Columbus, IN Homes For Rent

Homes for Rent in Columbus, IN: What You Need to Know

There are many cities called Columbus in the United States, but only Columbus, Indiana, is known as a mecca of modern architecture. 

Job Opportunities

Cummins Inc., a Fortune 500 company that designs, manufactures, and distributes engines and power-generation products, is a key player in the local economy. The company was founded in Columbus in 1918. J. Irwin Miller, the industrialist who was instrumental in the phenomenal success of Cummins was also the force behind the city’s architectural renown. Other top employers in the city include Columbus Regional Health, Faurecia Clean Mobility (manufacturing), NTN Driveshaft Inc. (manufacturing), Toyota Material Handling (manufacturing), and Bartholomew Consolidated School Corp. (education).

Local Culture

Columbus, the seat of Bartholomew County in south-central Indiana, boasts of 90 buildings and pieces of public art designed by internationally acclaimed architects and artists. The buildings, which date back to the 1940s, include the city hall, a hospital, schools, libraries, a post office, and banks. They were designed by architects such as I.M. Pei, Robert A. M. Stern, Eliel and Eero Saarinen, Richard Meier, Robert Venturi, and Cesar Pelli. J. Irwin Miller’s foundation paid for the architects’ fees. Miller envisioned fine architecture to serve Columbus residents and to help attract the best talent to the city.

Cost of Living

Home to 48,046 people, Columbus touts itself as a city with a low cost of living (3.8% lower than the national average) and a high quality of life. Likewise, food and housing costs are affordable – 7.3% and 5.9% lower than the national average, respectively. The median gross rent is $951. The Hoosier State levies a flat income tax rate of 3.23% and 7% in sales tax. Counties impose additional income taxes of up to 3.38%. 

Know Your Neighborhoods

You won’t find a small city with as much architectural sophistication as Columbus. Residents rave about their beautiful downtown and its lively cultural scene, a diverse population, and plentiful job opportunities. Columbus has excellent schools, but families that prefer the suburbs will find highly ranked schools in Harrison Township and German Township, both in Bartholomew County.

Shopping Local

Downtown Columbus is teeming with unique shops selling clothing, jewelry, and art. Just outside Columbus, you’ll find Exit 76 Antique Mall, a favorite among locals. Knock yourself out browsing and shopping in the 72,000-square-foot mall with 600 booths and over 360 merchants from across the country. Bargain hunters will be delighted with Indiana Premium Outlets in nearby Edinburgh with 85 shops and deeply discounted designer label brands.