Navigating Student Housing at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities

The University of Minnesota Twin Cities, a leading national public research university, attracts a diverse student body to its Minneapolis and St. Paul campuses. Finding suitable and affordable student housing is a crucial aspect of the college experience. With a variety of options available, from on-campus residence halls to off-campus apartments and houses, students can find a living situation that fits their needs, preferences, and budget. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of student housing options near the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, encompassing on-campus and off-campus choices, popular neighborhoods, cost considerations, transportation, and resources for a successful housing search.

University of Minnesota Twin Cities: An Overview

The University of Minnesota has five campuses, the most renowned of which is the Twin Cities campus. The University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus is situated in Minneapolis, USA, which is located opposite the state capital of St. Paul. These two cities are known as the 'Twin Cities' of the United States and serve as the economic, cultural, and technological center of Minnesota.

The University of Minnesota Twin Cities is a leading national public research university. It is a member of the Big Ten Universities and the International Academic Alliance and is regarded as a 'Public Ivy' institution. The University of Minnesota Twin Cities comprises 19 colleges. It offers 161 undergraduate majors, 218 graduate majors, and 114 doctoral majors. The University of Minnesota Twin Cities excels in science, engineering, and chemistry. It has also long been regarded as one of the leading institutions in the country for chemistry-related studies, consistently ranking in the top three in the nation. The School of Public Health, the School of Medicine, the School of Agriculture, and the School of Management have also established themselves as solid academic units.

The university has produced numerous esteemed alums, including 25 Nobel laureates, a former Chief Justice of the United States, two former Vice Presidents of the United States, and numerous prominent figures in the Fortune 500. The institution has also been a hub for pioneering technological advancements, including the black box, the retractable car seatbelt, the pacemaker, and the cardiopulmonary ventilator. The University of Minnesota Twin Cities offers a wide variety of extracurricular activities. There are numerous student clubs and organizations. Whether it's sports, theatre performances, music recitals, or volunteering, you'll find your interests and passions. At the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, you can access all professional sporting events at different levels in both cities.

On-Campus Housing

On-campus housing at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities includes residence halls and apartments, each offering distinct living experiences.

Residence Halls

Residence hall rooms are furnished with beds and mattresses, draperies, desks, chairs, drawer space, wastebaskets, compact refrigerator, and wireless internet. Almost all rooms in the residence halls are designed for two students. Students living in the residence halls must provide their own bed linens (pillows, sheets, pillow cases, blankets, and bedspreads). Examples of residence halls include:

Burntside Hall
Griggs Hall
Ianni Hall
Lake Superior Hall
Vermilion Hall

University Apartments

Apartment units are furnished with refrigerator, stove, couch and chair, end table, dining table and chairs, beds and mattresses, desks, chairs, dressers, desk lamps, draperies, and wireless internet. Students living in the apartments must provide their own cooking and eating utensils, shower curtains & rings, wastebaskets, and bed linens (pillows, sheets, pillow case, blanket, and bedspread). Examples of apartment complexes include:

Goldfine Apartments
Heaney Hall
Junction Apartments
Oakland Apartments

Off-Campus Housing

With approximately 75% of the University of Minnesota's student population living off-campus, numerous options cater to diverse needs and budgets. Uhomes.com offers U of M off-campus housing in both cities. Most of the properties are conveniently situated close to the campus and the light rail Green Line, offering students living in student housing in Minneapolis and St. Paul an accessible living option with excellent transport links.

Popular Neighborhoods

Minneapolis is one of Minnesota's largest cities and has a wide range of neighborhoods with unique characteristics. Whether you prefer a quiet neighborhood or want to live in the city center when attending the University of Minnesota, there's always a community where you'll feel right at home. Some of the most popular neighborhoods for students are near the school. They choose housing near University of Minnesota to reduce commuting distances and save on the cost of living. Of course, if you'd like to choose University of MN off-campus housing a little further away, it's also very convenient because no matter where you live in the city, convenient transportation will make it easy for you to get to class.

