Student Housing Baton Rouge, LA

Based on the banks of the Mississippi River, Baton Rouge is the capital of Louisiana and is home to more than 100,000 students with several thousand adding up every year. This large influx of students has created an urgent demand for student housing in Baton Rouge. The student population is ever exploding along with the need for proper student rooms. Now, finding a good room in Baton Rouge might give students a tough time, but it is in such situations that University Living comes to the rescue of students.

We at University Living have tonnes of housing options in Baton Rouge to choose from. Whether you need a private apartment for yourself or want to share an apartment with your friends, we’ve got you covered. Even if you are coming to the country all alone, but want to stay with other students, we’ll take care of you even then! We have something for everyone. University Living has several PBSAs that provide all sorts of facilities and utilities to students. These properties are built near major universities and transport hubs in the city to make it easier for students to make the commute and save transportation costs and time.

Baton Rouge has various of options for students to choose from. The two major types of student accommodation in Baton Rouge are Student Housing and Private Apartments. Student housing is further divided into several types for the convenience of students. Both of these have their own pros and cons and have been explained below briefly:

Types of Student Housing in Baton Rouge, Louisiana

1. Student Housing: Student housings are PBSAs (Purpose-Built Student Accommodations) that are built specially for students. These student housing in Baton Rouge offer all facilities that a student might require, like a gymnasium, a printing machine, and all sorts of furnishings. In most cases, even the utility bills are included in the rent as well.

• En-Suite Room: These are the most preferred type of student rooms in Baton Rouge because students get to have a personal room with an attached washroom along with a shared living room and a shared kitchen. Students prefer these for their affordability and privacy.

• Studio Apartments: These apartments are the most comfortable and private type of housing in Baton Rouge. The reason for this is that students get to use an entire room along with an attached washroom and a personal kitchen, all for just one person.

• Non-Ensuite Room: These type of student rooms are very similar to En-Suite room because students get to have a personal room along with a shared kitchen and a shared living room, the only difference over here is that Non-Ensuite rooms come with a shared washroom unlike an attached one in En-Suite rooms.

• Shared Apartments: These are the most affordable type of student apartments in Baton Rouge as students get to use a room with is shared with 2/3 occupants along with a shared washroom, a shared kitchen and a shared living room. This equals to lower costs and more savings. These properties also include electricity, water, and gas bills in the rent. Hence, further reducing costs.

2. Private Apartments: Private Apartments are just like any other property available on rent in Baton Rouge. These are not special properties and generally come as a raw unit with our any furnishings. You buy new furniture, new appliances and develop your apartment as per your preferences. Such housing options are a perfect choice for students who already did their graduation in Baton Rouge and are pursuing their higher education in the city as well, or professionals who work in the city. First and second year new students must avoid renting a private apartment as it may give them nightmares.

Founded in 1699, Baton Rouge is the capital of Louisiana and is a major industrial, petrochemical, and educational hub located on the Mississippi River. The population of the city is roughly over 200,000 while the Greater Baton Rouge metropolitan area boasts a population of more than 800,000. Out of these, more than 100,000 residents are students currently pursuing their education in some of America's top universities.

Baton Rouge is home to some of the top universities in the United States like the Louisiana State University (LSU), the Southern University and A&M College and the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University (FranU). These universities welcome several thousand students every year to increase the student population of Baton Rouge. This eventually leads to a rise in the demand for student housing in Baton Rouge.

Baton Rouge is also known as the Red Stick as it is a centre for political events and has the tallest state Capitol in the US. The city features the Old Louisiana State Capitol, the USS Kidd Veteran's Museum, the Louisiana State Capitol building, the LSU Rural Life Museum, and the Baton Rouge Zoo. All of this makes Baton Rouge one of the top choices for students in the US.

The city is one of the most vibrant cities in Louisiana owing to the demography of the area. More than 50% of the population are African Americans while 35% are Non-Hispanic whites, roughly 6% Hispanics and around 4% are Asians. The rest are people from various other races and nationalities. However, the population of Baton Rouge has been declining since the last 2020 census at an annual rate of -3.56%.

Since Baton Rouge is the capital of Louisiana, it is indeed one of the best cities in the state and because there is a lot of political influence, the city is one of the safest in the United States. There are many neighbourhoods to choose from for student accommodation Baton Rouge, however, we recommend to stay in a neighbourhood that already has a booming student population. This ensures that students get easy access to all important things that they might need as a student in the city. Let’s discuss the top 3 neighbourhoods for students.

