Columbus is experiencing a genuine economic transformation anchored by Intel's $20 billion semiconductor manufacturing campus in nearby New Albany โ one of the largest economic development investments in Ohio history. Combined with Ohio State University's stabilizing influence, a diversified healthcare and insurance employment base, and prices among the most accessible in any major Midwest metro, Columbus offers buyers an unusual combination: accelerating appreciation at accessible price points.
5 Key Trends in This Report
- Intel Investment Transforms New Albany and East Columbus
- Ohio State University Provides Perpetual Demand Foundation
- Short North Leads Urban Appreciation
- Dublin and Powell Attract Corporate and Family Buyers
- Affordability Creates Strong In-Migration From Peer Metros
๐ How Columbus Compares Across Midwest Markets
Median sale price and year-over-year price growth for Columbus alongside other Midwest markets RESMP tracks in 2026.
Median Home Price
Year-Over-Year Price Growth
Source: RESMP 2026 market reports. Columbus is shown in the highlighted bars.
Intel Investment Transforms New Albany and East Columbus
Intel's New Albany semiconductor campus is creating thousands of high-paying manufacturing and engineering jobs, driving demand in eastern suburbs. New Albany, Westerville, and Gahanna are capturing the strongest appreciation from this investment.
Ohio State University Provides Perpetual Demand Foundation
OSU's 66,000 students and 30,000+ employees create perpetual demand for short-term rentals, workforce housing, and starter-home purchases in the university district and adjacent neighborhoods.
Short North Leads Urban Appreciation
Columbus's Short North arts district has transformed from a struggling neighborhood into one of the Midwest's most successful urban commercial and residential corridors, with above-market appreciation and strong buyer demand.
Dublin and Powell Attract Corporate and Family Buyers
Columbus's affluent northwestern suburbs offer top-ranked school districts and proximity to major corporate employers including Cardinal Health, creating consistent demand in the $400Kโ$800K range.
Affordability Creates Strong In-Migration From Peer Metros
Columbus's median price is 30-40% below comparable metros while delivering a larger city economy and more diverse employment base โ comparative value that attracts buyers from across the Midwest and beyond.
๐ Neighborhoods to Watch in Columbus
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Columbus, OH a good place to buy in 2026?
Columbus offers excellent fundamentals โ Intel investment, OSU stability, accelerating appreciation, and prices well below national averages. One of the Midwest's best risk-adjusted opportunities for 2026 buyers.
What is the median home price in Columbus, OH?
Approximately $278,000. Short North and Victorian Village homes start around $350K; outer suburban communities offer entry points from $200K.
How does the Intel investment affect Columbus real estate?
Intel's $20B investment is creating thousands of high-paying jobs in eastern suburbs, driving appreciation in New Albany, Westerville, and Gahanna that is likely to continue as the campus ramps up through 2026-2027.
How do I find a realtor in Columbus, OH?
RESMP matches Columbus buyers with verified Franklin County agents 2-minute intake for ranked matches.
More Midwest Market Reports
Share this report
Columbus, Franklin County, Ohio ยท May 2026