With its striking and eclectic collection of modern architecture, it's easy to forget Columbus’ origins date back to a small log cabin overlooking the region's forested plains. Adding to the city’s visual appeal are seven National Historic Landmarks, including the North Christian Church and Irwin Conference Center, which have helped foster a community centered around the arts. “There is a big arts presence and culture here,” says Jessica Risacher, owner and broker of FC Tucker Real Estate Experts. Beyond its appreciation for design, the Bartholomew County seat provides residents with a historic downtown district and a growing residential landscape. “It’s a family-oriented city with the feel of a small town but there’s still a very forward, progressive way of thinking here,” Risacher says. “It’s also a very diverse city, which has a lot to do with companies like Cummins recruiting people from around the world.” Other manufacturing companies like Toyota Material Handling and NTN Driveshafts are some of the city’s largest employers.
One of the seven National Historic Landmarks, North Christian Church was founded in 1955.
Cummins, one of Columbus largest employers, recruits people from around the world to work.
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Exhibit Columbus, cultural events and the new NexusPark
“Columbus does an excellent job putting on cultural and art events, which brings a lot of people downtown,” Risacher says. “The Ethnic Expo is probably the largest event here.” The weekend-long fall event has brought out local food vendors selling dishes from around the world since 1984. Each year, Landmark Columbus Foundation hosts Exhibit Columbus. The program celebrates architecture and art through presentations, symposiums and public art installations that the public can explore. Residents can also attend Indianapolis Diesels basketball games at team at NexusPark, the city’s recently opened multi-use campus that also features healthcare facilities, “They recently turned the old mall there into the complex, which is going to bring a lot of people into the area.”
The Limestone Pillars at veterans memorial features inscribed pillars with letters between soldiers and loved ones.
Columbus residents can attend Indianapolis Diesels basketball games at NexusPark.
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From 1800s homes to 21st-century subdivisions
The median home price in Columbus is $265,000, which falls below the national average. The community’s oldest homes line the grid-like streets surrounding downtown, where architectural styles vary and build dates stretch from the mid-1800s to the early 1900s. Mid-20th-century suburbs fill out the remainder of the city’s eastern side, alongside a handful of subdivisions built over the last 25 years. These new developments also appear on the city’s northern portion and west of the river, with communities like Deep Park and Stonehaven featuring properties that exceed $700,000. In 2022, Columbus experienced the highest population increase of any metropolitan area in the state. The city continues to supplement its growing numbers by expanding its suburban sprawl and constructing multi-family complexes.
The Columbus’s oldest homes line the grid-like streets surrounding downtown, where architectural styles vary and build dates stretch from the mid-1800s to the early 1900s.
Mid-20th-century suburbs fill out the remainder of the Columbus’s eastern side, alongside a handful of subdivisions built over the last 25 years.
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Columbus Historic District's local establishments
“Downtown is the hub for local establishments and thrives without support from a Main Street America Program,” Risacher says. A part of the historic district, those heading downtown can stop by longstanding businesses like Zaharakos Ice Cream Parlor and Museum, which has served the community since 1900. Neighboring eateries serve various cuisines, from Japanese to Mexican and Thai. “State Road 46 on the west side has more of the franchise restaurants and big-box stores sit along North National Road toward the east.
Part of the historic district, those heading downtown Columbus can stop by longstanding businesses like Zaharakos Ice Cream Parlor and Museum.
State Road 46 on the west side has more of the franchise restaurants and big-box stores like Sam's Club that sit along North National Road toward the east.
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Recreating along Flatrock River
Flatrock River winds past several community green spaces like Mill Race Park, which Risacher notes as a frequented spot amongst locals. The Columbus People Trail also winds through the park and up to the northeastern side of the city. “It’s a very busy trail and a big selling point for people wanting to move to the area,” Risacher says. Clifty Park on the city's southeastern side caters to youth athletic sports leagues and Hamilton Community & Ice Center offers a spot to recreate indoors during the winter.
Flatrock River winds past several community green spaces like Mill Race Park.
Clifty Park on the city's southeastern side caters to youth athletic sports leagues and Hamilton Community & Ice Center offers a spot to recreate indoors during the winter.
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Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation holds a high rating on Niche
Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation enrolls just over 11,000 students across the city. Niche gives the district an A-minus rating and ranks it the ninth-best school district in the state for athletes. Those seeking private education have several options, like St. Peters Lutheran School and Columbus Christian School. Graduates seeking further schooling can attend Indiana University Columbus or Purdue Polytechnics Institute’s Columbus campus on the city’s north side.
