How far are off-campus apartments from Grinnell College?

Most student apartments near Grinnell College are within 0.3–1.5 miles of campus — a 5–20 minute walk or a quick bike ride. Apartments along bus routes can extend the practical range to 2–3 miles without needing a car.

Apartments Near Grinnell College

Q: What is the cheapest housing near Grinnell College?

The most affordable option near Grinnell College is typically a studio apartment, averaging around $750/month. Shared 3–4 bedroom units can bring individual rent down further, often to $500–$750 per person.

Q: What are the best student neighborhoods near Grinnell College?

The top student neighborhoods near Grinnell College include Grinnell Heights, Downtown, College Hill, The Loop. Each offers different trade-offs between price, distance, and social environment.

Q: What is the average rent near Grinnell College?

Average rent near Grinnell College ranges from $750/mo for a studio to $1,200/mo for a 2-bedroom. Sharing a 3-bedroom with roommates is the most common way to keep costs under $500/month per person.

Q: Is it safe to live off-campus near Grinnell College?

Safety varies by neighborhood. Areas immediately adjacent to Grinnell College's campus tend to be well-lit and student-friendly. When touring any apartment, check for secure entry, working locks, and read recent reviews from current tenants.

Your 2026 guide to finding affordable, student-friendly housing in Grinnell, IA — with real prices, best neighborhoods, and tips to avoid common mistakes.

Average 1BR Rent

$900/mo

Best Neighborhoods

Grinnell Heights · Downtown

Walk to Campus

5–20 min walk

Housing Near Grinnell College: What to Expect

Grinnell College enrolls 1,705 students, creating steady demand for off-campus housing in Grinnell, 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 Grinnell College

Representative listings — prices reflect current market rates for Grinnell, IA.

Campus Village

Best Value

Quiet study-focused community with fiber internet and soundproofed bedrooms.

$576–$650/mo

Studio · 1 BA · 0.3 mi from campus

Park Place

Best Areas to Live Near Grinnell College

Grinnell Heights

The closest neighborhood to Grinnell College's main entrance. Walk to class in minutes — coffee shops and convenience stores line the main strip.

$900–$1,500/moFreshmen

Downtown

A lively area with bars, restaurants, and weekend activity. Ideal if you want a social scene steps from your apartment.

$850–$1,450/moSocial students

College Hill

Quieter residential streets with single-family homes converted into multi-unit rentals. More space, lower prices, a short bike ride to campus.

$650–$1,100/moGraduate students

The Loop

Downtown location with walkable access to the transit hub, employers, and city amenities — best for students with internships or part-time jobs.

$850–$1,350/moCommuters

Cost of Living Near Grinnell College

Rent (1BR)$900/mo (1 BR avg)

Food & Groceries~$250/mo (mix of dining hall + groceries)

Transportation~$60/mo (bus pass or bike)

Utilities~$80/mo (as a separate charge if not included)

Estimated Monthly Total~$1,290/mo estimated

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.

More About Grinnell College

Grinnell College Admissions & Profile Tuition & ROI Calculator Find My Match Schools

FAQ — Apartments Near Grinnell College

What is the cheapest housing near Grinnell College?

The most affordable option is typically a studio at around $750/mo. Sharing a 3–4 bedroom apartment brings individual costs down to roughly $500–$750/person.

What are the best student neighborhoods near Grinnell College?

Top areas include Grinnell Heights, Downtown, College Hill, The Loop. Each has its own vibe — some are walkable and social, others are quieter and more affordable.

What is the average rent near Grinnell College?

Expect $750/mo for a studio, $900/mo for a 1BR, and $1,200/mo for a 2BR. Prices vary by proximity to campus and building amenities.

Is it safe to live off-campus near Grinnell College?

The neighborhoods immediately around campus tend to be well-lit and student-friendly. Always tour in person, check entry security, and read tenant reviews before signing a lease.

How far are apartments from Grinnell College's campus?

Most student apartments are 0.3–1.5 miles away — a 5–20 minute walk. Bus routes allow students to live 2–3 miles away without needing a car.