The University District is one of the most cosmopolitan and diverse communities in central Ohio. Located two miles north of downtown Columbus, the area encompasses the urban neighborhoods around The Ohio State University and is a center for education and culture, science and medicine, sports and recreation, dining and nightlife. This dynamic international community brings together students, families, business owners, artists and professionals in neighborhoods enriched by a variety of housing, historic structures and natural features.

Due to the enrollment on Ohio State's Columbus campus (52,000 students in 2008-09), it is likely that over time more Ohioans have lived in the University District than any other neighborhood in the state.

The University District is approximately 300 blocks and about 2.8 square miles in area. The boundaries of the University District are Fifth Avenue on the south, Glen Echo Ravine (just north of Arcadia Avenue) on the north, the railroad tracks on the east, and the Olentangy River on the west.