When searching for an apartment in Columbus, Ohio, location is often just as important as the apartment itself. While Columbus continues to grow, one of its biggest advantages remains its accessibility. Unlike many major metropolitan areas where hour-long commutes are expected, Columbus residents can often reach Downtown Columbus in 10-20 minutes (or less) while still enjoying the benefits of suburban living. Looking for a quieter neighborhood for your family without giving up your favorite pistachio latte from Pistacia Vera or an easy commute downtown? In Columbus, you really can have both.

Whether you work at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Nationwide Children's Hospital, or one of the many other businesses located in the city center, choosing the right apartment can help you spend significantly less time in traffic. In fact, we even have a guide to Oakwood Apartments Near Major Columbus Employers to help with your search if you’re looking for apartments near a specific company.

Whether you're searching for apartments near Downtown Columbus or a suburban community with an easy commute, there are plenty of great options throughout Central Ohio. In this blog, we'll explore some of the best Downtown Columbus apartments and neighborhoods for residents who want a shorter commute while finding a community that feels like home.

Why Commute Time Matters

A shorter commute can have a meaningful impact on your daily routine and overall life as a whole. Less time spent driving means more time for family, fitness, hobbies, and even enjoying the city around you. It can also reduce transportation costs, make it easier to take advantage of events happening downtown after work, and help create a healthier work-life balance—something we love to see for all of our residents.

Downtown Columbus is home to more than 90,000 jobs and serves as a major hub for healthcare, education, finance, government, and technology professionals. Fortunately, Columbus offers a variety of neighborhoods that provide convenient access to downtown without requiring residents to live directly in the city center. Let’s explore what option may be best for you.

Please note that all commute times are approximate and may vary based on traffic, weather, and your exact destination within Downtown Columbus.

Apartments Within 10 Minutes of Downtown Columbus

If you're looking for the shortest commute possible, these apartment and townhome communities place you right in the middle of the city. Walking or biking to Downtown Columbus employers becomes an option with many of these properties, and if you do plan to drive, you will spend significantly less time in the car as you enjoy quick access to many major employers in Central Ohio. Below we’ve highlighted a few communities we offer that put you right in the middle of it all. 

Looking for even more Downtown Columbus apartments? View our entire list of apartment communities in Downtown Columbus here and check out our guide to Renting Apartments in Downtown Columbus for tips and tricks. 

Highpoint on Columbus Commons

Highpoint on Columbus Commons offers luxury high-rise living with upscale amenities, modern apartment homes, and stunning views of the Columbus skyline. Less than a mile from Nationwide Arena, Columbus State Community College, and The Columbus Museum of Art, residents enjoy a highly walkable lifestyle. 

Standout Features of Highpoint: A rooftop terrace, resort-style pool, resident lounge, state-of-the-art fitness center, and a variety of spacious floor plans combine to deliver an elevated downtown living experience.

Residences at Topiary Park

Located near one of Columbus' most unique green spaces, Residences at Topiary Park offers the opportunity to enjoy urban living with beautiful scenery and access to outdoor recreation. This area maintains a quieter residential atmosphere than some other downtown communities, making it perfect for those who want more of a relaxed feel.

Standout Features of RTP: Spacious apartment homes, upscale finishes, and the unique opportunity to live directly across from one of Downtown Columbus' most iconic parks.

Westrich

Situated in Franklinton, Westrich combines modern apartment living with one of Columbus' fastest-growing neighborhoods. Franklinton sits immediately west of downtown and has experienced significant redevelopment in recent years, becoming a destination for artists, entrepreneurs, and young professionals.

Standout Features of Westrich: Contemporary apartment homes with upscale finishes, thoughtfully designed amenities, and a vibrant community atmosphere that reflects the energy of Franklinton.

More Oakwood communities within 10 minutes of Downtown Columbus include:

Sonnenblick (Columbus/Victorian Village)
River & Rich (Columbus)
Abbot’s Cove (Columbus/Grandview)
The City (Grandview/University District)

No matter which community you choose, you'll enjoy one of the shortest commutes to Downtown Columbus while staying close to major employers, entertainment, dining, and some of the city's most popular attractions.

Apartments Within 15 Minutes of Downtown Columbus

If you want to live near Downtown Columbus without living in the heart of the city, several Oakwood communities offer the perfect middle ground. Within approximately 15 minutes of downtown, you'll find neighborhoods that provide convenient highway access, everyday essentials, and a little more room to spread out while keeping your commute manageable.

Retreat at Citygate

Pictured above, Retreat at Citygate is located on Columbus' west side, and offers residents convenient access to Downtown Columbus via I-70, making it an excellent choice for commuters. 

Standout Features of Retreat at Citygate: Beyond its convenient location near Downtown Columbus, Retreat at Citygate offers standout amenities like a golf simulator and EV charging stations while placing residents just minutes from Easton Town Center, Alum Creek Trail, and John Glenn International Airport.

More Oakwood communities within approximately 15 minutes of Downtown Columbus include:

• Beulah Place (Grove City)

• Maddens Pointe (Columbus/Dublin)

• Cabot Cove (Hilliard)

• The Broadwood (Whitehall)

For many renters, this sweet spot offers the best of both worlds—a manageable commute to Downtown Columbus without giving up the comfort and amenities of a neighborhood community.

