What Young Professionals Want to See in Their City

Guest post by: Steven Michalovich, Columbus Downtown Development Corporation

As one of the largest college towns in the country, it is vital to retain this ongoing source of fresh talent hitting the job market and developing these individuals into our next community leaders and big thinkers.

But why would an young professional (YP) want to stay in Columbus?

Recently Columbus ranked tenth out of cities with a population over 500,000 in best places for young professionals to live and work. In doing so, Columbus beat out cities such as Charlotte, Chicago, Los Angeles, Nashville, and San Diego. These cities seem to be iconic destinations – so again, I have to ask, why would an YP want to stay in Columbus, Ohio?

Columbus appeals to the YP demographic for a variety of reasons. Many flourishing neighborhoods are scattered throughout the city limits, each with its own character and offering something uniquely different.

But having a price that meets what an YP can afford has become a priority in Columbus. Take downtown for example, where the market for urban dwellers historically has been only for the wealthy. This is no longer, as new residential projects are in the pipeline that will be targeted to YPs. For example, Lifestyle Communities is building a new neighborhood in downtown that will be affordable for the young and talented. This movement is crucial to keeping the next wave of up-and-comers in Columbus.

But it’s not just about where you live. YPs by nature like to live near where they work and play, so investing in the downtown is vital as well. New downtown amenities are in the pipeline, adding to this already vibrant core. Columbus Commons (pictured below) and Scioto Mile are two exciting green spaces reshaping downtown that will give the urban neighborhoods a place to escape and relax.

The Arena District is the premier entertainment district in Columbus flourishing 12 months a year, with the addition of Huntington Park (pictured below) joining Nationwide Arena, Lifestyles Pavilion and the adjacent bars and restaurants.

It’s hard to argue that there isn't always something to do in Columbus, as the calendar is filled with myriad events and festivals throughout the year all hosted within the center city.

Preserving the environment is also a priority in Columbus. Initiatives such as a Share the Road and Bike to Work Week are aimed at urging people to leave the car keys and ride a bike instead. More and more buildings in Columbus are being constructed utilizing sustainable methods, with the local hallmark being The Lazarus Building, which transformed from a department store into office space.

I think the biggest draw for young professionals is they see a city that is invested in the future success for the community. This involves preserving the environment, adding new amenities and most importantly, providing opportunities for young professionals today, so that Columbus can continue to strive and grow tomorrow.

In my opinion, there is no finer place than Columbus, Ohio to strive, learn, grow, live, play, speak up, and get connected as an young professional.

Comments

[Steven Michalovich]

Great to hear you found the Chamber site and are checking out Columbus. Hope you make it out for a visit sometime - we definitely have a lot to offer here!

[Brenda]

I have just found this site and its filled with some great information.
Wow what an interesting post, Columbus really sounds like an awesome place to be. I just love how excited the above person is about this place, thanks for sharing this and something to keep in mind when visiting the States is to actually visit here and see it for ones self.

[Kristen Jensen]

Couldn't agree more, Steve. Columbus is the best place to be; it's a place to be yourself and become a whole lot more. This article could have been 50 pages and still not have covered all the best things about C-bus but I think you hit on the highlights!