Durham is a city with plenty to brag about. Known as the City of Medicine, many know Durham as one of the nation’s top healthcare hubs. Beyond that, it’s also recognized as home to sports superstars and NCAA’s Men’s Basketball semi-finalists, the Duke University Blue Devils.
With its prestigious reputation and impressive sports legacy, Duke University attracts students from far and wide. Though many of these students live on campus, some also opt for the freedom and convenience of off-campus housing in nearby neighborhoods.
If you’re interested in exploring the off-campus lifestyle at Duke University, check out our guide on finding student housing options in Durham.
Where Do Most Duke University Students Live Off-Campus?
Durham doesn’t fall short when it comes to off-campus options. Just outside of campus, there are several residential areas that provide the perfect home base for student renters. Some of these popular areas include:
Downtown Durham
Downtown Durham is where all the action happens. Home to popular eateries, shops, entertainment venues and more, this area is perfect for students seeking endless adventure. Whether catching a show at the Caroline Theatre or grabbing a drink at Boxcar Bar + Arcade, it’s easy to fill your agenda when living in Downtown Durham.
If you’re interested in Downtown Durham, check out popular properties like One City Center Apartments or Whetstone. Not only will you be in the center of all the action, but you’ll be no farther than two miles from Duke’s campus.
Ninth Street
Nicknamed Durham’s Greenwich Village, Ninth Street is another action-packed part of Durham. This colorful area boasts a mixed bag of commercial and residential properties, offering convenience and excitement for residents.
When living here, not only are you steps away from campus, but you’re also situated by various local businesses, ranging from coffee shops to hair salons. Some popular residential options include Berkshire Ninth Street and 810 Ninth.
Erwin
Right beside Duke’s West Campus lies Erwin, a great option for students seeking convenience and outdoor recreation. This area is widely known for its access to Duke Forest, a 7,000+-acre nature preserve perfect for hiking, cycling, and outdoor activities. However, it’s just a quick drive or bus ride away from Downtown Durham, ensuring residents also get their dose of urban thrill. Popular housing options in the area include Terrazzo Durham and Trinity Commons at Erwin, both offering comfortable and convenient living for Erwin renters.
How Much Does Off-Campus Housing Cost in Durham?
As of April 2025, the average cost of rent in Durham is $1,377 per month. With this being 13% lower than the national average of $1,575/month, many consider Durham an affordable option that doesn’t compromise quality. However, prices will vary across different neighborhoods and property types.
Location plays a big part in Durham rental pricing. High-demand areas with convenient access to campus and urban amenities command higher prices. In Durham, these include areas like West Village, which neighbors the city center and has an average rent of $2,146/month, or Central Park, also in the city’s heart, with an average rent of $1,998/month. The premium pricing of these areas stems from their convenient access to campus and downtown, which makes commuting, socializing, and daily tasks more accessible for residents.
If you’re looking for a more affordable off-campus rental, consider venturing outside the city’s heart. Woodcroft, for example, has an average monthly rent of $1,350/month. And right behind it is Duke Homestead, which has an average rent of $1,368/month. Neighborhoods like these are viable options for budget-conscious renters. However, keep in mind that living farther away from downtown may require a longer commute to campus.
Property type also comes into play in Durham pricing. If you’re living by yourself, expect to pay $1,315 for a studio or $1,377 for a one-bedroom. Planning to live with roommates? Multi-bedroom units are slightly more expensive overall, but splitting costs can make them more affordable. The average Durham two-bedroom is $1,605 a month, while the average three-bedroom costs $1,913/month.
It's also important to account for utilities when creating your budget. These costs will vary depending on the season and your usage, unless you lease a utilities-included apartment. On top of rent and utilities, consider the cost of transportation, food, and entertainment when determining your budget. If you commute to campus, factor in gas or public transit costs. If you plan on eating out frequently, factor in the cost of dining. Accounting for these additional costs will give you a clear idea of how much you can spend on rent without living outside your means.
Can You Live Off Campus as a Freshman at Duke University?
Freshmen at Duke are required to live on campus during their first year of enrollment. This same rule also applies to sophomores and juniors, resulting in 85% of students residing in college-affiliated housing. On-campus residences range from traditional residence halls to more apartment-style quarters.
