Apartments Near University of Northern Iowa
Your 2026 guide to finding affordable, student-friendly housing in Cedar Falls, IA — with real prices, best neighborhoods, and tips to avoid common mistakes.
Average 1BR Rent
$900/mo
Best Neighborhoods
Cedar Falls Heights · College Hill
Walk to Campus
5–20 min walk
Housing Near University of Northern Iowa: What to Expect
University of Northern Iowa enrolls 7,599 students, creating steady demand for off-campus housing in Cedar Falls, IA. 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 University of Northern Iowa
Representative listings — prices reflect current market rates for Cedar Falls, IA.
Heritage Place
Best ValueSteps from the light rail stop, ideal for students who commute to internships.
$655–$750/mo
Studio · 1 BA · 0.3 mi from campus
The Square
Most PopularSpacious layouts with in-unit laundry and a resident study lounge — popular with upperclassmen.
$740–$850/mo
1 BR · 1 BA · 0.5 mi from campus
Collegiate Landing
Affordable and social — a favorite for first-year off-campus students with a rooftop common area.
$1,077–$1,250/mo
2 BR · 1 BA · 0.7 mi from campus
Scholar Square
Newly built riverfront complex with floor-to-ceiling windows and kayak storage.
$1,330–$1,550/mo
3 BR · 2 BA · 0.9 mi from campus
Heritage Flats
Quiet residential complex with off-street parking, covered bike storage, and a community garden.
$777–$900/mo
1 BR · 1 BA · 1.1 mi from campus
Riverside Commons
New BuildingQuiet study-focused community with fiber internet and soundproofed bedrooms.
$1,002–$1,150/mo
2 BR · 2 BA · 1.4 mi from campus
Midtown Landing
Steps from the light rail stop, ideal for students who commute to internships.
$1,333–$1,550/mo
4 BR · 2 BA · 1.6 mi from campus
Best Areas to Live Near University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls Heights
The closest neighborhood to University of Northern Iowa's main entrance. Walk to class in minutes — coffee shops and convenience stores line the main strip.
College Hill
A lively area with bars, restaurants, and weekend activity. Ideal if you want a social scene steps from your apartment.
The Loop
Quieter residential streets with single-family homes converted into multi-unit rentals. More space, lower prices, a short bike ride to campus.
Near North
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 Northern Iowa
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.