Cap Rate in Columbus, OH

2026 Market Overview for Real Estate Investors

Last updated: March 2026 • Sources: Census ACS, Zillow, Redfin, county assessor

Avg Cap Rate

6.8%

#18 of 50 markets

Median Home Price

$240,000

Purchase price

Median Monthly Rent

$1,450

$17,400/yr gross

Rent-to-Price Ratio

0.60%

Moderate

Cap Rate Rating

Good

Strong return relative to market norms. Common in cash-flow-focused markets in the Midwest and South.

Market Snapshot

Population	905,748
5-Year Population Growth	+7.5%
Median Household Income	$56,000
Vacancy Rate	6.2%
Property Tax Rate	1.78%($4,272/yr)

Investor Takeaway

Columbus is Ohio best growth story with Intel chip fabrication plant driving massive investment. Strong university presence (OSU) and government employment provide a resilient rental market.

Top Neighborhoods for Investors

Where to focus your search in Columbus, OH:

Short North

Appreciation

Premier arts and dining district between downtown and OSU. Highest rents in Columbus with strong appreciation driven by continued development.

Clintonville

House Hacking

Tree-lined residential neighborhood with strong schools. Premium tenant quality with low turnover. House hacking duplexes are competitive but profitable.

Linden

BRRRR

Affordable east-side neighborhood with active rehab activity. Intel chip plant proximity is driving investor interest. Strong BRRRR fundamentals.

Hilltop

Cash Flow

West-side neighborhood with lowest entry prices in Columbus metro. High cap rates for experienced investors comfortable with active property management.

Quick Math

Estimated annual numbers for a median-priced property in Columbus, OH before financing:

Annual Gross Rent$17,400

Less Vacancy (6.2%)($1,079)

Less Property Tax (1.78%)($4,272)

Less Est. Insurance + Maintenance($4,800)

Estimated NOI$7,249

Implied Cap Rate3.0%

Estimates based on median values. Insurance + maintenance estimated at 2% of home value. Actual results vary by property condition, neighborhood, and management.