Did you know that Athens was ranked one of the best hometowns in Ohio by Ohio Magazine in 2022? It’s no surprise — Athens is a fantastic place to live that is brimming with energy. Whether you’re considering a move for a job or you’re a student looking to live off-campus, an apartment for rent in the area puts the city of Athens right at your doorstep. And that’s a good thing, too, because there’s a lot to love. Here’s why an Athens apartment might be just the thing for your lifestyle, no matter what it may be:
You’re a Student Looking for Affordable Rental Apartments
Alright, this one’s pretty obvious. If you’re a student who attends Ohio University, there’s a good chance that once your mandated two years in the dorms comes to an end, you’ll be looking for apartments for rent in a convenient location. In Athens, that means a student apartment that’s close to campus and the bars.
Shacking up in a rental apartment in the city is a must if you attend OU. Not only does it offer a level of convenience that’s unparalleled, but you get a lot more out of it, too. Being close to campus in one of Athens’ many spacious apartments for rent keeps you academically engaged, too. Students who live on or around campus tend to perform better in classes as they have easy access to campus resources.
Renting an apartment near uptown keeps you socially engaged as a student, too. You’ll be living right around your college peers and friends. You’ll also be right in the heart of uptown, which is ground zero for all student activity after classes and on the weekends.
You Want Better Balance Between Independence & Convenience
Living in an apartment in Athens gives you the best of both worlds: independence without feeling disconnected. Whether you’re a student transitioning out of the dorms or a professional ready for a space of your own, a centrally located apartment lets you create a routine that actually fits your lifestyle. You get your own kitchen, your own schedule, and your own space to recharge without sacrificing walkability or access to everything the city has to offer.
The best apartments at Ohio University are close to essentials like grocery stores, coffee shops, Ping, and public transportation, making everyday life easier and less stressful. You’re not spending all your time commuting or planning errands because you’re living where things happen. That kind of convenience frees up time for studying, socializing, outdoor adventures, or laying on the couch watching 30 Rock for the 20th time because you simply cannot today. We all need lazy days, but they’re definitely better when the Court Street Chipotle is only just around the corner when you get the munchies.
For many OU students deciding where to rent an apartment, this balance is what makes Athens feel livable long-term; you’re independent but never isolated. That’s a big reason why so many people choose to put down roots here after graduation, and why many OU alums eventually come back to settle down here.
You’re a Working Professional Looking for an Apartment in the City
If you’re a young professional working in or around the city of Athens, snatching an apartment for rent there is a no-brainer. Athens is a vibrant city with plenty to do and take part in. Considering the surrounding areas, Athens probably has the most appeal for a young professional starting out in their career.
The city is home to quite a few breweries. Spots like Jackie O’s, Little Fish Brewing, and Devil’s Kettle are just a few of the popular breweries in the area. Combined with Athens’ booming local businesses and weekly farmer’s markets, there’s a lot of appeal to rent an apartment uptown – maybe near East State Street or even on Court Street. For young professionals looking for a mid-to-small-sized city with plenty of activities to keep them busy during their downtime, Athens has got it all.
Bonus points if you’re a recent graduate of Ohio University and are already familiar with the city. We promise you’ll see the city in a whole new light as a grad. Plus, there are plenty of spots just a short drive outside of the city that are always worth checking out. And it all starts at the front door of your apartment rental in town.
You Love Taking Part in Outdoor Activities
It’s no secret that Athens sits at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and has an overwhelming abundance of greenery and nature. If you’re into outdoor activities or simply love taking a walk through the woods on trails, an apartment in the Athens area could be a good choice.
Athens is home to a variety of outdoor activities to take part in. Here are just a few of the top spots for nature enthusiasts:
- Strouds Run State Park: Offers plenty of walkable trails, and visitors can rent a boat at Strouds Run to take out onto the lake.
- Hocking Adena Bikeway: Features multiple bike paths to ride on that goes through a scenic area around the Hocking River.
- Hocking Hills State Park: Located about a half hour drive away from Athens, Hocking Hills has a variety of hiking trails that loop around the park.
- Wayne National Forest: Located just outside of Athens, Wayne National Forest is teeming with greenery and has tons of trails to walk around.
You Enjoy Being Part of a Community with a Vibrant Arts Scene
Are you an artist, maker, or crafter? An apartment available for rent in Athens could double as a home base and studio. Plus, you’ll be surrounded by other like-minded individuals. While Athens was ranked one of the best Ohio hometowns by an Ohio-based magazine, the city gained national attention when Americans for the Arts ranked it as one of the top 100 small art towns in the country. A rental apartment would put you in close proximity to a booming arts scene. With venues like the Dairy Barn Arts Center, ARTS/West, the Kennedy Museum of Art, and Passion Works Studio, the city is an arts destination for visitors and makers alike.
Athens is a city with that college town feel and energy to it, and it provides a ton of activities and hobbies to take part in. If you’re considering one of the many spacious apartment rentals in town, take the leap and sign the lease – you might be surprised at how quickly Athens will feel like home.