Moving to Columbus: A Near East Side Starter Guide
New to Columbus, or moving across town? Here's a practical rundown of what it's like to rent on the Near East Side — the commutes, the costs, and what to have ready before you sign a lease.
Why people are moving to Columbus
Columbus is one of the fastest-growing large cities in the Midwest — a hub for healthcare, education, tech, and government, anchored by employers like the Ohio State University and its medical center. It's known for being livable and relatively affordable, with a genuine neighborhood culture and an easy pace compared with bigger coastal metros.
Why the Near East Side works
The Near East Side — home to the historic King-Lincoln Bronzeville district — is about as central as it gets. From 476 Taylor you're roughly:
- ~5 minutes to Downtown Columbus
- ~10 minutes to the Short North Arts District
- Directly across from the OSU Wexner Medical Center campus
- Minutes to Bexley, Olde Towne East, and Franklin Park
- ~10 minutes to John Glenn Columbus International Airport
With quick access to I-670 and I-71 (and I-315 close by), most of the city is a short drive away — great whether you commute for work or just like being close to everything.
What renting here costs
At 476 Taylor, starting rents are:
- Studios (The Beck) — from $1,020/mo
- One-bedrooms (The Morgan) — from $1,199/mo
- Two-bedrooms (The Hudson) — from $1,695/mo
Pricing and availability change often, so check live availability for current homes and rates.
What to budget beyond rent
- Application fee: $50 per applicant
- Security deposit: typically about one month's rent — with a deposit-free Obligo option, and a reduced $700 deposit for qualified applicants with 700+ credit
- Utilities: trash is included; residents pay water, sewer, and electric, and fiber internet is ready to go
- Parking: gated, secured spaces available for a monthly fee
- Pets: up to two per home, screened through PetScreening.com, with a pet deposit and monthly pet rent
See our full application qualifications for the details.
Your move-in checklist
- Tour first — book a self-guided, in-person, or live virtual tour to see the home in person or on video
- Have your documents ready — ID and proof of income speed up the application
- Fill out a quick online application for the home you want
- Set up your electric service ahead of move-in
- Plan parking and pets if they apply to you
Common questions
Is the Near East Side a good place to live?
Yes — the Near East Side and King-Lincoln Bronzeville are among the most central, well-connected parts of Columbus, minutes from Downtown, the Short North, and the OSU Wexner Medical Center.
What do I need to apply?
A $50-per-applicant application fee, ID, and proof of income. The deposit is typically about one month's rent, with Obligo (deposit-free) and a reduced $700 option for 700+ credit. Leases run 12–18 months.
What utilities will I pay?
Trash is included. You pay water, sewer, and electric, and fiber internet is ready to go from day one.