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Radford University is a public comprehensive university in Radford, Virginia, a small city of about 18,000 in the New River Valley of southwestern Virginia. With roughly 8,000 to 9,000 students, Radford offers undergraduate and graduate programs in arts and sciences, business, education, and health sciences. The campus sits along East Main Street near the New River, giving it a walkable feel that blends with the surrounding community. Founded in 1910, Radford serves as a regional anchor while retaining a close-knit atmosphere. A steady off-campus rental market in Radford caters to upperclassmen seeking apartments and shared houses.
Radford University requires all first-year students to live in university residence halls for their first academic year. Exceptions are considered for students living with a parent within commuting distance, students who are 21 or older, married students, and those with documented circumstances that campus housing cannot accommodate.
After completing their freshman year, students are free to seek housing in the surrounding Radford community or nearby towns. Sophomores, juniors, and seniors commonly rent apartments and houses within walking distance of campus along the East Main Street corridor or in nearby residential neighborhoods.
Most off-campus leases in Radford run on a standard 12-month cycle beginning in August. Landlords typically begin advertising available units in November and December for the following academic year, and students who start their search by January tend to find the widest selection at competitive prices.
Housing policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with Radford University before signing a lease.
Students who begin searching for off-campus housing in October or November put themselves in the strongest position for the following fall. Radford is a small market, and the best-located apartments and houses near campus fill quickly once word spreads. Starting early means more options, more time to compare prices, and less pressure to commit to a unit that may not fit your needs.
The peak demand window for Radford off-campus housing runs from late November through February. During this stretch, landlords list the majority of their available units and students compete for the most desirable properties near campus and along the East Main Street corridor. Groups planning to share a larger house should coordinate early in this window so all roommates can view and commit together before the best options disappear.
Students who miss the peak window can still find housing through the spring and into summer, though choices will be more limited. Some landlords hold units or experience last-minute cancellations, which can create openings in April, May, or June. Students in this situation should also consider nearby Christiansburg, and checking local Facebook groups can surface listings that do not appear on major rental platforms.
The most convenient area for students, with apartments and rental houses within easy walking distance of campus through central Radford.
A mix of shared houses and smaller apartment complexes just off Main Street, popular with upperclassmen.
Slightly farther out, with lower rents and more space in exchange for a short drive to campus.
Common questions from students searching for housing.
Yes, Radford University requires first-year students to live in campus residence halls for their freshman year. Limited exceptions exist for commuter students, married students, and those with qualifying circumstances approved by the university.