Thinking about a fresh start in Hilliard? You are not alone. This northwest Columbus suburb blends neighborhood comfort with easy access to city jobs, parks, and everyday conveniences. If you want a simple, organized way to relocate, this guide gives you a step-by-step plan, local checklists, and what to expect from housing to utilities. Follow along, and you will feel prepared from week one to move-in day. Let’s dive in.
Hilliard at a glance
Hilliard sits in Franklin County northwest of downtown Columbus. You will find a primarily residential feel, retail corridors, parks, and a compact downtown known as the Creekside activity district. Many residents commute to nearby employment centers across the region, with driving as the main mode and regional bus service available on select routes. The Hilliard City School District serves most local addresses. Always verify current school boundaries and enrollment requirements directly with the district before you sign a lease or purchase.
Your 12‑week move timeline
8–12 weeks out: plan and finance
- Set your budget and, if buying, get a mortgage preapproval.
- Research neighborhoods that fit your goals. Consider commute times, school boundaries, walkability, and access to parks and daily needs.
- Start decluttering and selling or donating large items you do not want to move.
- Request baseline moving estimates from several movers or plan for a rental truck.
- If renting, review lease start dates, deposits, and renter’s insurance requirements.
4–8 weeks out: book and prepare
- Hire movers or reserve a truck. Get at least three quotes and confirm licensing and insurance.
- Schedule any repairs or deep cleaning at your current home.
- If you have students, request school and immunization records and contact Hilliard City Schools for enrollment steps and residency documentation.
- Line up homeowner’s or renter’s insurance to begin on your closing or move-in date.
2–3 weeks out: lock in logistics
- Confirm moving day details. Ask the City of Hilliard about any on-street parking or temporary container permits you might need.
- Set up essential services at the new address: electricity, natural gas, water and sewer, and trash or recycling.
- Choose internet and TV providers and schedule installation windows.
- File your change of address with the United States Postal Service and set mail forwarding.
1 week out: pack and confirm
- Pack an essentials box with documents, medications, chargers, and a few days of clothes.
- Confirm childcare or pet care for moving day.
- Take final utility readings at your old address and confirm shutoff dates.
Moving day: execute and document
- Do a final walkthrough. Photograph meter readings and any pre-move conditions you want on record.
- Keep IDs and closing paperwork within reach.
- Make sure keys, fobs, and door codes transfer properly.
1–2 weeks after: finish setup
- Update your driver’s license and vehicle registration with the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles. Ohio generally requires updates within about 30 days; verify the current timeline.
- Register to vote or update your address with the Franklin County Board of Elections.
- Enroll children in schools and schedule routine healthcare appointments with local providers.
- Update your homeowner’s and auto insurance with your new address.
Housing choices and budgeting
Neighborhood types at a glance
- Older, downtown-adjacent streets: Closer to the Creekside area, with established blocks and convenient access to local events and parks.
- Classic subdivisions: Single-family homes with sidewalks and nearby schools, often with HOA rules to review.
- Newer developments: Recently built homes and townhomes with modern layouts and potential builder amenities.
- Townhome and condo clusters: Lower-maintenance options that can be appealing for first-time buyers or downsizers.
Tip: Verify school attendance boundaries with Hilliard City Schools before you write an offer or sign a lease. Boundaries can change, and exact addresses matter.
Buying vs. renting
- Compare total monthly costs, not just the payment. Include mortgage principal and interest, property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, HOA dues if applicable, and utilities.
- If renting, review deposits, pet policies, parking, and renter’s insurance requirements.
- Consider your commute, school zoning, and potential resale timeline when choosing a location and property type.
Taxes and ongoing costs
- Use the Franklin County Auditor to review assessed values and historical tax bills for specific properties.
- Ask your lender for an estimated annual property tax amount during underwriting so your escrow is accurate.
- Check for HOA rules, fees, and restrictions. Review any rules on exterior changes, parking, pets, and rentals.
Suburban buyer pitfalls to avoid
- Confirm school boundaries directly with the district for your exact address.
