Student Accommodation Bloomington (Indiana)

Finding top-notch student accommodation in Bloomington, Indiana, is hassle-free with University Living. Whether you’re joining Indiana University (IU) or another local institution, our experts streamline your search for the perfect place to call home.

We offer affordable student housing options in Bloomington, prioritizing safety and comfort. Rent often covers utilities, so you’re free from unexpected bills. Choose from private studios, shared apartments, or ensuite rooms, tailored to your budget and vibe.

Our accommodations are strategically placed near IU’s campus and other key spots, ensuring short commutes. Expect modern perks like high-speed Wi-Fi, study zones, fitness centers, and social lounges, all meeting high-quality standards for a stellar living experience.

With University Living, explore housing that fits your lifestyle, from lively flats near Kirkwood Avenue to quiet studios by Bryan Park. Get in touch today to secure your ideal home in Bloomington!

Student accommodation in Bloomington, Indiana, varies to suit different budgets and preferences, with most options clustered near Indiana University for convenience. Here’s a rundown of the top types available:

1. University Halls

IU’s on-campus residence halls, like McNutt or Briscoe, are go-to choices for freshmen and sophomores. They offer community vibes with dining halls, study rooms, and events, perfect for diving into campus life.

2. Student Housing

Purpose-built student accommodations (PBSAs) are safe and affordable, located near IU for easy access. Fully furnished with desks, beds, and kitchens, they include social spaces. Options include:

• Studio Rooms: Private units with a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen, ideal for solo living.
• Ensuite Rooms: Private bedroom and bathroom with shared kitchen and lounge, blending privacy and connection.

3. Shared Apartments

Shared apartments give you a private bedroom and shared kitchen, bathroom, and living areas, popular in areas like Dunn Street. They’re budget-friendly and foster friendships, close to IU and local cafes.

4. Private Apartments

Private apartments offer more space and independence, with full kitchens and living areas, found in neighborhoods like Walnut Knolls. They suit upperclassmen or groups, often with extras like parking.

5. Homestays

Homestays provide a cozy, family-like experience, great for international students. Often including meals, they’re affordable and reachable by bike or bus from IU, offering cultural immersion.

These options ensure Bloomington students find a home that matches their needs. Check University Living’s listings for the best picks near IU!

Bloomington, Indiana, draws over 8,000 international students to Indiana University, thanks to its academic excellence, welcoming vibe, and affordability. The city’s youthful energy and cultural diversity make it a standout for global scholars, contributing ~$250 million to the local economy annually.

IU ranks among the top U.S. public universities, offering diverse programs in business, music, and informatics, attracting students from 140+ countries. Bloomington’s small-town charm meets big-city perks—think global eateries like FARMbloomington, live music at The Bluebird, and festivals like Lotus. Outdoor spots like Lake Monroe add adventure, while the city’s safety and walkability ease transitions.

With a cost of living 10% below the national average, Bloomington is budget-friendly. Student accommodation near IU starts at ~$500/month via University Living, and free IU shuttles simplify commuting. Nearby cities like Indianapolis (50 miles away) offer weekend escapes.

What Is the History of Bloomington?

Bloomington’s story shapes its appeal:

• 1820s: Settled as “Blooming Grove,” named for its lush landscapes.
• 1820: Indiana University founded, sparking growth.
• 19th Century: Became a hub for limestone quarrying and education.
• Today: A cultural and academic hotspot with a global outlook.

What Are Some Interesting Facts About Bloomington?

• IU’s campus is one of the nation’s prettiest, with limestone architecture.
• Bloomington hosts the world-renowned Jacobs School of Music.
• Over 60 languages are spoken, reflecting student diversity.
• The B-Line Trail is a cyclist’s dream, linking downtown to parks.
• Home to the Eskenazi Museum of Art, free for all.

Bloomington’s affordability, academics, and charm make it a gem for international students. Find your perfect accommodation with University Living today!

Bloomington, Indiana, offers vibrant, student-friendly neighborhoods with affordable and safe purpose-built student accommodations (PBSAs) near Indiana University. Here are five top areas, featuring housing from University Living.

1. Downtown Bloomington – Vibrant Hub

• Downtown buzzes with IU’s energy, Kirkwood Avenue’s cafes, and venues like Buskirk-Chumley Theater. Walk to class and enjoy nightlife at Nick’s English Hut.
• Ideal for: Students loving urban excitement.
• Top accommodation: Evolve Bloomington – Steps from IU, with studios, gyms, and study lounges.

2. Elm Heights – Historic Charm

• Near IU, Elm Heights boasts Victorian homes, quiet streets, and proximity to Bryan Park. It’s a short bike ride to campus, blending calm with access.
• Ideal for: Students seeking peace and history.
• Top accommodation: Atlas on 17th – Furnished ensuites with pools, near IU’s east side.

3. Sunny Slopes – Modern & Green

• Two miles south, Sunny Slopes offers new PBSAs, Winslow Sports Park, and bus stops. It’s affordable with a fresh, community feel.
• Ideal for: Budget-conscious nature lovers.
• Top accommodation: The Park on Morton – Studios with game rooms, close to green spaces.

4. Eastside – Artsy & Relaxed

• Eastside, near the Eskenazi Museum, mixes indie vibes with IU’s arts scene. Bike trails and cafes like Soma make it a student favorite.
• Ideal for: Creative students wanting balance.
• Top accommodation: THIRD Apartments – Modern flats with fitness centers, near IU’s art hub.