• The Garden District: The Garden District is one of the most sought after places in the city that students absolutely love to stay at. The area is just 2 miles southeast of Downtown Baton Rouge and therefore, provide easy and uninterrupted access to the rest of the city. It was the city’s first planned subdivision and was established in around 1910. It is composed of three historic districts namely Roseland Terrace, Drehr Place, and Kleinert Terrace. Now apparently, these districts are so old that they are also named in the National Register of Historic Places. Several oak trees and magnolias can be found blooming in the city and some of the best places to have some good meals are BLDG 5 which is a charming eatery and the Garden District Coffee which is a staple for the localities for some high quality brews and pastries. If you wish to get a drink or two, you can go for one of the most famous gastropubs in the neighbourhood, The Overpass Merchant.

• Mid City: Another one of the most aesthetic neighbourhoods for student rooms in Baton Rouge. The neighbourhood is located approximately 3 miles east of Baton Rouge downtown and is often described as the ‘Trendy' heart of the city. It is the city's cultural hub hosting popular annual events like White Light Night and Mid City Gras. Mid City recently went a significant revitalization under the Government Street Corridor and since then, the neighbourhood has been changed a lot. Now you can see historic cottages alongside modern and futuristic infrastructure, blending old school vibes with a touch of urbanization and modernism. The central location and diverse demography excites both, students and professionals and thus, creating a huge demand for PBSAs in this area. Mid city also provides options for an effortless commute to major locations in the city and also, offers constant artistic engagement through local galleries and communal spaces. Some of the most famous spots to eat in Mid City are Eslie's Plate and Pie and the Superior Grill which is Mexican restaurant which is world famous for its lip smacking margaritas. Mid city beer garden is a popular gathering spot for locals and students to grab a few drinks.

• Spanish Town: Established in 1805, the Spanish Town is Baton Rouges oldest neighbourhood that is known for its Spanish architecture and an eccentric vibe. Located at just 0.5 miles from downtown Baton Rouge, this neighbourhood is one of the most famous places in the city to live. All buildings are over a century old and still look like they can go on for another one or two centuries. This is also strategically located adjacent to the State Capitol Building and therefore, the rent in Spanish Town is a bit more than the rest of the city. However, the location advantage and views are just unmatched. In terms of convenience and comfort, Spanish Town is the best neighbourhood for students in Baton Rouge. The neighbourhood also hosts the city’s largest Mardi Gras parade, celebrated for its satirical themes and pink flamingos, the unofficial mascot of the district. Also not to forget, just walk a mile towards the West and you can find yourself right along the Mississippi River front. Some of the best places to eat are the Spanish Town Market, famous for its authentic pizzas and sandwiches and the Cecelia Creole Bistro which serves high-end, authentic Creole cuisine like boudin balls and seafood.

These are some of the best neighbourhoods in Baton Rouge and have a high population of international students. Therefore, students can check out properties listed with University Living in the above-mentioned localities.

Despite the fact that Baton Rouge is the capital of Louisiana, the cost of living in Baton Rouge is very less when compared to other major cities in the United States like NYC, LA or Washington. In terms of rent, groceries, utilities and affordability, nothing can beat Baton Rouge. Although cost of living is a personal concept that is determined by the lifestyle you lead, if you create a proper budget allocation funds for all necessary expenses, you can expect to spend a month in Baton Rouge in just under $1200 - $1500. The table below outlines some of the major expenses that you might have to incur as a student in Baton Rouge.

Students must note that these figures are just tentative and might change as per your choices and the lifestyle you lead.

As mentioned previously, there are a plethora of options for student housing in Baton Rouge and these properties are some of the top rated and preferred by students in the city. Most of these properties include utility bills like electricity bill, water bill and gas bill in the rent. Some facilities are also provided to students that are generally decided by the provider but include some of all out of these: A gymnasium, a games room, snooker table, breakfast bar, all sorts of furnishings in the rooms along with 24/7 CCTV cameras and keycard entry for room doors. Here is the list of the top 5 options for student housing in Baton Rouge.

• The villas at Riverbend

• Flatiron

• Park Place Baton Rouge

• Arlington Cottages and Townhomes

• Redpoint Baton Rouge

These accommodations might cause you some extra dollars but they will give you an idea on how you shall be spending the next years of your life.

When it comes to affordability, Baton Rouge is one of the best cities in Louisiana. Ranging from private apartments worth $3000 per month to $600 per month, Baton Rouge has something for everyone in the correct range. These are the too 5 affordable student housing options in the city.

• The Oliver

• Alight Baton Rouge

• Lark Baton Rouge

• Ion Baton Rouge

• Altitude Baton Rouge

These properties are some of the most affordable in the area and therefore, are sold out almost as quickly any room is available. You can have proper 360° views and images of these properties only at University Living.

