Student Housing Bloomington, IN

Bloomington is a highly student-oriented city in the USA, mainly due to the influence of Indiana University. It combines education and relaxation perfectly, which makes it a suitable place for students from various corners of the world. Students in Bloomington have access to an exciting mix of places where they can learn, relax, and have fun. As a result, there is a high demand for student housing in Bloomington. Student apartment options vary greatly from dorms to contemporary housing outside campus.

There is a variety of housing options available in Bloomington, including dorms and off-campus housing. Compared to other American cities, apartment rent in Bloomington is quite affordable. Depending on the room type, monthly rent ranges between $700 and $1,400.

With University Living, you can simplify your search through verified listings, flexible lease options, and 24/7 support, making it easy for you to secure the perfect student homes in Bloomington no matter where you are coming from.

Understanding the types of student housing in Indiana available is essential for making the right choice. The city offers a variety of options tailored to different lifestyles, budgets, and preferences.

Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA): PBSA is designed specifically for students and includes fully furnished rooms, communal spaces, and amenities like study areas, gyms, and social lounges. These accommodations often include utilities in the rent, making budgeting easier.

• Shared Apartments: These are the most affordable type of student homes in Bloomington. Shared apartments are popular among students looking to reduce costs while enjoying a social environment. Students share common areas like kitchens and living rooms while having private or shared bedrooms.

• En-Suite Rooms: This type of rooms offer a private bedroom and bathroom, with shared kitchen and living spaces. This option balances privacy and affordability, making it a top choice for many students.

• Non-En-Suite Rooms: These rooms are more budget-friendly, with shared bathrooms and common areas. They are ideal for students looking to minimize expenses while still enjoying a community setting.

• Studio Apartments: Studio apartments provide complete privacy, combining a bed, kitchen, and bathroom in one unit. They are ideal for students who prefer independent living.

Private Apartments: These are not a part of PBSAs and are the most comfortable type of student housing in Bloomington. Private apartments offer full independence and are suitable for students who want the entire space for themselves. Students should note that the rent for these apartments does not include utility bills like water, gas, or electricity. These apartments are available for working professionals as well as university students.

Bloomington is a charming city in the south region of Indiana, famous for its scenic beauty, diverse culture, and exceptional educational standards. It is located amidst beautiful landscapes of greenery. Bloomington ensures serene conditions that complement its lively student life. Indiana University Bloomington is the center of the city and plays a crucial role in shaping the culture, economy, and infrastructure of the area.

Bloomington has a population size of over 80,000 and there are many high-end student housing facilities available. Some such properties are The Monroe, Lark Bloomington, and Atlas on 17th. Apart from that, Bloomington has a lively arts culture, various festivals, and plenty of food places. Affordable prices in comparison with other metropolitan cities make it more attractive for students.

There are a wide range of housing options available for students in Bloomington. Many of such homes come with essential amenities such as furnished rooms, Wi-Fi, study areas, laundry facilities, and fitness centers. However, this is not enough. A good property should be located close to the university campus and the city center with good transit links. Hence, here are some of the top student housing Bloomington listed on University Living:

The rent of student apartments in Bloomington starts at $699 per month.

• The Monroe

• Lark Bloomington

• Atlas on 17th

• The Avenue on College

• The Dillon

• Relato Bloomington

• Evolve Bloomington

The average monthly cost of living in Bloomington lies between $1,320 and $2,330. This will largely depend on how one lives, but normally housing costs will make the biggest portion, and these are within the range of $700 - $1,200. Foods and groceries will come second with costs of around $250-$400, followed by utility bills such as electricity and water worth about $100 - $150. Internet and cell phone costs will fall within the range of $50-$80 while transport costs will range within $20 - $50. For leisure and fun, one will need to allocate between $100 - $200. Educational materials may cost between $50-$100, whereas miscellaneous expenses will be between $50-$150.

Note: Students should note that these are tentative costs and actual amount may vary depending on one’s lifestyle, accommodation type, and location. For a more accurate estimate, you can use University Living's Cost of Living Calculator.

The selection of the appropriate location where one resides will largely determine the kind of experiences that one may have as a student. Different locations have different moods, advantages, and costs. This is why one needs to consider the kind of lifestyle, personal needs, and pocket. Students are either located within the vicinity of the university or outside, depending on their preferences.

