Apartments Near Grand Valley State University
Your 2026 guide to finding affordable, student-friendly housing in Allendale, MI — with real prices, best neighborhoods, and tips to avoid common mistakes.
Average 1BR Rent
$900/mo
Best Neighborhoods
Allendale Heights · The Loop
Walk to Campus
5–20 min walk
Housing Near Grand Valley State University: What to Expect
Grand Valley State University enrolls 19,073 students, creating high demand for off-campus housing in Allendale, MI. Most students move off-campus after their first or second year either to save money or gain more independence.
Rent near campus ranges from $750/mo for a studio to $1,200/mo for a 2-bedroom — with 3 and 4-bedroom shared units often bringing individual rent down to $500–$750/person/mo.
The area is one of the more affordable student markets in the U.S., with strong value for renters willing to shop around.
Apartment Listings Near Grand Valley State University
Representative listings — prices reflect current market rates for Allendale, MI.
Riverside Residences
Best ValueSpacious layouts with in-unit laundry and a resident study lounge — popular with upperclassmen.
$674–$800/mo
Studio · 1 BA · 0.3 mi from campus
Pinnacle Landing
Most PopularFull-service building with co-working spaces, a coffee lounge, and a private shuttle.
$795–$900/mo
1 BR · 1 BA · 0.5 mi from campus
The Commons
Spacious layouts with in-unit laundry and a resident study lounge — popular with upperclassmen.
$1,140–$1,300/mo
2 BR · 1 BA · 0.7 mi from campus
College Landing
Full-service building with co-working spaces, a coffee lounge, and a private shuttle.
$1,271–$1,450/mo
3 BR · 2 BA · 0.9 mi from campus
Scholar Residences
Low-rise townhomes arranged around a central green — perfect for small groups.
$716–$800/mo
1 BR · 1 BA · 1.1 mi from campus
Landmark Lofts
New BuildingAffordable and social — a favorite for first-year off-campus students with a rooftop common area.
$1,035–$1,200/mo
2 BR · 2 BA · 1.4 mi from campus
University Square
Quiet study-focused community with fiber internet and soundproofed bedrooms.
$1,386–$1,600/mo
4 BR · 2 BA · 1.6 mi from campus
Best Areas to Live Near Grand Valley State University
Allendale Heights
The closest neighborhood to Grand Valley State University's main entrance. Walk to class in minutes — coffee shops and convenience stores line the main strip.
The Loop
A lively area with bars, restaurants, and weekend activity. Ideal if you want a social scene steps from your apartment.
Near North
Quieter residential streets with single-family homes converted into multi-unit rentals. More space, lower prices, a short bike ride to campus.
East Side
Downtown location with walkable access to the transit hub, employers, and city amenities — best for students with internships or part-time jobs.
Cost of Living Near Grand Valley State University
Student Housing Tips
Start Early
The best apartments near campus get leased 6–9 months before move-in. If you want August housing, start searching in January–February.
Read the Lease
Check: who pays utilities, guest policies, subletting rules, and what happens if a roommate leaves. Never sign anything you haven't fully read.
Choose Roommates Carefully
Split a 3–4 bedroom and each person's share drops by 30–40%. Use a roommate agreement to align on noise, guests, cleanliness, and bills.