DePaul University Housing Options: A Comprehensive Guide

DePaul University, a prominent institution in the heart of Chicago, offers a diverse range of housing options to cater to its large and varied student body. With campuses in Lincoln Park and the Loop, DePaul provides students with a blend of traditional and modern urban living. Finding the right place to live is a crucial part of the university experience. Whether you're interested in on-campus dorms or off-campus apartments, this guide will help you navigate the available choices and make an informed decision.

On-Campus Housing

Overview of On-Campus Residence Halls

DePaul University provides some on-campus residence halls. Room Selection offers currently enrolled DePaul students the opportunity to select their own housing assignment for the 2026-2027 academic year. Most continuing undergraduate students live in apartments on both the Lincoln Park and Loop campuses. Campus apartments are mixed in with DePaul buildings and traditional residential halls. These are fully furnished apartments, most include a kitchen and shared living space. Traditional residence halls are intended for incoming freshmen, however, LeCompte Hall offers a limited number of spaces to continuing undergraduate students who seek a more traditional dorm experience. Most students living in LeCompte Hall live in the double suite room type.

Room Selection Process

Room Selection offers currently enrolled DePaul students the opportunity to select their own housing assignment for the upcoming academic year. Housing assignments will continue for students, in a limited capacity, after the Room Selection process has concluded.

Loop Campus Housing

Located steps from DePaul's Loop Campus, the University Center includes suites and apartments. The University Center is equipped with a fitness center, outdoor terrace, laundry facility, high-speed WiFi, study rooms, technology labs, and social lounges. Suites feature a full kitchen with dishwasher, living room, and dining area.

Roommate Selection and Preferences

Students are not required to create a roommate group. Students who do have roommates in mind will need to complete a roommate group within the housing agreement before a specified date. One member of the group will be responsible for assigning each roommate's housing.

Housing Accommodations

Students who require housing accommodations for medical reasons, including the need for a service or emotional support animal, must register with the Center for Students with Disabilities (CSD). Students who complete their registration process with CSD before March 1 will receive priority for housing accommodations. Any accommodation requests that are submitted after March 1 will still be considered, but DePaul Housing & Residence Life's ability to grant the accommodation request will be based on availability.

Meal Plans

All Lincoln Park Campus residents are required to have a meal plan. On the Loop Campus, in the University Center, the minimum required meal plans for residents of suites is the Basic. Residents of apartments in the University Center are not required to have a meal plan.

Housing Agreement and Cancellation

There is no housing charge or commitment when completing the Housing Agreement for Room Selection. However, if a student is assigned to campus housing at Room Selection and needs to cancel after being assigned but prior to the start of their housing agreement, then there is a $1,500 cancellation fee. Further charges are applicable once the housing agreement has started. Signing the housing agreement holds students to the meal plan terms and conditions. If a student cancels their housing agreement, the meal plan will be cancelled for any future quarters.

Securing On-Campus Housing

Does Depaul University provide on-campus student rooms? Yes.
What is the best month to secure a Depaul University student dorm? March-May.
What is the Depaul University dorm allotment priority based on? Freshmen, upperclassmen, students with an academic record, and disabled students.
Can a student make an advanced booking without a university offer letter? No.

Off-Campus Housing

While the university provides some on-campus residence halls, demand is high, and many upperclassmen and graduate students look for housing options off campus. For students searching beyond the dorms, the variety of apartments near DePaul University and other housing choices in Chicago make it easy to find something that fits different lifestyles and budgets.

Types of Off-Campus Housing

There are two main types of off-campus housing options available for DePaul students:

Purpose-built off-campus student housing: These are maintained and handled by private student housing providers. Only students can apply for this type of housing. Early-bird (advance) student room bookings without a university offer letter are applicable in many housing units with a few terms and conditions applied. Generally, flexible tenancy has 3, 6, or 12-month based bookings.
Private student houses/apartments: These are maintained and handled by individual landlords. Both students and their families can book a room in these properties. Advance student room bookings without a university offer letter are applicable in many housing units with a few terms and conditions applied. Generally, flexible tenancy has weekly, monthly, and semester-based bookings.

