Columbus Housing Market: Trends & Prices (2025)
Columbus Real Estate Market Overview
(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.
Overall Columbus Market Trends
The housing market in Columbus is considered somewhat competitive, according to Redfin. On average, homes receive two offers and stay on the market for about 50 days, compared to 42 days a year ago. In February 2025, the median home sale price was $270,000, down around 1% from the prior year. The average home sells for about 1% above the asking price.
$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.
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%
Popular Columbus Neighborhoods
With so many great neighborhoods to choose from in Columbus, it can be hard to know where to put down roots.
Every neighborhood has its own unique perks, and the right fit will depend on your needs, budget, lifestyle, and personal preferences. To help you narrow down your choices, here’s a look at five of the city’s most popular neighborhoods, including key demographics and costs.
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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.
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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
SoFi Home Loans
It’s easy to see why Columbus has become such a popular market to buy a home in. There are some really amazing neighborhoods to choose from whether you’re young and single or have a family to look after.
If you think Columbus could be your home sweet home, then you may need to consider your home loan options.
Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.
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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