Those seeking private education have several options, like St. Peters Lutheran School and Columbus Christian School.
Graduates seeking further schooling can attend Indiana University Columbus or Purdue Polytechnics Institute’s Columbus campus on the city’s north side.
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Getting around with ColumBUS Transit
Interstate 65 cuts through Columbus, connecting the city to Indianapolis and the Indianapolis International Airport 46 miles north. Those traveling to Cincinnati can reach The Queen City along a 90-mile trip east via State Route 46 and Interstate 74. ColumBUS Transit offers five bus routes across the city, with stops at Columbus Regional Health and Indiana University Columbus. The city continues to improve its pedestrian appeal through redevelopment plans like the 2nd Street Thoroughfare Project, which will see the addition of crosswalks, new landscaping and safety buffers.
Columbus' crime statistics and climate
According to FBI data, Columbus’ crime rates fall below the national and state averages. More specifically, Columbus Police Department’s 2023 annual report revealed the lowest levels of property crimes in five years.
The FEMA National Risk Index is relatively low for the city, which experiences hot, humid summers and cold winters. “2024 was the first in recent years where we’ve had a bit of heavier snow,” Risacher says.
Written By
Matthew Simmons
Photography Contributed By
Sam Blythe
Video By
Jonathan Bradley
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Rhonda Krebs,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Columbus, IN sell after 42 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Columbus, IN over the last 12 months is $271,500, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome home to lakefront living with your own private beach! This beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers high-end finishes, extensive updates, and peaceful cove water views. The main level features a spacious primary suite with walk-in closet and a private bath highlighted by a 6-ft Kohler jetted tub. A formal dining room with custom granite window ledge complements the
Tucked away on 5 peaceful acres, this cozy cabin is everything you've been daydreaming about-part wooded wonderland, part open space, with a cheerful little creek out back and plenty of wildlife stopping by to say hello. Built in 1999, the cabin has been refreshed with a brand-new roof, new gutters, new HVAC, new City water hook-up, and even a backup generator (because nature's unpredictable, but
Imagine stepping into this century-old home, where every corner exudes charm and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Nestled on a spacious tree-shaded corner lot just off the city square, this home offers the perfect blend of location plus convenience.With an impressive 1700 square feet of living space, this four-bedroom home provides ample room for entertaining and creating a comfortable living
This home is located in Teocalthiche, Jalisco, never been lived in, 6 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms and a two-car garage, 3 stories, 1st floor consists of 2 bedrooms on of which is the principal bedroom, living room, kitchen and dining. Second floor 3 bedrooms and a bathroom and the 3rd floor has another bedroom and laundry room. The home is 10 minutes from downtown Teocaltiche and about one hour
Stunning Custom-Built Estate in Tipton Lakes. Experience timeless elegance blended with modern innovation in this exceptional custom residence located in the prestigious Tipton Lakes community. Spanning approximately 9,000 square feet, this remarkable home combines classic architectural detail with advanced smart-home technology, creating a refined yet highly functional living environment. A
Attention Investors: Here's a rare chance to secure two income-producing assets in one offering. This PACKAGE includes a currently rented 2-3 bedroom, 1 bath home with main-level laundry and a 1-car detached garage, providing immediate cash flow and a solid rental history. The property is being sold TOGETHER with a prime commercial lot (currently used as a car lot) featuring valuable State Street
Ultimate luxury meets effortless livability in this nearly 6700 Sqft showpiece. Classic design with minimalist features including walk up basement, four car garage w/ electric hookup, and resort-style inground pool. Main level home office, formal dining, plus vaulted family room opens to the gourmet kitchen. Enormous island, white cabinets, walk in pantry, and top of the line appliances. All this
Updated home in ideal location with easy access to shopping, dining, and schools. Four bedrooms, 3 baths, 2 car garage - plus great storage, 3 full baths with newer fixtures, tile, flooring. Kitchen with lots of cabinets, pantry, and prep space and opens to the privacy fenced backyard with shed and covered patio. Dine in kitchen area plus gas range. Original double lot gives you a huge backyard
Possibly build your dream home or put a barn for storage on this beautiful 2.08-acre lot featuring gently rolling land adorned with mature trees. Enjoy the tranquility of rural living while still having convenient access to modern amenities. Electric was Previously connected; a condemned home was removed 3 years ago. Old Basement/cellar foundation was filled and covered. Septic is unknown; future
