Apartments Near Princeton University

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

Average 1BR Rent

$2,700/mo

Best Neighborhoods

Princeton Heights · Downtown

Walk to Campus

5–20 min walk

Housing Near Princeton University: What to Expect

Princeton University enrolls 5,579 students, creating steady demand for off-campus housing in Princeton, NJ. Most students move off-campus after their first or second year either to save money or gain more independence.

Rent near campus ranges from $2,200/mo for a studio to $3,750/mo for a 2-bedroom — with 3 and 4-bedroom shared units often bringing individual rent down to $1550–$2350/person/mo.

The area is one of the more expensive student housing markets in the country. Planning ahead and securing roommates early is key.

Apartment Listings Near Princeton University

Representative listings — prices reflect current market rates for Princeton, NJ.

Riverside Commons

Best Value

Gated community with resort-style amenities — pool, gym, and on-site maintenance.

$2,118–$2,450/mo

Studio · 1 BA · 0.3 mi from campus

Collegiate Place

Most Popular

Older building with character — garden courtyard, lower rents, walkable location.

$2,265–$2,600/mo

1 BR · 1 BA · 0.5 mi from campus

The Square

Gated community with resort-style amenities — pool, gym, and on-site maintenance.

$3,532–$4,050/mo

2 BR · 1 BA · 0.7 mi from campus

Park Place

Urban living with walkable access to restaurants, coffee shops, and grocery stores.

$3,981–$4,600/mo

3 BR · 2 BA · 0.9 mi from campus

The Residences

Modern open-plan lofts 2 blocks from the main quad. Pet-friendly, utilities included.

$2,554–$2,950/mo

1 BR · 1 BA · 1.1 mi from campus

Midtown Landing

New Building

Steps from the light rail stop, ideal for students who commute to internships.

$3,139–$3,600/mo

2 BR · 2 BA · 1.4 mi from campus

Summit Terrace

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

$4,032–$4,650/mo

4 BR · 2 BA · 1.6 mi from campus

Best Areas to Live Near Princeton University

Princeton Heights

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

$2,750–$4,650/moFreshmen

Downtown

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

$2,600–$4,450/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.

$2,000–$3,450/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.

$2,500–$4,250/moCommuters

Cost of Living Near Princeton University

Rent (1BR)$2,700/mo (1 BR avg)
Food & Groceries~$500/mo (mix of dining hall + groceries)
Transportation~$120/mo (bus pass or bike)
Utilities~$140/mo (as a separate charge if not included)
Estimated Monthly Total~$3,460/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 Princeton University

FAQ — Apartments Near Princeton University

What is the cheapest housing near Princeton University?
The most affordable option is typically a studio at around $2,200/mo. Sharing a 3–4 bedroom apartment brings individual costs down to roughly $1550–$2350/person.
What are the best student neighborhoods near Princeton University?
Top areas include Princeton 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 Princeton University?
Expect $2,200/mo for a studio, $2,700/mo for a 1BR, and $3,750/mo for a 2BR. Prices vary by proximity to campus and building amenities.
Is it safe to live off-campus near Princeton University?
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 Princeton University'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.