Columbus Housing Market: Trends & Prices (2025)

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    Columbus Real Estate Market Overview

    By Jacqueline DeMarco

    (Last Updated – 4/2025)

    The beautiful city of Columbus often takes on a scarlet and gray tint thanks to some very loyal football fans. Columbus residents have a fierce loyalty for the Ohio State Buckeyes, and it isn’t uncommon to see their favorite team’s colors adorning the streets.

    While sports are beloved in Columbus, the city is also teeming with culture, music, theater, and art. Ohio State University and many large and local businesses also provide a broad array of job and career opportunities. What’s more, Columubus offers family-friendly neighborhoods and a lower cost of living compared to larger cities.

    Keep reading to learn more about the Columbus real estate market, housing costs, and the benefits of living in some of Columbus’s most popular neighborhoods.

    $270,000

    Median Home Price

    $185

    Median Price Per Sq. Ft

    50

    Median Days on Market

    Columbus Housing Market Forecast

    While home prices in Columbus have risen significantly over the past five years (as you can see from the chart below), real estate agents are seeing signs of softening in the market in 2025. Average home prices in Columbus aren’t exactly going down, but they aren’t going up at the same pace.

    There are other good signs for buyers: Homes are taking longer to sell, giving house hunters more time to shop around and evaluate their options. Some sellers are also coming down on price in order to make a sale. Though it’s not quite a “buyer’s market,” it appears to be shifting that way.

    Housing market forecast chart

    *Graph taken from Zillow as of 4/2025

    Demographics of the Columbus Market

    With a median age of around 33 and many family-friendly suburbs, Columbus attracts a younger demographic. It also has a multicultural flair, thanks to Ohio State University, which draws people from all around the world to the city. About 20% of the population of Columbus has moved to the area within the last year.

    For job-seekers, Columbus offers employment opportunities in a wide variety of sectors. Ohio State and other schools are among the city’s largest employers. As the state capital, Columbus also offers many government jobs. In addition, a number of large U.S. companies have their headquarters in Columbus. These include JPMorgan Chase & Co, Nationwide Insurance, Victoria’s Secret & Co., Bath & Body Works, Inc., Honda of America, and American Electric Power.

    Median Household Income: $62,350

    Median Age: 32.7

    College Educated: 23.11%

    Homeowners: 44.73%

    Married: 38.58%

    Short North

    The Short North neighborhood is considered to be a pioneer in the urban revitalization of Central Ohio. This vibrant neighborhood leans into artistic and cultural pursuits, which may appeal to those looking for a less suburban feel. With over 300 businesses in this area, there are plenty of exciting job opportunities to be discovered as well.

    Quick Facts

    Population:

    1,803

    Median Age:

    27

    Housing Units:

    1,014

    Bike Score:

    91/100

    Walk Score:

    95/100

    Transit Score:

    56/100

    Median Household Income:

    $89,321

    Short North Housing Market

    If you’re interested in buying a home in Short North, there is good news: The housing market in this neighborhood is not very competitive, according to Redfin. While February 2025 prices were up slightly from a year prior, homes tend to sit on the market for nearly three months before selling, giving shoppers plenty of time to weigh their options.


    Median Home Price

    $375,000

    Median Price Per Square Ft.

    $310


    German Village

    A quick trip over a highway bridge is all it takes for German Village residents to hop on over to downtown Columbus. This is an ideal arrangement for residents who enjoy the historic charm of German Village, but want to work amongst the modern hustle and bustle of downtown.

    Architecture lovers will appreciate that the structures and sidewalks are crafted of orange masonry and about half the streets are still made of brick pavers.

    Quick Facts

    Population:

    2,629

    Median Age:

    32

    Housing Units:

    1,519

    Bike Score:

    68/100

    Walk Score:

    90/100

    Transit Score:

    54/100

    Median Household Income:

    $97,513

    German Village Housing Market

    The housing market in German Village is considered somewhat competitive, according to Redfin. In February 2025, the median home sale price was $729,000, up nearly 6% over the prior year. Homes are sitting on the market for slightly longer, however — an average of 95 days compared to 73 days last year. On average, homes in German Village sell for about 1% above asking price.


    Median Home Price

    $728,900

    Median Price Per Square Ft.