Fourth-year students have the option to continue living on campus or pivot to off-campus living. Many choose to stay on campus for the comfort and convenience aspects. However, others are excited to branch out and experience new parts of Durham living. Plus, with most of the student body living on campus, there’s much less competition to worry about when securing an off-campus lease.
What to Consider When Searching for Student Housing at Duke
The key to successfully finding off-campus housing in Durham is to tailor your search. If you’re without a personal vehicle, consider finding a place within walking distance of campus. If you’re a pet owner, maybe look somewhere near green spaces or pet-related amenities.
Everyone’s needs and lifestyles differ, so don’t stress about following the crowd. Instead, focus on what matters most to you by considering these key factors:
Proximity to campus and downtown
Living near campus and Downtown Durham can be a lifesaver for some students. By cutting out long commutes and avoiding parking expenses, a central location can make daily life much simpler. Even better, you’ll be just a short walk or bike ride away from city restaurants and nightlife, ensuring your weekends are as effortless as your weekday trips to class.
Walkability
Certain parts of Durham are more walkable than others. As a whole, the city has a walk score of 45, meaning most residents travel by car. However, centrally located areas like Downtown, Ninth Street, and Brightleaf boast higher walk scores and are considered more pedestrian-friendly.
If walkability is important to you, tailor your search to properties near campus like Icon Downtown Durham or Avalon Durham. Doing so will put you close to popular restaurants, bars, shops, and campus necessities.
Public transportation
Students who don’t live in walkable areas can take advantage of Durham public transit. The GoDurham bus system has routes that cover most of the city and is fare-free for all passengers until June 2025. Duke students, faculty, and staff can also hop on Duke Transit vans or buses, which offer tailored routes to popular spots around campus, such as the Bryan Center, East Campus, and Duke Hospital.
Lifestyle fit
Last but not least, it’s important to live somewhere that aligns with your lifestyle. If you like to spend your free time outside, you might like living by Duke Park in Old North Durham. For shopaholics, Southpoint, home to the popular Southpoint Mall, could be the perfect fit. Or, if you consider yourself Duke’s #1 sports fan, living near campus will ensure you never miss a game at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Whatever your hobbies or interests, Durham has a neighborhood that will allow you to thrive throughout your university experience.
Find Student Housing in Durham with Apartments.com
Looking for student housing in Durham? You’ve come to the right place! Here at Apartments.com, we have many off-campus rental options just waiting to be explored. Whether you want a downtown high-rise or a spacious rental home, you’ll find what you’re looking for on Apartments.com!
Search “Durham, NC” on Apartments.com and select the “Specialty Housing” search filter. Then, select “Student” from the Specialty Housing drop-down menu to narrow your search results. From there, you can browse various apartments and rental homes specifically designated for students in Durham.
You can also explore quality off-campus housing options on the Duke University Off-Campus Housing website. Use advanced search filters or sort listings by proximity to campus to find the perfect place. Take advantage of helpful renter resources, and if you're a student, sign up for the Roommate Finder to connect with potential roomies who share your lifestyle and preferences.
Don't wait—start your search today! Explore Apartments.com to find the ideal off-campus rental and start your next chapter at Duke University. Go Devils!
FAQs
Where is the best off-campus housing at Duke University?
The best off-campus housing near Duke University includes popular areas like Ninth Street, Downtown Durham, and Erwin, offering convenience and access to restaurants, shops, and campus facilities.
Is it cheaper to live on or off campus at Duke University?
Living off-campus can be cheaper depending on the location and number of roommates, but costs like utilities and transportation should be factored in.
What is the average rent cost in Durham, NC?
The average rent in Durham, NC, is $1,377 per month, though this can vary based on the type of housing and location.
Are there any specific requirements for first-year students living off-campus at Duke University?
First-year students are required to live on campus at Duke University. This same rule applies to second-and third-year students as well.
Are utilities typically included in the rent for off-campus housing at Duke University?
Utilities are not always included in rent for off-campus housing in Durham, so it’s important to confirm with the landlord or property manager.
