Living on campus at the University of Washington?

Living on campus at the University of Washington provides an immersive college experience in the heart of Seattle. Most first-year students choose to live in UW's residence halls, which are spread across three distinct areas of campus: North Campus, West Campus, and South Campus. The university houses approximately 8,000 students on campus, though many upperclassmen typically move to off-campus apartments in surrounding neighborhoods like the U-District.

The residence halls at UW offer traditional double rooms as the most common option, though some single rooms and apartment-style units are available. You'll find modern amenities including study lounges, communal kitchens, and laundry facilities in each building. The newer West Campus housing features apartment-style living with stunning views of Lake Washington and Portage Bay.

Campus living at UW connects you directly to valuable resources that enhance your college experience. Living in the residence halls puts you steps away from libraries, recreation centers, dining halls, and academic buildings. The university's dining plan offers flexible options with multiple campus restaurants and cafes, including vegetarian, vegan, and allergen-free choices.

To make the most of campus living at UW, get involved with your residence hall community. Each building hosts regular social events, and Residential Life Advisors organize activities to help you connect with fellow students. Taking advantage of living learning communities, which group students with similar academic interests together, can enhance both your social and academic experience.

Consider applying for housing early, as space in residence halls can be competitive. While not required, living on campus your first year helps you build a strong foundation for your college experience through easier access to campus resources, built-in social connections, and a smoother transition to college life.