Tempe Housing Guide for ASU Students

Tempe is one of the most student-friendly cities in the Southwest, built around a vibrant university district and a lively downtown strip along Mill Avenue. Tempe housing options span large apartment complexes with resort-style amenities to quieter residential streets and shared houses — and the price range means nearly every budget is workable if you know where to look.

Browse current tempe housing listings near Arizona State University at Find off-campus housing near Arizona State University — filtered by location, price, and room type.

Best Neighborhoods for Tempe Housing Near ASU

University Drive and Mill Avenue form the spine of student life in Tempe. Apartments along and just off this corridor are the most popular and convenient, with walk times to central campus buildings under 10 minutes. The Maple-Ash neighborhood north of campus has older apartment buildings and shared houses at lower prices. South Tempe is quieter and more residential, with 10-20 minute commutes to campus by bus or bike.

Scottsdale, just east of Tempe, offers newer developments and slightly different amenities. Students with cars who value newer construction sometimes look there. The downtown Tempe corridor has several apartment complexes marketed specifically to ASU students, with amenities like pools, study rooms, and fitness centers.

Tempe Housing Costs: What to Budget

Near University Drive, expect to pay $800-$1,200 for a room in a shared apartment and $1,200-$1,700 for a studio. Larger complexes with amenities run $1,500-$2,200 for a one-bedroom. Tempe is notably more affordable than coastal university cities, making it one of the best-value major college towns in the Sun Belt.

Arizona summer air conditioning is a significant cost. Electricity in June-August can run $100-$200 per month. Many landlords offer bundled-utilities packages — confirm what is included before comparing prices. Security deposits are typically one to one-and-a-half months' rent in Arizona.

Commuting to ASU from Tempe Housing

Valley Metro Rail (light rail) runs directly through ASU's campus on the Red Line, connecting Tempe to Phoenix and Mesa. Students living near a light rail stop have a genuinely car-free commute option. The Tempe Streetcar serves the University Drive and Mill Avenue corridor for students east and west of the main campus entrance.

Biking is popular and practical in flat Tempe. Grid Bikes and other docking platforms are available throughout the student area. A short bike commute from most U-Drive apartments takes under 10 minutes. For students with cars, annual parking permits pay for themselves quickly compared to daily rates.

Lease Tips for Tempe Off-Campus Rentals

Arizona lease law requires landlords to maintain habitable conditions and respond to maintenance within a reasonable time. Review your lease for early termination clauses — many Tempe complexes serving students have exit provisions, but terms vary. If signing with roommates, clarify whether each person signs individually or jointly.

To see current lease terms and pricing options for tempe housing near Arizona State University, visit Find off-campus housing near Arizona State University — you can contact landlords directly through the platform.

Making the Most of Tempe Student Life

Mill Avenue is one of college America's most active commercial strips — great dining, nightlife, and retail all within walking distance of campus. Tempe Town Lake offers kayaking, biking, and running paths minutes from most student housing. The desert landscape around Tempe — Papago Park, South Mountain, and Camelback — provides world-class hiking and rock climbing for students who explore it.

Tempe housing near ASU offers real value in a city built for student living. Start your search 60-90 days before your move-in date, understand Arizona's summer utility costs, and use student-focused platforms to find options that fit your schedule and budget.

This article is provided by an independent housing resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Arizona State University.

Find off-campus housing near Arizona State University