Columbus has a small-town atmosphere with big city energy, which is why many call it “America’s biggest small town.” A variety of neighborhoods allows renters to find the perfect match for them as the city is one of the fastest growing cities in the US.
Whether you want tree-lined historic streets, art and dining options, or city living with entertainment at your doorstep, Columbus has options for every renter. Below are five top neighborhoods in the city and what makes each unique.
The five best neighborhoods in Columbus for renters are:
Bexley
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Columbus: $1,165/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Bexley: $1,051/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in Bexley: 702 square feet
Why Bexley is good for renters
Bexley is a charming, well‑established suburb just east of Downtown Columbus. With brick streets, historic homes, and lush parks, it offers a peaceful yet connected feel. Nature blooms along the Alum Creek, where people enjoy the trails and parks along its banks. Residents love strolling along Main Street and popping into one of the many eateries, local shops, or theaters.
|
Fairly Walkable |
Limited Public Transit |
Exceptionally Drivable |
Fairly Bikeable |
50Bexley has a walkability score of 50 out of 100 |
20Bexley has a transit score of 20 out of 100 |
90Bexley has a drivability score of 90 out of 100 |
50Bexley has a bikeability score of 50 out of 100 |
Keep in mind
Because of its desirability, rents and home values tend to be higher here compared to many other parts of Columbus.
Franklin Park
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Columbus: $1,165/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Franklin Park: $960/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in Franklin Park: 541 square feet
Why Franklin Park is good for renters
Franklin Park offers historic charm not far from the city center. It’s home to the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens and part of the Historic Trolley District, which features eateries, breweries, markets, and local events. East Broad Street provides residents a quick trip to Downtown Columbus, which is less than three miles away, for easy access to jobs, arts, and nightlife.
|
Moderately Walkable |
Limited Public Transit |
Exceptionally Drivable |
Moderately Bikeable |
60Franklin Park has a walkability score of 60 out of 100 |
30Franklin Park has a transit score of 30 out of 100 |
90Franklin Park has a drivability score of 90 out of 100 |
70Franklin Park has a bikeability score of 70 out of 100 |
Keep in mind
The neighborhood is primarily residential, so renters might rely on public transit or driving for some errands.
German Village
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Columbus: $1,165/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in German Village: $1,371/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in German Village: 895 square feet
Why German Village is good for renters
German Village is one of Columbus’s most iconic historic neighborhoods. Brick‑lined streets, lush gardens, and 19th‑century homes give it unique character, and the area is incredibly walkable. You’ll find top‑rated restaurants, boutiques, coffee shops, and community events like farmers markets right outside your front door. Scioto Audubon Metro Park and Schiller Park add a touch of green to the urban atmosphere.
|
Very Walkable |
Some Public Transit |
Moderately Drivable |
Moderately Bikeable |
80German Village has a walkability score of 80 out of 100 |
40German Village has a transit score of 40 out of 100 |
60German Village has a drivability score of 60 out of 100 |
70German Village has a bikeability score of 70 out of 100 |
Keep in mind
Due to its popularity and historic charm, the rental markets can be competitive with higher rents and limited availability.
Necko-Weinland Park
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Columbus: $1,165/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Necko-Weinland Park: $1,138/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in Necko-Weinland Park: 550 square feet
Why Necko-Weinland Park is good for renters
Necko-Weinland Park has seen revitalization with restored homes, mixed-use developments, and local dining along North High Street. Part of Columbus’ University District, the neighborhood’s proximity to Ohio State University and downtown makes it appealing for renters who want both city life and community charm.
|
Exceptionally Walkable |
Some Public Transit |
Fairly Drivable |
Exceptionally Bikeable |
90Necko-Weinland Park has a walkability score of 90 out of 100 |
50Necko-Weinland Park has a transit score of 50 out of 100 |
40Necko-Weinland Park has a drivability score of 40 out of 100 |
90Necko-Weinland Park has a bikeability score of 90 out of 100 |
Keep in mind
Parts of the area are still evolving, so some blocks feel more established than others.
Discovery District
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Columbus: $1,165/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Discovery District: $1,311/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in Discovery District: 665 square feet
Why Discovery District is good for renters
Located in Downtown Columbus, next to Uptown District, the Discovery District is a cultural hub with access to museums, parks, cafés, and entertainment. Revolving around the arts, the neighborhood is anchored by the Columbus Museum of Art and the Columbus College of Arts & Design. You’ll feel the arts-centric atmosphere as you walk along living sculptures in the Topiary Park and pass by trendy shops and restaurants that stay open late. Even the neighborhood’s events cater to the arts with art walks and local markets.
|
Very Walkable |
Good Public Transit |
Exceptionally Drivable |
Moderately Bikeable |
80Discovery District has a walkability score of 80 out of 100 |
60Discovery District has a transit score of 60 out of 100 |
90Discovery District has a drivability score of 90 out of 100 |
60Discovery District has a bikeability score of 60 out of 100 |
Keep in mind
Because this area is downtown, expect a higher-energy vibe with more traffic compared to quieter residential neighborhoods.
Ready to Make the Move?
If Columbus has caught your eye, take the next step by searching for rentals on Apartments.com! Whether you’re looking for a more historic, relaxed vibe or energetic downtown living, Columbus’s neighborhoods have something to offer. Wherever you are and wherever you’re going, you can find the perfect home in Columbus thanks to Apartments.com.
Methodology
Rent and cost of living data are sourced from the Apartments.com Rent Trends pages and Cost of Living Calculator. Walkability, transit, drivability, and bikeability ratings are sourced from the Apartments.com Area Guides, courtesy of Local Logic.
This article was originally published on January 12, 2026, and has been updated to reflect March 2026 data.
FAQs
Is Columbus a good place to live?
Yes, Columbus is a great place to live thanks to its mix of city amenities, cultural attractions, and affordable cost of living. The city offers a lively arts scene, diverse neighborhoods, numerous parks and outdoor spaces, and growing job opportunities across sectors like education, healthcare, and tech. Its size and Midwestern character help it feel like a big city without some of the costs and congestion of larger metros.
Is Columbus an expensive place to live?
No, Columbus is not an expensive place to live as the city is known for being quite affordable. The average rent in Columbus is 28% lower than the national average. The cost of living in Columbus is also 7% lower than the national average.
What’s the average rent in Columbus?
The average rent in Columbus is $1,165/month, as of March 2026. This is 28% lower than the national average rent of $1,627/month.
What salary do you need to live in Columbus?
To live comfortably in Columbus as a single adult with no dependents, our cost of living data suggests aiming for an income of around $70,000 per year. This level can help cover housing, groceries, transportation, and other basic living costs without undue financial strain.
