Neighborhoods

Most students live in dorms their first year at Ohio State and then move into off-campus housing for sophomore thru senior years. Living off-campus gives students direct access to shopping centers and eateries just a short stroll away from their homes.

Across from The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, there are multiple off-campus housing options down East 11th Avenue and Chittenden Avenue. On Chittenden Avenue, for example, there is 34 Chittenden Avenue. On East 11th Avenue, for example, there are Hometeam Properties and Grant Commons.

Located in North Campus, there's The Urban for those looking for newer housing options that come at a higher price tag. The location is just a short walk away from campus, making it a great off-campus apartment address for students. Further off-campus is the apartments of University Village. It is a popular choice among students as it offers a bus service directly to and from campus.

Along Kinnear Road, there are the Stadium View Apartments and The Commons on Kinnear Apartments, offering off-campus apartments near the Ohio State campus. The Commons is also conveniently located by a bus stop, making getting to and from campus that much easier for students living off-campus.

Dining

There are many restaurants close to off-campus apartments near Ohio State University. Just off campus, along North High Street, students can eat at Buffalo Wild Wings, Cazuelas Mexican Cantina, and New Taj Mahal. For those looking to indulge their sweet tooth, there's Insomnia Cookies, Buckeye Donuts, and Dunkin' Donuts.

On the other side of campus, there are many options along West Lane Avenue, including Fukuryu Ramen Arlington, Tommy's Pizza, Pho Asian Noodle House & Grill, and Crimson Cup Coffee Shop.

For those 21+, there is the Old North Arcade, which offers craft beers and cocktails to students as they play pinball, arcade, and video games. The Library, Out-R-Inn, and Varsity Club Restaurant & Bar are all just a short walk away from campus, making it easy for students to make happy hour and watch a sports game without straying too far from campus.

As for more vibrant nightlife options, there's Bullwinkle Nightclub/Bar, The Voice Karaoke Bar, and Avalon down North High Street.

Transportation

Ohio State offers the Campus Area Bus Service (CABS), a free transit service. No ID or pass is needed to use CABS. For students living in off-campus apartments, CABS is a great way to get around campus as it services campus and surrounding neighborhoods.

There is also the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA), which provides public transportation within Central Ohio and the Greater Columbus area. Many students use both COTA and CABS as they have multiple overlaps and make it easy to get between off-campus apartments and campus. If Ohio State students have their student ID, BuckID, they have unlimited access to COTA's entire bus system.

Parking

Ohio State offers permits to those parking on campus. Options include the annual permit, monthly permit, and daily permit. Students can also opt for hourly parking rates if needed.

For those living in off-campus apartments in Columbus, they may be required to purchase parking permits for street parking depending on which zone they live in. While some students opt to test their luck when it comes to trying to seek out free parking, it is advised to get a permit to be safe.

Safety

Ohio State University offers students the “Rave Guardian” directly in their Ohio State mobile apps. The Rave Guardian allows students to select friends or family as a virtual guardian to follow them via GPS tracking using a destination-based timer. If the student does not arrive at their destination by the time the self-set timer expires, their designated contacts will be alerted and encouraged to make follow-ups with the person or authorities.

Shopping

There are several grocery stores in the area surrounding Ohio State University. These include Kroger, Whole Foods, Walmart, Target, Aldi, and Lucky's Market. Together, they offer a diverse selection of options for students looking to fulfill their own dietary and budget needs, from organic products to budget-friendly deals.

There are also several shopping centers and malls in Columbus for students to meet their shopping needs. There is the Easton Town Center, an outdoor shopping center where students can dine and shop. There is also Short North, which offers art galleries, shops, and eateries. Likewise, Gateway - University District offers students plenty of dining choices and shopping options.