Houston is a city with many claims to fame. It’s Beyoncé’s hometown, the Energy Capital of the World, and, most recently, home to one of the nation’s top men’s basketball teams: The University of Houston Cougars.
With its recent advancement in this year’s NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, the University of Houston has been receiving more recognition and attention. As a result, new and returning students are encouraged to secure off-campus housing early before demand surges.
If you, too, are a new or returning UH Cougar looking to secure student housing, check out this guide on finding the perfect off-campus rental in Houston.
Where Do Most University of Houston Students Live Off-Campus?
Houston is a big city comprised of 134 different neighborhoods. With so many areas to explore, it can be hard for students to pinpoint the perfect neighborhood near campus. If you need help narrowing down your search, here are our picks for the best off-campus neighborhoods for UH students:
Midtown
Midtown is perfect for students with a “work hard, play hard” mentality. Recognized as one of the city’s biggest entertainment hubs, Midtown has plenty of bars, restaurants, and live music venues to explore. Here, you’re just a brisk walk away from local hotspots like the Axelrad Beer Garden, 13 Celsius, and The Dogwood, as well as several main campus buildings.
Montrose
Just west of Downtown Houston lies Montrose, a colorful, eccentric neighborhood beloved by UH students. Though it’s about a four-mile walk from campus, Montrose remains a popular off-campus destination because of its culture. Residents here love the area’s creative energy, which is largely fueled by its captivating murals and art galleries like The Menil Collection.
East Downtown (EaDo)
East Downtown, popularly known as EaDo, is a sports lover’s dream. Just steps away from the University of Houston’s TCECU Stadium and Fertitta Center, this area is perfect for students who want to be in on all the action. If your main draw to UH is its renowned athletic teams, EaDo might be the perfect place to plant your roots.
How Much Does Off-Campus Housing Cost in Houston?
As of April 2025, the average cost of rent in Houston is $1,199. With this being 24% lower than the national average, many consider Houston an affordable place to live compared to other major U.S. markets.
Your rent could surpass Houston’s average rate, depending on what you're looking for. If you plan to live on your own, expect to pay $1,082/month for a studio apartment or $1,199/month for a one-bedroom. For renters with roommates, you’ll find two-bedroom apartments for $1,503/month and three bedrooms for $1,859 per month. Keep in mind that living with roommates means splitting rent and living expenses. Though rent looks higher at glance for multi-bedroom units, you’ll likely save more in the long run by dividing financial responsibilities.
Houston rent prices also vary by area. Popular neighborhoods like the earlier-mentioned Montrose command higher rates, while those on the city’s outskirts, like Westchase or Woodlake-Briar Meadow, tend to be more affordable. If you’re looking for something that falls right in the middle, consider areas like Uptown Houston or Oak Forest-Garden Oaks, which boast an average rent of about $1,500/month.
Keep in mind that you’ll also be responsible for utility costs when renting in Houston. These will include fees for your electricity, Wi-Fi, water, etc. In certain apartments, utilities are charged at a flat rate added to your monthly rent. However, in others, they are charged separately based on monthly usage. If you’re living with roommates, make sure to account for utilities in your budget. Depending on your approach, you might split utilities evenly between each roommate, or you might choose to divide them by usage.
Can You Live Off Campus as a Freshman at the University of Houston?
Freshmen are not required to live on campus at the University of Houston. Therefore, they are free to explore off-campus housing options if they choose.
Currently, 82% of the student body resides off campus, while those who choose on-campus housing can select from eight residence halls. Room and board costs vary depending on the building and unit type. For instance, a two-bedroom unit in Cougar Village is priced at $3,980, while the same unit in Cougar Place costs $5,083.
If you’re considering on-campus living, be sure to review UH’s Housing Rate Sheet to find the option that best suits your budget and needs.
What to Consider When Searching for Student Housing in Houston
There are many different lives you can live as a University of Houston student. You might be a dedicated bookworm spending countless hours at the M.D. Anderson Library, an outdoor enthusiast who’s explored every corner of Memorial Park, or a social butterfly who thrives on discovering the best eateries and bars in Downtown Houston.
Whichever life you choose to live, consider the following factors to ensure your off-campus rental aligns with your lifestyle preferences and priorities:
Proximity to campus and downtown
Regardless of their lifestyle, most students prefer living near campus or downtown. These locations offer shorter commutes to class and easy access to the city’s top attractions and landmarks. When it’s time for a study break, you can visit the iconic Houston Aquarium or immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Market Square.
If convenience and adventure are your top priorities, living close to downtown in properties like Parkside Residences or Canal Street Flats is undoubtedly your best bet.
Walkability
Much of a location’s convenience lies in its walkability. And luckily, Houston is considered fairly pedestrian-friendly. With a walk score of 77 and a bike score of 87, the city is highly accessible by foot or two wheels. However, certain areas may be more walkable than others.
Montrose, for example, is considered very walkable, with a walk score of 89. Other areas noted for their walkability include Fourth Ward, The Museum District, and Midtown. On the other hand, areas farther from the city center tend to be less walkable. For instance, Clear Lake, located over 20 miles from Downtown Houston, has a walk score of 52, meaning most residents travel by car.
Public transportation
Houston offers several transit options for those who prefer to travel by bus or shuttle. For UH students, the Cougar Line is a great option for getting across campus. For those who must venture to other parts of the city, the Houston Metro provides bus and light rail services from the heart of the city to its outskirts.
Lifestyle fit
It’s important to consider your lifestyle when searching for student housing. Depending on how you spend your free time, certain areas or properties might better suit your needs. For example, outdoor enthusiasts might prefer living near Memorial Park in areas like Rice Military or Crestwood. Or, if you thrive on socializing and nightlife, Midtown may be your perfect fit.
You should also consider amenities when evaluating housing options. Pet owners should look for pet-friendly properties with ample outdoor spaces for walks and playtime. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate apartments with on-site gyms or nearby running trails. For those who love hosting friends, features like rooftop decks, grilling areas, or communal spaces are perfect for entertaining. Recognizing what you need and value most will steer you toward the right neighborhood.
Find Student Housing in Houston with Apartments.com
Ready to find off-campus housing in Houston? Start your search right here at Apartments.com. Our listing database contains hundreds and hundreds of off-campus rental options, from high-rises in Downtown Houston to single-family homes on the city outskirts.
Our advanced search filters make it easy to find the best off-campus rentals. Simply search “Houston, TX” on Apartments.com and click the “Specialty Housing” filter at the top navigation menu. From there, select “Student” from the specialty housing drop-down menu and watch as your off-campus rental options appear.
Whether you’re a returning student or new to campus, find off-campus housing on Apartments.com and start your best college life in Houston! Go Cougars!
FAQs
Where is the best off-campus housing at the University of Houston?
Some of the best off-campus housing options near the University of Houston include properties in Midtown, Montrose, and EaDo. However, it ultimately depends on your preferences for location, amenities, and budget.
Is it cheaper to live on or off campus at the University of Houston?
Living off-campus can often be cheaper, but it depends on factors like rent, utilities, and transportation. On-campus housing provides convenience but may come at a higher cost.
What is the average cost of rent in Houston, TX?
The average cost of rent in Houston is $1,199, according to Apartments.com data.
Are there specific living requirements for first-year students at the University of Houston?
The University of Houston does not have specific living requirements for first-year students. However, they do offer a variety of on-campus housing options for freshmen, including traditional residence halls and apartment-style living.
Are utilities typically included in rent for off-campus housing at the University of Houston?
Utilities are not always included in rent for off-campus housing near the University of Houston. Some apartments may include certain utilities, but it’s common for tenants to pay them separately.
