Student Housing Minneapolis, MN
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Minneapolis, home to over 60,000 students, offers affordable student housing through University Living with monthly rents ranging from $364 to $1,050. Students can choose fully furnished Purpose-Built Student Accommodations (PBSAs), including shared apartments, en-suites, non en-suites, and studios, or private apartments that are often unfurnished with utilities separate. Top neighborhoods include Dinkytown, Stadium Village, Prospect Park, and Northeast Minneapolis. The estimated monthly cost of living is $1,200–$2,050. Transportation options include Metro Transit buses and light rail services. International students should book 3–6 months in advance, requiring documents like a passport, visa, and acceptance letter. Popular properties include 700 Washington, The Link Minneapolis, WaHu, 412 Lofts, and Identity Dinkytown.
412 Lofts
406 12th Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414, United States
1.90 miles from city centre
Walk score: 91
Identity Dinkytown
405 15th Ave SE , Minneapolis (Minnesota), United States
1.50 miles from city centre
Walk score: 92
Minneapolis Sydney Hall
310 15th Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414, United States
1.36 miles from city centre
Walk score: 92
Uncommon Dinkytown
1212 4th Street SE , Minneapolis (Minnesota), United States
1.34 miles from city centre
Walk score: 92
Radius Apartments
701 15th Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414, United States
1.65 miles from city centre
Walk score: 88
Venue at Dinkytown
428 13th Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414, USA
1.43 miles from city centre
Walk score: 91
Stadium Village Flats
850 Washington Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414, United States
1.92 miles from city centre
Walk score: 89
WaHu
1016 Washington Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414, United States
2.07 miles from city centre
Walk score: 88
Showing 1 - 12 properties out of 16
Nearby Places in Minneapolis (Minnesota)
Minneapolis Minnesota Student Living Guide
Student Housing Minneapolis, MN
Home to some of the top universities in Minnesota, the capital city of Minneapolis is a major tourist destination in the country and invites hundreds and thousands of students every year to pursue higher education and build the education economy in the state. However, one of the major concerns these students face even before coming in the country is finding the right student housing in Minneapolis.
To assist these students in finding the right accommodation for them, University Living steps in! There are several options available to choose from for student housing in the USA, and University Living helps students find just the right property for them. With over a decade of experience and over thousands of properties available for rent in 640+ cities globally, University Living is a trusted name in the accommodation abroad industry. The rent for student properties in Minneapolis ranges between $364 and $1050. Therefore, if you are a student looking for properties in the city, you are at the right place!
Types of Student Housing in Minneapolis, MN
The Capital of Minnesota, Minneapolis, is a major student city in the country. Out of a total population of around 400,000 residents, more than 60,000 are students pursuing higher education at some of the most prestigious universities in the United States. In order to cater to the diverse needs of these students, there is a variety of options for student housing in Minneapolis. These have been divided into two broad categories, namely: Student Housing and Private Apartments.
Student Housing
Student Housing in Minneapolis refers to properties that are specifically made for students. Such properties for student housing USA are also termed as Purpose-Built Student Accommodations or PBSAs. The best part about these properties is that their rent includes utility bills like electricity, water, gas, and Wi-Fi bills, and provides several facilities that you might require as a student in Minneapolis. PBSAs have been further divided into 4 types to cater to the needs of a wider category of students.
Shared Apartments: These properties are the most affordable options for student housing in Minneapolis. Students get to share a room with 2/3 other occupants and get a shared bathroom, living room, and kitchen. Since the property is shared among various occupants, the per-person cost reduces even further.
En-Suite Accommodations: These are some of the most preferred types of student rooms in Minneapolis. Students get to have a personal room with an attached bathroom, along with a shared living room and a kitchen. This provides enough privacy while still giving an option for socializing.
Non En-Suite Accommodations: These properties are very similar to an En-Suite Accommodation, apart from just one major difference. Unlike its counterpart, a Non En-Suite Accommodation does not include a private bathroom. The bathroom in these rooms is shared among all occupants of the property.