Marcy-Holmes: The nearest neighborhood connected to the East Bank campus. It houses students on the west side of I-35W and Dinkytown, which is home to student life outside of campus. It has a walkable feel with businesses, restaurants, music venues, nightlife and a wide variety of off-campus housing.
Southeast Como: A popular off-campus living destination that is popular with students looking for a place more quiet and farther away from Dinkytown. It is a residential area with many community parks and a small business district. When looking at multiple-bedroom houses in Como, the price per person ranges from $550 on the lower end to $750 on the higher end. Living in a house can have its own perks, such as extra space, privacy, a garage and a backyard.
Prospect Park: Sits between the University and St. Paul, offering a cozy and quiet atmosphere for students looking to live near campus.
Falcon Heights and St. Anthony Park: Neighbors the University’s St. Paul campus, and are home to a large student population who can stay connected to campus through the transportation offered by the University.
West Bank: Offers a few options for students, conveniently located for those in the Carlson School of Management and the Law School. It is close to downtown Minneapolis and the Mississippi River and has a wide variety of coffee shops, bars, restaurants, a music venue and a performing arts center. West Bank is one of the liveliest neighborhoods in the Twin Cities. It's a great place for international students. Living in U of M housing in the area, you can immerse in a cosmopolitan atmosphere with easy access to various cuisines and cultural offerings from around the world, theatres, or music venues. Transportation here is also efficient. You can take the free campus bus or ride the Metrobus or Light Rail. It's just a few stops from downtown Minneapolis to campus on the West Bank. If you fancy a picnic, hiking, or biking, you can enjoy the beauty of nature at Bohemian Flats Park and West River Parkway.
East River: The East River area is just a few blocks from most major academic buildings, bus stops, shuttle stops, light rail stations, and Northrop Mall. Living in University of MN off-campus housing in this area, you can live a convenient life and participate in many activities. Student lounges, game rooms, bowling alleys, movie theaters, and music clubs are great places for free or low-cost entertainment. The Weisman Art Museum and Coffman Memorial Union Building are located in this neighborhood.
Dinkytown: Dinkytown has a great college-town vibe and is home to the largest student population in the city. There are plenty of University of Minnesota Twin Cities housing options for you. There are also many cafes, restaurants, and used bookstores. Live music performances are held from time to time. Dinkytown is close to Huntington Bank Stadium, Williams Arena, and 3M Arena in Mariucci, so if you're a fan of football, basketball, or field hockey, you'll love it here. Nearby is the Northrop Auditorium, where you can enjoy unforgettable world-class dance performances, lectures, and movies.

Types of Off-Campus Housing

At uhomes.com, you may choose from studio, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, 3-bedroom, 4-bedroom, and 5-bedroom apartments. Popular room types in University of Minnesota off-campus housing include shared rooms, 1 bedroom apartments, 2 bedroom apartments, and studio apartments near . With different neighborhoods and costs, students must figure out their priorities.

Read also: History of the Block 'M'

Amenities and Features

When you rent University of Minnesota apartments through uhomes.com, we provide convenient services. Our roommate-matching service helps you find the ideal UMN roommate finder. You may now book U of M off-campus housing to secure the best deals. For any questions about searching or booking, please contact our property consultants. We are always here to assist you in finding your home in a foreign country.

The Edge apartments are great for those who want a little luxury, and a lotta’ low maintenance. With everything you could need on-site, including a fitness center, coffee bar, social spaces, and even a newly refurbished rooftop terrace - The Edge is truly THE place to be for Minnesota students. Plus, all rooms come fully furnished, and high-speed Wi-Fi and safe controlled access to the building is included in your stay.

Cost of Living and Housing Expenses

The living costs comprise Tuition, fees, housing, meals, personal expenses, textbooks, Loans, and transportation. The cost of University of Minnesota housing is a big part of your overall budget. If you're looking to save on housing expenses, you might want to check out cheap apartments near the campus or consider sharing a room with a friend. On uhomes.com, U of M housing options are often more affordable than dorms, with more freedom and fewer restrictions. We have apartments for rent starting at $499 a month. In addition, some of our U of M Twin Cities housing include utilities in the rent.

Here's a quick overview of the annual living expenses when you live in University of Minnesota student housing:

Apartments near UMN campus: $494 monthly
Meals: $500 monthly
Personal expenses: $167 monthly
Transportation: $141 monthly
Tuition & Fees: $38,518 yearly
Textbooks & Materials: $1,000 yearly
Loan fees: $150 yearly

Transportation Options

At the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, whatever your preferred method of transport is, you can get around conveniently and safely. If you're living in U of M housing, you can walk, cycle, or scooter. Even if you live in a more distant neighborhood, the efficient public transport system makes it easy to get to and from the University of Minnesota, your apartment, and all over the city.

