What Does Off Campus Housing Cost at UW in 2025?

Seattle's dynamic culture, coffeehouse scene, and the University of Washington (UW) attract thousands of students each year. As more students seek flexibility and independence beyond dorm living arrangements, off-campus housing has become an increasing focus. But how much does living near UW cost, and is it worthwhile?

1. Average Rent Prices Near UW

Off-campus rental costs depend heavily upon location, size, and amenities, as well as whether or not a unit is shared between roommates. Here is what students can expect when renting off-campus:

• Coliving Spaces: Expect to pay between $600 and $1,200 monthly in rent for coliving apartments or houses in the U-District. A 4-bedroom home could rent for as much as $4,000 each month; when divided among four roommates it could amount to only $1,000 each month per roommate.
• Studios: Studio rentals typically range between $900 and $1,600 per month, depending on their building. Older units without amenities may fall below $1,000, while more recent developments with laundry, security, or rooftop decks often cost more.
• 1-Bedroom Apartments: On average, they range between $1,200 and $1,750 in monthly rent, depending on amenities and their proximity to campus.
• Luxury Apartments: Rents can easily exceed $2,000-$2,500 for new buildings featuring concierge services, gym memberships, furnished units, and other features.

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2. Neighborhoods Popular among UW Students

Students at UW should familiarize themselves with the following top neighborhoods near campus:

• University District (U-District): At its heart lies University District - an epicenter filled with students that boasts easy access to classes, libraries, local food, and walkability. While rents are often at their higher as demand exceeds supply.
• Ravenna: Just northeast of campus, Ravenna offers quieter streets lined with trees for more residential and apartment living. It is often at lower costs than its U-District counterpart.
• Roosevelt: With its light rail station and mix of newer and older buildings, Roosevelt is becoming increasingly popular. You should anticipate an approximate 10- to 20 minute commute from Roosevelt to UW walking or transit.
• Wallingford: West of campus and near Lake Union, this neighborhood is trendy yet residential and features easy access to grocery stores and cafes. Though slightly further from campus than its neighbors, many students bike or bus in.
• Capitol Hill: Capitol Hill is well known for its nightlife, music venues and diversity - an area ideal for graduate students seeking more urban lifestyle.

3. What’s Included in Rent?

When considering housing options, look beyond sticker price alone when making decisions. Be sure to inquire what services are included:

• Utilities: They can sometimes be included within rent payments, while others do not. Though any extra cost could range anywhere between $50-$150 each month.
• Internet: Most apartments don't include WiFi connectivity, which can add $40-$70/month, depending on your provider and speed.
• Furnishings: Is the place fully furnished? If it isn't, be prepared to budget for basic furniture such as beds, desks, and couches, which could run up hundreds of dollars in upfront costs.
• Parking: Street parking in Seattle can be challenging. Some rentals may provide spots from $75-$200/month, while others don't provide any spaces at all.

4. Comparing On-Campus and Off-Campus Housing

According to UW's housing site, on-campus housing costs typically range between $12,063 and $18,600 annually for students. That equates to roughly $1,340-$2,066 monthly costs for on-campus living arrangements.

While on-campus housing provides utilities, furniture, and access to dining halls, it also offers limited privacy; off-campus living can offer greater freedom in choosing roommates, cooking meals for yourself, and choosing a neighborhood.

5. Budget Breakdown for Off-Campus Living

Here is an estimate for students living near UW:

• Rent (coliving): $850
• Utilities: $100
• Internet: $50
• Ongoing Groceries Cost: $400
• Transportation: $75 (ORCA student transit pass is $150 per quarter)
• Miscellaneous (laundry, supplies, or dining out): $150

Total Estimate: $1,625 per month

Multiply that by nine to twelve months, and you get to $14,625 to $19,500 annually - similar costs as campus housing but with more flexibility.

6. Ways to Save on Housing

• Live with Multiple Roommates: Splitting a four-bedroom house into four parts can often work out cheaper per person than renting an individual studio apartment.
• Consider Neighborhoods Slightly Further Away: Greenwood or Northgate may offer better deals, while the light rail can quickly transport you back onto campus.
• Negotiate Rent or Ask for Discounts: Some landlords may offer student discounts or lower rent commitments.
• Sublease: Consider subleasing during summer breaks or from students moving abroad as this option could save money over market rate rental costs.
• Utilize Student Forums: Check Reddit (r/UW), Facebook housing groups, or the UW Off-Campus Housing Portal for student forums that may help.

7. Tripalink Offers UW Off-Campus Housing Solutions

Students looking for turnkey off-campus housing near campus have several Tripalink properties near UW that combine convenience, comfort, and cost into an ideal housing solution:

MontClair Apartments

• Address: 4727 12th Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98105
• Price: Starting from $1,291/month
• Unit Types: Studios and 1-bedrooms (236–343 sq ft)
• Features: Fully furnished units with in-unit washer/dryers, rooftop terrace, smart locks, bike storage, and package lockers
• Distance to UW: 10 minutes walk
• Special Offer: Gives one month free for select units (non-MFTE only; verify with leasing office for details)

Iris Apartments 

• Address: 4041 7th Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98105
• Price: Starting from $834/month (co-living)
• Unit Types: 6-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom shared townhouses
• Features: full kitchen, in-unit laundry facilities, rooftop deck space for lounging/entertaining, and air conditioning for added comfort.
• Ideal For: Students looking for an inclusive co-living experience while enjoying modern conveniences
• Special Offer: When signing a lease between 9/15/25-8/31/26, get 1 month free rent (verify with leasing office for details).

Coda Apartments

• Address: 2508 N 50th St, Seattle, WA 98103
• Price: Starting from $1,391/month
• Unit Types: Studio apartments (326–446 sq ft)
• Features: Furnished or unfurnished units available; full kitchen with all necessary appliances and amenities, in-unit laundry, secure parking, pet-friendly living environment
• Appeal: Offers quiet residential living with high-end finishes suited for focused study or graduate student living
• Special Offer: Sign and get a move-in bonus of $900 (verify with leasing office for details).

Visit Tripalink UW Off-Campus Housing for more information.

8. Hidden Costs to Consider

• Security Deposits: Equal to one month's rent and payable in advance.
• Application Fees: This may range between $30-$75 per applicant.
• Move-In Costs: These could run you over $2,000.
• Renters Insurance: Some landlords require renters insurance; expect to pay $10-$15 monthly costs.
• Furniture and Kitchen Supplies: As soon as you start from scratch, furniture and kitchen supplies quickly add up in cost

9. Benefits and Drawbacks of Off-Campus Housing

Pros:

• More Independence
• Full kitchen to prepare meals
• Full options to select roommates
• More social programming than dorms
• Potentially lower long-term cost
• Diverse housing types

Cons:

• Additional responsibilities (bills, cleaning, cooking)
• The commute to campus is longer
• It can be intimidating if you don't already know your roommates

Final Thoughts on Off-Campus Housing at UW

Off-campus housing options don't solely revolve around cost savings - they also serve a lifestyle need. If you prioritize privacy or wish to live with friends while being ready to take on renting responsibilities, moving off-campus might be the right move.

Living on campus may not be right for everyone. First-year students may find dorm life useful for meeting people and transitioning smoothly into college life; Upperclassmen, transfer students, or graduate students typically enjoy more flexibility provided by off-campus housing arrangements.

Seattle's housing market can be intimidating, but with proper preparation and strategy, students at UW can find housing that fits their budget and academic goals. Be proactive by beginning early, staying organized, and never being afraid to ask questions.