Finding affordable housing options at Iowa State?

Iowa State University offers several affordable housing options both on and off campus. First-year students typically find the most economical choice in traditional residence halls, where double rooms in buildings like Friley, Helser, and Birch-Welch-Roberts provide basic amenities at the lowest price point. These halls include utilities, internet, and meal plans in their costs, making budgeting more straightforward for new students.

For off-campus housing near Iowa State, you'll find the most affordable options in shared apartments in the Campustown area or along the CyRide bus route. Many students reduce their housing expenses by sharing multi-bedroom apartments with roommates, typically paying between $300-500 per month per person. Popular affordable areas include West Ames and South Campus neighborhoods, where older apartment complexes offer lower rates.

Iowa State provides several forms of financial assistance for housing expenses. Your financial aid package can include housing costs in your total cost of attendance, allowing you to use federal loans, grants, and scholarships toward housing payments. The Department of Residence also offers payment plans to spread housing costs across the semester, making payments more manageable.

To secure the most affordable housing, apply for on-campus housing early, as spaces fill quickly and rates typically increase later in the year. For off-campus options, start your search in January or February for the following academic year to access the best deals. Consider joining Iowa State housing social media groups and forums where students often post about affordable roommate opportunities and subleases.

Working as a Community Adviser (CA) in residence halls can significantly reduce your housing costs, as the position typically includes free or reduced housing. This competitive opportunity requires an application process usually beginning in the fall semester for the following academic year.