Where to Buy in Columbus: Neighborhoods with the Strongest ROI

Why Columbus Is an ROI-Friendly Market

• Strong population growth (fastest in Ohio)

• Affordable housing vs. national averages

• Expanding job market: healthcare, tech, education

• Multiple universities driving rental demand

Top Neighborhoods for Investors

University District (OSU)

• Tenant Base: Students, staff, young professionals

• Strengths: Always in demand

• Investor Tip: Best for high occupancy student rentals

Short North Arts District

• Tenant Base: Young professionals, creatives

• Strengths: Trendy, entertainment-driven

• Investor Tip: Premium rents, strong appreciation potential

German Village

• Tenant Base: Professionals, families, retirees

• Strengths: Historic charm, steady appreciation

• Investor Tip: Higher barrier to entry but strong long-term upside

Clintonville

• Tenant Base: Families, grad students, professionals

• Strengths: Near OSU, quiet neighborhoods

• Investor Tip: Ideal for buy-and-hold with stable tenants

Franklinton

• Tenant Base: Mixed (transitional area)

• Strengths: Redevelopment, affordability

• Investor Tip: Best for appreciation and value-add investors

Columbus Investor Metrics

• Average Rent Growth: 5–7% annually

• Median Home Price: ~$270,000 (as of 2025)

• Property Taxes: Higher than OKC (~1.6–2.0%)

• Cap Rates: 6–8% in many neighborhoods

Strategy Fit by Area

• Student Housing: University District

• Luxury Rentals: Short North, German Village

• BRRRR: Franklinton, Linden

• Buy & Hold: Clintonville, suburban Columbus

FAQs

Question	Answer
Where do students rent in Columbus?	University District, Clintonville, and areas near OSU.
Is German Village too expensive for investors?	Prices are higher, but appreciation is reliable and tenants pay premium rents.
What’s the best area for cash flow?	Franklinton and Linden, though they carry higher management needs.
Is Columbus landlord-friendly?	It’s neutral—no rent control, but stricter tenant protections than OKC.
What’s the average property management cost?	Around 8–12% of collected rent.