Welcome home to this 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home in Bridge Pointe, built in 2016 and move-in ready. One of the best features? No direct neighbors behind you, just an open field with views and easy access to the People Trail. The main level offers a comfortable flow between the kitchen and dining area, great for everyday life or having friends over. Upstairs you'll find four spacious bedrooms plus a
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and style in this beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath condo! You will love two generous bedrooms located upstairs, conveniently next to the laundry closet. Enjoy a brand-new bathtub with surround, complemented by an elegant vanity, mirror, and water proof vinyl plank flooring. Stylish Kitchen featuring new cabinets, backsplash, sink and faucet, along with
Marvelously Modern and well updated 3 bedroom with loft in Southside School district. Backs up to the pond and has beautiful 18x 24 concrete patio with privacy panels. Newer laminate floors, paint, trim, light fixtures, buffet cabinets in dining and breakfast, added built in pocket office. Spacious master retreat with shower and garden tub, tons of storage, happy laundry rm. All bedrooms have
Step into The Victoria, a thoughtfully designed 1,430 square foot floor plan that balances comfort, style, and affordability. This budget-friendly layout is perfect for those looking to ditch renting and start building wealth through home ownership. Upstairs Sanctuary This beauty features 3 bedrooms, each with walk-in closets, 2 full bathrooms and an unfinished powder bath, and a convenient
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Experience the perfect blend of style and comfort in this newer-construction gem located in the sought-after Tipton Lakes community. This 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home delivers the modern finishes you've been dreaming of in an unbeatable location.The main level welcomes you with a spacious living room and a dedicated home office behind elegant French doors-providing the perfect quiet space for
River Stone Apartments; Columbus Indiana's largest luxury apartment community offers spacious floor plans, large kitchens with all appliances including washer, dryer, ice-maker in freezer, and built in microwave. Large bedrooms feature walk in closets and attached bathrooms with over sized tubs. Join us at our rustic clubhouse and enjoy our 24 hour fitness center, data center, cyber cafe, outdoor
Modern designs, elegant finishes, and upscale amenities are waiting for you at Townhomes at 28th. Our Columbus apartments come in two or three-bedroom layouts that are spacious and adaptable. A variety of interior luxuries adorn them including a renovated kitchen and bath, a townhome look and feel and private entrances, large picture windows, large closets and more. As a resident of our pet
More than 70 buildings and pieces of public art in Columbus have been designed by a veritable who's who of modern architects, and the American Institute of Architects rated Columbus sixth on its list of the top 10 American cities for architectural quality and innovation. Along with this national and international acclaim, Columbus retains its unique small community charm. Charleston Square is
Welcome home to Quail Run Apartments. Quail Run is spaciously set on 15 landscaped acres. Quail Run Apartments offers a variety of floor plans to accommodate any need, ranging from a roomy one bedroom apartment home to a spacious three bedroom townhouse. Whether it is working out in the fitness center, relaxing by our pool, or enjoying one of our many other amenities, you will find Quail Run
Parkview and Columbus Crossing Townhomes provider has something for everyone with one to four-bedroom floorplans. With a bark park for our furry family, a shimmering swimming pool, a playground, and a 24-hour fitness center our amenities provide entertainment for any member of your household. We are centrally located in historic Columbus, Indiana near shopping, dining, and entertainment. Our
From the superbly crafted interiors to the natural beauty of soaring pines and sparkling lake, Westwood Pines expresses good taste and serenity. This premier community offers you the best of two worlds. Our 16 acre lush wooded setting presents the quiet of the country, yet you're just minutes from the city of Columbus. This cozy community tucked away from the busy outside world is the natural
If convenience and location are important to you, then you're in for a treat. Our location near IUPUC, Ivy Tech and IU School of Medicine means you are close to all of the amenities of the university lifestyle such as library access, campus clubs, and dining halls. Convenient access to public transportation and shopping centers makes it easy for you to explore Columbus and its surrounding areas
Welcome to The Enclave, one of the most exclusive luxury apartment communities in Columbus, Indiana. You have the option of a secured entry or direct access to your apartment home. The Enclave is located on the preferred east side of Columbus with access to top-rated schools for the area. Our apartments feature stainless steel appliances, huge closets, full-size washer and dryer, 9-foot ceilings,
We have spacious Studio, 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments and townhomes in Columbus, Indiana. Our apartments have washer/dryer in select homes, air conditioning, and fully-equipped kitchen with a dishwasher. Conveniently located near Cummins, Ivy Tech Community College Columbus, and IUPUC. Enjoy our outdoor pool with sundeck, playground, and fitness center. Our pet-friendly apartments also have a
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