9 Reasons to Consider Moving to Columbus, Ohio

Ohio’s capital city is a great place to work, raise a family and pursue new adventures. It’s home to an array of major industries, startup opportunities, cultural and art attractions, green space and nightlife.

Here are nine reasons you should move to Columbus, Ohio.

Columbus is Booming: Why You Should Consider Making the Move

#1: Below National Average Housing Cost

The cost of living in Columbus, Ohio, is roughly 7.5% lower than the national average. The higher annual salary and lower cost of living make a metropolitan lifestyle more accessible. The average apartment is about $1,000 per month and is usually located near entertainment, shopping and activity centers.

#2 Excellent Economy and Job Market

Another reason to relocate to Columbus, Ohio is it ranks as one of the Midwest’s top cities with the highest job growth. According to Forbes, the city has previously been ranked as the #1 rising city for startups.

SmartAsset also ranked Columbus within the top 10 Cities for Work-Life Balance. Several major companies are headquartered in Columbus, including Nationwide Mutual Insurance, L Brands, Safelite AutoGlass, Express, Inc., Worthington Industries and OhioHealth.

#3: The Ohio State University

Columbus is the heart of Buckeye country. The Ohio State University attracts various students who often settle in the area after graduation. The well-educated community has created a breeding ground for innovation and new ideas, supporting the city’s reputation as a haven for startups. Football is woven into the fabric of this city, so The Horseshoe is a hub for activity during the fall.

Here are a few programs offered at OSU:

  • Aerospace engineering
  • Aviation
  • Biochemistry
  • Chemical engineering
  • Exercise science education
  • Horticultural science
  • Livestock production and management
  • Visual communication design

#4: A Variety of Entertainment

Columbus knows how to entertain. The city is packed with eateries with direct access to fresh, local produce and ingredients. The Columbus brewing culture has been going strong since the late 1800s, and there are dozens of craft breweries to try.

The Short North Arts District has galleries, boutiques and restaurants. The Columbus Museum of Art features pieces by world-renowned artists such as Picasso, Matisse, Monet and Renoir. The Ohio Theater is home to the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, BalletMet and touring Broadway companies.

Here are other local attractions to visit:

#5: Outdoor Attractions

The Olentangy and Scioto rivers converge in Columbus, allowing residents to enjoy water sports like kayaking, canoeing and fishing. The Scioto Mile includes 175 acres of parkland running along the river.

The Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks have more than 20 parks, trails and greenways around the city. Each location has year-round and seasonal outdoor activities and sports, including:

  • Backpacking
  • Boating
  • Day camps
  • Disc golf
  • Biking
  • Horseback riding
  • Golfing
  • Sledding
  • Play areas

#6: A Variety of Cultures and Diversity

The average age of Columbus residents is around 32, and there are lots of people who’ve settled in the city who come from all over the world. There are large Japanese, Korean, Indian and Somali populations and a thriving LGBTQ community.

There’s a lineup of yearly festivals throughout Columbus that celebrate the city’s diversity, including Asian Festival, Festival Latino and Columbus Greek Festival. Living in Columbus, Ohio, means you can explore different cultures and histories.

#7: Food and Drink Destinations

The various cultural influences present chances to try different cuisine while you’re living in Columbus, Ohio. The city is home to a diverse food scene that includes lavish restaurants, bars, pubs, bakeries and coffee shops.

Here are some local favorites to try:

  • Schmidt’s Sausage Haus und Restaurant
  • Wolf’s Ridge Brewing
  • Stauf’s Coffee
  • Buckeye Donuts
  • Tommy’s Diner
  • The Thurman Café
  • Short North Pint House
  • Bodega

#8: 15-Minute Average Commute

If you’re relocating to Columbus, Ohio, you can drive to almost anywhere in the city in about 15 minutes. Columbus is several minutes below the national average when it comes to daily commutes, and the I-270 loop makes it easy to get to popular attractions and entertainment.

#9: A Dog-Friendly City

Columbus, Ohio, is a good place to have a dog, especially if you’re living in an apartment with a pet. There are restaurants, breweries and some shops that are dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry pal on your adventures.

Columbus has lots of dog parks, including:

  • Godown Dog Park
  • Wheeler Memorial Dog Park
  • Scioto Audubon Dog Park
  • Three Creeks Dog Park
  • Heritage Trail Dog Park
  • Big Walnut Dog Park

Ready to Make the Move to Columbus, Ohio?

Ardent Communities offers apartment and townhouse communities that are reasonably priced and located near many Columbus attractions. Call 614-253-7368 or connect with us online for more information.

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