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ugust Tucker, a rising Ohio State University third-year student, was faced with two starkly different options for off-campus housing. He could have shared a modest home near South campus for $500 a month or opted for a one-bedroom apartment in a luxury complex with amenities like a rooftop pool and Jumbotron for an average of $2,100 a month. Tucker chose the more affordable option, citing financial concerns as a part-time, minimum-wage worker.

    The University District has seen a surge in upscale student high-rises over the past 20 years, each boasting glamorous amenities and steep rents. However, many students feel that luxury housing is inaccessible and "predatory." Despite this, some of these developments report occupancy rates near or at 100%.

    Columbus' deputy director of housing strategies, Erin Prosser, attributes high rent costs to construction expenses, which are driven by the city's high demand for housing. She notes that even without luxury amenities, rent prices would remain high due to building costs.

    Real estate market analyst Rob Vogt suggests that the University District's luxury student housing market may be overbuilt, with vacancy rates and concession offers indicating a decline in rental rates. However, Rambler, a new luxury complex, reported 92% pre-lease as of July 24.

    Experts agree that high construction costs drive rents upward, but some argue that it's possible to build affordable housing by being intentional about affordability. Carlie Boos, executive director of the Affordable Housing Alliance of Central Ohio, notes that there is a shortage of affordable options in the University District, which may impact the area's demographic makeup.

    Luxury developers, such as Jonathan Reyes from LV Collective and Jared Schiff from The Schiff Real Estate Company, argue that their properties meet the needs of students who can afford them. However, Vogt remains skeptical of high pre-lease rates, suggesting that developers may be exaggerating occupancy numbers.

    The city is taking steps to address affordable housing concerns, including the Zone In Columbus initiative and Mayor Andrew Ginther's $1.9 billion bond package proposal. Experts agree that more work needs to be done to provide affordable options for students.

    Average rent costs at Rambler vary by unit size, ranging from $1,225 for a six-bedroom space to $2,155 for a one-bedroom apartment.