The Ultimate Guide to Finding Student Apartments in Tempe: What Every Student Should Know

Tempe, Arizona, is one of the most vibrant student cities in the United States. Known for being home to Arizona State University (ASU), one of the largest universities in the country, Tempe attracts thousands of students every year. From its buzzing nightlife to its relaxed desert lifestyle, living here means you get a balance of academics, fun, and cultural experiences. But if you’re moving to Tempe for the first time, finding the right student apartment can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down everything you need to know before signing a lease.

Why Students Love Tempe

Tempe is often ranked as one of the best student-friendly cities in Arizona, and for good reason:

• Student-Centric Environment: With over 50,000 students enrolled at ASU Tempe campus, the city is built to support student life.

• Vibrant Lifestyle: Downtown Tempe and Mill Avenue District are filled with coffee shops, eateries, live music venues, and cultural festivals.

• Weather: Expect sunshine for more than 300 days a year—ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or kayaking at Tempe Town Lake.

• Connectivity: Tempe is well-connected to Phoenix, Mesa, and Scottsdale, making it easy to find internships, jobs, and networking opportunities.

  
  

Living here means enjoying both academic opportunities and an active social life in one of the fastest-growing regions of the US.

Types of Student Housing in Tempe

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to student apartments in Tempe. Here are your main options:

1. On-Campus Dorms

• Best suited for first-year undergraduates.

• Offers proximity to classes, student services, and campus activities.

• Downsides: Smaller spaces, shared rooms, and limited lease flexibility.

  
  

2. Purpose-Built Student Apartments

• Designed specifically for students, usually located within walking distance of ASU.

• Often fully furnished with shared amenities like gyms, pools, study lounges, and group kitchens.

• Ideal for students who want a mix of independence and community.

  
  

3. Private Apartments & Studios

• Perfect for graduate students or those seeking independence.

• Options range from studios, 1-bedroom, and 2-bedroom apartments near ASU Tempe.

• Generally more expensive but offer privacy and flexible leases.

  
  

4. Shared Houses

• Popular among groups of friends looking to split rent.

• Houses usually have more space and private yards.

• Best for students who don’t mind commuting a little farther from campus.

  
  

Best Neighbourhoods for Students in Tempe

Choosing the right neighbourhood makes a big difference to your student experience. Some top areas include:

Downtown Tempe (Mill Avenue District)

• Buzzing student nightlife, bars, restaurants, and coffee shops.

• Walking distance from ASU.

• Rent tends to be higher due to popularity and central location.

  
  

North Tempe (Near Tempe Town Lake)

• Perfect for students who enjoy outdoor activities like paddle boarding or jogging.

• Scenic, quieter than Mill Avenue but still close to campus.

  
  

South Tempe

• More residential, peaceful, and family-friendly.

• Ideal for students who prefer calm surroundings while still being within biking or driving distance from ASU.

  
  

University Drive & Apache Boulevard

• Affordable housing options with a high student population.

• Walking or biking distance to ASU.

• Budget-friendly dining and shopping outlets nearby.

  
  

Mesa & Scottsdale (Nearby Cities)

• Many students choose to live in nearby areas if they find better deals.

• Well connected via public transport and light rail.

  
  

Rent Prices & Cost of Living in Tempe

Understanding the cost of living is crucial before renting. On average, here’s what you can expect:

• Shared Student Apartments: $700 – $950/month per person

• Private Studios/1-Bedroom: $1,100 – $1,500/month

• Shared Houses: $600 – $850/month per person

• Luxury Student Apartments (with premium amenities): $1,500 – $2,000/month

  
  

Additional monthly costs:

• Utilities: $100 – $150

• Groceries: $200 – $300

• Transportation: $50 – $100 (depending on usage)

  
  

Tempe is relatively affordable compared to cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco, making it a good choice for budget-conscious students.

Transportation & Connectivity in Tempe

One of the biggest advantages of living in Tempe is its accessibility:

• Walking & Biking: Many student apartments are within walking or biking distance from ASU. The city is bike-friendly with designated lanes.

• Valley Metro Light Rail: Runs through Tempe and connects you to Phoenix, Mesa, and Sky Harbor International Airport. Great for internships or part-time jobs outside Tempe.

• Buses & Shuttles: ASU’s free shuttle services make commuting between campuses easy.

  
  

If you live a little farther out, public transport ensures you’re never too disconnected.

What to Look for in a Student Apartment in Tempe

Before signing a lease, always evaluate:

• Proximity to ASU Tempe Campus – Saves time and transportation costs.

• Furnished or Unfurnished – Many student apartments near ASU or any other top institutions offer fully furnished options with Wi-Fi included.

• Amenities – Pools, gyms, study areas, and communal lounges are common in purpose-built housing.

• Lease Terms – Look for 9-month or 12-month leases depending on your academic schedule.

• Safety & Security – Check for gated communities, CCTV, and safe neighbourhood ratings.

  
  

Tips for Securing the Best Student Apartment in Tempe

1. Start Searching Early – Most leases begin in August; start looking by March-April to secure the best options.

2. Set a Realistic Budget – Include rent, utilities, groceries, and transport before deciding.

3. Tour the Property – Virtual tours are available, but visiting in person is even better.

4. Read Lease Agreements Carefully – Watch for hidden fees like administrative charges, parking fees, or early exit penalties.

5. Roommate Matching Services – Many student apartment complexes offer roommate pairing to help split costs.

6. Check Reviews – Online reviews and student forums provide valuable insights into landlords and properties.

   
   

Student Lifestyle in Tempe

Life in Tempe isn’t just about studying—it’s about building a balanced lifestyle. Students enjoy:

• Mill Avenue Hotspots: Perfect for food lovers and nightlife seekers.

• Tempe Marketplace: A large shopping complex with restaurants, cinemas, and retail stores.

• Outdoor Fun: Kayaking at Tempe Town Lake, hiking at Papago Park, or catching sunsets from “A” Mountain.

• Events & Festivals: From ASU football games at Sun Devil Stadium to Tempe Arts Festival, there’s always something happening.

  
  

This makes Tempe an ideal city for students who want to mix academics with social life and recreation.

Final Thoughts

Finding student apartments in Tempe doesn’t have to be stressful. The key is to know your options, budget wisely, and choose a neighbourhood that matches your lifestyle. Whether you want the lively buzz of Mill Avenue, the scenic calm of North Tempe, or the affordability of shared houses, there’s something for every student.

With its combination of affordable housing, great connectivity, and lively culture, Tempe is more than just a university city, it’s a place where students can study, thrive, and enjoy every moment of their academic journey.

How can amber help you?

amber helps you secure ideal student accommodation on your study abroad journey. Having served 80 million students (and counting), amber is your one-stop shop for all your accommodation needs. Download the amber app from the Google Play Store or App Store to book an affordable home for your adventure.

About author

Bhavna.S is a storyteller at heart who loves weaving words into engaging narratives. When not writing, she can be found sipping chai while lost in a book, taking long walks to clear her mind, or planning her next travel adventure - only to end up binge-watching a documentary instead.