Considering moving to Columbus, Ohio? Not only is Ohio’s state capital one of the best cities for young professionals, but Arch City is also among the best places to live in the Midwest. We considered factors like affordable housing options, low crime rates, and overall quality of life to come up with a list of the best neighborhoods in Columbus. With budget-friendly living, safe streets, top amenities, and more, check out these five safe, affordable neighborhoods in Columbus!
Compare the cost of living in Columbus to your current city with our cost of living calculator.
Is Columbus a Safe Place to Live in 2027?
Yes, Columbus is considered a relatively safe place to live. The capital of Ohio is safer than 15% of U.S. cities, and crime rates in Columbus have decreased about 19% year over year. Some of the safest neighborhoods in Columbus, Ohio to consider settling down in include Bexley, Clintonville, and Victorian Village.
Bexley
- Home Price: $598,833 median purchase price; $596 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 94% of Ohio cities
- Perfect For: Students, singles, young professionals, families, retirees
Nestled about ten minutes east of Downtown Columbus amongst other Columbus metro neighborhoods, Bexley is a quiet, safe suburban city. Though prices are on the higher side for a Columbus suburb, the well-preserved Colonial-style houses, spacious yards, tree-lined streets, and many community events make this area worth the cost. Plus, the great educational opportunities at Bexley City Schools, St. Charles Preparatory School, and Columbus School for Girls make it one of the best areas for families in Columbus. Even young adults and college students appreciate Bexley for its proximity to Capital University.
Things to Do in Bexley
Explore the Conservatory, see exhibits like Harvest Blooms in the Botanical Gardens, or attend a daily glassblowing demonstration at the Hot Shop inside Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens. Launch down a waterslide, soak up the sun, or take a dip at Bexley Pool. Admire over 2,500 works of art—from sculptures to paintings—at the Schumacher Gallery. Watch blockbusters or independent films at the Drexel Theatre. Savor a Corned Beef Sandwich, French Toast, or Sam’s Western Omelet at Scotty’s Cafe. Choose from favorites like Lobster Tail, Baby Back Ribs, and Fresh Salmon at The Top Steak House—one of the best restaurants in Columbus. Order a Spicy Italian sub, specialty pizzas like the Maximum Pep and Veggie Blanco, or create your own pizza at Bexley Pizza Plus. Or satisfy your sweet tooth with a Clown Cone, Ice Cream Sandwich, or a scoop of Black Cherry ice cream from Johnson’s Real Ice Cream.
Q: Is Columbus a good place to live?
A: Columbus is a great city to live! In fact, the capital of Ohio is considered one of the best places to live in the Midwest. With affordable living options, a rich arts and culture scene, fun outdoor recreation opportunities, and more, Cbus offers something for everyone. A few top neighborhoods and suburbs in Columbus, Ohio to consider moving to include Bexley, Victorian Village, Clintonville, and more.
Clintonville
- Home Price: $489,281 median purchase price; $1,629 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 94% of Ohio cities
- Perfect For: Students, singles, young professionals, families
Want to live in one of the best neighborhoods in Columbus? Check out Clintonville! Close to The Ohio State University, Clintonville is one of the best places in Columbus for college students and young professionals working in higher education. Young adults will like this affordable Columbus neighborhood for its budget-friendly apartments, quick commute to the city center, and trendy coffee shops and bars along N High Street. Families living in Clintonville will appreciate being close to high-quality Columbus schools like Clintonville Academy, The Graham School, and Clinton Elementary School. And all residents will love the many affordable housing options like ranches, Craftsman, and Tudor-style homes for sale in Clintonville—plus great local events like the Clintonville Farmers Market!
