Loading listings
Spokane is the largest city in eastern Washington and the second-largest in the state, with a metropolitan population approaching 600,000. The city sits along the Spokane River near the Idaho border and serves as the regional hub for healthcare, education, retail, and culture across an area often called the Inland Northwest. Gonzaga University anchors the northeastern quadrant of the city along the riverbank, and Washington State University's Spokane health sciences campus adds to the city's substantial student population. Downtown Spokane features Riverfront Park, a legacy of the 1974 World's Fair, along with a growing food and bar scene, the Fox Theater, and an emerging technology and startup community. The South Hill neighborhood, Browne's Addition, and Kendall Yards are among the most vibrant residential and commercial districts. Spokane offers students a full urban experience at a cost of living dramatically lower than Seattle, Portland, or the Puget Sound region, making it attractive to students who want a real city without the West Coast price premium. Outdoor recreation is a major draw, with the Centennial Trail, Riverside State Park, and easy access to ski resorts all within a short drive.
The residential streets immediately surrounding the university are the most walkable option for students and feature dense concentrations of rental houses and small apartment buildings. This area has the highest demand and leases fill up early each spring.
One of Spokane's most historic and architecturally rich neighborhoods, Browne's Addition sits just west of downtown and features beautiful older homes, independent restaurants, and a strong community character. It is a short drive or bike ride from Gonzaga and appeals to students who want an urban neighborhood feel.
A large and diverse residential district south of downtown, South Hill contains a wide variety of apartment complexes and houses at various price points. It requires a car or bus commute to campus but offers some of the best value for newer apartments and access to a range of services along the 29th Avenue corridor.
A newer mixed-use development along the north bank of the Spokane River just west of downtown, Kendall Yards is growing in popularity with young professionals and students who want modern apartments and walkable access to restaurants, a wine bar, and the Centennial Trail.
Here's what you need to know about getting around Spokane.
Spokane Transit Authority, known as STA, operates an extensive bus network covering most neighborhoods where students are likely to live, including the South Hill, Browne's Addition, and downtown areas. The STA Plaza downtown serves as the central hub, and many routes provide service every 15 to 30 minutes during peak hours. Gonzaga students can access STA routes near campus and use the system to reach downtown, grocery stores, and employment without a car. The STA also operates a free downtown streetcar circulator and provides paratransit services for eligible riders.
The Spokane River Centennial Trail is a paved multi-use path stretching more than 37 miles that passes directly through the Gonzaga campus area, making it one of the best biking and running corridors of any college town in the Pacific Northwest. The streets immediately around campus and in Browne's Addition are walkable, though the hilly terrain of South Hill and other areas can make cycling more challenging. The city has invested in expanding its bike lane network in recent years. Students who live within the Gonzaga neighborhood or near the river trail can accomplish a great deal by foot or bike during the warmer months.
Parking in Spokane is generally available and affordable compared to larger West Coast cities. Most residential neighborhoods have ample street parking, and monthly garage parking downtown is significantly cheaper than in Seattle. Students living off campus typically have access to free or low-cost parking at their residences, though campus parking permits are required for daytime parking in university lots. Students commuting from South Hill or other neighborhoods to campus by car will find the drive manageable outside of peak morning hours.
Common questions from students searching for housing.
Rentals near Gonzaga University typically range from $600 to $1,000 per bedroom per month depending on the neighborhood and unit type. The broader Spokane market offers more variety, with South Hill apartments sometimes offering lower per-bedroom rates for students willing to commute. Spokane is significantly more affordable than Seattle or Portland.
Browse student housing near each Spokane-area university.