The Housing Market in Upper Arlington Today
Upper Arlington’s housing market reflects its status as an affluent suburb of Columbus, Ohio. With a population of around 35,000, Upper Arlington is known for its high-quality schools, safe neighborhoods, and convenient access to downtown Columbus. These factors drive steady demand for housing in the area, particularly among families and professionals working in the city.
Compared to nearby suburbs like Grandview Heights and Worthington, Upper Arlington tends to have slightly higher home prices and rents, reflecting its desirable location and amenities. However, it remains more affordable than some of the most exclusive suburbs in the Columbus metro area, such as New Albany or Dublin.
One unique aspect of Upper Arlington’s housing market is the prevalence of older, well-maintained homes. Many properties date back to the 1950s and 60s, with a mix of ranch-style houses and traditional two-story homes. While newer developments are limited, there is a trend of homeowners renovating and expanding existing houses to meet modern preferences.
Renting in Upper Arlington: Typical Costs and Trends
For renters, Upper Arlington offers a range of options from small apartment complexes to single-family homes. A typical one-bedroom apartment rents for around $1,000-$1,300 per month, while a two-bedroom unit averages $1,200-$1,600. Prices can be higher for updated units or those in prime locations near parks or shopping districts.
Young professionals and small families make up a significant portion of Upper Arlington’s renter population. Many are drawn to the area for its safety, schools, and easy commute to downtown Columbus via Route 315 or I-670. Retirees and empty-nesters also rent in Upper Arlington, often seeking low-maintenance living in smaller apartments or condos.
Renters can expect to pay more in the northern part of Upper Arlington, particularly near the Kingsdale Shopping Center or along Lane Avenue. The southern section of the city, bordering Marble Cliff, tends to have slightly lower rents. Across all areas, proximity to parks like Northam Park or Fancyburg Park can command a premium.
Owning a Home in Upper Arlington: Prices, Taxes, and HOA Fees
The median home price in Upper Arlington is around $400,000, reflecting the area’s desirable location and well-maintained housing stock. However, prices can range from the low $300s for smaller ranch homes to over $1 million for newly built or extensively renovated properties.
In addition to mortgage payments, Upper Arlington homeowners should budget for property taxes and potential HOA fees. The effective property tax rate in Upper Arlington is around 2.2%, higher than the national average but typical for the Columbus area. For a $400,000 home, this equates to approximately $8,800 per year or $733 per month.
About a quarter of Upper Arlington’s neighborhoods have active homeowners’ associations. HOA fees can range from $100-$400 per month, depending on the community and amenities. In Upper Arlington, these fees commonly cover services like trash removal, snow plowing, and maintenance of common areas such as parks or walking paths. Some higher-end communities may include swimming pools, fitness centers, or clubhouses in their HOA offerings.
Apartment vs House in Upper Arlington: Side-by-Side Costs
| Monthly Expense | Apartment (2BR) | House (3BR) |
|---|---|---|
| Rent/Mortgage Payment | $1,400 | $1,900 |
| Property Tax | N/A (included in rent) | $733 |
| Utilities | $150 | $250 |
| Insurance | $15 (renters) | $80 (homeowners) |
| HOA Fees | N/A | $200 |
| Maintenance & Repairs | N/A | $250 |
| Monthly Total | $1,565 | $3,413 |
Utility & Upkeep Differences
Utility costs in Upper Arlington are generally higher for houses than apartments due to the larger space and additional systems to maintain. Heating and cooling expenses are the most significant factors, given Ohio’s cold winters and warm summers. Homeowners should also budget for regular upkeep like lawn care, gutter cleaning, and exterior maintenance that are typically covered by rent or HOA fees in apartments.
Water and sewer costs are worth noting in Upper Arlington. The city has its own water and sewer system, with rates that are slightly higher than the Columbus average. Homeowners are responsible for these costs directly, while renters often have water and sewer included in their monthly rent.
5-Year Rent vs Buy Outlook
Over a 5-year period, renting in Upper Arlington tends to be more affordable than buying when considering all housing expenses. Even with a 20% down payment, the total monthly costs of owning a median-priced home are significantly higher than renting a comparable apartment, as shown in the cost breakdown table.
However, this near-term financial advantage of renting must be weighed against the long-term benefits of homeownership. Upper Arlington has a history of steady home value appreciation, meaning buyers can build significant equity over time. Additionally, the area’s high quality of life and strong schools make it an attractive place to put down roots.
For those planning to stay in Upper Arlington for the long haul, buying a home can be a smart financial move. But renters enjoy greater flexibility and predictable monthly costs, which may be the right choice depending on individual circumstances and priorities.
FAQs About Housing Costs in Upper Arlington
- What is the average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Upper Arlington?
- How much are property taxes on a $400,000 home in Upper Arlington?
- Are HOA fees common in Upper Arlington neighborhoods?
- How do utility costs compare between apartments and houses?
- Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Upper Arlington over a 5-year period?
Making Smart Housing Choices in Upper Arlington
Choosing whether to rent or buy a home in Upper Arlington ultimately depends on your financial situation, long-term plans, and lifestyle preferences. As you weigh your options, consider using tools like this Average Monthly Expenses in Upper Arlington, OH guide to understand how housing costs fit into your overall budget.
It’s also helpful to explore the Cost of Living in Upper Arlington – Housing, Groceries, Taxes & More to get a comprehensive view of expenses beyond just rent or mortgage payments. And if a move is in your future, be sure to check out our Best Moving Companies Guide for tips on planning a smooth transition.
With careful budgeting and informed decision-making, you can find the right housing option to make the most of all that Upper Arlington has to offer – from its friendly neighborhoods and top-notch schools to its convenient location and high quality of life.