Student Housing in Des Moines
Des Moines offers the perfect college-town setting for students seeking vibrant community living. Located strategically near Mercy College of Health Sciences, Drake University, Grand View University, Des Moines Area Community College, and Simpson College, student housing options place you steps away from campus life and academic resources. The city pulses with youthful energy, featuring trendy restaurants, coffee shops, and bars concentrated in walkable neighborhoods that cater to the student crowd. Public transportation makes navigating between campuses and entertainment districts seamless, while bike-friendly streets offer affordable commuting alternatives. The housing landscape is diverse and affordable compared to larger metros, with two excellent student-focused housing options that combine comfort with community. Downtown Des Moines transforms into a social hub on weekends, hosting concerts, farmers markets, and cultural events that bring students together. Whether you're grabbing late-night study snacks on Court Avenue or catching live music at local venues, the city creates natural gathering spaces. When you choose to live here, you're not just renting a room—you're joining a connected network of students who've made Des Moines their college home.
Housing Overview
- Location
- Des Moines, IA
- Properties
- 2 listed
- Total Beds
- 0
What to Know About Des Moines
Key highlights for students considering Des Moines
Limited on-campus housing with only 2 nearby options for students
Multiple universities in Des Moines offer diverse academic programs
Drake University, Grand View University within the same city area
Community college option available through Des Moines Area CC
Central Iowa location provides access to regional dining and culture
Student Life in Des Moines
# Student Life in Des Moines, Iowa Des Moines offers students an ideal blend of affordability, opportunity, and vibrant community life. As Iowa's capital, the city attracts learners to institutions like Drake University, Mercy College of Health Sciences, Grand View University, Simpson College, and Des Moines Area Community College. The city's appeal lies in its manageable size—large enough for excitement, small enough to feel welcoming. Student-friendly neighborhoods cluster around campus areas, with convenient access to shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Housing options range from campus dorms to off-campus apartments, providing flexibility for different budgets and preferences. Part-time employment thrives here. Downtown businesses, retail shops, and the growing tech sector regularly hire students. The cost of living remains remarkably reasonable compared to other college towns, stretching your budget further for tuition, housing, and entertainment. Des Moines' social scene is surprisingly dynamic. The East Village district buzzes with cafés, galleries, and live music venues perfect for student hangouts. Summer brings the Iowa State Fair—a beloved cultural institution—while year-round events foster community connection. The city's unique charm emerges through local culture emphasizing sustainability, arts, and civic engagement. Students appreciate the genuine friendliness of residents and the authentic Midwestern values permeating the community. Whether you're studying healthcare at Mercy, pursuing liberal arts at Simpson, or exploring other paths through Drake or community college options, Des Moines provides an enriching backdrop for academic and personal growth without breaking the bank.
Explore Des Moines
Student Housing in Des Moines
University Terrace Apartments
University Terrace Apartments is a 120-unit apartment community located at 3523 University Ave in Des Moines, IA, approximately 0.7 miles from Drake University. Built in 1951, the property offers units equipped with air conditioning, heating, full kitchens with range ovens and refrigerators, garbage disposals, laundry facilities, storage, and window blinds.
University Park Apartments
University Park Apartments is located at 3811 University Ave in Des Moines, Iowa, approximately 0.9 miles from Drake University. This apartment community offers housing options for students seeking accommodation near campus.
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