Navigating the search for housing as an ASU student can be overwhelming, with decisions about living off-campus, having roommates and more. At Rambler Tempe, we understand the challenges of finding a place to live in Tempe and we recognize how important finding the right location is in this decision making process.
While we’re confident in Rambler Tempe’s prime location in Tempe, just steps from ASU, we’ve compiled this guide to help you explore other popular areas near ASU for off-campus housing. From Downtown Tempe’s student-focused atmosphere to Scottsdale’s upscale vibe, we’ll walk you through the top areas to help you decide where to live near ASU.
Where Do Students Live Near ASU? A Guide to On- and Off-Campus Student Housing
On-Campus Living at Arizona State
ASU offers a range of on-campus housing options for first-year students and beyond. Freshmen often live in Residential Colleges, where students are housed by their academic field, creating a strong community and easy access to campus resources. Most on-campus dorms offer suite-style or community bathrooms, common lounges and meal plans, making them convenient for first-year students adjusting to university life.
For on-campus living, there are two main options: ASU-owned residence halls and Greek housing.
ASU Residence Halls
Residence Halls at ASU include both dorms and apartment-style housing owned by the university, providing on-campus living options across different areas of campus. Primarily located on the north and south sides of the Tempe campus, each hall is often associated with specific academic programs or Residential Colleges, allowing students to live near peers in their major. Many students select their residence hall based on their academic program and desired proximity to key buildings, creating a living experience that best fits their academic and social needs.
Greek Houses
ASU Tempe also offers Greek housing as an option for students involved in fraternities or sororities. All Greek houses are located within the Greek Leadership Village. They typically feature shared bedrooms and communal baths, with many already furnished for convenience.
Many second- and third-year students choose to live in Greek housing due to its affordability and convenient on-campus location. While ASU has a strong Greek community, not all fraternities and sororities have designated houses, and space is often limited, meaning only a portion of members may have the opportunity to live in their chapter’s house.
Off-Campus Housing Near ASU
Majority of ASU students do not live on campus following their freshman year, so there are lots of options when it comes to off-campus housing. Most students want to be walking distance from campus to avoid finding parking or taking the bus.
The most popular areas to live off-campus near ASU are:
Downtown Tempe
Downtown Tempe, adjacent to ASU’s main campus, is a favorite for students who want to stay close to classes while enjoying the energy of Tempe’s bustling downtown. This area is filled with restaurants, coffee shops, nightlife and social spaces, making it ideal for students seeking a convenient and vibrant off-campus experience.
Student Apartments
Student apartment complexes in Downtown Tempe cater specifically to college students and offer modern amenities, individual leases and fully-furnished units. With options from studios to 5×5 layouts, students can find housing that suits their preferences and budget. Amenities like rooftop pools, fitness centers and study lounges make these complexes appealing for those looking to balance study and social life. Rents generally range from $1,200 to $2,500 per month depending on the amenities, location, building age and the type of floorplan.
Choosing student apartments near ASU offers perks like individual lease options and trendy amenities, including outdoor pool decks, gym facilities and more.
Traditional Apartments
For a more budget friendly option, traditional apartments in Downtown Tempe provide a less student-centric environment with various rental setups. These apartments often offer lower rental rates, from around $700 to $2,500 depending on factors like proximity to campus and amenities. Traditional apartments typically come with standard leases, so all roommates share responsibility for the rent and any damages.
Given that these apartments aren’t specifically tailored for students, they may be located farther from campus, lack furniture and offer fewer amenities. Traditional apartments also typically operate under traditional leases, potentially complicating the roommate and subleasing process.
Scottsdale
Just a short drive from ASU, Scottsdale is known for its upscale vibe, shopping, dining and recreational spots. For students with cars or those who enjoy a quieter suburban atmosphere, Scottsdale offers a range of off-campus housing options.
Scottsdale also has numerous traditional apartments and rental houses, which can be an excellent choice for upperclassmen or graduate students who want more space and privacy. Monthly rents generally range from $1,000 to $2,500 depending on location and amenities.
Photo Courtesy to Experience Scottsdale
Downtown Phoenix
For students open to a bit of commuting, Downtown Phoenix offers a vibrant urban experience with easy access to ASU via the Valley Metro Light Rail. Known for cultural attractions, professional opportunities and an energetic city vibe, Downtown Phoenix is great for students seeking an urban lifestyle.
Downtown Phoenix also has a variety of traditional apartments and lofts that cater to students and professionals alike. These residences provide a mix of historical charm and modern amenities, often drawing students who appreciate the artsy, urban feel of areas like Roosevelt Row. Rents range from $900 to $2,500 depending on proximity to key attractions.
We hope this article has given you a comprehensive overview of the diverse living options for ASU students. If you’re considering off-campus living, Tempe, Scottsdale and Downtown Phoenix offer a variety of options to suit different lifestyles and budgets. For more information or to explore housing at Rambler Tempe, feel free to reach out to our leasing team. We’re here to help you find your ideal off-campus home!