Read also: Legacy of Fordham University

On-Campus Transportation

The most basic form of transportation on campus is the campus shuttle. There are four types of buses: the Campus Connector (121), the University Avenue Circulator (122), the 4th Street Circulator (123) and the St. Paul Circulator. If you need to take the light rail, you can get a free light rail card at the Information Desk on the first floor of Coffman by showing your student card. You can then ride for free at all three UMN stations.

Off-Campus Transportation

The University of Minnesota is served by more than 20 bus lines and the Metro Green Line, so it's quick and easy to get to and from campus by transit. All undergraduate and graduate students at the University of Minnesota can use the buses for free by paying a transportation and security fee.

Routes serving the Minneapolis campus:

Routes from the north
- Route 7 from north Mpls. via Plymouth Ave. and N. 1st St.
- Route 22 from Brooklyn Center Lyndale Ave
- Route 252 from Blaine
- Route 789 from Maple Grove
Routes from the south
- Route 2 from south Mpls. via Franklin Ave.
- Route 7 from south Mpls. via Minnehaha
- Route 22 from south Mpls. via 28th Ave. Cedar Ave.
- Route 113 from south Mpls. via Lyndale and Grand Ave.
- Route 114 from south Mpls. via Hennepin Ave.
- Route 465 from Burnsville
- Route 475 from Apple Valley and Eagan
- Route 490 from Prior Lake and Shakopee
Routes from the east
- METRO Green Line via University Ave.
- Route 3 via Maryland Ave. and Como Ave.
Routes from the west
- METRO Green Line via 5th St. and Washington Ave.
- Route 2 via 8th St. SE and 10th Ave. SE
- Route 3 from N. Washington Ave. downtown Mpls.
- Route 6 from Edina via France, Xerxes, and Hennepin
- Route 695 from Chaska
- Route 698 from Chanhassen
- Route 774 from Plymouth
- Route 795 from Plymouth

Routes serving the St. Paul campus:

Routes from the north
- Route 87 from Roseville
Routes from the east
- Route 3 from downtown St. Paul via Maryland Ave. Energy Park Dr. and Como Ave.
- Route 61 from downtown St. Paul via Arcade Ave. and Larpenteur Ave.
Routes from the west
- Route 3 from downtown Minneapolis
- Route 61 from downtown Minneapolis via Hennepin Ave. and Larpenteur Ave.

Biking is a cost-effective way to get to campus. It is important to use a U lock, register your bike through the City of Minneapolis and park your bike in a designated parking area. If extra safety measures are needed, the University offers bike lockers and shelters that can be purchased by contract anytime throughout the year.

All University students who pay the transportation and safety fee, which is part of the student services fees, have access to unlimited rides through the Universal Transit Pass System. This covers the fares of buses and the light rail anytime during the semester. The University offers on-campus transit, which is free and accessible to all students. The Transit app is a useful tool to see all of the buses nearby using real-time data. When walking to and from campus, as well as nearby neighborhoods, the University offers the 624-WALK Service, which is available at all times, every day of the year. Students can call 612-624-WALK (9255). It is recommended that students call 15-30 minutes prior to the desired departure time in order to get quoted a wait time by the dispatcher.

Tourist Attractions Near the University

Minneapolis offers a plethora of attractions. It doesn't matter if you live in U of M off-campus housing or in University of Minnesota dormitories-you can explore the attractions around campus or in the surrounding area whenever you want.

Top attractions that every UMN student should experience:

Goldstein Museum
Mill City Museum
Minneapolis Institute of Arts
Guthrie Theater
Varsity Theater
First Avenue
Mall of America
Twin Cities Premium Outlets
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
Minnesota Zoo

Student Life at the University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota Twin Cities has two campuses, the Minneapolis Campus and the St. Paul Campus, which are connected by free school buses that takes about 15-20 minutes. Therefore, if you're looking to live in U of M off-campus housing, you can choose from all apartments near U of M Twin Cities. Whether you live on campus or in University of Minnesota student apartments off campus, you will have an enjoyable experience.

Life in Different Campuses:

The Minneapolis campus is split into two sections: East Bank and West Bank. Student life on the East Bank is a lot richer and lively. This is the university's heart, with many colleges, gyms, sports facilities and the university hospital. The Recreation and Wellness Center is the largest fitness and recreation center on campus. It has over three floors of fully-equipped gymnasiums, a 50-meter-long, 8-lane-wide swimming pool, indoor basketball, badminton, tennis, volleyball, and more. It's perfect for every student who loves sports.

