Two students moving into their apartment at the Annex

Housing

The community of Marion offers diverse housing options for students in various price ranges and options.

Please note: the Ohio State University at Marion does not offer on-campus living. Please be advised this web page is provided as information and referral only. Ohio State Marion is not responsible for student’s choice of off-campus rental properties or their financial rental obligations. Ohio State Marion employees do not inspect, approve, supervise, or maintain any properties for off-campus housing.

The Marion community offers diverse housing options for students in various price ranges and options ranging from studio, 1BR, 2BR, and 3 BR apartments, lofts, home rentals, and more. Some of those options are listed below. We advise students and their family members to take the time to investigate the best option.

If a student is living with other people, it is recommended they complete a roommate agreement. It can set rules and expectations for the living space and prevent conflict later on. A sample template can be found here.

Even students who choose to live at home with family should set rules and expectations, and that can be done through a college living contract found here.

If planning on transitioning to the Columbus campus, students should visit the University Housing site or Off Campus and Commuter Services.

Wherever you chose to live, being closer to campus and near other Ohio State Marion students can be a benefit academically and socially.

Apartments Search Sites in the Marion Area

Housing and Roommate Tips 

To have a successful off campus living experience from start to finish utilize these tips for housing and roommates to help concerns diminish!

1 1. Determine your personal budget for housing.

Consider your income, savings and personal situation. Decide your budget and stick to it; you do not want to live outside of your means! 

2 2. Consider the location of your potential off-campus property.

Is this within walking distance? How long does the commute take? Can you utilize public transportation, or do you need to drive and consider car related expenses (gas, insurance, etc.)? 

3 3. Be proactive about your safety.

Before you commit to a place to live: Evaluate your personal definition of safety to be sure you will be comfortable in your living environment. Research safety and crime reporting resources in your area to learn about community trends. Visit the property and neighborhood during the day, at night and on the weekends with a friend. Talk with potential neighbors and current tenants too. 

When living off campus: Keep windows and doors locked at all times; schedule your mail to be held while you are away; take time to get to know your neighbors, etc. 

4 4. Be sure to get all communication with a potential property company in writing!

If you talk with them over the phone or in-person, send a recap email afterwards. 

5 5. Always tour the actual unit you will be renting – see what you will be signing up for!

Although it’s fine to view a model unit to get a sense of the floorplan, it is crucial that you see the specific unit you will be living in before committing to or signing anything. 

6 6. Read your lease in its entirety before signing and have it reviewed by a legal professional, so you are fully aware of what you are signing!

What utilities are covered? Is joint and several liability included in your lease? What local legislation and/or ordinances should you be familiar with? 

7 7. Know what fees are required, such as application fees, holding fees and security deposits and know what happens to your money!

8 8. Set clear expectations when living with roommates and complete a roommate agreement.

Discuss and document decisions like definition of cleanliness, noise and study preferences, guest and party policies and budget. Post the roommate agreement in a shared space, like a fridge, and hold each other to it! 

9 9. Be an informed consumer, take this process at your own pace and don't rush into signing a lease!

Utilize trusted resources/websites and research your options when searching for housing! 

10 10. Get renters insurance!

Renters insurance is important – it protects your belongings (theft, damage, etc.) and you if accidents happen.