Apartments Near University of Hawaii at Hilo
Your 2026 guide to finding affordable, student-friendly housing in Hilo, HI — with real prices, best neighborhoods, and tips to avoid common mistakes.
Average 1BR Rent
$2,700/mo
Best Neighborhoods
Hilo Heights · Near North
Walk to Campus
5–20 min walk
Housing Near University of Hawaii at Hilo: What to Expect
University of Hawaii at Hilo enrolls 2,260 students, creating steady demand for off-campus housing in Hilo, HI. 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 University of Hawaii at Hilo
Representative listings — prices reflect current market rates for Hilo, HI.
Collegiate Lofts
Best ValueSteps from the light rail stop, ideal for students who commute to internships.
$1,945–$2,250/mo
Studio · 1 BA · 0.3 mi from campus
Summit Commons
Most PopularSpacious layouts with in-unit laundry and a resident study lounge — popular with upperclassmen.
$2,454–$2,800/mo
1 BR · 1 BA · 0.5 mi from campus
Park Lofts
Older building with character — garden courtyard, lower rents, walkable location.
$3,065–$3,500/mo
2 BR · 1 BA · 0.7 mi from campus
Campus Commons
Newly built riverfront complex with floor-to-ceiling windows and kayak storage.
$4,464–$5,150/mo
3 BR · 2 BA · 0.9 mi from campus
Pinnacle Flats
Full-service building with co-working spaces, a coffee lounge, and a private shuttle.
$2,291–$2,650/mo
1 BR · 1 BA · 1.1 mi from campus
The Village
New BuildingQuiet study-focused community with fiber internet and soundproofed bedrooms.
$3,402–$3,900/mo
2 BR · 2 BA · 1.4 mi from campus
College Flats
High-rise living with panoramic views, rooftop pool, and concierge service.
$4,373–$5,050/mo
4 BR · 2 BA · 1.6 mi from campus
Best Areas to Live Near University of Hawaii at Hilo
Hilo Heights
The closest neighborhood to University of Hawaii at Hilo'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 University of Hawaii at Hilo
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.