Average Rent in Columbus, IN↑ Rents rising 5.5% YoY🔺 2nd priciest in IN

Columbus, IN has rental prices ranging from $1,261/month to $2,126/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,276/month — 9% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $80,365/year, spending $1,276/month on a 1-bedroom represents 19% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Columbus Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,493/month, Columbus ranks #2 most expensive of the 81 cities tracked in Indiana — pricier than 88% of all US cities in our data.

The Columbus Rental Market

The Columbus, IN area has a population of about 82,881 and 30% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Columbus, IN have risen by $78/month (5.5%) over the past year, from $1,415 to $1,493. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Columbus, IN without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $51,040. The local median household income of $80,365 exceeds that threshold by $29,325, making Columbus relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Rent vs. Buy

The median home value in Columbus, IN is $278,652, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 15.6. With a break-even horizon of approximately 16 years, renting is likely the more financially prudent option for most residents unless they plan to stay long-term.

Is Columbus, IN Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Rent or Buy in Columbus?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Living in Columbus

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.