Apartments Near Metropolitan State University
Your 2026 guide to finding affordable, student-friendly housing in Saint Paul, MN — with real prices, best neighborhoods, and tips to avoid common mistakes.
Average 1BR Rent
$1,500/mo
Best Neighborhoods
Saint Paul Heights · Near North
Walk to Campus
5–20 min walk
Housing Near Metropolitan State University: What to Expect
Metropolitan State University enrolls 4,998 students, creating steady demand for off-campus housing in Saint Paul, MN. Most students move off-campus after their first or second year either to save money or gain more independence.
Rent near campus ranges from $1,250/mo for a studio to $1,900/mo for a 2-bedroom — with 3 and 4-bedroom shared units often bringing individual rent down to $800–$1200/person/mo.
The area is moderately priced — affordable compared to major metro areas, with a solid range of options for all budgets.
Apartment Listings Near Metropolitan State University
Representative listings — prices reflect current market rates for Saint Paul, MN.
Midtown Heights
Best ValueQuiet residential complex with off-street parking, covered bike storage, and a community garden.
$951–$1,100/mo
Studio · 1 BA · 0.3 mi from campus
The Square
Most PopularNewly built riverfront complex with floor-to-ceiling windows and kayak storage.
$1,204–$1,400/mo
1 BR · 1 BA · 0.5 mi from campus
Heritage Station
Steps from the light rail stop, ideal for students who commute to internships.
$1,523–$1,750/mo
2 BR · 1 BA · 0.7 mi from campus
Riverside Village
Modern open-plan lofts 2 blocks from the main quad. Pet-friendly, utilities included.
$1,956–$2,250/mo
3 BR · 2 BA · 0.9 mi from campus
College Heights
High-rise living with panoramic views, rooftop pool, and concierge service.
$1,193–$1,350/mo
1 BR · 1 BA · 1.1 mi from campus
Campus Commons
New BuildingNewly built riverfront complex with floor-to-ceiling windows and kayak storage.
$1,766–$2,050/mo
2 BR · 2 BA · 1.4 mi from campus
College Court
Urban living with walkable access to restaurants, coffee shops, and grocery stores.
$2,201–$2,550/mo
4 BR · 2 BA · 1.6 mi from campus
Best Areas to Live Near Metropolitan State University
Saint Paul Heights
The closest neighborhood to Metropolitan State University's main entrance. Walk to class in minutes — coffee shops and convenience stores line the main strip.
Near North
A lively area with bars, restaurants, and weekend activity. Ideal if you want a social scene steps from your apartment.
East Side
Quieter residential streets with single-family homes converted into multi-unit rentals. More space, lower prices, a short bike ride to campus.
Westgate
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 Metropolitan 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.