Loading listings
Delaware, Ohio is a historic county seat of roughly 43,000 about 30 minutes north of Columbus, and it's the kind of compact, walkable college town that wraps right around its campus. Ohio Wesleyan University sits at the heart of it, and its students give the historic downtown its energy, with tree-lined streets and well-preserved Victorian architecture defining the surrounding neighborhoods. The downtown district, full of buildings dating to the 1800s, sits within easy walking distance of campus, so students drift between class, the shops, and the riverfront without much effort. The Olentangy River runs through town with trails and parks alongside it, and the small-town friendliness gives students a calmer base, while Columbus stays close for a day trip.
Lined with 1800s buildings, this puts students steps from class, shops, and the riverfront, the most walkable place to land.
Standout for its tree-lined streets and well-preserved Victorian homes, a charming, quiet area just beyond campus for those who want character and calm.
These blend classic and contemporary homes, giving students a range of houses within an easy walk or short ride of campus.
Here's what you need to know about getting around Delaware.
For trips farther afield, Delaware County Transit runs local service around the city and county, and it has an agreement with the Central Ohio Transit Authority to honor transfers between the two systems, opening up connections toward greater Columbus. Service is geared toward local needs rather than frequent city-style routes, so check schedules first. The transfer arrangement makes reaching the wider Columbus area workable.
Ohio Wesleyan sits right beside the historic downtown, so most students reach class, the shops, and the riverfront entirely on foot. The compact street grid makes a car optional for daily life if you live close to campus. Biking is easy on the flat downtown grid and along the Olentangy River trails.
Many students keep a car for grocery runs, internships, and the half-hour trip to Columbus. Parking is generally easy compared to the larger Ohio campuses. A vehicle is most useful for destinations beyond the walkable downtown.
Common questions from students searching for housing.
Delaware's rental market leans toward homes and apartments rather than purpose-built student blocks. Citywide, one-bedrooms average around $1,200 a month and two-bedrooms around $1,490, while studios run closer to $810. Sharing a downtown house with a few roommates is the most economical way to land near campus.
Browse student housing near each Delaware-area university.