-to-date on local events, including live performances, art exhibitions, pottery classes, and trivia nights.
Keep an eye on the Columbus Arts Festival, showcasing local and international artists, and the Ohio State Fair for a taste of the region’s agricultural and creative talents.
Experience Buckeye Pride
Immerse yourself in the spirited culture of Columbus by attending Ohio State Buckeyes’ football games, whether at the iconic Horseshoe, the Ohios State Stadium, or at a lively sports bar. The electric energy of game day in Columbus is an experience not to be missed.
Use Public Transportation
Learn about the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) to navigate the city conveniently through its bus services. Familiarize yourself with bus routes, schedules, and the COTA pass system to optimize your transportation experience.
Another great transportation option in Columbus, Ohio, is CoGo Bike Share, an affordable and easy bicycle-sharing system, CoGo provides a network of bike stations strategically placed throughout Columbus.
Downsize if Necessary
Although Columbus is a pretty budget-friendly city, it is the most populous city in Ohio, which means prices are a little higher than in the surrounding suburbs. If you’re worried about financing your move, consider downsizing to a smaller apartment or home.
To accommodate belongings that don’t fit into your new home, consider renting a storage unit to safeguard your items. You can also save money by opting for a self-storage marketplace, like Neighbor.
Make your Move Easy
Planning a move can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are a couple of helpful links to facilitate your move.
- How To Move Out Of State In 2024: Checklist And Tips On Moving To Another State
- The Definitive Guide to a Quick, Painless Move-Out Day
- Dealing With Moving Stress: Tips to Manage Anxiety When Moving
- Ultimate College Packing List for the 2023-2024 School Year
- A Comprehensive Guide on How to Move Long Distances With Pets
- How to Move Heavy Furniture by Yourself: A Complete Guide
In Summary
Your new life awaits you in Columbus. If it’s your first time living in the Midwest, remember that this part of the country is known for its friendly atmosphere and hospitality, so take advantage of the warmth of the Columbus, Ohio, community. Introduce yourself to your neighbors, attend local events, and strike up conversations while at cafes or shops.