Studio Apartments: These are the most comfortable and private options for student housing in Minneapolis. Students get to have an entire property to themselves, which comes with a room, an attached bathroom, and a kitchen. All of this for just one person!
Private Apartments
A private apartment is the most comfortable and extravagant type of student property that you can get in Minneapolis. These properties are leased out as independent units for just one occupant and come with 2/3 rooms along with attached bathrooms, a living room, and a kitchen. Students must note that the rent for these properties does not include utility bills like electricity, water, and gas bills. Therefore, these properties are best suited for 3rd and 4th students or working professionals who do not have any budgetary restrictions.
About Minneapolis, MN
Minneapolis is the largest city in Minnesota and a vibrant hub of culture, nature, and innovation in the American Midwest. Situated along the banks of the Mississippi River, the city is famous for its stunning chain of lakes, over 180 miles of bike trails, and a skyway system connecting downtown buildings across 11 miles. Despite its cold winters, Minneapolis has a warm and welcoming spirit, with residents who embrace outdoor activities year-round, from kayaking in summer to ice skating and cross-country skiing in winter. The city boasts a thriving arts scene, home to the renowned Guthrie Theater, Walker Art Center, and the iconic Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. Its diverse population brings a rich culinary landscape, featuring everything from Somali and Hmong cuisine to farm-to-table Midwestern classics.
Economically, Minneapolis is a major business center, hosting Fortune 500 companies like Target, Best Buy, and U.S. Bancorp. The city is also highly educated, with the University of Minnesota–Twin Cities serving as a flagship public research university. Known for its progressive politics and strong sense of community, Minneapolis consistently ranks as one of the fittest and most literate cities in America. Music lovers know it as the birthplace of Prince, and its legacy in rock, hip-hop, and indie music remains vibrant. With a reasonable cost of living compared to coastal metropolises, Minneapolis offers a high quality of life, combining urban convenience with easy access to nature.
Best Student Housing in Minneapolis Under $600/Month
When it comes to best student apartments in Minneapolis, the city does not let you down. Students get a lot of options to choose from. The best part is, these properties do not compromise on the facilities and services offered while being affordable. These student rooms are located in close proximity to major public transit stops for better connectivity and affordable travel. The top 5 affordable properties in Minneapolis under $600 include:
Note: Book the best student housing in Minneapolis under $600 per month only at University Living!
Top Student Housing in Minneapolis, MN
Students have a diverse range of options for student housing in Minneapolis. There are various PBSAs that offer great services and are located at some of the best neighborhoods in the city. It is important to choose the right property in the city because your student room shall decide the way you’ll spend the next few years of your life in Minneapolis. Here is the list of the top 10 properties in Minneapolis that are located in prime areas and offer some of the best services. The rent for these student housing ranges between $364 and $1050.
Note: Book the top student rooms in Minneapolis at the best prices and unlock special discounts, only at University Living!
Ideal Cost of Living in Minneapolis, MN
Minneapolis is one of the most affordable cities in Minnesota to live in. The rent for student housing in Minnesota is comparatively much lower than other cities in the country like Dallas, New York, San Diego, or Atlanta. Although the cost of living is a personal concept that is determined by the type of expenses you make and the lifestyle you lead, if you cannot plan your expenses properly, even a million dollars are less for spending in a month in Minneapolis. But if you plan your expenses and maintain a proper budget, you can expect to spend a month in the city in well under $1200. The table below outlines some of the major expenses that you can expect to incur as a student in Minneapolis:
Expense Category | Approx. Monthly Cost (USD) |
Housing (Rent) | $500 – $1,000+ |
Food & Groceries | $350 – $450 |
Utilities | $150 – $200 |
Transportation | $100 – $150 |
Miscellaneous/Leisure | $100 – $250 |
Total | $1200 – $2050 |
Note: Students must note that these figures are tentative and might change based on their actual consumption. In order to get a better understanding of the cost of living in Minneapolis, you can use University Living’s exclusive cost of living calculator.
