Finding the Perfect Student Housing in Tempe, Arizona

Tempe, Arizona, a vibrant city in Maricopa County, is a popular destination for students, especially those attending Arizona State University (ASU). Known for its sunny climate, college-town vibe, and cultural diversity, Tempe attracts students from around the nation and the world. With a thriving student community of over 70,000, the demand for student apartments in Tempe is consistently high. While on-campus housing is an option, many students prefer the independence, flexibility, and diverse options offered by off-campus housing. This article explores the various aspects of student housing in Tempe, providing a comprehensive guide to finding the ideal living space.

Tempe: A City Designed for Students

Tempe seamlessly blends a lively college-town atmosphere with Arizona’s sunny, relaxed vibe. Students enjoy a buzzing nightlife, cultural events, and plenty of outdoor spaces. The city consistently ranks among the best places to live in Arizona for students, with neighborhoods designed around campus life. Tempe balances academic energy with recreational and social opportunities, including arts festivals, music events, and sports. The city is also known for the Tempe Town Lake, a 220-acre man-made reservoir on the Salt River, which attracts over 2.4 million visitors annually for kayaking, paddleboarding, and events like Ironman Arizona.

Why Choose Off-Campus Housing in Tempe?

Finding great student living in Tempe can make university life far more comfortable and enjoyable. Moving to a new city comes with challenges such as commuting, grocery shopping, and making the most of student life. Choosing the right off-campus housing in Tempe ensures a safe, convenient, and lively living experience while supporting both academic and social life.

Key Considerations for Student Housing in Tempe

When picking student housing in Tempe, several key factors should be considered:

Proximity to Arizona State University: A shorter commute allows more time for studying and extracurricular activities.
Affordability: Sticking to a budget is crucial for managing expenses.
Safety: Look for gated access, CCTV, and 24/7 security.
Amenities: Consider amenities such as study lounges, fitness centers, and community environments.

Types of Student Apartments in Tempe

Tempe student apartments cater to different lifestyles and budgets:

Studio Apartments: These fully furnished apartments offer complete independence and quiet study, often with a kitchenette, private bathroom, and Wi-Fi. Perfect for students who prefer minimal distractions and personal space. Rent for studio apartments in Tempe ranges from $1,000 to $1,800 per month.
1-Bedroom or 2-Bedroom Apartments: Semi-private setups with shared common areas, offering a balance of privacy and social interaction. Students benefit from amenities like communal lounges, study rooms, fitness centers, and occasional resident events. The rent for one-bedroom apartments in Tempe typically falls between $1,200 and $2,500 per month, while two-bedroom apartments range from $1,400 to $3,500 per month.
2-Bedroom and 3-Bedroom Apartments: Private bedrooms with shared kitchens and living areas, ideal for friends living together. These often include furnished common areas and laundry facilities.
Shared Apartments: Multiple private bedrooms in a single unit with shared living spaces, encouraging social interaction and community. Great for groups of friends or those seeking an active social life. The rent for four-bedroom apartments in Tempe can go up to $2,000 per month per person.
Private Rooms: Individual rooms within shared apartments, providing personal space while still accessing communal kitchens and lounges. Offers flexibility for different student lifestyles.

Popular Student Housing Options in Tempe

West 6th: A popular apartment complex with modern amenities.
Metro 101 Apartments: Starting from $1,356/month.
CityScape At Lakeshore: Starting from $1,681/month.
Vero: Starting from $1,454/month.
Skywater: Starting from $1,380/month.
Nine20 Tempe: Features luxury apartments with high-end amenities such as granite countertops and stainless steel appliances, and a resort-style pool with an oversized hot tub and poolside lounge. Nine20 Tempe also offers a fenced-in pet park for residents.
University House: Offering community amenities such as a resort-style pool, fitness center, and granite counters.
Union Tempe: Offering community amenities such as a resort-style pool, fitness center, and granite counters.
Emerson Park Apartment Homes: Offering community amenities such as a resort-style pool, fitness center, and granite counters.

Affordable Student Housing Options

For students on a budget, Tempe offers a variety of affordable student apartments that don’t compromise on comfort or convenience. These options are well-located near ASU, making it easy to balance academics and social life.

PDP 85224: A student housing option.
Rambler, Tempe: Features a rooftop pool, fitness center, study rooms, and an on-site coffee shop.
University Pointe: Offers budget-friendly housing with amenities including a pool and gym, and most utilities are included in the rent.
Redpoint Tempe: Offers a 24-hour fitness center and sauna for residents and has a resort-style swimming pool and stocked clubhouse.
Yugo Tempe Villas: Offers affordable options for students.
Alight Tempe: Offers affordable options for students.
The Gateway at Tempe: Offers affordable options for students.
Yugo Tempe Terrace: Offers affordable options for students.

