Moving to Columbus: Affordable Suburbs

This article was written by Nick Elam of Zillow for Columbus on the Cheap.

Relocating to the “‘burbs,” as Columbus locals often say, is ideal for families searching for new homes. Columbus families often live just outside the city limits in the suburbs. Bordering cities offer a more family-friendly pace of life with close proximity to Columbus for those working in the city. These cities provide residents with quick city access, small community comforts, quality schools and family attractions.

Homes in the city of Columbus have a median home value of $102,900 and a median monthly rent price of $903. Home values are less expensive in Columbus than nationally ($176,500) and rents ($1,335 per month), according to Zillow’s Home Value Index. However Columbus doesn’t deliver the same balance of metropolitan conveniences and community-centered living as its surrounding cities. Most Columbus ‘burbs have higher home values than the city, but steeper prices buy lifestyles better suited for families.

Movers thinking about relocating to the greater Columbus area should check out these three ‘burbs for affordable and quality living.

Gahanna

The city of Gahanna offers residents a quaint suburban feel, just minutes away from Port Columbus International Airport, Downtown Columbus and most Central Ohio attractions. The median home value in Gahanna is $179,100 and renters can expect list prices at $1,025 a month. The city’s low cost attractions and outdoor recreation add to its overall affordability. Gahanna’s school system and low crime rates foster family-friendly living, too. Easy access to one of central Ohio’s last remaining forests, the Gahanna Woods State Nature Preserve, provides inexpensive weekend getaways for family.

Grove City

Grove City, which sits at the junction of Columbus’s Interstates 71 and 270, provides residents with quick access to urban living as well as the luxuries of small town life. The city’s median home value is $136,400 and monthly rent is $1,295. Homes in Grove City are more expensive than Columbus, yet less than Gahanna and national prices. Grove City also has a low cost of living, low crime and strong community voice. The city has a longstanding history of art and entertainment since the 1920s that remains an important element in today’s community. To get a feel for Grove City’s character, take a walk down Stringtown Road to view the city’s shops, historic town center and many restaurants.

Hilliard

Located on the west side of the Columbus metro, Hilliard has a rich heritage of railroad and pioneer structures. The community is expanding to add more family-friendly homes while incorporating historical architecture. Hilliard’s median home value is higher than previously mentioned locations at $200,000. The steeper value reflects the community’s diverse amenities and strong stewardship and restoration projects. Hilliard conveniently offers families an excellent school system, low crime rates and a large park with running trails.

While more expensive than city center living in Columbus, these cities are ideal alternatives for Columbus-bound renters and homebuyers who want access to the urban advantages, yet appreciate the quiet comfort of smaller communities.