Apartments Near South Dakota State University

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

Average 1BR Rent

$900/mo

Best Neighborhoods

Brookings Heights · East Side

Walk to Campus

5–20 min walk

Housing Near South Dakota State University: What to Expect

South Dakota State University enrolls 8,798 students, creating steady demand for off-campus housing in Brookings, SD. 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 South Dakota State University

Representative listings — prices reflect current market rates for Brookings, SD.

Summit Residences

Best Value

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

$586–$650/mo

Studio · 1 BA · 0.3 mi from campus

Collegiate Court

Most Popular

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

$835–$950/mo

1 BR · 1 BA · 0.5 mi from campus

Landmark Residences

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

$1,008–$1,150/mo

2 BR · 1 BA · 0.7 mi from campus

Heritage Lofts

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

$1,279–$1,450/mo

3 BR · 2 BA · 0.9 mi from campus

The Residences

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

$788–$900/mo

1 BR · 1 BA · 1.1 mi from campus

Collegiate Place

New Building

Full-service building with co-working spaces, a coffee lounge, and a private shuttle.

$1,011–$1,150/mo

2 BR · 2 BA · 1.4 mi from campus

Riverside Residences

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

$1,306–$1,500/mo

4 BR · 2 BA · 1.6 mi from campus

Best Areas to Live Near South Dakota State University

Brookings Heights

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

$900–$1,500/moFreshmen

East Side

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

Westgate

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

South Campus

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 South Dakota State University

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 South Dakota State University

FAQ — Apartments Near South Dakota State University

What is the cheapest housing near South Dakota State University?
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 South Dakota State University?
Top areas include Brookings Heights, East Side, Westgate, South Campus. Each has its own vibe — some are walkable and social, others are quieter and more affordable.
What is the average rent near South Dakota State University?
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 South Dakota State 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 South Dakota State 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.