🏙️ Columbus metro area grows, but housing can't keep up. The region added over 30,000 residents last year, bringing the total population to 2.2 million and narrowing the gap with Cincinnati. While rents remain below national averages at $1,104 for a one-bedroom, the region is building only half the homes needed annually to meet demand. New construction homes average nearly $500,000, with the BIA blaming restrictive zoning and permitting processes. Home values have doubled over the past eight years, suggesting housing affordability challenges will continue as population growth outpaces supply.
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🏨 Elderly homeless man among 30 forced out of Columbus hotel shelter. Residents of the Loyalty Inn, where the Community Shelter Board was housing unhoused people, were suddenly evicted after the city ordered the hotel closed for code violations. Many refused traditional shelters because they couldn't bring their pets, leaving them with nowhere to go. The hotel, which charged $50 per night, had accumulated 17 fire code violations and approximately 100 police calls in the past year. Housing advocates blame poor communication between officials and a worsening affordable housing crisis that's expected to increase unsheltered homelessness by 68% over the next three years.
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🏆 Twelve remarkable young women recognized for outstanding leadership and service. The Zonta Club of Columbus honored its 2025 Outstanding Young Women award recipients at a ceremony on March 9, celebrating their excellence in academics, leadership, and community service. Among the honorees was Claire Artemus from Rutherford B. Hayes High School, with four recipients receiving financial awards ranging from $250 to $1,500. Sharvari Dhile of Dublin Coffman High School received the top prize and will be nominated for Zonta International's Young Women in Leadership award. Since 1980, the Zonta Club has recognized 557 young women from Central Ohio high schools through this program that empowers future female leaders.
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Ranch gem with modern updates: This lovely ranch-style home is offered at $319,900 and features an open floor plan with a large family room, spacious kitchen, three bedrooms, two full baths, and recent upgrades including a new roof, AC and furnace.
Modernized Columbus five-bedroom gem: This remodeled 5-bedroom Columbus home, priced at $315,000, features refinished hardwood, modern kitchen, and recent updates including new bathroom, HVAC, windows, and roof.