Student Accommodation Hickory ( North Carolina )

Planning your move to Hickory for university? Whether you’re enrolled at Lenoir-Rhyne University or Appalachian State University's new Hickory Campus, one of the first and most important things to sort out is where you’ll live. A safe, comfortable, and well-located student home isn’t just about convenience—it directly impacts your academic success and lifestyle.

Thankfully, University Living is here to help students make that choice without stress. We offer a range of fully verified student-exclusive accommodations in Hickory that cater to different needs—be it proximity to campus, affordability, social vibes, or quiet, independent living. Every listing is carefully curated with essential amenities and support to ensure a smooth transition into your new student life in Hickory.

Finding the right type of student accommodation in Hickory is very important. Hickory may be a smaller town compared to other student hubs, but it offers an impressive variety of living options tailored to student lifestyles. Whether you’re looking to live solo or with roommates, there’s something here for everyone.

Housing options you’ll find on University Living include:

Private Studios

Perfect for students who value their privacy or are in graduate programs. These come fully furnished with a kitchen, private bathroom, and all your essentials. Ideal for focused studying without distractions.

Shared Apartments

Great for undergraduates or students who want to meet new people and split rent costs. You'll have your own room but share communal areas like the kitchen and living room.

En-suite Rooms in Student Residences

These rooms come with private bathrooms but shared kitchen and lounge areas—ideal if you want a balance of independence and social interaction.

Off-Campus Apartments

These are apartments or townhouses located near campuses. They offer full independence and are perfect for those staying long term or wanting more freedom over their schedule.

University-Affiliated Housing

Lenoir-Rhyne University offers a range of traditional dorms and suite-style housing. It’s great for first-year students or those who want to live right in the heart of student life.

Each property listed on University Living includes full details, photos, pricing, and support—so you can compare your options clearly and book with confidence.

Located in Catawba County, North Carolina, Hickory offers a unique mix of small-town charm and educational opportunities. It’s a place where you can enjoy the quiet, peaceful pace of a close-knit community without missing out on modern amenities, job opportunities, and vibrant student life.

Here’s what makes Hickory such a great student city:

• Academic Growth: With growing institutions like Lenoir-Rhyne and App State’s new Hickory campus, the city is investing in higher education and future-forward programs.
• Affordability: The cost of living in Hickory is significantly lower than in big cities like Raleigh or Charlotte, making it easier for students to live comfortably.
• Friendly Locals: It’s known for its welcoming vibe, making it easier for out-of-state and international students to adjust.
• Parks and Green Spaces: There are plenty of trails, lakes, and parks for biking, walking, or just unwinding after lectures.
• Access to Industry: Hickory has a growing economy in healthcare, tech, and manufacturing. Many students find part-time jobs or internships while studying.

All these factors create a healthy, stress-free environment that helps students feel grounded and supported.

Hickory stands out for being budget-friendly—a big plus for students managing tuition, books, food, and daily expenses. While individual costs may vary based on personal habits and housing choices, here’s a realistic breakdown of what students can expect each month:

Average Monthly Expenses for Students in Hickory:

• Rent
• Shared apartment or en-suite: $800–$1,100/month
• Private studio or apartment: $1,200–$1,600/month
• Utilities (Electricity, Water, Heating, Wi-Fi): $100–$150/month (often included in student housing listed on University Living)
• Groceries and Meals: $200–$300/month Cooking at home is cheaper, but there are also plenty of student-friendly diners and cafes.
• Public Transport / Fuel: $60–$90/month Depending on whether you use local buses, cycle, or drive. 
• Miscellaneous (Books, Gym, Laundry, Entertainment): $100–$200/month 
• Total Monthly Estimate: $1,250 to $2,000/month, depending on your housing and lifestyle choices. 

Tip: Opt for properties with utility bills included to better manage your monthly budget. University Living makes this easy by listing what’s included with every accommodation.

Not every student wants to live in the same kind of neighborhood. Some want a bustling, walkable area with coffee shops and nightlife. Others prefer a quiet, study-friendly suburb close to parks. Hickory offers both.

Top areas students prefer include:

• Downtown Hickory: A lively and student-friendly neighborhood filled with coffee shops, restaurants, retail outlets, and frequent community events. It’s walkable and just minutes from both campuses.
• Viewmont: Located north of downtown, this area offers a blend of convenience and peace. You’ll find affordable housing, grocery stores, and bus connectivity.
• Long View: Located on the western edge of Hickory, this area is more residential but still has solid access to downtown and campus areas. Great for students looking for quieter neighborhoods.
• LRU Vicinity: For those attending Lenoir-Rhyne, the area around the campus has plenty of student housing options, eateries, and study spots.

Getting around Hickory is fairly easy. Most students either live close enough to walk or bike to class, but public transport options are available for longer commutes or those without a car.

Transport choices include:

• Greenway Public Transportation: Greenway buses serve most parts of Hickory and nearby towns. They’re budget-friendly, safe, and commonly used by students.
• Cycling: Hickory has bike paths and wide roads, and most student housing options provide safe storage. It’s a healthy and eco-friendly way to get to class. 
• Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): For late-night trips or when buses aren’t running, rideshare apps are widely available and often used among students.
• Student Carpools: Many students organize carpools to get to class or events, especially those living in off-campus apartments.

Student life shouldn’t be all about textbooks and lectures. Hickory offers a surprising amount of things to see and do—many of them affordable or even free. Whether it’s nature, arts, food, or community events, you’ll find a great way to unwind.

Here are a few student-favorite places to visit in and around Hickory:

• Hickory Museum of Art: Offers rotating exhibitions and free entry. It’s a great way to explore culture and take a break from studies.
• Catawba Science Center: An interactive spot for science lovers featuring exhibits, live demonstrations, and even a planetarium.
• Bakers Mountain Park: Just a short drive from campus, this park offers hiking trails and scenic views—ideal for weekend breaks or nature-loving students.
• Downtown Hickory Farmers Market: Held regularly with local produce, crafts, and live music. A great place to grab a snack and meet people.
• Hickory Motor Speedway: Into racing? This iconic track has student-friendly ticket prices and a fun, high-energy vibe.
• Lake Hickory: Just a few minutes away and perfect for kayaking, picnics, or casual outings with friends.

You can plan weekend outings, group trips, or quiet solo days with so many options available nearby.