Lawrence, Kansas: A Comprehensive Guide to Student Apartments

Choosing the right student apartment is a crucial decision that impacts your academic and social life. Lawrence, Kansas, home to the University of Kansas (KU), offers a diverse range of housing options to suit various needs and preferences. This guide provides valuable information to help you navigate the Lawrence student housing market and find the perfect place to call home.

Securing Housing Early

The demand for student housing in Lawrence is high, so it's essential to start your search early. Many options are filled in the spring and early summer. Be aware that many off-campus housing leases begin in the first week of August.

Location, Location, Location

Consider the proximity to campus, your department, and other essential locations. If you're new to the area, reach out to current graduate students in your department or your graduate support staff for recommendations on places close to campus or with access to the KU shuttle. Neighborhoods to consider include West Campus, Schwegler, University Place, West Hills, and Centennial. Many of the fraternity and sorority houses are located along Tennessee Street, while Naismith Drive is closer to Hoglund Ballpark.

KU Bus Routes

Route 12 of the KU Bus Route conveniently stops right on the block at Kasold Dr and Bob Billings Pwy, providing easy access to and from campus. Students, faculty, and staff can board any bus in Lawrence for free with their KU ID.

On-Campus vs. Off-Campus Housing

The University of Kansas sits atop a historic hill known as Mount Oread. It was a challenge for settlers along the Oregon Trail and the staging area for William Quantrill's raid during the Civil War. It is the highest point in Lawrence, making it the ideal location for the stately campus. Founded in 1865, the KU campus covers more than 1,000 acres. With its high-ranking programs, the University of Kansas Natural History Museum, the Lied Center of Kansas, and the Spencer Museum of Art, the University of Kansas attracts students from all over, making Lawrence the largest college town in the state.

Considered one of America's best college towns, Lawrence is all about supporting their Jayhawks. The Kansas Jayhawks are part of the Big 12 Conference, and you can cheer on the Jayhawks football team at Memorial Stadium, the baseball team at Hoglund Ballpark, or head to Allen Fieldhouse for Basketball. The Jayhawks have won more than 23 championships, many in basketball.

Shared vs. Private Rooms

Shared and private rooms in student housing each offer distinct advantages and drawbacks. Shared rooms foster social interaction and camaraderie among students, promoting a sense of community and friendship. They often come at a lower cost, making them more budget-friendly for students. Private rooms in student housing provide the invaluable benefits of having your own space and enjoying enhanced privacy.

Orchard Corners: A Popular Choice

Orchard Corners, located at 1405 Apple Lane, is one of the most popular student housing communities in Lawrence, KS. Nestled conveniently just off Bob Billings Parkway and Kasold, Orchard Corners is dedicated to crafting an exceptional living environment tailored to meet the needs of discerning students. At Orchard Corners, they offer private rooms in all of their floorplans. They believe that having a private room is essential for creating an optimal environment for focused studying, relaxation, and personal growth.

Furnished vs. Unfurnished Apartments

Opting for a furnished KU student apartment can offer convenience and ease, particularly for students who are moving in temporarily or can’t afford to buy their own furniture. Moving becomes a breeze as you step into a fully equipped living space, saving time and energy. However, for those who have specific decor preferences or cherished furniture items, a furnished KU student apartment might not align perfectly. It’s important to note that renting a furnished unit comes at a slightly higher cost, and there’s less opportunity to personalize the space to your exact taste.

Orchard Corners: Furnished Options

At Orchard Corners, they offer fully furnished units designed to provide hassle-free living, particularly for those who are new to the area or prefer not to invest in furniture. Moving becomes a breeze as you step into a fully equipped living space, saving time and energy. Conveniently furnished apartments feature stylish designer furniture, complemented by balconies or patios in a variety of 5 different floorplans.

Read also: Guide to UC Davis Student Housing

Amenities to Consider

When it comes to renting an apartment near the University of Kansas, amenities can make a world of difference in finding your perfect home!

Orchard Corners: Exceptional Amenities

Orchard Corners takes pride in offering a range of exceptional apartment amenities that enhance the living experience for our residents. Their apartments feature newly installed flooring, a balcony or patio, and mini blinds. For those seeking a unique living arrangement, they also offer loft units that add an extra dimension to your space. Orchard Corners boasts a state-of-the-art 24/7 fitness center, providing residents with round-the-clock access to top-notch exercise facilities. Their inviting and well-equipped study lounges provide students with comfortable spaces to focus and excel academically. Take a dip in their refreshing swimming pool, perfect for relaxation and recreation on sunny days.

