Student Housing Near Pacific Lutheran University
Find verified off-campus housing near Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, WA
About Pacific Lutheran University
Rooted in a century-old Lutheran tradition of service and academic excellence, Pacific Lutheran University has cultivated a vibrant community where 2,350 students thrive in an intimate, supportive learning environment. Located in Tacoma, Washington, PLU distinguishes itself through its strong commitment to ethical leadership, global engagement, and hands-on experiential learning that extends far beyond the classroom. The university's welcoming admission rate of 81% reflects its philosophy of accessibility and inclusive excellence, ensuring diverse perspectives enrich campus life. Students benefit from PLU's strategic position in the Pacific Northwest, offering unparalleled access to outdoor recreation, cultural institutions, and professional internship opportunities across the Seattle-Tacoma region. The campus community actively engages in service projects and interfaith dialogue, fostering meaningful connections among undergraduates and graduate students alike. The surrounding Tacoma neighborhood provides an ideal balance of campus-centered student life and urban convenience, with affordable housing options, local restaurants, coffee shops, and entertainment venues within walking distance or a short transit ride. Living near Pacific Lutheran means joining a purposeful, connected community dedicated to making a positive impact in the world.
Quick Facts
- Institution Type
- Private
- Highest Degree
- Graduate
- Setting
- Large Suburb
- Retention Rate
- 79%
- ACT Median
- 25
- Accreditor
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Classification
- Master's University (Medium)
- Affiliation
- Religious
Cost & Financial Aid
Annual tuition and estimated costs
Pacific Lutheran University's net price of $21,370/year is significantly lower than sticker price due to financial aid, making housing costs a manageable portion of overall expenses. Students should explore on-campus housing and shared accommodations to maximize affordability in the Tacoma, Washington area.
- ✓Live on-campus for your first 1-2 years to lock in stable, included housing costs and build community connections
- ✓Consider shared off-campus housing with 3-4 roommates to split rent, utilities, and internet costs in Tacoma's rental market
- ✓Apply for housing scholarships and grants through PLU's financial aid office, which may cover partial room and board expenses
- ✓Look into work-study positions or resident assistant (RA) roles that offer free or reduced housing in exchange for part-time work
Living Near Pacific Lutheran University
# Neighborhood Guide for Pacific Lutheran University Students Pacific Lutheran University sits in a peaceful residential area of Tacoma, offering a quieter alternative to urban campus life. The immediate surroundings feature tree-lined streets, local parks, and a genuine suburban feel that attracts many students seeking a balanced lifestyle. Popular student neighborhoods include the areas near 120th Street SW and along the corridors leading toward downtown Tacoma. These zones offer affordable rental options and walkable access to campus. Many students also explore the charming Proctor District, roughly 1-2 miles away, which offers independent coffee shops, vintage boutiques, and local restaurants. Getting around is manageable through Pierce Transit's bus system, with several routes connecting campus to downtown and surrounding neighborhoods. Walking and biking are viable for nearby areas, though a car provides greater flexibility for exploring Tacoma's waterfront and entertainment districts. The neighborhood maintains a safe, community-oriented atmosphere with active neighborhood watch programs. Nearby dining ranges from casual cafes to diverse ethnic cuisine, while shopping centers like The Pavilion offer convenient retail options. The proximity to Point Defiance Park provides excellent outdoor recreation opportunities, creating a well-rounded living environment for students.
Other Housing Near Pacific Lutheran University
Gibson Gardens
Gibson Gardens is a 122-unit apartment community located at 5001 Pacific Ave in Tacoma, WA, approximately 4.6 miles from Pacific Lutheran University. Built in 2001, the property offers amenities including 24/7 maintenance, a business center, clubhouse, coffee bar, and various in-unit features such as dishwashers, balcony patios, and ceiling fans. Additional community features include controlled access entry, a courtyard, conference room, and BBQ grill areas.
Oak Park Apartments
Oak Park Apartments is a 54-unit apartment community located at 14515 A St S in Tacoma, approximately 1.5 miles from Pacific Lutheran University. Built in 1987, the property offers units equipped with in-unit washer/dryer, full kitchens with dishwashers, and balcony patios. Common amenities include a game room, high-speed internet, and heating throughout.
