University Area Housing Options: A Comprehensive Guide for Students

Choosing where to live is a crucial part of the college experience. For students attending the University of Michigan (UM) in Ann Arbor, a variety of housing options are available, each offering a unique living experience. This guide explores the different aspects of university area housing, from on-campus versus off-campus living to popular neighborhoods and practical considerations.

On-Campus vs. Off-Campus Living

While the University of Michigan guarantees housing for first-year students, the majority of the student body, approximately 73%, chooses to live off-campus. About 97% of first-year students opt for on-campus housing, citing community, convenience, and security as primary reasons. However, limited availability for upperclassmen often necessitates a move off-campus.

On-Campus Advantages:

Community: Dormitories and residence halls provide a built-in community, fostering social interaction and a sense of belonging.
Convenience: On-campus housing offers proximity to classes, libraries, dining halls, and other university facilities.
Security: University-managed housing typically has security measures in place, such as resident advisors and controlled access.

Off-Campus Advantages:

Independence: Off-campus living allows for greater independence and the opportunity to manage one's own living space.
Variety: A wider range of housing options is available off-campus, including apartments, houses, and townhouses.
Cost: Depending on the location and type of housing, off-campus living can sometimes be more affordable than on-campus options.

Popular Off-Campus Neighborhoods in Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor boasts several distinct neighborhoods popular among UM students, each with its own character and advantages.

Old Fourth Ward

As one of Ann Arbor’s original residential areas, Old Fourth Ward features historic homes and rental duplexes, some predating the University itself. Its proximity to downtown amenities and campus facilities makes it a popular choice for students.

South University

South University is ideally suited to the student lifestyle, located a short walk from campus and the downtown entertainment scene. Properties like University Towers and Forest Plaza Apartments are worth considering in this area. Living on Central Campus is the primary benefit of being a resident at University Towers. Enjoy only a minutes’ walk from your apartment to most of the local hot spots around Ann Arbor, including restaurants, shopping, access to several major banks, and mass transportation. University Towers student housing features spacious and contemporary studio, one, two, and three bedroom floor plans with resort-class amenities and an award-winning leasing and maintenance staff. At University Towers, community amenities help residents stay fit, provide privacy for studying, and offer space to socialize. University Towers offers student apartments with walk-to-class convenience and tools that help students make the grade.

Elbel Neighborhood

Named after UM’s Elbel Field, this neighborhood is popular among student athletes due to its proximity to sports facilities like the Crisler Center, Yost Ice Arena, and the University of Michigan Golf Course.

Kerrytown District

The Kerrytown District offers a mix of apartments and homes for rent close to local shops, eateries, and campus facilities. Students can enjoy scenic strolls to class while basking in the area’s historic charm.

Plansmart

Plansmart is known for its proximity to Downtown Ann Arbor and UM’s north campus. Rentals here average at about $2,876 per month for 670 square feet.

Finding Off-Campus Housing

Several resources are available to help students find off-campus housing in Ann Arbor.

Apartments.com

Apartments.com offers customized student filters to help you find the perfect off-campus rental in Ann Arbor. To begin, type "Ann Arbor, MI" into the search field. Then, use the filtering options to narrow your search. To access a variety of tailored filters, click "Specialty Housing" and then "Student."

Read also: History of the Block 'M'

UMICH Off-Campus Housing Marketplace

The UMICH off-campus housing marketplace consolidates student rentals from landlords of all sizes in one location, making it easier to compare options and contact property owners directly. All off-campus housing options in Ann Arbor, MI listed here are reviewed and approved, so you can focus on finding a place that fits your budget, lifestyle, and timeline. Whether you’re looking for a one-bedroom or searching with roommates, filters help you narrow listings by price, layout, and amenities.

Off Campus Partners

The listing of rental units on this site is a service to local rental property owners and area students, faculty, and staff. Rental property owners are responsible for reporting information fairly and accurately, and Off Campus Partners cannot guarantee the completeness or accuracy of such information. Off Campus Partners expressly disclaims any and all responsibility for any claims, issues, or problems that may arise from or relate to such property or rental units or with regard to disputes between landlords and tenants concerning such property or rental units.

Lease Agreements and Financial Considerations

Individual vs. Joint Leases

An individual lease provides each resident with their own separate lease agreement and responsibility for his/her rental installments and applicable utility and parking charges.

Lease Terms

The typical lease term is approximately 11.5 months of occupancy which coincides with the university's academic calendar. The resident is charged a total rent amount for the contracted occupancy period. The lease agreement will reflect the total rent amount typically divided into 12 equal installments due August 1 - July 1.

Rental Costs and Utilities

The average rent in Ann Arbor as of August 2024 is $1,643 per month. The cost of rent in Ann Arbor will vary based on the rental's square footage. For a studio or one-bedroom apartment, you can expect to pay roughly $1,500 to $1,650 monthly for about 450 to 750 square feet. Along with rent, you’ll also be responsible for monthly utility costs. These costs will cover your monthly electricity, water, gas, and internet. Sometimes, apartment complexes include utilities like trash, water, and sewage in your monthly rent.

Read also: Legacy of Fordham University

Payment Options

Save time in the future and never miss a rental installment by setting up recurring payments. You just need a few minutes and your checking account or card info to setup payments. Credit cards, debit cards and ACH payments are accepted online through the Resident Portal.

Guarantor

The guarantor will need to sign the guaranty agreement.

Renter's Insurance

The community requires all residents to obtain minimum coverage of $100,000 in Legal Liability to Landlord (LLL) insurance. Residents can purchase the policy of their choosing so long as it satisfies the minimum insurance requirements as further described in the Required Insurance Addendum made a part of the lease. If you do not provide proof of insurance with the requisite coverage, American Campus Communities may satisfy the insurance requirement for you by placing coverage for your unit under a LLL policy as described in the Required Insurance Addendum found in your lease.

Roommate Matching

Many communities offer roommate matching programs. Our roommate matching program is powered by RoomSync-a roommate matching app. You will have the opportunity to create a personal profile, search, filter, chat and match with other residents who will be living in the community. You decide what matters most when narrowing down your search. Want a roommate with the same major? You got it! Prefer to live with someone who goes to bed early? No problem! Looking for a roommate who enjoys college football? No sweat! You can list your preferences on your housing application, and we will do our best to place you in the unit that fits those requests. You can search for and match with specific roommates in the RoomSync app. Change your mind? No problem! You can modify your matches if your preferences change up until the matching period close date.

Additional Considerations

Transportation

Walkability is a high priority for students living off-campus in Ann Arbor. With a walk score of 98, Ann Arbor is considered a walker’s paradise. Whether going to class or running daily errands, students can enjoy safe, scenic strolls through Ann Arbor’s off-campus neighborhoods. If walking isn’t your style, you might consider an off-campus rental with public transportation access. The City of Ann Arbor has public transportation servicing the city and surrounding areas. Called “TheRide,” this city-wide bus service is a great option for students who need to get across town. The University of Michigan also provides a campus bus service to all students, employees, and visitors.

Lifestyle

Not every student's lifestyle looks the same. If socialization and campus involvement are your top priorities, you might consider living in Downtown Ann Arbor or South University.

Conclusion

Finding the right housing in Ann Arbor is an essential step in creating a positive and successful college experience at the University of Michigan. By considering the various factors outlined in this guide, students can make informed decisions and find a living situation that best suits their needs and preferences.

Appendix

American Campus Communities

Since 1993, American Campus has been the nation's leading provider of academically oriented student communities. Their staff is trained in peer-to-peer mental wellness support and offer programs in partnership with Hi, How Are You Project.

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