Popular Student Areas to Live Near DePaul University

When it comes to finding student housing near DePaul University, Chicago offers a wide variety of neighborhoods to fit every lifestyle. From buzzing city districts with endless entertainment to quieter, more affordable areas, students can easily find a spot that matches their needs. Areas like Lincoln Park, Lakeview, and Old Town are popular for their proximity to campus, vibrant student communities, and access to public transit.

Lincoln Park: This is where DePaul’s main campus is located, making it the most convenient option. The area is lively, packed with restaurants, shops, and green spaces. Lincoln Park has an average rent of $300-$600/week i.e., $1,500-$2,400/month; distances from campus are as follows:
- Metro: 5-10 minutes
- Bus: 10 minutes
- Taxi: 5 minutes
- Walking: 10-15 minutes
Lakeview: Just north of Lincoln Park, Lakeview is known for its active student crowd, nightlife, and access to Lake Michigan. Weekly rent for apartments near DePaul University generally falls between USD 300-USD 360. Lakeview has an average rent of $250-$400/week i.e., $1,200-$1,900/month; distances from campus are as follows:
- Metro: 10-15 minutes
- Bus: 15-20 minutes
- Taxi: 10-15 minutes
- Walking: 25-35 minutes
Wicker Park: A trendy neighborhood loved for its artsy vibe, coffee shops, and boutique stores. Students who want a creative community often choose this area. Housing costs are around USD 310-USD 370 per week.
Logan Square: More affordable than some central neighborhoods, Logan Square has a mix of student apartments, local eateries, and music venues. Rent here usually ranges from USD 280-USD 340 per week.
The Loop: Ideal for students who want to live close to downtown Chicago with quick transit connections to DePaul’s Loop campus. Weekly housing costs are typically USD 330-USD 400.

Average Rent and Costs

On average, rent ranges from USD 1,000 to 1,900 per month depending on location, apartment type, and amenities in student housing in Chicago. Students usually spend between USD 1,600 and 2,500 per month, including rent, utilities, groceries, and transport. Choosing DePaul University student housing with bills included can help reduce costs.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Off-Campus Housing

Think about safety, budget, commute time, and whether the rent covers utilities. These factors help narrow down the right student apartments in Chicago.

Rent: Rent is typically paid monthly via bank transfer, credit card, or online payment portals.
Utilities: Many student apartments in Chicago include internet, water, and electricity, but it’s always best to confirm what’s covered in your lease.

Benefits of Off-Campus Housing

Early bird offer (off-campus student rooms generally give discounts or offers on early booking.)
There are a larger number of student room types to choose from, unlike university dorms.
No offer, no visa, no problem! Easy cancellation process.

Transportation

Whether you choose to live in apartments near DePaul University or explore other Chicago off campus housing options, the city’s transit system ensures smooth and budget-friendly travel. From trains and buses to cycling and walking, students have plenty of choices to fit their lifestyle.

CTA Trains (The ‘L’)DePaul University is conveniently linked by the Red, Brown, and Purple lines, making travel fast and reliable. A standard fare is US$2.50, and unlimited CTA passes are available for students living in off-campus housing near DePaul University.
CTA BusesBuses cover almost every corner of the city, ideal for reaching areas not directly on the train line. Students in DePaul University housing off campus can ride buses with a Ventra card, which allows seamless transfers between trains and buses.
CyclingFor those in student apartments near DePaul University, cycling is a popular choice. Chicago’s Divvy bike-share system and designated bike lanes make biking to campus both eco-friendly and affordable.

Students in DePaul University student housing or student housing in Chicago can benefit from discounted CTA passes during the academic year, making unlimited travel across buses and trains affordable. Whether you’re based in student apartments in Chicago or closer to campus, getting around is quick and convenient.

Commuting Times from Popular Properties

6156 S Kenwood Ave, Chicago - 38 min drive to campus
June Homes 60618, Chicago - 15 min drive to campus
June Homes 60608, Chicago - 22 min drive to campus
Addams Coliving, Chicago - 18 min drive to campus
The Letterman, Chicago - 14 min drive to campus

Campus Life and Activities

DePaul University offers a wide range of programs designed to prepare students for professional success across various fields. DePaul University, based in Chicago’s Lincoln Park and Loop neighborhoods, offers students more than just academics-it provides a complete college experience. With a wide range of clubs, student organizations, and leadership programs, DePaul encourages students to get involved beyond the classroom. From the DePaul Activities Board and Student Government Association to cultural, service-based, and professional clubs, there are countless opportunities to connect, network, and grow.