Best Areas to live in Minneapolis, MN
Minneapolis is considered to be one of the most livable cities in Minnesota. The neighborhoods are very beautiful, and the entire vibe of the city is vibrant and energetic. Although students can live in any neighborhood, it is recommended that students live in specific localities that already have an established student community.
Dinkytown
Located at the epicentre of student life at the University of Minnesota, Dinkytown is one of the best neighborhoods for student housing in Minneapolis. This neighborhood is best suited for students who are looking for a loud, energetic, and incredibly convenient neighborhood. Located just a short 5-minute walk from the university, living at Dinkytown means students are literally steps from lecture halls, libraries, and the busiest social scene. This neighborhood is also a walker’s paradise with a walkability score of 92! Dinkytown has several top cafes and bars in the city, like Al's Breakfast, which is an iconic, narrow diner that has been serving the student community for decades. If you wish to have a few drinks on the weekend, Stub & Herb’s can be your best place, as it is a legendary dive bar right on the edge of campus, famous for its burgers and Bloody Mary cocktails! For students who wish to devour a midnight snack while studying, Insomnia Cookies is the go-to spot for students in Dinkytown and is open until 3 AM! The average rent for student housing in Dinkytown ranges between $700 and $1050 per month.
Stadium Village
Another one of the top neighborhoods for student apartments in Minneapolis is Stadium Village. Located just a 10-minute walk from the university, this neighborhood is strategically located close to major sporting and medical complexes. Stadium Village is a more modern locality than Dinkytown and combines the hustle and bustle of city life with newer style buildings and modern architecture! As the name suggests, this neighborhood houses the famous Huntington Bank Stadium and Williams Arena. The Huntington Bank stadium is one of the top destinations in the city and is the home of Gopher Football. If you wish to grab a burger and a beer on a match day or a weekend, The Beacon Public House is your go-to place! Another one of the top student picks for quick eats is Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers, which is obviously famous for its Chicken Fingers and tenders! The average rent for student properties in this neighborhood ranges between $600 and $900 per month!
Prospect Park
Famous as one of the most mature neighborhoods for student accommodation in Minneapolis, Prospect Park is one of the top choices for students! It is a quieter, greener, and more residential neighborhood than Dinkytown, and is extremely popular amongst young graduates, professionals and medical school students! Located a short 5-minute ride to the University of Minneapolis, Prospect Park provides excellent transport connectivity throughout the city! This neighborhood is famous for Towel Hill Park, a historic landmark that offers some of the best panoramic views of the entire city from the Witch's Hat Water Tower, which houses! This is also a major recreational spot for students in the city! Prospect Park also houses one of the best destination breweries in all of Minnesota, the Surly Brewing Co. It is famous for its massive beer hall, a huge outdoor patio and an iconic pizza stand! The average rent for student properties in Prospect are in the range of $500 and $750 per month.
Northeast Minneapolis
One of the best off-campus neighborhoods for student housing in Minneapolis is Northeast Minneapolis. This is a highly sustainable and affordable neighborhoods for the students of the University of Minnesota, which is located just 3 Mies away, just across the Mississippi river and is just a short 15-minute bus ride to the university! Northeast Minneapolis is historically an industrial area turned arts hub, featuring breweries, distilleries, and the largest concentration of artists in the city. The neighborhood is also home to the Northrup King Building, which is the largest creative colony in the country. Students can wander through hundreds of artist studios during art events and exhibitions that take place in the building! If you ever crave a Pizza, Young Joni, a famous pizzeria and speakeasy, shall be your best place to be! Also, this is run and managed by a James Beard Award-winning chef, and is the best pizzeria in the Twin cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul. All of this doesn’t end here, this neighborhood is also home to the Legendary Tiki Bar, the Psycho Suzi's Motor Lounge! The average rent for student rooms in Northeast Minneapolis ranges between $ 400 and $700 per month.
