When to Start Your Off-Campus Housing Search for UMich Students

Introduction

Ann Arbor’s rental market is known for its competitiveness, and University of Michigan (UMich) students experience this firsthand. With the Fall 2025 semester beginning August 25 and campus move-in dates set for August 20–24, the timeline for securing off-campus housing is critical. From Kerrytown to South U, knowing when to start your search can save you stress, money, and time.

The Optimal Time to Search (Late Spring: May–June)

The best time for UMich students to begin searching for off-campus housing is May through June. Here’s why:

• Many leases in Ann Arbor turn over in late spring when students graduate.

• Landlords release openings in May, giving early movers first choice of prime locations like Kerrytown and South University.

• Starting in this window gives you enough time to budget, coordinate with roommates, and sign leases before demand spikes in midsummer.

Early Search (March–April)

Some UMich students begin their housing search in March or April, especially upperclassmen or those set on specific neighborhoods.

What to do if you’re searching early:

• Contact landlords and ask about lease renewal cycles.

• Line up roommates early to avoid delays when units are posted.

• Use UMich Universe to connect with other students and track listings in real-time.

Late Search (July–August)

If you wait until July or August, the competition gets fierce. Ann Arbor’s most popular areas will be nearly full, and prices tend to rise as availability drops.

What to do if you’re searching late:

• Consider neighborhoods farther from campus, such as Ypsilanti, where rents are lower.

• Watch for last-minute subleases or cancellations.

• Keep all application materials ready—landlords often rent to the first prepared student.

Why Timing Matters

Ann Arbor’s housing market is tight due to limited supply and high demand from UMich’s student body. The earlier you start, the more options you’ll have in desirable, walkable areas. Waiting until midsummer often forces students into less central (and sometimes more expensive) options.

Conclusion

The optimal time to start your UMich off-campus housing search is May–June. Starting early in spring helps with planning and networking, while late summer requires flexibility and quick action.

👉 Visit UMich Universe as a great resource to meet roommates and find off-campus housing at UMich Housing Listings