The industrial real estate market in Columbus, Ohio, is on a growth trajectory that shows no signs of slowing down. For developers, investors, and businesses looking to expand, Central Ohio is proving to be one of the most dynamic industrial hubs in the country.
A Market on the Move
Columbus continues to outperform expectations with record leasing activity and steady demand for logistics, distribution, and advanced manufacturing space. In the first half of 2025, leasing activity exceeded 4.8 million square feet, with more than 75% of that demand coming from new tenants. Vacancy rates, which peaked in late 2024, have already dropped to around 8.2%—a sign that the influx of speculative and build-to-suit projects is being met by strong tenant interest.
Major players like Anduril, Ryder Logistics, and other manufacturing and distribution leaders are committing to large-scale projects, including campuses exceeding one million square feet. This demand is not just about size—it’s about speed, flexibility, and modern features that meet the evolving needs of today’s industrial users.
Why Columbus? Location Meets Opportunity
Central Ohio’s strategic location has long been a draw for logistics and distribution companies, but recent factors have amplified its appeal:
- Pro-Business Incentives: Local and state tax abatements, Opportunity Zones, and Community Reinvestment Areas continue to create development-friendly conditions.
- Growing Industries: From Intel’s chip manufacturing facilities to the growth of EV battery and defense production, Columbus is becoming a hub for tech-forward industrial operations.
- Workforce and Infrastructure: A growing labor pool, supported by strong population growth and infrastructure investment, makes Columbus a reliable choice for long-term operations.
For developers, these trends point to a market where both speculative and build-to-suit opportunities can thrive.
The Rise of Sustainable, Specialized Facilities
Today’s industrial tenants are demanding more than just four walls and a roof. Sustainable design, flexible layouts, and specialized builds like cold storage, automation-ready facilities, and LEED-certified buildings are no longer optional—they’re expected. Columbus has already seen a wave of investor interest in properties that meet these criteria, including recent sales of fully leased, LEED-certified facilities commanding premium prices.
What This Means for Developers
For Roebling Development Company, these market dynamics underscore a simple truth: Columbus is a market where strategic partnerships and forward-thinking design can deliver exceptional returns. By targeting growth submarkets like Rickenbacker and Licking County, incorporating sustainable and specialized facility options, and leveraging local incentive programs, developers can capture demand and build lasting value.
At Roebling, we specialize in creating opportunities in high-growth markets like Columbus—connecting investors, tenants, and communities through strategic development that’s built to last.