The Best Home Builders in Minnesota
Columbus has long been known for its thriving job market, strong communities, and relative affordability. But recent trends have brought even more attention to the local housing scene. With more people moving to Central Ohio now than ever before and a continued shortage of homes available, the market is driven in ways that matter to first-time home buyers, repeat buyers, and anyone in between.
Whether you're planning your next move or just starting to explore your options, here are 4 key facts that explain what’s currently happening in the Columbus housing market.
1. A Market Undersupplied With a Fast-Growing Population
The Columbus housing market is significantly undersupplied, and new construction just isn’t keeping up. According to recent data, Columbus would need to double its homebuilding pace to meet demand over the next decade.
With population growth on the rise and more families relocating to Central Ohio, this housing demand is expected to continue tightening inventory in the years ahead.
2. Columbus Area Job Growth is Fueling Demand
Central Ohio is a growing hub for technology, healthcare, education, and advanced manufacturing, with major employers like Honda, Google, Intel, Amazon, OhioHealth, Nationwide, and The Ohio State University attracting talent from across the country. This robust job market continues to drive inbound migration and housing demand, especially in communities with strong schools and commuter access.
More jobs = more people = more need for housing.
3. Columbus Is Still Affordable—For Now
While prices have steadily risen, Columbus remains one of the most affordable major housing markets in the country. Home prices here are 33% lower than the national average, offering exceptional value compared to cities like Denver, Charlotte, or Austin.
This affordability won’t last forever. As demand increases and inventory remains limited, today’s prices may very well be tomorrow’s bargains.
4. Columbus Population Growth Is Outpacing Housing Supply
Central Ohio’s population is projected to grow by nearly 1 million residents by 2050. But the pace of new home construction isn’t matching that growth. In fact, more people are moving here than there are homes available—especially in desirable suburbs with top-rated schools, like the Olentangy Local School District.
Buying now means securing a home before competition tightens even further and prices continue to climb.
Is Now a Good Time to Buy a House in Columbus, Ohio?
All signs point to yes. Between steady job growth, a growing population, limited housing supply, and prices that remain well below the national average, Columbus continues to be a smart and strategic place to buy a home.
This isn’t just our perspective as a homebuilder—the data and sources cited throughout this post tell the same story.
M/I Homes is building in some of Central Ohio’s most in-demand areas like Powell, Dublin, Westerville, and Grove City. While inventory remains tight in these locations, buyers today have more opportunities than they may realize—including flexible financing and limited-time incentives that can make a new home more attainable.
If you're thinking about making a move, now is a great time to explore your options.
Recommended Stories
The Best Home Builders in Cincinnati