Bryn-Mar Village Apartments
Bryn-Mar Village Apartments is a 176-unit apartment community located at 1721 S 82nd St in Tacoma, WA, approximately 2.8 miles from Pacific Lutheran University. Built in 1978, the community offers amenities including a fitness center, dog park, basketball court, clubhouse, and 24/7 maintenance. Units feature dishwashers, ceiling fans, fireplaces, and balcony patios.
Abbey Lane Apartments
Abbey Lane Apartments is a 123-unit apartment community located at 1918 70th Ave W in Tacoma, WA, approximately 7.9 miles from Pacific Lutheran University. Built in 2010, the community offers amenities including a fitness center, clubhouse, business center, gated access, and units equipped with full kitchens, dishwashers, and hardwood or carpet flooring. The property features 24/7 maintenance service and a variety of in-unit and community conveniences such as balconies, fireplaces, and ceiling fans.
AV Lofts
AV Lofts is a 159-unit apartment community located at 1942 Fawcett Ave in Tacoma, WA, approximately 6.8 miles from Pacific Lutheran University. Built in 2023, the property offers amenities including a fitness center, community lounge, conference room, full kitchens with granite countertops, and EV charging stations. Additional features include 24/7 maintenance, high-speed internet, bike storage, and controlled access.
Jefferson Yards
Jefferson Yards is a 144-unit apartment community located at 409 S 23rd St in Tacoma, WA, approximately 6.6 miles from Pacific Lutheran University. Built in 2021, the property offers amenities including a 24-hour fitness center, dog park, bike storage, clubhouse with community lounge, and full kitchens with dishwashers in each unit. Controlled access entry and 24/7 maintenance are available.
Villaggio Apartment Homes
Villaggio Apartment Homes is a 125-unit apartment community built in 2008, located at 1328 Market St in Tacoma, WA, approximately 7.2 miles from Pacific Lutheran University. The community offers amenities including 24/7 maintenance, gated access, in-unit dishwashers and garbage disposals, high-speed internet, cable TV, bike storage, and outdoor spaces with BBQ grills and a courtyard.
Vintage
Vintage is an 84-unit apartment community located at 518 S 7th St in Tacoma, WA, approximately 7.7 miles from Pacific Lutheran University. Built in 1929, the property features hardwood floors, high ceilings, and crown molding throughout its units. Amenities include a fitness center, high-speed internet, full kitchens, laundry facilities, bike storage, and 24/7 maintenance.
Brewery Lofts Tacoma
Brewery Lofts Tacoma is a 49-unit apartment community located at 2120 Commerce St in Tacoma, WA, approximately 6.7 miles from Pacific Lutheran University. Built in 2020, the community offers fully furnished units with full kitchens, dishwashers, and double vanities, along with amenities including 24/7 maintenance, a 24-hour fitness center, community lounge, EV charging, and controlled access.
Chandelle Apartments
Chandelle Apartments is a 32-unit apartment community located at 3418 90th St S in Tacoma, approximately 2.9 miles from Pacific Lutheran University. Built in 1987, the property offers units equipped with dishwashers, garbage disposals, range ovens, and refrigerators, along with community amenities including a BBQ grill, courtyard, laundry facilities, and high-speed internet access. The smoke-free community features carpeted and vinyl flooring options with window blinds.
Chelsea Heights Apartments
Chelsea Heights Apartments is a 97-unit apartment community built in 2008, located at 603 S J St in Tacoma, WA, approximately 7.7 miles from Pacific Lutheran University. The property offers in-unit washer/dryer, air conditioning, granite countertops, and hardwood floors, along with community amenities including a fitness center, clubhouse, and controlled access. Residents have access to nearby transit, package lockers, and recycling facilities.
The Boulders at Puget Sound
The Boulders at Puget Sound is a 713-unit apartment community located at 2602 Westridge Ave W in Tacoma, WA, approximately 8.3 miles from Pacific Lutheran University. Built in 1989, the property offers in-unit washer dryer, high-speed internet, and a range of community amenities including a fitness center, pool, basketball court, and clubhouse.
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