Student Housing Near University of Massachusetts-Amherst
Find verified off-campus housing near University of Massachusetts-Amherst in Amherst, MA
About University of Massachusetts-Amherst
As the flagship campus of the Massachusetts public higher education system, UMass Amherst stands as a dynamic research institution where ambitious students transform into accomplished leaders. With nearly 24,000 students and an impressive 83% graduation rate, the university cultivates an environment where academic rigor meets genuine support for student success. Located in the picturesque town of Amherst, the campus thrives within the vibrant Five College Consortium—a unique partnership with Amherst College, Hampshire College, Mount Holyoke College, and Smith College that expands academic opportunities and enriches cultural programming throughout the region. Students benefit from world-class research facilities, diverse course offerings, and a welcoming community committed to intellectual growth. Beyond the classroom, the surrounding town offers charming local businesses, farmers markets, live music venues, and a thriving arts scene that create a quintessential New England college experience. The proximity of both on-campus housing and affordable off-campus apartments in walkable neighborhoods means students can fully immerse themselves in campus life while enjoying the authentic charm of a college town designed around student living and community engagement.
Quick Facts
- Institution Type
- Public
- Highest Degree
- Graduate
- Setting
- Small City
- Retention Rate
- 91%
- ACT Median
- 31
- Accreditor
- New England Commission on Higher Education
- Classification
- R1 Doctoral University
Cost & Financial Aid
Annual tuition and estimated costs
UMass Amherst's housing costs significantly impact total attendance expenses, particularly for out-of-state students facing over $39k in tuition alone. Strategic housing choices are essential to managing overall college costs effectively.
- ✓Live on-campus for freshman and sophomore years to lock in predictable housing costs and avoid volatile off-campus rental markets in Amherst
- ✓Consider shared off-campus apartments with 3-4 roommates in years 3-4, which typically cost $400-600/person monthly versus $800-1200 for single rooms
- ✓Explore living in surrounding towns like Northampton or South Hadley and commuting via the free UMass transit system to potentially save $100-200/month on rent
- ✓Apply early for on-campus housing and residential college assignments, as guaranteed housing eliminates search stress and prevents last-minute expensive alternatives
Living Near University of Massachusetts-Amherst
# UMass Amherst Housing Guide for Students Amherst offers a vibrant college town atmosphere with tree-lined streets and a strong student presence. The downtown area centers around Main Street, featuring local shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues within walking distance of campus. Popular student neighborhoods include North Amherst near campus, where many off-campus apartments cluster along Lincoln Avenue and University Drive. The downtown area attracts students seeking walkable access to shops and restaurants. South Amherst offers quieter residential options, though slightly farther from campus. Getting around is easy: most neighborhoods are bikeable, and many students use the free UMass transit system (PVTA) connecting campus to surrounding areas. Downtown Amherst is a pleasant 15-20 minute walk from central campus. Main Street offers diverse dining from casual to upscale, plus bookstores, coffee shops, and clothing retailers. Entertainment options include local bars, theaters, and the Amherst Cinema. The community feels safe and welcoming, with active neighborhood associations and campus security partnerships. The college-town vibe means high student engagement and frequent cultural events. Overall, Amherst provides affordable, accessible housing with a supportive community ideal for university life.
Other Housing Near University of Massachusetts-Amherst
11 East Pleasant
11 East Pleasant is a newly built 90-unit apartment community located at 11 E Pleasant St in Amherst, MA, approximately 0.6 miles from University of Massachusetts-Amherst. The community features fully furnished units with full kitchens, air conditioning, and private balcony patios, along with amenities including a fitness center, clubhouse, community lounge, bike storage, and 24/7 maintenance.
Southwest Residential Area
Southwest Residential Area is a 57-unit student housing community located in Amherst, MA, just 0.3 miles from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst campus. Built in 2023, the property offers modern amenities including in-unit washer/dryer, full kitchens with dishwashers, air conditioning, and a 24-hour fitness center. Residents have access to 24/7 maintenance, bike storage, a jogging trail, community lounge, and controlled access building security.
One East Pleasant
One East Pleasant is a 136-unit apartment community located at 1 E Pleasant St in Amherst, MA, approximately 0.6 miles from University of Massachusetts-Amherst. Built in 2018, the property offers fully furnished units with full kitchens, air conditioning, and in-unit dishwashers. Amenities include a 24-hour fitness center, community lounge, bike storage, controlled access, doorman concierge, and 24/7 maintenance.
Aspen Heights Amherst
Aspen Heights Amherst is a 88-unit apartment community located at 408 Northampton Rd in Amherst, MA, approximately 1.6 miles from University of Massachusetts-Amherst. Built in 2021, the property offers amenities including 24/7 maintenance and fitness facilities, air conditioning, a business center, clubhouse with community lounge, coffee bar, and controlled access entry.
Rolling Green Apartments
Rolling Green Apartments is a 204-unit community located 2.6 miles from University of Massachusetts-Amherst. Built in 1971, the property offers amenities including 24-hour fitness and maintenance, full kitchens with dishwashers, air conditioning, and recreational facilities such as a basketball court and dog park.
Olympia Place
Olympia Place is a student apartment community located at 57 Olympia Dr in Amherst, MA, approximately 1.0 mile from University of Massachusetts-Amherst. Built in 2016, this apartment community offers amenities including a fitness center, game room, community lounge, fully furnished units with full kitchens, and 24/7 maintenance services.
North Square Apartments at The Mill District
North Square Apartments at The Mill District is a 130-unit apartment community located at 75 Cowls Rd in Amherst, MA, approximately 1.9 miles from University of Massachusetts-Amherst. Built in 2019, the property features a range of amenities including a fitness center, full kitchens with dishwashers, air conditioning, bike storage, dog park, EV charging stations, and community spaces such as a clubhouse and lounge.
Alpine Commons
Alpine Commons is a 38-unit apartment community located at 133 Belchertown Rd in Amherst, MA, approximately 1.9 miles from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst campus. Built in 1970, the property offers fully furnished units with amenities including air conditioning, heating, high-speed internet, full kitchens with dishwashers, and common facilities such as a dog park and bike storage.
70 University Drive Apartment
70 University Drive Apartment is a 36-unit apartment community located 1.0 miles from University of Massachusetts-Amherst, built in 2019. Each fully furnished unit features a full kitchen with granite countertops, hardwood floors, in-unit washer/dryer, and high-speed internet access. The building offers controlled access entry, an elevator, bike storage, and cable TV service.
Puffton Village Apartments
Puffton Village Apartments is a 378-unit apartment community located at 1040 N Pleasant St in Amherst, MA, approximately 1.4 miles from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst campus. Built in 1968, the property offers amenities including a pool, basketball court, community lounge, on-site management, and 24/7 maintenance. Units feature full kitchens with dishwashers, air conditioning, heating, hardwood floors, and high-speed internet access.
Orchard Hill Residential Area
Orchard Hill Residential Area is a student housing option located at House Dickinson, 151 Orchard Hill Dr in Amherst, MA, approximately 0.6 miles from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst campus. The property provides on-campus residential accommodations for students attending UMass-Amherst.
Lincoln Real Estate
Lincoln Real Estate is a student housing property located at 25 N Pleasant St in Amherst, MA, approximately 0.8 miles from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst campus. The property provides residential accommodation for students attending the university.
Need Help Finding Housing Near University of Massachusetts-Amherst?
Tell us what you're looking for and we'll help you find the right fit.