Things to Do in Clintonville
Take a Self-Guided Dogwood Tour, Conifer Tour, or Redbud Tour at the Columbus Park of Roses, one of the largest rose gardens in the country. Practice pickleball, play a game of tennis, or reel in fish from the pond at Whetstone Park. Bring your child to events like Family Storytime, get crafty during Crochet Club, and browse works by your favorite authors at the Columbus Metropolitan Library‘s Whetstone Branch. View classics or new releases while enjoying a draft beer at Studio 35 Cinema & Drafthouse. Dig into Katalina’s Original Pancake Balls, Sister Sadie’s Eggs & Tators, and Mexican “French” Toast at Katalina’s, Too! Get a taste of Mediterranean dishes with a Gyro, Lamb Chops, or Falafel Plate at Lavash Cafe. Pick up vegan food in Columbus with options like the Spinach-Artichoke Dip, Raw Broccoli Soup, or Spanako Rice Wraps at Portia’s Cafe. Or create your own Pho Soup Bowl or try Vietnamese street food classics like the Pork Bahn-Mi Vietnamese Sub or Noodle Salad Bowl from 6-1-Pho.
Q: Is Columbus, Ohio safe?
A: Columbus is safer than 15% of U.S. cities, and there are a variety of areas with safe streets scattered in and around the city. Some of the safest places to live in Columbus, Ohio are Worthington, Bexley, and Clintonville, which pair low crime rates with budget-friendly housing prices and fun things to do for all ages!
Downtown Columbus
- Home Price: $433,172 median purchase price; $2,033 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 94% of Ohio cities
- Perfect For: Singles, young professionals, retirees
As the city’s hub for business and entertainment, Downtown Columbus is perfect for those who want to live near the action! The downtown neighborhood includes the Uptown, Arena, and Discovery Districts, so it’s full of trendy bars, restaurants, sporting events, and other fun things to do in Columbus. Residents living downtown will find no shortage of culture, from poetry readings and galleries to creative events like the Columbus Arts Festival. You’ll also have quick access to beautiful green spaces like Battelle Riverfront Park, popular community activities like North Market, and budget-friendly apartments and condos in this affordable Columbus neighborhood.
Things to Do in Downtown Columbus
Watch the puck fly across the rink during a Columbus Blue Jackets (NHL) game at the Nationwide Arena. Honor veterans from all branches of service at the National Veterans Memorial & Museum. Feel closer to far-away constellations in the COSI Planetarium or admire a full-size T-rex skeleton at the Center of Science & Industry (COSI). See everything from improv shows to plays at MadLab. Start your morning with a Matcha Latte, House Chai, or Cold Brew from Brioso Coffee. Taste a modern twist on Asian classics with Crispy Dumplings, Korean BBQ Chicken, or Tom Yum Ramen at Tiger + Lily. Chow down on the Wallie Hoagie, Short Rib Sliders, or Nachos while listening to live music or playing trivia at The Walrus. Or treat yourself to an elevated dining experience with seasonally-rotating menu items like Rohan Duck, Bluefin Tuna, or Dungeness Crab at Veritas.
Q: Is Columbus safer than Cincinnati?
A: When comparing Columbus vs. Cincinnati in terms of safety, Columbus is a safer place to live. While Cincinnati is only safer than 3% of U.S. cities, Columbus is safer than 15% of U.S. cities. Some of the safest areas in Columbus, Ohio are Clintonville and Worthington, which—in addition to low crime rates—offer fun things to do for singles and young professionals!
Victorian Village
- Home Price: $469,663 median purchase price; $1,444 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 94% of Ohio cities
- Perfect For: Singles, young professionals, families
Looking for a safe neighborhood in Columbus, Ohio that blends historic charm with easy access to parks, dining, and entertainment? Consider Victorian Village! This walkable area is known for its tree-lined streets, stunning Victorian-era houses, and range of affordable apartments. A great spot for singles and young professionals, this LGBTQ-friendly neighborhood is home to Stonewall Columbus, which offers year-round programming and events for the LGBTQ community. It’s also just steps from the Short North Arts District, meaning residents can easily explore art galleries, trendy boutiques, restaurants, and nightlife. Not to mention, Victorian Village boasts a lively community spirit, with popular local events like ComFest, Doo Dah Parade, and Short North Tour of Homes & Gardens, bringing residents together throughout the year.
