Sitting right in the heart of Ohio, Columbus—named after explorer Christopher Columbus—is the state capital and the largest city in Ohio, with a population of nearly 900,000. Often called "The Arch City," Columbus gets its nickname from its iconic arches, which once served as the framework for streetlights and wires for the city’s electric streetcar system in the early 1900s.
While widely known as the home of Ohio State University, Columbus has also made its mark in innovation and boasts top-notch cultural attractions like the award-winning Columbus Zoo. Its central location puts you within reach of nearly every part of the state. Whether you’re interested in history, education, the arts, or just a lively metropolitan lifestyle, Columbus caters to a wide range of interests. Let’s dive into what makes this Midwestern gem so special.
1. Columbus is home of the Buckeyes—the Ohio State Buckeyes, that is!
With eight claimed national championships, dozens of Big Ten titles, and a long list of All-Americans and Heisman winners, Ohio State University football is a powerhouse that draws national attention every fall.
Game days turn the city scarlet and gray as fans pack Ohio Stadium, tailgates spill onto streets, and local businesses buzz from morning to night. In Columbus, Buckeye football isn’t just a pastime; it’s a shared tradition that shapes weekends, fuels pride, and connects the community.
2. You’ll get to experience all four weather seasons—but there’s a twist!
Columbus is known for having an average of nearly 200 cloudy days annually. With 365 days a year, more than half of your upward gazes will meet shades of gray—not 50 shades, but enough to make you wonder if you’ll ever see blue skies again!
3. There’s a hopping beer scene.
Columbus was named 2025’s 5thbest beer city in the country, and the numbers back it up. With nearly 40 breweries and over 600 bars, you can find your groove in everything from casual taprooms to lively beer gardens.
And what would a beer scene be without a standout annual festival? Schmidt’s Columbus Oktoberfest is a wildly popular three-day event featuring a kick-off party that stretches into the night. In addition to food and live entertainment, the festival hosts competitions like a log press and keg toss.
4. The overall cost of living is below the national average.
Living in Columbus means spending less on transportation, healthcare, and goods and services. The average rent in Columbus is $1,159, which is 29.2% lower than the national average. With housing costs taking a smaller bite out of your budget, you’ll have more disposable income to enjoy. Plus, with the overall cost of living being 5.2% below the national average, Columbus truly provides more bang for your buck!
5. There’s a large culinary landscape.
Not only does Columbus serve as one of the nation’s test market for major food chains, it has also earned a reputation as a foodie destination, landing a spot on Condé Nast’s 2024 Readers’ Choice list for Best Food Cities in the U.S.
Beyond classic American dining, the city has plenty of restaurants that feature international cuisine. And like New York and Chicago, Columbus even has its own unique style of pizza!
6. Fortune 500 companies are headquartered here.
While dozens of corporations have a substantial footprint in Columbus, a few stand out by ranking on the Fortune 500 list, including Nationwide Insurance and Cardinal Health. The city also shines in education, boasting a total of 21 colleges and universities within its limits.
7. The riverwalk is award-winning.
The Scioto Riverwalk is Columbus’s breezy front porch—a sparkling stretch where river views, skyline selfies, and people-watching all vie for first place. Stroll or bike along the paved paths past lush parks like Bicentennial Park and the Scioto Mile Promenade, pause by the dancing fountains, or relax on a riverside lawn as kayakers glide by. Named a runner-up in USA Today’s 2025 10Best for Best Riverwalk, the Scioto is sure to impress!
8. There’s a festival for practically anything—and everything.
If you love any excuse to celebrate with your neighbors, Columbus has you covered with a packed calendar of events all year long. And these aren’t just your run-of-the-mill festivals.
The annual Food Truck Festival draws 50 gourmet food trucks from across the Midwest. There’s also the quirky and colorful Doo Dah Parade every July 4th—a 40-year tradition. Taco Fest is so beloved that it happens not once, but twice a year. And let’s not forget Zucchinifest and the Mac and Cheese Festival!
9. There are more than 200 neighborhoods in Columbus, OH.
From the cobblestone streets and historic brick homes of German Village to the bright murals and eclectic shops of the Short North Arts District, the city offers a rich mosaic of neighborhoods to explore.
In Clintonville, you’ll find leafy streets and a strong sense of community, while downtown showcases modern apartments, busy markets, and constant action to fill your weekends. Easton Town Center blends shopping and dining with a chic flair, while areas like Olde Town East showcase Victorian architecture. Together, these neighborhoods create the diverse fabric that gives Columbus its unique personality.
Choosing from over 200 neighborhoods doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With Apartments.com, you can filter your search results to suit your size, desired area, price range, and amenities. Plus, our 3D Matterport tours let you virtually walk through an apartment, saving you time and gas. Start your search for rentals in Columbus, OH today!
