Why Move to Hilliard, Ohio?

Just west of Columbus, Hilliard, Ohio has become one of the most sought-after suburbs in Central Ohio. Known for its top-rated schools, family-friendly atmosphere, and quick highway access, Hilliard strikes the perfect balance between small-town charm and modern convenience. Whether you’re searching for a neighborhood rich in history or an apartment community loaded with amenities, Oakwood Management has you covered with properties designed to make life easier and more enjoyable.

Cost of Living and Rent in Hilliard, Ohio

Hilliard apartments provide great value compared to many other Columbus suburbs. As of mid-2025, the average apartment rent in Hilliard is around $1,459 per month for a typical 949 sq ft home according to RentCafe. Studio apartments start near $1,270, while three-bedrooms can exceed $2,000 according to Apartments.com.

When it comes to overall affordability, Hilliard’s cost of living runs about 3% higher than the national average, with housing trending higher but transportation costs about 11% lower according to PayScale. For renters, that balance means you can enjoy a suburban lifestyle with easy access to downtown Columbus. Even better, Oakwood Management offers a variety of apartment communities near Hilliard that combine modern finishes, pet-friendly living, and convenient locations — giving you the best of both comfort and connectivity.

Job Opportunities and Commuting from Hilliard

One of the biggest perks of living in Hilliard is location. Sitting right off I-270 and I-70, residents can get to downtown Columbus in about 20 minutes while staying close to major employers. Some of the top companies near Hilliard include OhioHealth, Nationwide, Cardinal Health, Honda, Amazon, and The Ohio State University.

For professionals, the appeal is clear: live in a quiet, well-kept community with an easy commute to work. Oakwood apartments near Hilliard, like The Charles at Riggins Run, are especially convenient for commuters who want suburban comfort without giving up accessibility.

Fun Things to Do in Hilliard, Ohio

Hilliard is far from a sleepy suburb — the city is alive with dining, parks, and entertainment that make it an ideal place to live.

• Dining & Coffee: Locals rave about Starliner Diner’s Cuban-inspired breakfast, Abner’s Casual Dining for comfort food, and Coffee Connections for cozy drinks and community vibes. Each of these favorites is just minutes from Copper Run, one of Oakwood’s modern Hilliard apartment communities.

• Parks & Trails: Hilliard boasts some of Central Ohio’s best green spaces, from Homestead Metro Park’s historic covered bridge to Roger A. Reynolds Municipal Park’s splash pads and sports fields. The Heritage Rail Trail stretches seven miles for walkers, runners, and cyclists, all easily accessible from The Charles at Riggins Run, making weekend workouts or evening strolls a breeze.

• Community Events: Festivals bring Hilliard to life, including Freedom Fest on July 4th with fireworks, live music, and food trucks (Hilliard Ohio). With Oakwood, you’re less than 10 minutes away from the celebration. Old Hilliardfest and the farmers markets also keep the calendar packed with community spirit.

• Entertainment: Ten Pin Alley delivers bowling, arcade games, and laser tag for year-round fun. If you’re looking for something more active, Heritage Golf Club offers a premier course and clubhouse just minutes away. Living at Gables West puts you close to both, so whether it’s family game night or a day on the green, Hilliard has your weekends covered.

Oakwood’s nearby apartment communities keep you close to all the fun, so you can enjoy the best of Hilliard without ever straying too far from home.

Schools and Community Life in Hilliard

Families moving to Hilliard can feel confident about their kids’ education, thanks to the Hilliard City School District’s strong reputation for academic excellence, diverse learning opportunities, and extracurricular achievement. Niche ranks the district among Ohio’s best—#7 out of 597 for Ohio’s athletic programs and #75 of 607 for overall quality out of every school district in Ohio. The district also holds a stellar 4.5 out of 5 stars on Ohio’s Report Card, demonstrating consistent performance above state standards.

Several elementary schools stand out academically—Hoffman Trails and Washington Elementary both land in the top 15% statewide, with strong proficiency in core subjects. At the high school level, Hilliard schools provide serious opportunities: Hilliard Davidson, Darby, and Bradley all offer robust sports programs, AP and honors tracks, and arts or theater programs that many say allow students to grow both academically and personally (SchoolDigger).

Beyond the classroom, Hilliard is brimming with youth sports leagues, performing arts groups, and family-centered activities—creating that welcoming, small-town feel locals love.

For families looking for modern comfort in a prime location, Oakwood Management offers thoughtfully designed apartment and townhome communities that make the perfect home base. With top-rated schools, scenic parks, and family-friendly amenities just minutes away, Oakwood brings the very best of Hilliard living right to your doorstep.

History and Character of Hilliard, Ohio

Hilliard blends modern growth with deep historic roots. The community began in 1853 as Hilliard’s Station, named for its train depot, a critical link that brought new residents and businesses to the area. Today, you can still explore historic gems like the restored train station at Weaver Park, the Odd Fellows Hall (built in 1883), and the Hilliard United Methodist Church.

The charm of Old Hilliard remains at the city’s core, offering walkable streets, local shops, and preserved architecture. For residents at communities like Landmark Lofts, Old Hilliard is just down the road, giving you instant access to historic charm, dining, and boutique shopping. Pair that with easy access to I-270 and I-70, and you have a community that’s both deeply rooted and perfectly connected, a rare combination for suburban Columbus living.

Oakwood Apartments Near Hilliard, Ohio

If you’re planning a move, Oakwood Management offers apartment and townhome communities that put you right in the heart of everything Hilliard has to offer:
Landmark Lofts – Spacious loft-style living with modern finishes and an urban flair, close to shopping, dining, and quick highway access.

Gables West – Resort-style amenities including a sparkling pool and fitness center, with convenient access to local entertainment like Ten Pin Alley.

Hilliard Place – Classic charm meets modern comfort in a welcoming community just minutes from schools, parks, and Old Hilliard’s shops and events.

The Kensington at Riggins Run – Stylish apartments with upscale amenities and a prime location off I-270, perfect for commuters and close to restaurants and retail.
 

With Oakwood, you’ll discover pet-friendly homes, modern amenities like pools and fitness centers, and floor plans built for every lifestyle, all backed by local expertise and more than 50 years of trusted property management in Central Ohio.

Ready for Your Next Adventure?

Moving to Hilliard means more than just finding a new address, it’s about joining a thriving community that blends historic character, modern convenience, excellent schools, and unbeatable access to Columbus.

If you’re ready to experience the best of Hilliard living, start your search with Oakwood Management’s apartments near Hilliard, Ohio. Your next chapter begins here.