Best Transportation for Students in Minneapolis, MN
Minneapolis is a huge city that is spread across at least 100 square miles. Therefore, in order to curb pollution and to help the 400,000+ residents of the city travel from one place to other, Minneapolis has an extensive network of public transit systems that act as a lifeline for the students of the city. This network boasts of Metro Transit Buses and Light Rail services for students and has been explained briefly below:
Metro Transit Buses and Light Rail
Some of the best and most widely used modes of public transit in Minneapolis include the Metro Transit Buses and Light Rail services. The METRO lines and Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) provide last mile connectivity throughout the city and operate from 4:30 AM to 1 AM daily. The METRO is divided into 2 major lines, namely: E Line, Orange Line, Blue Line, Green Line, and B Line. The best part about these services is that nearly 500,000 people live within a half-mile radius of METRO stations, and hence, have great daily ridership. Some of the key bus routes around the university include 2, 3, 6, 120, 122, 123, and 124.
Top Tourist Attractions in Minneapolis, MN
Minneapolis is one of the most beautiful capital cities in the country and has great natural wonders. Every year, millions of tourists visit the city to enjoy these spectacular views of some of the best creations of nature. Some of the top attractions for tourists in Minneapolis include the Minnehaha Regional Park, Minneapolis Sculpture Garden & Walker Art Center, America’s largest park, and these have been explained briefly below:
Minnehaha Falls (Minnehaha Regional Park)
One of the most majestic and visited tourist attractions in Minneapolis is the Minnehaha Falls, which is located inside the Minnehaha Regional Park. The waterfall is 53 feet tall and is surrounded by limestone bluffs and lush greenery. The park is one of the oldest and most popular parks in Minneapolis and attracts at least 1,000,000 visitors annually. The park features hiking trails, picnic areas, bike paths, and a renowned seafood eatery, the Sea Salt Eatery. The park is open to the general public from 6 AM to midnight. Also not to forget, the waterfall freezes in winter, which creates a magical landscape for photography and winter activities.
Minneapolis Sculpture Garden & Walker Art Center
Located near downtown, another one of the most famous tourist landmarks in the city is the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden & Walker Art Center! The Sculpture Garden spans a whopping 19 acres of space and features over 40 outdoor art installations. These are also home to the beloved symbol of Minneapolis, the iconic Spoonbridge and Cherry sculpture. The Walker Art Center is an internationally renowned museum that showcases modern and contemporary art from maestros like Picasso and Warhol! The Sculpture Garden also hosts several yoga classes, festivals, and public art programs throughout the year, and hence, keeps students hooked up to the city! Both these garden and art centers are free for all and is open from 6 AM till midnight!
Mall of America (MOA)
Situated approximately 15 minutes south of Downtown, the Mall of America is the largest shopping and entertainment complex in the United States and houses more than 500 stores. The mall is also home to the world-famous Nickelodeon Universe, a 7-acre indoor theme park which has more than 25 rides and attractions. The mall also houses the SEA Life Aquarium, the FlyOver America flight simulation ride, mini golf, and over 50 restaurants selling everything from British to American to Middle Eastern to Indian cuisines! This mall is a must-visit, and you can expect to spend at least 10-15 days to cover each and every attraction!
Top Universities in Minneapolis, MN
As mentioned previously, Minneapolis is the home to more than 60,000 students, and these students study in some of the most prestigious institutions in the state of Minnesota and in the US. These universities are pioneers in educational research and training. Every year, several thousand students apply to these universities, give rigorous exams and still, only a few talented ones make till the end of the road! These institutions include:
University of Minnesota –Twin Cities
The flagship campus of the University of Minnesota system, the Twin Cities campus is a public land-grant based university and is classified as R1 level Doctoral University. The university is home to more than 50,000 students at any point in time and is a one of the best universities in the country! Some of the top courses chosen by students include Engineering, Business, Computer Science, Biological Sciences, and Communication Studies. The institute has produced several notable alumni like Bob Dylan, Norman Borlaug, Walter Mondale, and Rick Nolan.
Augsburg University
Founded in 1869 by Norwegian immigrants in the city, Augsburg University is one of the best private liberal arts universities, which is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The acceptance rate at this university is quite low, and therefore, it has a low student strength of just 3000. Some of the top courses chosen by students in the university are Nursing, Business Administration, Psychology, Education, and Social Work. Some of the famous alumni of the university include Marian Wright Edelman, John F. Olson, Paul A. G. Asp, and Robert W. Mattson Jr.
