The Student's Guide to choosing the perfect apartment near UF

Hannah Colson

Choosing your first apartment is a huge deal. You may have already moved out of your hometown and have a done a year in college, but living in a dorm with strict rules and hundreds of other students hardly indicates being an independent and responsible individual. When it comes to life in an apartment, it’s on you to do daily tasks like cleaning and cooking meals while still making your way to campus every day for class. So, choosing the right place to live that suits your lifestyle is crucial. Your mom or the dorm workers are no longer there to clean up your mess and guide you through college living.

Below are some important questions to ask yourself when on the hunt for an apartment in Gainesville:

  • What area are you interested in living near?

There are three popular areas in Gainesville that UF students tend to live in. Those include: near sorority row, behind midtown, and down Archer Road. Personally, I think apartments near UF sorority row are the best and most convenient. I have lived in this area for two years and cannot imagine living anywhere else. But, living area is based on personal preference. Being close to my sorority house is great, but others enjoy being closer to the nightlife in Midtown or the shopping areas near Archer.

  • How many roommates do you want to have?

Some students enjoy living alone, and others love to be around a lot of people. Apartments in Gainesville range from studios up to five-bedroom apartments and townhouses. There are so many options, so once you figure out how many people you want to live with and who those people are, finding a space that suits your preference will be a breeze.

  • Do you want your own bathroom?

While a lot of apartments offer private bathrooms in the rooms of each resident, not all of them provide the same luxury. Some rooms offer four bedrooms and two bathrooms, or two bedrooms and one bathroom. This is something to think about and take note of when looking into an apartment to rent for a year.

  • What is your apartment budget?

This is one of, if not the important factor in making a decision about what apartment to live in. Price could be a selling point and should be discussed with your parents before scheduling any tours or signing a lease. Do your research and figure out the maximum price you are willing to pay. Keep in mind that many apartments are not furnished and do not include monthly utilities in the basic price.

  • How far is too far?

Many of apartments near UF are within walking distance to campus, but the university also provides a lot of convenient transportation to classes. The RTS bus system has hundreds of stops around Gainesville that can be taken directly onto campus. But, some students would rather be close enough to walk rather than take a 20-minute bus ride. This is based on personal preference. There are a lot of really nice apartments near the Oaks Mall, but are you willing give up the convenience of being closer to your classes?


Once you can answer all of these questions, you should be set to start the apartment hunt! It can be a stressful process but rewarding and exciting in the end. Good luck!