5. McDoel Gardens – Historic & Homey

• A historic gem west of IU, McDoel Gardens offers cozy PBSAs and a welcoming vibe, with transit to campus and downtown’s eateries.
• Ideal for: Students craving a home-like feel.
• Top accommodation: College Square Apartments – Affordable ensuites with communal spaces.

These areas ensure safe, comfortable student housing in Bloomington. Explore options with University Living for a seamless experience

Bloomington, IN, is an affordable city to live and study. The estimated cost of living in Bloomington is $500 to $750/ month, excluding rent and tuition fees. The cost of living is calculated after considering all the essential expenses, like food and groceries, transportation, electricity and utilities, clothing and leisure, etc. Here’s a detailed description of the cost of living in Bloomington.

1. Accommodation: $700 to $1,199/ month
2. Food & Groceries: $250 to $350/ month
3. Utilities & Internet: $100 to $200/ month
4. Transportation: $30 for a monthly bus pass
5. Entertainment: $100-$200/ month
6. Dining Out: $80–$200/month. 
7. Laundry: $20–$50/month.
8. Stationery & Textbooks: $40–$100/month.
9. Clothing & Shopping: $80–$150/month. 
10. Travel Costs: $0–$50/month.

How Can Students Save on Living Costs in Bloomington?

1. Choose Affordable PBSAs: University Living’s options near IU, starting at $500/month, save on rent and transit.
2. Cook at Home: Shop at Aldi to keep food at ~$150/month, saving $100+ over dining out.
3. Use Student Discounts: IU ID unlocks deals at The Tap, bookstores, and software, saving ~$50/month.
4. Ride Free Transit: IU shuttles or B-Line Trail biking mean $0 transport costs.
5. Share Utilities: Split bills in shared ensuites via University Living to drop costs to ~$50/person.

Smart budgeting lets students enjoy Bloomington’s arts, eateries, and IU spirit affordably. Find PBSAs with University Living to optimize your budget!

Bloomington, Indiana, offers student-friendly transit, making it easy for IU students to move around affordably. Free buses, bike paths, and rideshare keep things flexible. Here are the top options and savings tips, with housing insights from University Living.

Transportation Options:

• IU Campus Shuttles: Free with an IU ID, shuttles connect campus to nearby areas like Dunn Street, running weekdays 7 a.m.–10 p.m. Perfect for PBSAs near IU, ensuring fast class commutes.
• Bloomington Transit: City buses cover downtown, Eastside, and beyond, with fares at $1 (free for IU students with ID). Operating Monday–Saturday, they link to spots like College Mall.
• Cycling: Over 50 miles of bike trails, like the B-Line, make biking free and green. IU’s bike-sharing and repair stations suit students in Elm Heights, costing ~$30–$80/year for maintenance.
• Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): For late-night trips to The Bluebird or errands, rides cost $5–$15. Handy for downtown PBSAs when buses aren’t running.

Are There Student Discount Cards for Travel in Bloomington?

• IU Student ID: Grants free IU shuttles and Bloomington Transit rides, saving ~$50/month. Just flash your ID—no extra card needed.
• Bloomington Transit Youth Fare: Non-IU students under 18 pay $0.50, but IU’s free access overshadows this.

Budgeting for Transport

• Monthly Cost: $0–$50. Shuttles and biking keep costs at $0; rideshare adds ~$50.
• Housing Tip: Pick PBSAs near IU via University Living to walk or bike, cutting transit to $0. Studios start at ~$500/month with study zones.

Bloomington’s free transit and trails let students explore its vibrant scene effortlessly. Find housing with University Living to stay connected!

Bloomington, Indiana, blends college energy with cultural and natural gems, perfect for IU students to explore. From art to trails, these spots showcase the city’s charm. Here are five must-visit attractions, with housing tips from University Living.

1. Eskenazi Museum of Art

• On IU’s campus, this free museum houses works by Picasso and Monet, with rotating exhibits. Its limestone architecture is a draw itself.
• Why Visit?: A cultural haven for study breaks.
• Proximity Tip: Eastside PBSAs like THIRD Apartments, via University Living, are a short walk away.

2. Kirkwood Avenue

• Bloomington’s lively spine, Kirkwood offers cafes like FARMbloomington, shops, and bars like Nick’s English Hut, steps from IU.
• Why Visit?: The pulse of student nightlife and dining.
• Proximity Tip: Downtown’s Evolve Bloomington, listed on University Living, keeps you in the heart of it.

3. Lake Monroe

• Indiana’s largest lake, 10 miles south, offers boating, fishing, and hiking. Entry is ~$7/vehicle, ideal for weekend escapes.
• Why Visit?: Nature’s playground for adventure.
• Proximity Tip: Sunny Slopes’ The Park on Morton, via University Living, is a quick drive away.

4. Buskirk-Chumley Theater

• A historic downtown venue hosting concerts, plays, and festivals like Lotus, with tickets ~$10–$30.
• Why Visit?: A stage for Bloomington’s arts scene.
• Proximity Tip: Downtown PBSAs from University Living put you steps from shows.

5. B-Line Trail

• This 3.1-mile trail connects downtown to parks like Switchyard, free for walking, biking, or jogging, with street art along the way.
• Why Visit?: A scenic route to explore the city.
• Proximity Tip: McDoel Gardens’ College Square Apartments, via University Living, are trail-adjacent.

These spots capture Bloomington’s spirit, perfect for students. Affordable housing starting at ~$500/month via University Living keeps you close to the fun!