North Central University
Founded in 1930 as the North Central Bible Institute by Frank J Lindquist, the North Central University is a private Christian University which is affiliated with the Assemblies of God. The institute has a great student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, and is known for its vibrant student community. The university offers several types of degrees, including Certificate, Associate, Bachelor's, and Master's. However, some of the top courses chosen by students include Business Administration, Management and Operations, Biblical Studies, International Studies, and Digital Communication. The university has also produced several notable alumni like Daniel Kolenda, G. Raymond Carlson, Thomas E. Trask, and Scott Hagan!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
We have 24/7 support available.
Why do so many international students choose Minneapolis for their studies?
Minneapolis is highly ranked as a top college town, offering a vibrant social environment, quality education, and a lower cost of living compared to many other US cities, making it both enjoyable and affordable for students.
What makes Minneapolis unique compared to other US college cities?
The city combines a strong student community with excellent livability, featuring a robust public transport system (light rail and buses), numerous parks and lakes, and a thriving arts and culture scene.
Which universities are located in or near Minneapolis, and how are they ranked?
The primary university is the University of Minnesota–Twin Cities, a highly regarded public research university. Augsburg University and North Central University are also located in the city.
What are the different types of student housing available in Minneapolis?
You can choose from Purpose-Built Student Housing (PBSA) like studios and shared flats, Private Apartments for more independence, and University Residence Halls on campus.
Which are the most popular student housing properties in Minneapolis?
Popular verified options near the University of Minnesota include 412 Lofts, Chateau Student Housing Cooperative, and other properties in Dinkytown like 637 Ontario St SE.
How much does student housing in Minneapolis cost, broken down by room type?
Through University Living, rents typically range from $400–$1,200 per month. For example, a shared room can be around $500, a private room in a shared house around $700, a 2-bedroom apartment around $1000, and a studio apartment around $1,100.
How do I extend my lease or renew my student housing contract in Minneapolis?
If you wish to extend your student housing contract in Minneapolis, you can reach out to University Living’s housing expert, and we shall assist you further.
What is the full estimated cost of living in Minneapolis for a student each month?
The estimated monthly cost of living in Minneapolis is $1200 – $2050, which includes rent ($500–$1,000), food and groceries ($350 – $450), transportation ($100 – $150), and entertainment ($100 – $250).
Are there specific grocery or lifestyle tips to save money as a student in Minneapolis?
To save money, look for student housing that includes utilities in the rent, cook at home, use the student ID for discounted public transit, and take advantage of the many free or low-cost parks and community events.
Which neighbourhoods in Minneapolis are best suited to student living, and how do they compare?
The best neighborhoods near the University of Minnesota are Dinkytown, Stadium Village, Prospect Park, and Northeast Minneapolis.
How do I book student housing in Minneapolis through University Living, step by step?
Step 1: Search for "Minneapolis" on the University Living website. Step 2: Review property details, photos, and included utilities. Step 3: Select your preferred room type (shared, ensuite, or studio). Step 4: Click "Enquire Now" and fill in your information. Step 5: The University Living team will guide you through confirmation and move-in.
What documents are required by international students when applying for student housing in Minneapolis?
You will typically need your passport, student visa, I-20/DS-2019, university acceptance letter, and proof of financial support. Guarantor details may also be required.
How early should students start looking for housing in Minneapolis?
It is recommended to start your search 3–6 months before your course begins, as the best properties near the University of Minnesota fill up quickly, especially for the popular August/September move-in dates.
What is the standard lease length for student housing in Minneapolis, and are shorter terms available?
The standard lease length for most student housing is 12 months, often starting in August or September. Shorter-term leases may be available but are less common.
What utilities and bills are typically included in Minneapolis student housing rent?
Inclusions vary by property. Many student-focused buildings include electricity, heat, water, sewer, trash, recycling, cable, and internet in the rent. Others may require the tenant to pay for gas, electricity, and internet separately.


