Making a Move? Consider Columbus!
Columbus has transformed into so much more than just Ohio's capital city. In fact, Forbes recently reported that Columbus is the 14th largest city in the nation and grew by more than 10% over the last few years.
If you're thinking of moving to "C-bus," you're in good company...and we'd love to show you around! Here are a few facts to help you get settled in.
Columbus has a low cost of living and a diverse job market
According to AreaVibes, the cost of living in Columbus is a solid 10% below the national average, making it an affordable place to call home. However, it's also a top-notch place for education, innovation, and endless job opportunities. For decades, Columbus has been an epicenter of the Midwest, largely thanks to institutions like The Ohio State University, OhioHealth, the state government, JP Morgan Chase, and Nationwide.
Columbus isn't a cowtown anymore!
Though it was once known as "Cowtown" due to its aging agricultural industry, Columbus has since grown into its state capital status. Today, you'll find newly revitalized neighborhoods, growing suburbs, and countless events and festivals, as well as thriving small business and culinary scenes. Columbus even has its own museums, zoo, and stadium arena!
Columbus is a diverse (and growing!) metropolitan area
Believe it or not, Columbus's diverse demographic map actually resembles the rest of the country. As such, the city is frequently used as a test market for new products, and it's also an ideal barometer for the nation as a whole. So if you want to test a brand-new Starbucks drink before everyone else...it's time to head to Columbus!
There's a neighborhood for everyone
In total, Columbus covers 223 square miles and features dozens of eclectic neighborhoods. Whether you choose to settle down in one of the area's serene suburbs, the European-inspired community of German Village, or the exciting Arena District, you'll have no trouble finding your niche in C-bus.
Want to explore all of Columbus's top communities? Take a look at my local guides to get started!
Public transportation makes getting around a breeze
Although most Columbus residents primarily get around via car, the city still has a solid public transit system for commuters. The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) operates buses throughout Downtown Columbus. COTA even provides a free commuter line in the Short North and German Village!
To top it all off, the average commute time in Columbus is just under 22 minutes, which is far below the national average.
Columbus has an impressive parks system
If you love spending time in the great outdoors, Columbus could be the place for you. The Columbus Department of Parks and Recreation oversees 370 city parks, and the area is also home to 19 regional parks, the Metro Parks, and the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium.
You'll often find C-bus locals staying active on the Olentangy Greenway, a multi-use path for runners, walkers, and cyclists. The Highbanks Metro Park and Champions Golf Course also draw thousands of visitors per year.
A+ schools at every grade level
Students living in Ohio's capital city area attend Columbus City Schools, an expansive public district that operates 118 institutions and employs more than 11,000 people. In total, CCS serves just under 50,000 students.
Columbus is also known for its robust system of public and private colleges. Here are just a few popular options:
- Franklin University
- Capital University
- Columbus College of Art & Design
- Columbus Community College
- Otterbein University
- Ohio Dominican University
- The Ohio State University
Events, activities, and things to do—the fun never ends!
After you've moved to Columbus, it won't take you long to find countless exciting things to do! If you really want to live like a local, we recommend catching one of the Columbus Symphony Orchestra's spectacular performances, cheering on the Buckeyes at a home game, or attending one of the city's countless events (like Rock on the Range or Park Street Festival).
Columbus is also known for its blossoming foodie scene. Highlights include the German cuisine at Schmidt’s Sausage Haus and Restaurant, iconic pita sandwiches from Brassica in the Short North, and gourmet burgers courtesy of The Thurman Cafe.
As if that isn't enough, Ohio's capital city even has a unique network of museums, such as COSI and the Columbus Museum of Art.
The Columbus housing market is hotter than ever
Despite its one-of-a-kind locale, Columbus's housing market is actually pretty affordable. The average home in Columbus sells for just $175,000, which is significantly lower than the national average. Here, you'll discover single-family homes, condos, apartments, and so much more at every price point.
Moving to Columbus isn't hard!
If you're ready to move to Columbus, you can complete a lot of vital tasks online. New residents can register to vote on the Franklin County Board of Elections website. Drivers licenses are renewable at various DMV locations, and you can even check in online to avoid a long wait time. Utility bills can also be paid via the City of Columbus website.
Ready to Call Columbus Home?
If Columbus sounds like your kind of city, we'd love to show you around! Whether you're looking for a suburban oasis or a big-city residence, you can trust us to help you every step of the way. Get in touch with our team to get started!