When students need a break from studies, Chicago itself becomes their extended campus. Around the Lincoln Park campus, you’ll find cozy cafés like Bourgeois Pig Café and Elaine’s Coffee Call, perfect for study sessions or casual meet-ups. For food lovers, nearby spots such as Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria for deep-dish pizza and Summer House Santa Monica for a bright, California-inspired dining experience are student favorites.

Those based near the Loop campus enjoy quick access to downtown coffee shops like Intelligentsia Coffee and eateries like Revival Food Hall, which features a rotating lineup of Chicago’s best local restaurants under one roof.

Chicago also has plenty to explore beyond dining. Students often relax at Lincoln Park Zoo, stroll along Lake Michigan’s lakefront trails, or explore art and culture at the Art Institute of Chicago. Sports fans have the chance to catch games at Wrigley Field, just a short train ride away.

DePaul University, located in the heart of Chicago, offers students a vibrant campus life surrounded by culture, history, and entertainment. Those living in student housing near DePaul University enjoy easy access to some of the city’s most iconic attractions while benefiting from comfortable and convenient off-campus housing options. Whether you choose apartments near DePaul University or shared student housing in Chicago, there’s always something exciting nearby.

Top Attractions Near Off-Campus Housing

Here are some top attractions close to off-campus housing near DePaul University:

Lincoln Park Zoo
Chicago History Museum
Lake Michigan & North Avenue Beach
Navy Pier
Millennium Park & Cloud Gate ("The Bean")
Magnificent Mile (Michigan Avenue shopping)
Art Institute of Chicago
Wrigley Field (home of the Chicago Cubs)
Chicago Cultural Center
Lincoln Park Conservatory

Academic Programs

DePaul University offers a wide array of programs designed to prepare students for professional success across various fields.

Popular Courses Offered at DePaul University:

Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Bachelor of Science (BS)
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Master of Science in Computer Science

Amber Student Housing Platform

Amber simplifies the search for student housing near DePaul University by offering a wide range of secure, fully furnished, and budget-friendly options. From shared apartments to private studios across Chicago’s most student-friendly neighborhoods, every listing is verified for safety and convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When should I start looking for housing?

Most students begin their search three to four months before the semester begins. Starting early helps you secure the best student housing near DePaul University with better options and prices.

How can I find apartments near DePaul University?

You can explore verified listings online, compare amenities, and book directly through trusted platforms. Apartments near DePaul University offer flexible leases and student-friendly options.

What should I consider when choosing a place to live?

Think about safety, budget, commute time, and whether the rent covers utilities. These factors help narrow down the right student apartments in Chicago.

Which neighborhoods are popular among DePaul students?

Lincoln Park, Lakeview, and Old Town are top choices for students as they are close to campus, well-connected, and full of amenities for those seeking Chicago off campus housing.

What is the average rent for student housing near DePaul?

On average, rent ranges from USD 1,000 to 1,900 per month depending on location, apartment type, and amenities in student housing in Chicago.

How much do students typically spend per month?

Students usually spend between USD 1,600 and 2,500 per month, including rent, utilities, groceries, and transport. Choosing DePaul University student housing with bills included can help reduce costs.

What utilities are usually included in rent?

Many student apartments in Chicago include internet, water, and electricity, but it’s always best to confirm what’s covered in your lease.

How is rent typically paid?

Rent is typically paid monthly via bank transfer, credit card, or online payment portals.

About DePaul University

DePaul University is located in Chicago, Illinois. The university accepts around 1,500 international students every year. Established in 1898, DePaul University is the largest Catholic university in the United States and is deeply embedded in the cultural and professional fabric of Chicago. With its main campuses located in Lincoln Park and the Loop, DePaul blends tradition with modern urban living, making it a hub for academic excellence and career opportunities.

Home to more than 22,000 students, DePaul is widely recognized for its inclusive environment, welcoming learners from over 100 countries. This diverse student body contributes to a truly global outlook, enriched by vibrant campus events, clubs, and service-oriented initiatives.

DePaul stands out for strong ties to industries ranging from finance and law to film and technology, giving students practical pathways to employment.

Prominent alumni include actor John C. Reilly, journalist Gwen Ifill, and businessman George Mikan, all of whom highlight the university’s impact across diverse fields.

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