• Downtown/Kirkwood: This area is among the most popular choices for student housing in the USA. It is located just 5 to 10 minutes from Indiana University and is always lively and full of energy. It is known for its wide range of restaurants, cafes, and entertainment options, making it perfect for students who enjoy an active social life. Kirkwood Avenue is a favourite hangout spot where you can find shops, street events, and places to relax with friends. However, because of its prime location and popularity, the rent here is usually higher, typically ranging from $900 to $1,400 per month.

• Elm Heights: It gives an entirely new feeling. Elm Heights neighbourhood is located at around 10 minutes away from the college. The neighbourhood comprises peaceful and historic areas, making it the right choice for individuals who enjoy a relaxed environment that is free of the hustle of the surrounding student neighborhoods. It is residential and hence creates a comfortable environment that enhances relaxation and studying. Rent in the area is relatively cheaper than other neighbourhoods at approximately $800 to $1,200 per month.

• McDoel Gardens: This makes another great choice, particularly for students on a budget. McDoel Gardens area is around 10 to 15 minutes away from the Indiana University. This neighbourhood offers cheaper housing options as well as an exciting multicultural community. Additionally, the area features a number of parks and marketplaces that make life much easier. Typical rent in this neighbourhood is between $700 and $1,100 per month.

• Park Ridge: Park Ridge neighbourhood suits individuals who seek privacy and peacefulness. This neighbourhood is relatively closer to the college as it is located approximately 15 minutes away. It is a family neighborhood with ample green spaces. The average rent usually falls between $850 and $1,200 per month, depending on the type of housing.

Bloomington is a city with excellent modes of transport that offer convenience at affordable prices. This makes it perfect for students who are looking for a convenient place to pursue their studies. There are many different ways of moving about in Bloomington, depending on your personal preferences and schedule.

• IU Campus Bus / Bloomington Transit: One of the most commonly used options is the IU Campus Bus transit. These buses cover almost the entire city and connect important areas such as the university campus, student housing neighborhoods, shopping centers, and downtown. A major advantage for students is that many can ride for free using their university ID, which helps save a significant amount each month. For others, fares are still affordable, usually costing only a small amount per ride. Buses typically run from early morning around 6:00 AM until late evening, with some routes extending service hours. During peak times, buses arrive every 10 to 15 minutes, making them very reliable. Popular stops include the Indiana Memorial Union, Sample Gates, and the Downtown Transit Center, which acts as a central hub for multiple routes.
• IU Ride/ BT Late Nite: For late-night travel, IU Ride and BT Late Nite services are extremely helpful. These services are designed to ensure student safety, especially after evening classes or social events. They usually operate during late hours, often from around 08:00 PM until mid-night around 1:45 AM. In night, these rides are free or heavily subsidized for students, making them both safe and affordable. Pick-up and drop-off points are usually located near major campus buildings and popular student areas, ensuring easy access when regular bus services are no longer available.

Bloomington is an attractive town with several interesting places for students to visit when they are not in class. In addition to being fun, such places are also useful in providing the students a balanced life by enabling them to unwind and socialize.

• Sample Gates & IU Campus: There are several prominent attractions in Bloomington, such as the Sample Gates and Indiana University campus. In fact, the Sample Gates can be considered the official entrance to the university and are acknowledged as the emblem of the entire city. As regards the university campus, it is renowned across the globe due to its beautiful limestone constructions, gardens, and vast greens. The students do not visit the campus exclusively for classes but also for leisure, taking a study break, or just for picture-taking. Moreover, the campus provides an ideal place for resting from lectures or reading a book under natural conditions. Lastly, it often conducts exhibits and performances.

• Monroe Lake: Another site that can be considered is the Monroe Lake. This is because Monroe Lake is well-known to be the largest lake in the state of Indiana and located quite close to Bloomington. Monroe Lake is indeed a good location for students who are tired of their busy lifestyles and need to get some fresh air outside. One can indulge in different forms of recreation at Monroe Lake, such as boating, fishing, hiking, and camping. The most probable time for visiting the Monroe Lake would be during weekends and holidays.

• Kirkwood Avenue & Courthouse Square: Kirkwood Avenue and Courthouse Square form the core of social and cultural activities in Bloomington. The area is never without its cafés, eateries, shops, and entertainment venues. In addition, there are historic landmarks like the courthouse, which contribute a sense of history even in this modern location. It is the perfect setting for meeting new people and enjoying meals and other activities. It is especially useful for individuals looking for a break from their regular academic lives and want some relaxation.