Young professionals are flocking to Columbus, Ohio, to take advantage of the nation's fastest-growing tech hub. The city has become a hub for top Fortune 1000 companies and venture capital firms, creating a wealth of employment opportunities and competitive salaries. With the demand for housing remaining high due to affordability and immigration, the market is 52% occupied by renters, making Columbus one of the top cities to invest in real estate. Here's a look at the best neighborhoods in Franklin County for young professionals to buy their next rental property.
The Italian Village is considered one of Columbus' first suburbs and offers an eclectic mix to more than 2,845 residents. Located just north of the city center, the suburb is surrounded by pastries, coffee, and pasta worth talking about. Revitalization and major development projects have earned Italian Village the highest appreciation of home values in Columbus. With 82% of area residents living in rental properties, landlords can expect reliable cash flow and a solid return on investments.
The German Village is one of the largest privately funded historic districts in the United States. The community of 2,593 residents shares a passion for preserving the past through restored brick houses and sidewalks full of authentic charm. Although the neighborhood is within reach of fast-paced urban life, German Village has green spots like Schiller Park and Frank Fetch Park. The network of rectangular streets is suitable for pedestrians, with easy access to the trolley bus for local destinations and buses to visit downtown and outlying areas.
The Arena District is one of America's leaders in mixed-use developments. The area offers its 1,125 residents 75 acres with 2.5 million square feet of office space, 300,000 square feet of retail, entertainment and restaurants, and more than 1,200 residences. The rental properties available to buy tend to be multi-unit complexes and townhouses. Average rental prices have increased by 22% over the previous year, giving homeowners and real estate investors the opportunity to earn a quick return.
The Short North has been attracting young professionals since the 80s, thanks to its ability to walk and its artistic environment. Known as the “Art and Soul of Columbus”, this district is one of the best for young couples who appreciate buildings painted with colorful murals and a unique mix of history and modernity. River South is a small community with the perfect combination of panoramic views and urban living. The Scioto Mile is a great getaway for young professionals looking to relax from work with 175 acres of parks, bike paths, and walking trails.
If you're thinking of investing in River South District, you might want to act quickly before new developments push prices up. The best neighborhoods for young professionals seek areas that offer walking accessibility, great jobs, modern nightlife, and access to nature. Short North and Arena District meet these requirements thanks to lively environments, local boutiques, delicious restaurants, and luxurious condominiums. As the capital of Ohio, crime exists in Columbus; however crime rates are higher in certain pockets but Columbus is relatively safe.
Being an intelligent citizen is encouraged no matter where you live in the United States. We recommend Northwest Columbus, Italian Village, Upper Arlington, and German Village as some of the best neighborhoods for young professionals in Franklin County. German Village is a historic neighborhood located just south of downtown Columbus that is characterized by its charming brick houses and cobblestone streets. The neighborhood is home to a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and local shops making it a great place to socialize and explore. Explore the Conservatory or attend a daily blown glass demonstration at the Franklin Park Conservatory Botanical Garden Hot Shop. Jump down a water slide or take a dip in the Bexley pool or admire more than 2500 works of art at the Schumacher Gallery.
Enjoy blockbusters or indie movies at the Drexel Theater or savor a corned beef sandwich or a Western omelet from Sam at Scotty's Cafe. Visit The Top Steak House for a giant lobster tail or some ribs on your back or order a spicy Italian dish from Bexley Pizza Plus or satisfy your sweet tooth with Johnson's Real Ice Cream ice cream. Stop to smell Columbus Rose Park or read a book by the pond at Whetstone Park or buy new clothes at Small Talk boutique or choose fresh fruits from Clintonville Farmers Market. Try spicy wings from Hot Chicken Takeover or savor Mediterranean cuisine from Lavash Cafe or enjoy vegetarian favorites from Portia's Cafe or create your own Pho soup bowl from 6-1-Pho noodle salad bowl. Charles Preparatory School and Columbus School for Girls make it one of the best neighborhoods for families in Columbus as well as beautiful green spaces like Battelle Riverfront Park popular community activities like North Market affordable apartments and condos.
