How far are off-campus apartments from St Olaf College?

Most student apartments near St Olaf 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 St Olaf College

Q: What is the cheapest housing near St Olaf College?

The most affordable option near St Olaf College is typically a studio apartment, averaging around $1,250/month. Shared 3–4 bedroom units can bring individual rent down further, often to $800–$1200 per person.

Q: What are the best student neighborhoods near St Olaf College?

The top student neighborhoods near St Olaf College include Northfield Heights, The Loop, Near North, East Side. Each offers different trade-offs between price, distance, and social environment.

Q: What is the average rent near St Olaf College?

Average rent near St Olaf College ranges from $1,250/mo for a studio to $1,900/mo for a 2-bedroom. Sharing a 3-bedroom with roommates is the most common way to keep costs under $800/month per person.

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

Safety varies by neighborhood. Areas immediately adjacent to St Olaf 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 Northfield, MN — with real prices, best neighborhoods, and tips to avoid common mistakes.

Average 1BR Rent

$1,500/mo

Best Neighborhoods

Northfield Heights · The Loop

Walk to Campus

5–20 min walk

Housing Near St Olaf College: What to Expect

St Olaf College enrolls 3,049 students, creating steady demand for off-campus housing in Northfield, 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 St Olaf College

Representative listings — prices reflect current market rates for Northfield, MN.

Grove Commons

Best Value

Well-maintained mid-rise with 24/7 security, a fitness center, and direct bus access to campus.

$954–$1,100/mo

Studio · 1 BA · 0.3 mi from campus

College Court

Best Areas to Live Near St Olaf College

Northfield Heights

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

$1,500–$2,350/moFreshmen

The Loop

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

$1,450–$2,250/moSocial students

Near North

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

$1,100–$1,750/moGraduate students

East Side

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

$1,400–$2,150/moCommuters

Cost of Living Near St Olaf College

Rent (1BR)$1,500/mo (1 BR avg)

Food & Groceries~$350/mo (mix of dining hall + groceries)

Transportation~$80/mo (bus pass or bike)

Utilities~$100/mo (as a separate charge if not included)

Estimated Monthly Total~$2,030/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 St Olaf College

St Olaf College Admissions & Profile Tuition & ROI Calculator Find My Match Schools

FAQ — Apartments Near St Olaf College

What is the cheapest housing near St Olaf College?

The most affordable option is typically a studio at around $1,250/mo. Sharing a 3–4 bedroom apartment brings individual costs down to roughly $800–$1200/person.

What are the best student neighborhoods near St Olaf College?

Top areas include Northfield Heights, The Loop, Near North, East Side. Each has its own vibe — some are walkable and social, others are quieter and more affordable.

What is the average rent near St Olaf College?

Expect $1,250/mo for a studio, $1,500/mo for a 1BR, and $1,900/mo for a 2BR. Prices vary by proximity to campus and building amenities.

Is it safe to live off-campus near St Olaf 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 St Olaf 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.