The West Bank and St. Paul campuses are more laid-back places for students and are mainly used for teaching and labs. The St. Paul Student Centre on the St. Paul campus has a movie theatre, a game room, a convenience store, and other facilities. On top of that, the St. Paul campus also sells the College of Agriculture's own ice cream, honey, cheese, and meats regularly. It's a great, green, healthy, and non-polluting option that's also much more affordable than outside supermarkets.

Entertainment:

Washington Avenue is one of the busiest streets running through the University of Minnesota. Students at the University of Minnesota can get to the Washington Avenue station on the Minneapolis Municipal Light Rail Transit (MMLT) for free. This street is lined with schools, restaurants, cafés and souvenir shops. On game days, you'll always see fans on the street in MU gear, some in groups heading to Huntington Stadium to watch the game, and others gathered around tables in bars to watch the TV broadcast.

Mall of America is one of the largest malls in the country and a popular spot for University of Minnesota students. It's located in Bloomington, which is a short drive from the school. There are also plenty of well-known restaurants near the school that offer a variety of tasty dishes to make student life more enjoyable.

University Resources for Housing

The Office of Student Affairs has an Off-Campus Living unit that helps students with any of their needs. They have a Roommate Finder tool that allows students to search for others looking for a roommate. They can filter by price point, pets, location and more. They can help students with security deposits, evictions, subleasing, look over students’ leases before being signed, understand their rights as tenants and more.

Students can sign up on Canvas for the Renter Education Module to have a successful rental experience. A few negative consequences of signing early could be changes in friendships, financial situations and enrolling in study abroad programs.

There are a variety of groups related to roommates, renting and subleases. A great way to be safe is to look through the groups managed by the University. These include Housing for Off-Campus Gophers and UMN Roommate Finder.

Important Considerations for Off-Campus Renters

Kendre Turonie, the Off-Campus Living program director and University Liaison to the Minnesota Daily’s board of directors, encourages students to read their lease in its entirety, get their lease reviewed and go through the renter workshops.

“I think it’s really important for students to actually read their lease in its entirety, which can be challenging because a lot of the complexes near campus maybe are owned by out-of-state entities that have multiple companies across the country, multiple locations.”

Apartment complexes will often use a master lease that is supposed to work in a variety of states, which might be 20-30 pages long, which is a lot for one person to read.

“There are some very specific laws in the state of Minnesota to protect renters, and that complex lease might not be legal in Minnesota based on what they have included. That’s why we strongly encourage students to get their lease reviewed,” Turonie said.

The Early Renewal of Lease is a policy that went into effect in Minnesota . It states that landlords cannot ask a current renter to officially confirm if they are returning to their space or not until six months before the end of the lease, if the lease is for a period of time longer than ten months.

Finding the Right Time to Search

Students feel pressure to start searching very early for off-campus housing for the following fall, usually in October and November. The Off-Campus Living office encourages students to wait until spring, as there are enough spaces near campus.

Parking

These contracts range from $84 to $147 per month and will be charged directly to the student’s account. There are also daily parking options available with daily maximums of $6 to $13. Student April Gentling said she is concerned with the price of daily parking. “I hate driving to campus because there is never enough parking and if there is a spot, you’re looking at spending nearly $13 for the whole day,” Gentling said. “As a college student paying high tuition rates that seem to continue increasing, the least the UMN can do is create more parking. The parking situation for commuters is just horrible.”

FAQs on University of Minnesota Twin Cities Student Accommodation

When should I start looking for UMN housing?There is no definitive optimal timeframe for searching for U of M housing. But, if you start looking for a home earlier, you'll have a better chance of finding one you love at a great price. Whenever you want to find U of M off-campus housing, you can contact us for help. It is best to start looking for University of Minnesota apartments in January. If you see suitable apartments for rent during this period, you should apply soon. If it's June, you should book an apartment as soon as possible. The longer you delay, the less cost-effective University of Minnesota housing is available.
How much does UMN housing cost?UMN housing cost varies, starting from $494 monthly.
What UMN housing do you recommend?We recommend the best apartments near UMN. The best UMN apartments can vary based on personal preferences, lifestyle, or budget. If you have specific requirements, you can filter options on uhomes.com, or check out our best apartments near University of Minnesota by clicking Sort by Most Popular. You can also contact us and tell us your requirements. Our consultant will help you find your ideal U Minnesota housing.
What room types does U of M housing provide?Popular room types in University of Minnesota off-campus housing include shared rooms, 1 bedroom apartments, 2 bedroom apartments, and studio apartments near … With different neighborhoods and costs, students must figure out their priorities.

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