Best Neighborhoods for Students in Tempe

Tempe has many neighborhoods, and some also rank among the safest places in Arizona:

Downtown Tempe/Mill Avenue District: The heart of the city, bustling with cafes, restaurants, and entertainment. Its walkable streets and vibrant nightlife make it ideal for students who enjoy an active social scene. Average rent here is around $1,400/month.
A Mountain/ASU Neighborhood: Close to campus, this area is popular for short commutes and easy access to campus facilities. Average rent here is around $1,350/month.
Tempe Town Lake Area: Scenic area with parks, walking trails, and outdoor recreation, ideal for students who enjoy a balance of leisure and study. Average rent here is around $1,380/month.
Broadway Road Corridor: Quiet residential streets with convenient access to downtown and campus, offering a mix of shared apartments. Average rent here is around $1,300/month.
Cyprus Southwest: One of the most popular areas among Tempe students and young professionals due to its lively atmosphere and easy access to daily amenities.
Daley Park: A great choice for those who prefer a quieter environment while still being close to Downtown Tempe.
Kyrene-Superstition: Stands out as one of the safest neighborhoods in Tempe and is known for its affordable housing options suitable for students.
Mitchell Park West: Located just minutes west of ASU’s campus, it is ideal for active students thanks to its large green spaces and bike paths.
University Heights: Perfectly positioned near ASU’s campus, making it a highly attractive area for students looking to rent apartments close to their university.

Understanding the Cost of Living in Tempe

Understanding Tempe’s cost of living helps students budget effectively. Costs may vary based on lifestyle and housing choice. Here is a breakdown of monthly expenses for students living in off-campus apartments Tempe:

Rent: Off-campus housing typically ranges from $700 to over $2,500 per person per month, depending on the accommodation type. The average rent for student housing in Tempe is approximately $1,464 per month.
Groceries: $150-$250 per month.
Transportation: $60-$120 per month.
Utilities: Utility bills in Tempe can range from $130 to $400 per month.
Internet: Internet costs in Tempe range from $50 to $130 per month.

Transportation Options for Students

Tempe is designed for students on the move, offering several affordable and convenient transport options:

Valley Metro Bus: Covers most city routes. Weekly cost is around $17 & monthly cost goes up to $68. Most buses have Wi-Fi and bike racks.
Metro Light Rail: A major student-friendly transit option connecting Tempe, Phoenix, and Mesa. It’s ideal for ASU students traveling between campuses or exploring nearby cities, with affordable fares and frequent services.
Cycling: Popular eco-friendly option with secure bike storage available at some of the best apartments. Bike lanes are expanding across Tempe; rental costs $10/day & monthly rentals cost $50-$60.
Rideshare/Carpool: Affordable for areas not served by buses or for weekend trips; cost $5-$10 per ride depending on distance. Carpool programs also reduce environmental impact.
Orbit Neighbourhood Circulators: A free shuttle service provided by the City of Tempe that connects residential neighborhoods to schools, shopping, and major transit hubs. The six routes are named after planets like Earth, Mars, and Jupiter. These buses operate seven days a week with 15-minute frequencies on most days. In some neighborhoods, you can spot flag zones where you can simply wave at the driver to be picked up.
Tempe Streetcar: The streetcar travels a 3-mile route with 14 stops along the southern side of the ASU campus and through downtown Tempe. It operates daily every 15-20 minutes and is a great way to move between campus buildings and local dining or entertainment spots. Like the light rail, students can use their U-Pass for easy boarding.
ASU Intercampus Shuttles: These are free buses that connect the four ASU campuses (Tempe, Downtown Phoenix, West, and Polytechnic) for any student with a valid SunCard. The shuttles are equipped with free Wi-Fi and charging stations, making them popular for students who need to study during their commute.

Student Transit Tips: ASU Tempe campus students can access discounted or free passes with a valid student ID, making commuting cost-effective. Night routes ensure safe travel after late classes or social events.

Read also: Guide to UC Davis Student Housing

Student Life and Entertainment in Tempe

Tempe offers a dynamic student atmosphere where academics, leisure, and social experiences seamlessly blend. Residents of student living in Tempe enjoy a balance of energetic city life and relaxing outdoor spaces. The city’s streets buzz with local cafés like Window Coffee Bar and Bones and Brü, perfect for morning coffees or casual study sessions. Pubs such as Devil's Hideaway and Drop Dead Gorgeous are popular hangouts for after-class socializing, while clubs like Rodeo Ranch and Glow Tempe provide late-night entertainment.

Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate Ragsdale-MLK Park and Rio Salado Park, where students can jog, bike, or enjoy picnics. The city also hosts a variety of cultural and artistic venues, including the ASU Art Museum, Tempe History Museum, and the Tempe Center for the Arts, which frequently offer student discounts. Libraries like Design and the Arts Library and Library of Music support academic needs with quiet study spaces and collaborative areas. For shopping and daily needs, Centerpoint on Mill, Whole Foods Market and Tempe Marketplace are easily accessible from most off-campus housing Tempe, ensuring convenience for groceries, books, and lifestyle essentials. Healthcare access is also nearby, with HonorHealth Tempe Medical Center and CVS Pharmacy serving students.

Tempe also provides a lively nightlife and social scene. Students often gather at Lake Tempe, Tempe Town Lake, or the Mill Avenue District for festivals, live music, and outdoor activities. Venues like AMC Centerpoint 11 host the latest movies, while Madison Social and The Handlebar Tempe cater to casual dining and entertainment. Seasonal events, such as the Tempe Festival of the Arts, ASU Homecoming, and various cultural celebrations, allow students to engage with the community and local traditions.

Tourist Attractions in Tempe

Tempe offers a rich array of tourist attractions for students and international travelers. Many of these locations provide free or discounted tickets to students with a valid student ID.

Tempe Town Lake: A hub for outdoor activity, offering rentals for kayaking, paddleboarding, and electric "donut" boats. The surrounding Tempe Beach Park hosts major festivals, including the annual Ironman Arizona and various music festivals.
Mill Avenue District: A historic street packed with local boutiques, high-energy bars, and a diverse array of restaurants. It is famous for its lively nightlife and is home to the Tempe Festival of the Arts.
Papago Park: Located on the border of Tempe and Phoenix, this park is famous for its massive sandstone buttes and the iconic Hole-in-the-Rock formation. It also houses the Desert Botanical Garden and the Phoenix Zoo.
ASU Art Museum: Internationally recognized for its contemporary art and ceramics collection.
ASU Gammage: A performing arts auditorium designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.
Hayden Butte (A Mountain): Offers hiking trails with panoramic views of the Tempe skyline.
Tempe Center for the Arts: A venue for various performances and cultural events.
Tempe History Museum: Showcases the history and culture of Tempe.
Tempe Marketplace: A large outdoor shopping mall with a variety of retail stores and restaurants.

Tips for Finding Student Housing in Tempe

Start Early: Begin your search as early as six months prior to your move-in date, especially if you plan to move in before September 1st.
Utilize Online Resources: Websites like Amber, University Living and uhomes.com simplify the process with verified listings, flexible leases, and 24/7 support.
Take Virtual Tours: Most student living options offer virtual tours and in-person visits to match your study and lifestyle needs.
Compare Costs: Compare costs, including utilities and meal plans, to find the best fit for your budget.
Check Safety Measures: Always check safety measures such as gated access, CCTV, and 24/7 security before booking.
Look for Discounts: Early bookings or longer leases often provide savings.

Student Housing Amenities

Student housing in Tempe AZ includes a variety of amenities:

Read also: Investigating the Death at Purdue

High-speed internet
Laundry facilities
Poolside lounge
Gyms
Communal kitchens
Granite countertops
In-unit washer and dryer
Private locks
Outdoor spaces
Resort-style pool
Fitness center
Study rooms
Sun deck
Fire pit
Stainless steel appliances
Soft close kitchen cabinets
Separate yoga room

Student Housing FAQs

Are Tempe student apartments pet-friendly?

Yes, several student housing options in Tempe are pet-friendly. For example, Nine20 Tempe offers a fenced-in pet park for residents.

Do Tempe student apartments welcome international students?

Yes, Tempe student apartments welcome international students. Options near universities offer furnished rooms, study lounges, and social spaces.

What types of apartments are available?

Student apartments in Tempe, AZ, have fully furnished studio, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, shared apartments, and private rooms available to suit different lifestyles.

What amenities should I look for?

Look for location, safety, and amenities such as a fitness center, fire pit, stainless steel appliances, sun deck, soft close kitchen cabinets, private lock, separate yoga room, and resort-style swimming pool, in-unit laundry.

When should I start looking for apartments?

Students can begin exploring apartments for rent in Tempe from June or July if they plan to move after September 1st. If students plan to move in before September 1st, they should begin looking for housing as early as six months prior.

Are virtual tours available?

Yes, most student living in Tempe offer virtual tours and in-person visits to match your study and lifestyle needs.

Are there flexible lease options?

Yes, flexible leases for semester-long or shorter stays are available.

Are apartments within walking or biking distance to amenities?

Yes, most student housing in Tempe, AZ, are within walking or biking distance to essential amenities.

tags: #student #housing #Tempe #AZ #options