    $271


    Downtown

    Downtown Columbus is particularly charming thanks to its tree-lined streets, panoramic penthouses, and traditional townhomes.

    Living in Downtown can be a blast due to how easy it is to walk to great shops, restaurants, and attractions. For those who want to avoid suburban life, Downtown may just be the right fit.

    Recommended: Cost of Living in Ohio

    Quick Facts

    Population:

    15,917

    Median Age:

    27

    Housing Units:

    10,313

    Bike Score:

    72/100

    Walk Score:

    81/100

    Transit Score:

    69/100

    Median Household Income:

    $93,125

    Downtown Housing Market

    The housing market in Downtown is currently not very competitive, according to Redfin. While prices were up slightly in February 2025 compared to February 2024, homes are sitting on the market longer — an average of 96 days compared to 86 days a year ago. Multiple offers are rare in this neighborhood, and homes generally sell for 5% below the asking price. All of this puts buyers in the driver’s seat.


    Median Home Price

    $283,450

    Median Price Per Square Ft.

    $352


    University District

    The University District is a massive neighborhood that encompasses 13 smaller neighborhoods that surround one of the nation’s largest public universities, Ohio State University. Hence this area’s collegiate name.

    This bold and exciting area offers an eclectic mix of living options for students, working professionals, and families alike.

    Quick Facts

    Population:

    33,120

    Median Age:

    23

    Housing Units:

    N/A

    Bike Score:

    85/100

    Walk Score:

    88/100

    Transit Score:

    53/100

    Median Household Income:

    $24,044

    University District Housing Market

    The housing market in the University District is currently not very competitive, according to Redfin. In February 2025, the median home sale price was $330,000, down around 14% from a year prior. Homes are also sitting on the market more days before selling — an average of 77, compared to 54 last year. Buyers don’t necessarily have to offer list price, either: The average home goes for about 5% below ask, and multiple offers are rare.


    Median Home Price

    $330,000

    Median Price Per Square Ft.

    $192


    Franklin Park

    The residents of Franklin Park like to say that they “turn visitors into neighbors and neighbors into friends!” This friendly neighborhood is conveniently located near the center of Columbus and has easy access to freeways and public transit.

    Locals enjoy strolling through the Bryden Road Historic District in the Franklin Park neighborhood and taking in the charming architecture.

    Quick Facts

    Population:

    12,600

    Median Age:

    34

    Housing Units:

    7,350

    Bike Score:

    67/100

    Walk Score:

    56/100

    Transit Score:

    44/100

    Median Household Income:

    $79,303

    Franklin Park Housing Market

    The housing market in Franklin Park is considered somewhat competitive, according to Redfin. In February 2025, the median home sale price was $520,000, up around 10% from the prior year. Still, you don’t necessarily have to pay list price to snag a home in this neighborhood: On average, homes sell for about 3% below list price, after sitting on the market for roughly two months.

    If you have your heart set on a highly desirable home, however, you may have to pony up and act faster — “hot” homes tend to get their asking price and come off the market in less than one month.


    Median Home Price

    $520,000

    Median Price Per Square Ft.

    $202



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    FAQ

    Is now a good time to buy a house in Columbus, Ohio?

    Now can be a good time to buy a house in Columbus, Ohio. The market has seen some stabilization in recent months, which could present better opportunities for buyers. However, Columbus remains a fairly competitive market and inventory is still limited. If you’re prepared with a solid down payment, preapproval, and a stable income, it could still be a smart time to make a move.

    Is Columbus, Ohio a seller’s market?

    Yes, Columbus is currently a seller’s market, driven by strong demand and limited inventory. Sellers often receive multiple offers, and homes are selling quickly, sometimes above asking price.

    That said, there are signs that the market is starting to soften. Prices are down slightly year-over-year, and homes are sitting on the market for an average of 50 days, compared to 42 days last year. While the market still favors sellers, buyers can find success by being proactive, having their finances ready, and understanding local home values.

    Why are houses so expensive in Columbus Ohio?

    Houses in Columbus, Ohio, are expensive due to several factors. The city’s robust job market (particularly in education, government, professional services, and health care), has attracted many new residents, increasing demand. Limited housing inventory and the cost of new construction have also contributed to higher prices. Additionally, the city’s quality of life, strong school systems, and affordability (compared to larger cities) make it an attractive place to live, further driving up demand for homes.


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    *SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

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