- Review HOA documents early and ask questions before your inspection period ends.
- Check lot drainage, easements, and utility locations during your due diligence.
- Test your commute during peak hours from the home’s location to your workplace.
Schools and enrollment
Hilliard City Schools serves most of the area with multiple elementary and middle schools and three high schools: Hilliard Davidson, Hilliard Bradley, and Hilliard Darby. Enrollment typically requires proof of residency, a birth certificate, immunization records, and custody papers if applicable. Contact the district registrar for documentation checklists, enrollment windows, and the most current boundary maps.
Utilities and internet setup
Set services 2–3 weeks ahead so your home is ready on day one. Availability can vary by street, so always confirm for your address.
- Electricity: AEP Ohio is a major provider in the region. Ask about deposit policies and start dates.
- Natural gas: Columbia Gas of Ohio commonly serves central Ohio. Confirm whether your home uses gas and schedule a safety check if needed.
- Water and sewer: City of Hilliard Public Utilities handles billing within city limits. Set up your account and confirm your first bill date.
- Trash and recycling: Verify your collection schedule and procedures for bulk items. Some neighborhoods contract with private haulers.
- Internet and TV: Spectrum and AT&T serve many addresses, with service levels that vary by street. Check provider availability or the FCC broadband map to compare options.
How to transfer water service:
- Call the City of Hilliard utilities office 2–3 weeks before move-in. 2) Provide your service start date and proof of occupancy. 3) Ask about any deposit, billing cycles, and leak alerts.
Commute and transportation
Most residents drive, and Hilliard’s access to the I‑270 outerbelt makes regional trips straightforward. Use mapping apps to test real-world peak travel times from your target neighborhood to your workplace. The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) runs regional routes; check current schedules to see if a bus option fits your commute.
Local rules and permits
Before moving day, ask the City of Hilliard about:
- Temporary permits for on-street moving trucks
- Rules for portable storage containers or dumpsters
- Any restrictions in your subdivision or HOA that affect parking or timing
Your relocation budget checklist
Build a cushion so move-in is smooth. Costs vary, so get written quotes.
- Moving company or truck rental
- Boxes, packing supplies, and specialty item handling
- First month’s utilities and any deposits
- Internet installation or equipment fees
- Renter’s or homeowner’s insurance
- Property taxes and escrow setup (if buying)
- HOA initiation or transfer fees (if applicable)
- Pet licensing and initial vet visit in the area
How Core Realty Collection helps
You do not have to navigate this alone. Core Realty Collection pairs deep Hilliard and Columbus micro-market expertise with a high-touch, teach-first approach. You get guidance on neighborhoods, property types, school boundary checks, and a clear plan from offer to closing. If you are investing or planning updates, the team can advise on renovation choices and provide property management support after closing. Ready to make your move feel simple and confident? Connect with Core Realty Collection.
FAQs
What is the first step when relocating to Hilliard?
- Start with budget and mortgage preapproval if you are buying, then map neighborhoods that fit your commute, school needs, and lifestyle.
How do utilities work for Hilliard addresses?
- Call providers 2–3 weeks before move-in to start service: AEP Ohio for electricity, Columbia Gas of Ohio for natural gas, and City of Hilliard for water and sewer.
How do I enroll my child in Hilliard City Schools?
- Contact the district registrar and prepare proof of residency, a birth certificate, immunization records, and custody papers if applicable; verify boundary maps for your address.
What should I budget for a Hilliard move?
- Plan for movers or truck rental, packing supplies, utility deposits, internet setup, insurance, and if buying, taxes and potential HOA fees.
How long is the commute from Hilliard to Columbus?
- Commute times vary by neighborhood and time of day; test your route during peak hours using a mapping app to set realistic expectations.
Do I need a permit for a moving truck in Hilliard?
- It depends on location and duration; contact the City of Hilliard to confirm if you need a temporary on-street parking or container permit.
When do I update my Ohio driver’s license after moving?
- Ohio BMV generally expects updates within about 30 days of residency, but verify the current requirement with the Ohio BMV before you go.
