The recent uptick in migration to the Central Ohio area includes people from all generations, but it’s been a particularly alluring city for millennials, according to this recent Columbus Business First article. Columbus had an annual net migration of 4,682 millennials between the years of 2012 and 2017, putting it as the top relocation destination in the Midwest for this generation.
Millennials are categorized as the generation who reached adulthood near the beginning of the new century, at the turn of the millennium. According to the Pew Research Center , they were born between 1981 and 1996, putting them at ages 23 to 38. Millennials have drawn a lot of attention from all generations, but one thing’s for sure—they’re making moves. So why do millennials love Columbus?
A sense of community. More than any other generation, millennials seek a purpose and a sense of belonging in where they work, what they do for fun, and where they live. They don’t want to be just another number; they want to be a neighbor. Because of this, millennials seek out cities that are full of lively events and have niche communities, and Columbus offers that and more. In the summer, huge festivals like Stonewall Columbus Pride and Comfest bring together Columbus residents from all walks of life. Neighborhoods like Franklinton cater to the artistic community, with a monthly Franklinton Friday event to feature the local talent.
Location, location, location. It’s the age-old adage in the housing industry: location is everything. Columbus is the hot new location in the Midwest, a city experiencing a sudden growth spurt that gives way to a thriving economy. Startups, as well as Fortune 500 companies, find their home here, with ample space to set up their operations while enjoying the convenience of a major city. The suburbs around Columbus offer just as many comforts and entertainment options as the heart of the capital city does. While many major cities have nearly unattainable costs of living, Columbus remains reasonable, although increasing with its newfound stardom.
All about the perks. Millennials are seeking cities that offer entertainment options for after work hours, and Columbus certainly fits the bill. The city has a thriving arts district in the Short North, which is well-known for popular bars and top-rated restaurants. Suburbs like Westerville and New Albany have their own growing “uptown” districts that have equally popular restaurants and entertainment options. Near the middle of the metropolitan area, the Ohio State University sits as one of the biggest colleges in the country, and with that has some of the best sports teams and ongoing community events. There’s always something to do in Columbus, no matter what a particular millennial’s interests may be.
These are just a few of the reasons this group is flocking to the capital of Ohio. No matter your opinion on the millennial generation, they’re certainly making their mark on Columbus.