Apartments Within 20 Minutes of Downtown Columbus

For renters who don't mind a slightly longer drive in exchange for additional space, neighborhood charm, or townhome living, several Oakwood communities are located within approximately 20 minutes of Downtown Columbus. These communities offer convenient access to major highways while providing the quieter atmosphere many residents are looking for.

The Strand at Beulah Townhomes

Pictured above, The Strand at Beulah Townhomes in Grove City offers the comfort and privacy of townhome living while keeping Downtown Columbus within an easy commute. With convenient access to I-71 and I-270, residents can reach downtown in approximately 20 minutes, making it a great option for professionals who want more room without giving up accessibility. Explore Why You Should Move to Grove City to see if this suburb would be right for you.

Standout Features of The Strand at Beulah: Spacious multi-level townhomes, attached garages, and thoughtfully designed floor plans give residents the room to spread out while enjoying a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere.

More Oakwood communities within approximately 20 minutes of Downtown Columbus include:

• Asherton of Dublin (Dublin)

• Stonehedge (Worthington)

• Gables West (Hilliard)

• Landmark Lofts (Hilliard)

• Albany Woods (New Albany)

• 43 at New Albany (Columbus/New Albany)

• Oxford Park (Westerville)

• Polaris Place (Columbus/Polaris)

• The Galaxy at Polaris (Columbus/Polaris)

• Beulah Place (Grove City)

• Keeneland Place (Grove City)

• The Glen at Taylor Square (Reynoldsburg) 

• Woodland Trace (Reynoldsburg)

• The Lakes of Westdale (Galloway)

• Elk Run Villas (Groveport)

For many renters, a 20-minute commute is a worthwhile tradeoff for additional space, neighborhood amenities, and the relaxed pace these communities provide.

Explore Columbus Neighborhoods Near Downtown

One of Columbus' greatest advantages is the variety of neighborhoods available within a short drive of downtown. Whether you're looking for a walkable urban lifestyle, a trendy arts district, or a family-friendly suburb, these communities offer convenient access to Downtown Columbus while providing their own unique character and amenities. We’ve linked each area to their landing page so you can explore which neighborhood is best for you!

Finding the Right Balance Between Location and Lifestyle

A shorter commute can make a meaningful difference in your daily routine, but finding the right apartment is about more than just drive time. The neighborhood you choose, the amenities you value, and the type of home that fits your lifestyle all play an important role.

Whether you're looking for a walkable apartment in Downtown Columbus, a growing neighborhood like Franklinton, or the extra space and comfort of communities in Grove City or Dublin, Oakwood offers options throughout Central Ohio that keep you connected to the places you visit most.

With more than 60 apartment communities across the Columbus region, it's easy to find a home that fits both your commute and your lifestyle. Because when you find the right balance between where you live and where life takes you, you can truly Live Better, Live Oakwood.

Find Your Next Apartment with Oakwood

Finding an apartment is easy. Finding one that's backed by a management team you can count on makes all the difference.

For more than 50 years, Oakwood Management Company has built communities where responsive service, well-maintained properties, and resident satisfaction come first. Whether you're searching for a downtown apartment or a suburban townhome, we're here to help you find a place you'll love coming home to.

Learn more about What Makes an Oakwood Community Different, or explore our full collection of apartment and townhome communities across Central Ohio.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are apartments in Downtown Columbus more expensive?

Rental prices vary by neighborhood, apartment size, and community amenities. While apartments in the heart of Downtown Columbus may have higher rental rates, many nearby neighborhoods offer easy commutes with a wider range of floor plans and price points, making it possible to find an apartment that fits your budget.

Is it better to live in Downtown Columbus or a nearby suburb?

That depends on your priorities. Downtown Columbus apartments offer unmatched walkability and easy access to restaurants, entertainment, and major employers. Nearby suburbs like Dublin, Grove City, Hilliard, Worthington, and New Albany provide additional space, neighborhood amenities, and a quieter atmosphere while still offering a convenient commute to downtown.

How long is the average commute to Downtown Columbus?

Many apartment communities throughout Central Ohio are located within approximately 10 to 20 minutes of Downtown Columbus under normal driving conditions. Actual commute times may vary depending on traffic, weather, and your destination within the city.

What should I consider besides commute time when choosing an apartment?

While commute time is important, it's also worth considering factors like floor plan options, community amenities, nearby shopping and dining, access to parks and trails, pet-friendly policies, and the quality of the property's management team. Finding the right combination of location, lifestyle, and service often leads to the best long-term living experience.

Where are Oakwood apartment communities located?

Oakwood Management Company offers more than 60 apartment and townhome communities throughout Central Ohio, including Downtown Columbus and many surrounding neighborhoods. Whether you're looking for a walkable urban apartment or a spacious suburban townhome, Oakwood offers a variety of options to fit your commute, lifestyle, and budget.

Which Oakwood apartment and townhome communities are most popular?

Check out our blog on Most Popular Apartment Complexes in Columbus, Ohio in 2026 to see where residents are choosing to live and why.