Things to Do in Victorian Village
Go for a stroll, set up a picnic, or play pickleball at Goodale Park, one of the oldest parks in Columbus. Swim, practice diving, or sign up for fitness programs at the Columbus Aquatics Center. Explore the galleries, enjoy DJs and drinks during Night Shift, or play chess on Sundays at the Columbus Museum of Art at The Pizzuti. Dance along to touring acts like Maddie Zahm and Michigander, or enjoy theme nights like the 2000s Dance Party at Skully’s Music-Diner. For a delicious breakfast in Columbus, dig into the Cloud Nine Pancakes, Smoothie Bowl, or Sunrise Burrito at Northstar Cafe. Catch up with friends over The Lox Breakfast Sandwich or Everything Bagel with a Bloody Mary at The Lox Bagel Shop. Experience stone-fired perfection with a Margherita, Carne, or Hawaiian Pizza from Forno Kitchen + Bar. Or treat yourself to seasonal seafood in Columbus like Fried Oysters, Lobster Tail, and Hanger Steak at The Pearl.
Q: What areas offer affordable housing in Columbus, Ohio without sacrificing safety?
A: Worthington and Victorian Village offer a strong balance of reasonable housing costs and safety. Worthington is a quiet suburb with low crime and good schools, while Victorian Village offers historic charm, great walkability, and a mix of apartments and older homes within the city limits.
Worthington
- Home Price: $421,444 median purchase price; $941 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 93% of Ohio cities
- Perfect For: Singles, young professionals, families, retirees
For a safe place to live in Columbus that won’t break the bank, look no further than Worthington! This northern Columbus suburb is a quiet place to live, popular among retirees and established families. While slightly removed from downtown life, singles and young professionals still love Worthington for its quick access to the Columbus metro. Residents also appreciate the area’s outdoor recreation spots, kid-friendly local businesses, and one of Columbus’ best farmers markets, the Worthington Farmers Market. Plus, parents will feel confident sending their kids to local schools like Worthington Estates Elementary and Worthingway Middle School, located within the Worthington City School District.
Things to Do in Worthington
Watch your kids burn energy on the playground, or play a game of soccer or basketball at Indianola Park. Browse exhibits like Flowers of Destruction: Emily Strange or see the Worthington Chamber Orchestra perform at the McConnell Arts Center. Learn everything about railroads and locomotives at the Ohio Railway Museum—and end your visit with a train ride. Challenge friends to a round of golf, sweat through a HIIT class, or splash in the pool at Brookside Golf & Country Club. Dine on Crab Cake Benedict or The Tavern Stack Burger paired with The Whitney Paloma at The Whitney House. Order Fried Pickle Spears and Hot Honey Fried Chicken—and a Burger or Grilled Cheese for the kids—at family-friendly Columbus restaurant Over The Counter. Savor Shrimp Fajitas, Carne Asada, or Carnitas at Chapala Mexican Grill. Or end your night with delicious treats like Snickerdoodle Cookies, Red Velvet Cupcakes, or Chocolate Chip Scones from Mrs. Goodman’s Baking Co.
Q: Is Columbus, Ohio affordable?
A: Yes, Columbus is an affordable city to live in! The cost of living in Columbus is 7% lower than the U.S. average—with particularly low costs for housing, health care, and transportation. If you’re seeking affordable living, some of the best places to live in the Columbus metro include Worthington, Victorian Village, and the downtown area.
***
Relocating to Columbus? With convenient self storage facilities throughout the Columbus metro, Extra Space Storage can help with your transition. Find a storage unit near you!
Make Your Columbus Move Easier With Our Tools
- Estimate your moving costs for free
- Use our moving box estimate tool to determine your moving box needs
- Discover where to get free & low-cost moving boxes in Columbus
The Extra Space Storage team is committed to helping people find the perfect place to call home no matter what stage of life they’re at. Our “Best Places to Live” picks are designed to make moving easier by providing accurate and comprehensive information on various metro areas across the country. We consider factors like cost of living, job opportunities, local attractions, education, and more to help those looking to move make an informed decision. Discover more about our methodology today.
Neighborhood and suburb statistics from AreaVibes