Pet-Friendly Options

When searching for a student apartment in Lawrence, you’ll want to consider the community’s pet policy. At Orchard Corners they allow a maximum of two pets per unit with no weight limit. Aggressive breeds are restricted, and there is a $150 one-time pet fee and a $150 refundable pet deposit.

Hawks Pointe: Pet-Friendly Apartments

Working professionals and professional students will love pet-friendly Hawks Pointe. They offer garden-style studio, one, two, three, and four-bedroom apartments in Lawrence, Kansas. Their floor plans put you right between campus and the vibrant downtown area. Hawks Pointe sports a welcoming retro atmosphere with modern amenities that amplify your day-to-day life.

Lease Terms

Lease terms are an important part of the rental agreement between tenants and landlords. They outline the specifics of the agreement such as the length of the lease, the amount of rent, and any pet policies, security deposits, or other details. Lease terms can vary considerably between different rental agreements, so it is essential that tenants read their lease carefully before signing.

Read also: Investigating the Death at Purdue

Subleasing and Selling Your Contract

Subleasing and/or selling your contract is allowed with a $200 fee.

Cost of Living and Average Rents

As of February 2026, the average apartment rent in Lawrence, KS, is $789 for a studio, $990 for one bedroom, $1,179 for two bedrooms, and $1,429 for three bedrooms.

Exploring Lawrence: Shopping, Entertainment, and More

Living in close proximity to parks, shops, and entertainment venues not only enriches your daily life but also offers remarkable convenience. Orchard Corners enjoys a prime location in close proximity to well-regarded establishments like Jade Garden, Kwik Shop, and Yellow Brick Yoga.

Massachusetts Street (Mass Street)

Massachusetts Street (Downtown Lawrence) is generally called “Mass Street,” this is one of the main shopping, entertainment, and dining hubs in Lawrence. A historic district, Mass Street is home to casual and fine dining, locally-owned and national retail shops, and numerous bars and entertainment/music venues. Explore the street on your own, or check out Unmistakably Lawrence for details on everything Mass Street has to offer. They also have Final Fridays here - where many stores become mini art galleries.

Grocery Stores

Dillon’s: This is a regional grocery store chain with 4 locations in Lawrence. Make sure to get a Dillon’s card to receive fuel points and discounts.
Hy-Vee: Also a regional grocery chain with one location in West Lawrence at 23rd and Kasold Street. Hy-Vee also has a fuel points card.
Checker’s: At 23rd and Louisiana Street, this is a discount (and awesome!) grocery store with a great selection of international foods and ingredients.
The Merc: A community-owned cooperative grocery store with a hot bar and juice/coffee bar located on the corner of Iowa Street and 9th Street.
Aldi: International discount supermarket chain located on South Iowa street.

Available Apartments in Lawrence

Here's a glimpse of some apartments available in Lawrence:

