Finding Housing: Off and On Campus

Here's our guide to finding Housing and accommodations on or off campus here at the University of Northern Iowa. 

When planning your arrival to UNI, housing is one of the first things to consider. Whether you are living on or off campus, there are various aspects that need to be taken into account in terms of finances, availability, comfortability, ease, etc. We hope that this consolidation of local resources and housing aid you in your journey to UNI! We can't wait to welcome you to campus! 

A few things to keep in mind: 

  • Off-campus housing normally comes unfurnished (meaning that there is no furniture, cooking utensils, etc) unless otherwise noted. 
  • While on-campus housing can be added onto your UNI U-Bill, your off campus housing cannot. 
  • Our office will do our best to help you navigate off campus housing, but are not responsible for finding off-campus housing for you during your time at UNI. 
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If you have any questions about finding housing for your time at UNI, reach out to us at international@uni.edu and we will support you to the best of our ability. 

International Engagement

On Campus Housing

At UNI, we have eight different housing options located on and around our campus. These span from traditional dorm style living to apartments, and individual residences. Learn more about these styles of on campus living below. 

Traditional Dorm Style Living Apartment Style Living 
  • partnered with 1-2 roommates sharing a singular room 
  • partnered with 3-6 roommates sharing an apartment, with individual bedrooms 
  • shared bathrooms and enclosed showering facilities on each floor  
  • shared living spaces (living room, kitchen) and bathroom (only shared between 2 individuals) 
  • no kitchen provided, UNI Dining Plan is mandatory 
  • kitchen provided, UNI Dining Plan is not mandatory 
  

Once you have an idea of where you would like to live and have decided to commit to living on campus, please fill out the Housing Contract. If you have a preference on a building or style of living, please reach out to housing@uni.edu to see if they have available units BEFORE you sign the Housing Contract. 

  • Keep in mind that Housing Fees for the entire semester can be split and looked at as ‘rent.’ 
  • The University UBill can be put on a 5 month payment plan (similar to paying rent and expenses each month) 
  • You can still cook and live on campus in our apartment style living. 
  • Dorms come with furniture and built in support systems on campus, not all off campus options come with furniture or accessible support. 

You can find more specifics on on campus housing at https://uhd.uni.edu/housing

Off Campus Housing 

Whether you're exploring apartments in the area or seeking apartment-style living communities near campus, here is a list of top options to simplify your search:

  • Apartments.com and Zillow.com: Begin searching for available apartments in the area by visiting Apartments.com and Zillow.com. 

    These platforms offer comprehensive listings, making finding your ideal living space easy.

  • College Hill Residences: Find more information about this housing options here: College Hill Residences

Explore College Hill Residences for comfortable living close to campus. Offering non-furnished options, these residences provide flexibility for personalization. 

However, utility costs are additional (water, gas, electricity, wifi, etc). The average utility cost for each month can be around $50 per person. Enjoy the convenience of a 5-10 minute walk to the campus entrance. Available options and the application can be found here.

  • The Quarters:

Find more information about housing options here: The Quarters

Discover the convenience of furnished and unfurnished options at The Quarters. They offer a possibility for potential short-term housing availability (6 months). The Quarters offers 4-bedroom layouts, ideal for sharing with roommates with additional utility costs to consider (water, gas, electricity, etc). 

The average utility cost for each month can vary between $50-$70 per person, depending on the usage. Residents have complimentary Wi-Fi in their individual apartments. Located within a 15-20 minute walk to the campus entrance. Explore available options and submit your application here.

REMEMBER...

  • Off-campus living often requires checking what amenities are provided and considering additional costs such as utilities.

  • Off campus residences normally DO NOT come furnished with a bed, living space, or any other commodities. Please check with the various off campus living options to see what is provided.  
  • Public Transportation at UNI is not like metropolitan areas, and is not as accessible. Students typically carpool or walk where they need to go, so plan on living close to campus, unless you have a vehicle.