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Central Ohio 
Retail Overview

Market Overview

Located in the center of Ohio, Columbus is the 3rd-largest city in the Midwest and the 14th-largest city in the U.S. The region, whose population has never declined, is experiencing a period of tremendous growth and boasts some of the best business resources around. The population grew 1.4% during the final 2 quarters of 2024 alone, earning the top rating in Bank of America
Institute Ranking.

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With 52 colleges and universities in the area, the region possesses a young, educated workforce that is expanding at a rate substantially higher than the national average. Columbus is known for retaining this talent, as the city has one of the largest concentration of millennials in the nation and was ranked the #1 place for college grads by SmartAsset.​

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Columbus is located within a 10-hour drive of 45 percent of the country’s population— more than any other major city— making it a point of access for businesses and consumers. With access to top transportation networks like John Glenn International Airport, Rickenbacker International Airport, numerous rail terminals and national interstates, Columbus is a
certified logistics hub.

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No industry accounts for more than 18 percent of employment, meaning Columbus’ economy is more diversified than ever. The area is home to 16 Fortune 1000 and 5 Fortune 500 companies, reinforcing its reputation as a first-class business environment.

Current population is 2.24M and expected to grow to 3.15M by 2050

Columbus sees 51.2M annual visitors

Why Columbus?

Our Why Columbus piece details all of the facets of Central Ohio that make it special. From the local economy, business environment, strategic location, educated workforce, infrastructure and quality of life, this report illuminates everything that Columbus has to offer.

Quarterly Retail Reports

Market Trends

 

  • The Columbus retail market ended 2025 with positive absorption and a declining vacancy rate, extending the market’s multi-year tightening trend. Persistently low vacancy and limited speculative supply constrained overall market activity.

  • According to CoStar, Columbus ranked 10th among the top U.S. retail markets in 2025, outperforming most Midwest peers and ranking alongside high-growth Sun Belt markets. Ranking was determined based on occupancy rates, availability, market rent growth, and change in sales volume.

  • Retail construction moderated in Q4 as key projects delivered reducing total space under construction to 233,108 square feet.


Explore all of our quarterly retail reports:

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