Student Housing Near Texas State University
Find verified off-campus housing near Texas State University in San Marcos, TX
About Texas State University
Texas State University welcomes nearly 35,000 students to its vibrant San Marcos campus, making it one of Texas's largest public universities. Known for its inclusive admissions approach and diverse student body, Texas State offers exceptional value for students seeking quality education without excessive barriers to entry. The university excels in preparing graduates across engineering, business, education, and liberal arts disciplines, with particular strength in its graduate programs that attract scholars from across the region. Located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, San Marcos provides students with an ideal blend of academic rigor and recreational opportunity. The charming downtown area features the San Marcos River, perfect for kayaking and water activities, while local shops and restaurants create an authentic college town atmosphere. The community actively embraces its student population, fostering a welcoming environment where campus culture thrives beyond the classroom. Living near Texas State means accessing excellent walkable neighborhoods, affordable housing options, and vibrant student districts that cater to diverse lifestyles. Whether you prefer on-campus residence halls or nearby apartments, the San Marcos area offers something for every student, combining small-town charm with big-city amenities.
Quick Facts
- Institution Type
- Public
- Highest Degree
- Graduate
- Setting
- Small City
- Retention Rate
- 78%
- ACT Median
- 22
- Accreditor
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Classification
- R2 Doctoral University
Cost & Financial Aid
Annual tuition and estimated costs
Texas State University offers relatively affordable housing options compared to many universities, with total first-year costs ranging from approximately $27,888 to $39,648 when including tuition and average housing expenses. Smart housing choices can significantly impact overall affordability, especially for in-state students.
- ✓Consider on-campus housing for your first year to build community and avoid commute costs, then explore off-campus apartments in San Marcos which tend to be more affordable than major metropolitan areas
- ✓Share housing costs by finding roommates through Texas State's housing portal or social media groups to split rent, utilities, and internet bills
- ✓Live slightly further from campus in areas like Buda or Kyle and use the university shuttle or carpool to save 20-30% on rent compared to properties directly adjacent to campus
- ✓Explore university-affiliated housing complexes and older apartment communities that often offer lower rates than newly built student housing near campus
Living Near Texas State University
# San Marcos Student Housing Guide San Marcos is a vibrant college town perfectly sized for students. The area surrounding Texas State's campus blends historic downtown charm with modern student-friendly amenities. Popular neighborhoods include Dunham Ranch and Tantra Lofts near campus for convenience, while slightly further areas like Blanco Vista offer more affordable options without sacrificing accessibility. Getting around is easy—most students walk or bike to campus since distances are manageable. The San Marcos Transit System provides free bus service to students, making car ownership optional. Downtown San Marcos, just steps from campus, features excellent dining from casual tacos to trendy restaurants, plus vintage shops and local boutiques. The outlet malls nearby offer shopping variety, while Bobcat Stadium and campus recreation keep entertainment close. The community feels welcoming and safe, with active neighborhood watch programs and campus security presence. The university's integration into the town creates a genuine college atmosphere where students are valued residents, not outsiders. Before committing to housing, visit neighborhoods in person and explore the downtown area. This firsthand experience helps you find the perfect fit for your college lifestyle.
Other Housing Near Texas State University
Vie Lofts at San Marcos
Vie Lofts at San Marcos is a 75-unit student housing community located at 817 Chestnut St, just 0.3 miles from Texas State University. Built in 2016, the property offers amenities including 24/7 maintenance, fitness center, controlled access, business center, and in-unit features such as dishwashers and air conditioning. Additional community spaces include a clubhouse, community lounge, and convenience store.
Hillside Ranch
Hillside Ranch is a 962-unit apartment community located at 1350 N LBJ Dr in San Marcos, TX, approximately 0.7 miles from Texas State University. Built in 1969, the property offers amenities including 24/7 maintenance and fitness facilities, air conditioning, dishwashers, basketball court, BBQ grill, business center, and controlled access. Residents have access to a clubhouse, community lounge, and various outdoor spaces including balcony patios and a courtyard.
The Cottages at Hillside Ranch
The Cottages at Hillside Ranch is a 962-unit apartment community located at 1350 N LBJ Dr in San Marcos, TX, approximately 0.7 miles from Texas State University. Built in 1969, the property offers amenities including 24/7 maintenance and fitness access, air conditioning, dishwashers, a basketball court, BBQ grill, business center, clubhouse, and controlled access.
Logan Ridge Apartments
Logan Ridge Apartments is a 42-unit community located at 225 Ramsay St in San Marcos, TX, approximately 0.6 miles from Texas State University. Built in 2010, the property offers units with full kitchens, hardwood floors, granite countertops, and amenities including a fitness center, gated community access, and outdoor spaces with BBQ facilities.
The Parlor
The Parlor is a 264-unit apartment community located at 140 W San Antonio St in San Marcos, TX, approximately 0.5 miles from Texas State University. Built in 2021, the property offers amenities including 24/7 maintenance, a fitness center, clubhouse, coffee bar, business center, and units equipped with air conditioning, dishwashers, balcony patios, and ceiling fans.
Cheatham Street Flats
Cheatham Street Flats is a 143-unit apartment community located at 401 S Guadalupe St in San Marcos, built in 2019 and situated 0.9 miles from Texas State University. The property offers fully furnished units with full kitchens, air conditioning, and ceiling fans, along with community amenities including a fitness center, business center, community lounge, and 24/7 maintenance.
The View on the Square
The View on the Square is a 120-unit apartment community located at 228 S Guadalupe St in San Marcos, TX, approximately 0.7 miles from Texas State University. Built in 2022, the property offers amenities including air conditioning, fitness center, dog park, basketball court, EV charging, and controlled access. Units feature balcony patios, dishwashers, and ceiling fans, with common areas including a clubhouse, community lounge, and business center.
Lantana Hall
Lantana Hall is a 216-unit student housing community located 0.2 miles from Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas. Built in 2023, the property offers fully-equipped apartments with air conditioning, heating, full kitchens, and in-unit appliances. Residents have access to amenities including a fitness center, pool, clubhouse, business center, bike storage, and on-site management.
Aspire San Marcos
Aspire San Marcos is a 225-unit student housing community located at 101 Concho St, just 0.2 miles from Texas State University. Built in 2020, the property features fully furnished apartments with full kitchens, in-unit washer dryers, and hardwood floors. Residents have access to amenities including a fitness center, pool, game room, study rooms, community lounge, bike storage, and a convenience store on-site.
The Timbers
The Timbers is a 155-unit apartment community located at 900 Peques St in San Marcos, TX, approximately 0.5 miles from Texas State University. Built in 1984, the property offers amenities including a fitness center, basketball court, clubhouse, 24/7 maintenance, high-speed internet, and in-unit features such as air conditioning, dishwashers, and hardwood floors.
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