Apartments Near Grand View University
Your 2026 guide to finding affordable, student-friendly housing in Des Moines, IA — with real prices, best neighborhoods, and tips to avoid common mistakes.
Average 1BR Rent
$900/mo
Best Neighborhoods
Des Moines Heights · College Hill
Walk to Campus
5–20 min walk
Housing Near Grand View University: What to Expect
Grand View University enrolls 1,472 students, creating steady demand for off-campus housing in Des Moines, IA. 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 View University
Representative listings — prices reflect current market rates for Des Moines, IA.
Park Flats
Best ValueAffordable and social — a favorite for first-year off-campus students with a rooftop common area.
$611–$700/mo
Studio · 1 BA · 0.3 mi from campus
Summit Residences
Most PopularQuiet study-focused community with fiber internet and soundproofed bedrooms.
$766–$900/mo
1 BR · 1 BA · 0.5 mi from campus
Park Landing
Quiet residential complex with off-street parking, covered bike storage, and a community garden.
$961–$1,100/mo
2 BR · 1 BA · 0.7 mi from campus
University Terrace
Well-maintained mid-rise with 24/7 security, a fitness center, and direct bus access to campus.
$1,364–$1,550/mo
3 BR · 2 BA · 0.9 mi from campus
Park Station
Full-service building with co-working spaces, a coffee lounge, and a private shuttle.
$777–$900/mo
1 BR · 1 BA · 1.1 mi from campus
Scholar Square
New BuildingLow-rise townhomes arranged around a central green — perfect for small groups.
$1,088–$1,250/mo
2 BR · 2 BA · 1.4 mi from campus
Collegiate Place
Affordable and social — a favorite for first-year off-campus students with a rooftop common area.
$1,321–$1,500/mo
4 BR · 2 BA · 1.6 mi from campus
Best Areas to Live Near Grand View University
Des Moines Heights
The closest neighborhood to Grand View University's main entrance. Walk to class in minutes — coffee shops and convenience stores line the main strip.
College Hill
A lively area with bars, restaurants, and weekend activity. Ideal if you want a social scene steps from your apartment.
The Loop
Quieter residential streets with single-family homes converted into multi-unit rentals. More space, lower prices, a short bike ride to campus.
Near North
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 View 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.