The only mode of public transit in Baton Rouge area is the CATS, which is a public bus service that connects almost all of the major parts of the city. Apart from CATS, students and residents prefer to cycle or walk till their destination of it is on a short radius. The LSU tiger trails is another free shuttle service that can be used only by the students of the Louisiana State University. Both of these are explained briefly below:

1. Campus Shuttle System: LSU Tiger Trails: The LSU Tiger Trails system is the primary transport option for students living on or near campus. This free shuttle service operates multiple routes connecting residence halls, academic buildings, and major student apartment complexes.

Important stops and hubs include:

• LSU Student Union

• Patrick F. Taylor Hall

• LSU Residential Colleges

• Nicholson Gateway Apartments

• South Stadium Drive

• Highland Road at LSU

Tiger Trails buses run throughout the day, with select evening services that provide safer mobility after dark. For many students, this system replaces the need for a personal vehicle for daily campus commuting.

2. Capital Area Transit System (CATS): The city’s public transport network is operated by Capital Area Transit System (CATS). LSU students can ride CATS buses free with a valid university ID, making it an economical option for traveling beyond campus.

Key routes and stations useful for students include:

• LSU Student Union Terminal (major campus transfer point)

• Downtown Baton Rouge Transit Centre

• Government Street Corridor

• Cortana Mall area

• Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport route

These routes connect LSU with downtown, shopping areas, medical facilities, and employment zones, supporting students who work part-time or need access to city services.

Baton Rouge is one of the most beautiful cities in Louisiana and has a lot of options for students to visit in the free time and do some recreation. Some of these attractions do not even charge an entry fees from students and even if they do so, it is either discounted or comes with an offer. Some of the top destinations are mentioned below:

• Louisiana State Capitol: As the tallest capitol building in the U.S. (450 feet), it offers panoramic views of the city and Mississippi River from its 27th-floor observation deck. The surrounding grounds feature beautiful, historic gardens and monuments.

• USS Kidd Veterans Museum: Known as the “Battleship of the Presidents,” this WWII Fletcher-class destroyer is docked on the Mississippi River and allows visitors to tour the deck and interior. The complex also features a museum with artefacts from various military conflicts.

• LSU Campus & Mike the Tiger Habitat: Located south of downtown, the Louisiana State University campus is home to the stunning Tiger Stadium (Death Valley) and a state-of-the-art habitat for the live mascot, Mike the Tiger.

• Magnolia Mound Plantation: A historic French Creole-style house dating back to 1791, offering insight into early Louisiana life through its main house, kitchen, and slave cabins. It provides guided tours focusing on the architectural and cultural history of the region.

• Capitol Park Museum: Situated near the capitol, this museum showcases Louisiana’s diverse history, industry, agriculture, and food culture. It covers topics from the Civil War to the state’s vibrant musical and culinary traditions.

These attractions are literally a delight to the eyes and are definitely a must visit by any new student visiting the city.

Baton Rouge has some of the top universities in Louisiana and is definitely one of the best cities to be at. These universities are pioneers in academic research and therefore, invite zillions of friends. Let’s read about these universities in detail:

1. Louisiana State University (LSU): LSU is one of the top universities in Louisiana that are always in demand. It is the flagship public research university of the state of Louisiana and is the highest-ranked institute in Baton Rouge. Some of the top courses & specializations include Petroleum Engineering (ranked #28 nationally), Biological/Agricultural Sciences, Veterinary Medicine, Law, and Mass Communication. It might sound hard to believe but the university has some proud alumni including NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, Heisman Trophy winner Joe Burrow, political strategist James Carville, and former Vice President Hubert Humphrey.

2. Southern University and A&M College: The Southern University and A&M College is also a top contender in the field of higher education and invites several thousand students every year to be a part of this prestigious institution. It is a public Historically Black University (HBCU) and the flagship of the only HBCU system in the United States. The university is known for its sprawling campus and focus on research intensive subjects. Some of the top courses include Engineering (it is a top producer of Black engineers), Nursing, and Urban Forestry. The Southern University Law Centre is also a famous part of the university. Some of the notable alumni are MLB Hall of Famer Lou Brock, jazz musician Branford Marsalis, NBA champion Avery Johnson, and “American Idol” judge Randy Jackson.

3. Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University (FranU): The third and last university on our list is the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University (FranU). This is a private Catholic university specifically focused on healthcare and nursing education. It is known for its contribution to Louisiana's healthcare systems and some of the top courses include Registered Nursing, Pre-Medicine Studies, Physical Therapy, and Clinical Laboratory Science. The alumni network primarily consists of healthcare leaders and practitioners in the Gulf Coast region, including local nurse practitioners and hospital administrators.