901 Lofts: Located at 901 New Hampshire St, Lawrence, KS 66044. Offers studio and 2-bedroom apartments ranging from $905 - $2,120.
3409 Seminole Dr: Offers a 3-bedroom townhouse for rent at $2,550 total monthly price.
The Frontier West Lawrence: Located at 546 Frontier Rd, Lawrence, KS 66049. Offers 1 and 2-bedroom apartments ranging from $1,349 - $1,549.
635 W 25th St: Offers a 2-bedroom apartment for rent at $825.
The Collective at Lawrence: Located at 3345 Magnolia Cir, Lawrence, KS 66046. Offers 1 to 4-bedroom apartments ranging from $835 - $1,655 per person.
1054 Wellington Rd: Offers a 4-bedroom house for rent at $3,200.
Proxi Lawrence: Located at 1401 W 23rd St, Lawrence, KS 66046. Offers 1 to 4-bedroom apartments ranging from $805 - $1,685 per person.
2246 Tennessee St: Offers a 2-bedroom house for rent at $1,650 total monthly price with a 12-month lease.
Union Flats & Townhomes: Located at 2500 W 6th St, Lawrence, KS 66049. Offers studio to 3-bedroom apartments ranging from $900 - $1,500.
1339 Vermont St, Unit 2: Offers a 1-bedroom apartment for rent at $1,250 total monthly price.
The Landing Lawrence: Located at 2511 W 31st St, Lawrence, KS 66047. Offers 3 to 4-bedroom apartments ranging from $680 - $805 per person.
1317 Rhode Island St, Unit 1: Offers a 1-bedroom apartment for rent at $1,750 total monthly price.
Sagebrook on 9th: Located at 837 Michigan St, Lawrence, KS 66044. Offers 2-bedroom apartments ranging from $1,000 - $1,500.
1333 Connecticut St: Offers 1 to 2-bedroom apartments for rent ranging from $1,175 - $1,350 total monthly price.
Park 25 Apartments: Located at 2401 W 25th St, Lawrence, KS 66047. Offers studio to 3-bedroom apartments ranging from $1,025 - $1,290.
1324 Vermont St: Offers 1 to 2-bedroom apartments for rent ranging from $1,050 - $1,350 total monthly price with a 12-month lease.
Village 1 / Hawk's Landing: Located at 2411 Louisiana St, Lawrence, KS 66046. Offers 1 to 3-bedroom apartments ranging from $949 - $1,325.
728 Ohio St: Offers a 2-bedroom apartment for rent ranging from $1,400 - $1,450 total monthly price with a 12-month lease.
700 Mass Apartments: Located at 732 Massachusetts St, Lawrence, KS 66044. Offers 1 to 2-bedroom apartments ranging from $900 - $1,415.
1705 Vermont St, Unit 1: Offers a 1-bedroom apartment for rent at $1,115 total monthly price.
Rose Houses: Located at 3708-3812 W 24th St, Lawrence, KS 66047. Offers 2 to 3-bedroom apartments ranging from $1,650 - $1,950.
1329 Connecticut St, Unit Apt2: Offers a 1-bedroom apartment for rent at $1,050 total monthly price with a 12-month lease.
The Quarters Lawrence: Located at 4101 W 24th Pl, Lawrence, KS 66047. Offers 2 to 4-bedroom apartments ranging from $745 - $880 per person.
1733 Massachusetts St: Offers 1 to 2-bedroom houses for rent ranging from $1,400 - $1,800 total monthly price with a 12-month lease.
Eagle Ridge Apartments: Located at 530 Eldridge St, Lawrence, KS 66049. Offers 1-bedroom apartments at $850.
1609 W 4th St: Offers a 2-bedroom townhouse for rent at $1,700 total monthly price with a 12-month lease.
Sunrise Terrace: Located at 951 Arkansas St, Lawrence, KS 66044. Offers 3-bedroom apartments at $1,295.
1015 Kentucky St: Offers 1 to 2-bedroom apartments for rent ranging from $1,035 - $1,750 total monthly price.
Student | HERE Kansas: Located at 1101-1111 Indiana St, Lawrence, KS 66044. Offers 1 to 4-bedroom apartments ranging from $829 - $1,959 per person.
1321 Vermont St, Unit 2: Offers a 2-bedroom apartment for rent at $1,550 total monthly price with a 12-month lease.
Fieldhouse View Apartments: Located at 1735 W 19th St, Lawrence, KS 66046. Offers 1 to 2-bedroom apartments ranging from $999 - $1,199.
1328 Vermont St: Offers 1 to 2-bedroom apartments for rent ranging from $895 - $1,750 total monthly price with a 12-month lease.
Chase Court: Located at 1942 Stewart Ave, Lawrence, KS 66046. Offers 1 to 2-bedroom apartments ranging from $930 - $1,150.
1330 Vermont St: Offers a 3-bedroom house for rent at $1,995 total monthly price with a 12-month lease.
Meadowbrook Apartments: Located at 2601 Dover Sq, Lawrence, KS 66049. Offers studio to 3-bedroom apartments ranging from $735 - $1,560.
2811 Winterbrook Cir: Offers a 3-bedroom house for rent at $1,850.
West Hills Apartments: Located at 1012 Emery Rd, Lawrence, KS 66044. Offers 1 to 2-bedroom apartments ranging from $999 - $1,250.
1609 W 4th St: Offers a 2-bedroom townhouse for rent at $1,700.
Village Square: Located at 1500-1614 W 9th St, Lawrence, KS 66044. Offers 1 to 2-bedroom apartments ranging from $825 - $975.
505 Eldridge St: Offers a 4-bedroom townhouse for rent at $2,100.

Utilizing Online Resources

Websites like ForRentUniversity.com are valuable resources for finding off-campus housing near KU. You can filter by price, bedrooms, distance, pet policy, safety features, and amenities.

Reviews and Recommendations

Hawks Pointe is a great student living option in Lawrence. The staff are friendly and helpful, and the apartments are nicer than a lot of options in town. Hawks Pointe is a great place to live. Not only are the staff helpful, friendly, energized, and skillful but also the properties are clean and well-managed. The staff are amazing and very friendly!!! They got us approved in a day, and the apartment is very beautiful! Very peaceful surroundings!!

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