Finding the right apartment as a student can be both exciting and overwhelming. For students attending Arizona State University (ASU), Tempe offers a wide variety of housing options that cater to different lifestyles, budgets, and needs. Whether you're a freshman trying to find your first apartment, a returning student looking for something new, or a graduate student searching for a more peaceful living space, there’s a place for everyone in Tempe. However, choosing the best student apartment requires careful consideration. Factors like rent, amenities, location, and roommate selection all play significant roles in your decision-making process. In this guide, we’ll break down how to choose the right student apartment in Tempe to help you find the perfect place to live.
1. Understand Your Budget
One of the first steps in choosing the right student apartment is understanding your budget. College life can come with a lot of financial demands, including tuition, books, transportation, and social activities. Rent will likely be one of your most significant monthly expenses, so it’s essential to find an apartment that fits comfortably within your budget.
Before you start browsing through apartments, consider how much you're willing to spend each month. In Tempe, rent prices can vary greatly depending on the apartment's location, size, and amenities. Typically, student apartments near ASU tend to be more expensive due to their proximity to the university. On the other hand, apartments that are located farther away might offer more affordable rent but could increase transportation costs.
A good rule of thumb is to allocate no more than 30% of your monthly income or financial aid toward housing. Be sure to factor in additional costs, such as utilities, internet, parking, and security deposits, which can add up quickly.
For students looking for affordable options, living further from campus might reduce rent costs, but consider how much you're willing to spend on commuting and parking fees. Conversely, living closer to campus may be more expensive but could save you time and money on transportation.
2. Location, Location, Location
Location is one of the most important factors when choosing student housing. For students attending Arizona State University, being close to campus can make your college experience much more convenient. However, your choice of location will depend on your lifestyle, preferences, and schedule.
If your primary goal is to reduce commuting time and increase convenience, look for student living near Arizona State University. The closer you are to campus, the easier it will be to attend classes, study in university libraries, and participate in on-campus events. Living near ASU also means you’ll be able to take advantage of the campus amenities like fitness centers, dining halls, and recreational spaces, which will save you time and allow you to enjoy the university’s vibrant atmosphere.
On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter living environment or want to experience more of what Tempe has to offer beyond campus, you may want to explore apartments located a bit farther from the university. Living in more residential areas of Tempe may provide a calmer environment, and in many cases, rent might be more affordable.
Additionally, you should consider the proximity to public transportation if you don't have a car. Many apartment complexes near ASU are conveniently located near bus or light rail stations, which can make getting around Tempe and Phoenix easier.
3. Evaluate the Amenities Offered
When you’re browsing apartment listings in Tempe, be sure to take a close look at the amenities offered by each property. Apartments can vary significantly in terms of the facilities and services they provide, so it’s important to prioritize what’s essential for your living experience.
Common amenities in student apartments include:
Wi-Fi and Cable: As a student, having reliable internet access is a must. Many student apartments offer high-speed internet as part of the rent, which can save you the hassle of setting up and paying for services yourself.
Laundry Facilities: Laundry can be a major inconvenience for students, especially if there are no in-unit laundry facilities. Check if the apartment has a washer and dryer in-unit, or if there is a laundry room on-site.
Furnishings: Some student apartments are fully furnished, which can make moving in much easier. If you’re traveling from out of state or just want the convenience, a furnished apartment might be the way to go.
Fitness Centers: Many student apartments near ASU offer on-site fitness centers, which can be a great perk for staying healthy and fit without needing a gym membership.
Parking: If you have a car, parking is an important factor. Look for apartments that offer parking spaces or garages, especially if you live in a busy area near ASU where parking might be limited.
Community Spaces: Many student apartments have common areas where you can study, relax, or hang out with friends. These spaces might include lounges, study rooms, or outdoor areas with barbecue grills and picnic tables.
Pet-Friendly: If you have a pet or plan to adopt one, look for pet-friendly apartments. Be sure to inquire about any additional pet fees or restrictions.
Make a list of the amenities that are most important to you, and use this to help narrow down your apartment search. It’s essential to prioritize the features that will enhance your daily living experience.
4. Roommate Selection
For many students, sharing an apartment with roommates is the most cost-effective option. When selecting a student apartment in Tempe, think about whether you want to live alone or with roommates. Many students opt to live with others to reduce costs, as rent for a shared apartment is typically lower than for a one-bedroom unit.
Roommate selection is key to ensuring that your living situation is enjoyable and peaceful. Before committing to a lease, have an open and honest conversation with your potential roommates about expectations. This includes:
- Cleaning: Who will be responsible for cleaning common areas?
- Noise Levels: Are you okay with loud music or parties, or do you prefer a quieter environment?
- Guest Policies: Will you have overnight guests, and if so, how often?
- Shared Expenses: How will you divide rent and utility costs?
It’s essential to communicate these topics clearly and address any concerns before signing the lease. A harmonious living situation can greatly enhance your college experience, while conflicts with roommates can add unnecessary stress to an already demanding academic schedule.
Some apartment complexes near ASU even offer roommate matching services, which can help you find someone who shares similar habits and interests. If you’re moving to Tempe without knowing anyone in the area, this can be an excellent way to meet new people and make sure you’re matched with someone compatible.
5. Understand the Lease Terms
Before you sign any lease, take the time to carefully review the terms and conditions. Student apartments often have specific lease agreements that may differ from traditional residential leases. Be sure to look for the following:
Lease Duration: Most student leases are for one year, though some may offer shorter-term leases or the ability to sign a lease for the academic year only. If you plan to stay in Tempe over the summer, you may need to find a place that allows for a summer lease extension.
Rent Payment Schedule: Make sure you understand when rent is due each month, how payments are made, and if there are any late fees.
Security Deposit: Some apartments require a security deposit to cover any damages or unpaid rent. Be sure to clarify the amount of the deposit and any conditions for getting it back when you move out.
Subletting Policies: If you need to leave for a semester or move out early, you may want to know if subletting is allowed. Some complexes allow you to sublet your apartment to another student for a semester if you have a valid reason.
Pet Policies: If you plan to bring a pet, make sure you fully understand the pet policies, including any pet deposits or restrictions.
Reading and understanding the lease terms is crucial to avoid any surprises later on. If there’s anything you don’t understand, don’t hesitate to ask the landlord or property management for clarification.
6. Use Online Resources to Compare Options
There are many online platforms where you can compare different student apartments in Tempe, such as Zumper, Craigslist, or Apartments.com. These websites allow you to filter listings by price, location, size, and amenities, which can save you time and effort during your search.
Zumper’s Tempe student housing listings provide a wealth of information on available apartments near ASU, making it easier to find a space that suits your preferences and budget. Use these tools to check out floor plans, photos, reviews, and even the average rent for similar apartments in the area.
You can also read reviews from current or past tenants to get an idea of what it’s like living in a particular apartment complex. These reviews can provide valuable insights into issues like maintenance responsiveness, noise levels, or the quality of amenities.
Conclusion
Choosing the right student apartment in Tempe requires careful thought and planning. By understanding your budget, evaluating the location, considering your desired amenities, and selecting compatible roommates, you can find a living space that enhances your academic and personal life. Whether you're looking for student living near Arizona State University for convenience or a more affordable apartment a little farther from campus, Tempe offers a wide variety of housing options to suit every need. Use online resources like Zumper to help with your search, and be sure to review lease terms carefully to avoid any surprises. With the right apartment, you’ll have a comfortable and enjoyable living experience throughout your time at ASU.
