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Student Housing in Surprise, AZ
$1,499+/unit
Fees may applyEstia Surprise Farms
$1,399+/unit
Fees may applyTerraLane on Cotton
$1,410+/unit
Fees may applyThe Village at West Point
About Student Housing in Surprise
Surprise, Arizona is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Phoenix metro area, with a population of approximately 150,000 residents spread across a large land area in the far northwest corner of Maricopa County. Originally developed as a retirement and snowbird destination, Surprise has transformed over the past two decades into a diverse, family-oriented suburb attracting young professionals, families, and students alongside its longtime older residents. The city is home to Surprise Stadium, where the Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers hold spring training each February and March, giving the community a lively seasonal character. Ottawa University operates a campus here, primarily serving adult learners and working professionals pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees. The surrounding landscape is dominated by master-planned communities, modern retail corridors along Bell Road and Grand Avenue, and new apartment construction that continues to add rental inventory to the market. Surprise is entirely car-dependent, as the Valley Metro light rail does not extend this far northwest, and bus coverage is limited. White Tank Mountain Regional Park on the western edge of the city provides excellent hiking and outdoor recreation. Rents in Surprise are generally lower than in central Phoenix or Scottsdale, making it a relatively affordable option within the larger metro area.
Best Neighborhoods for Students in Surprise
Surprise Civic Center District
The area around the Surprise Civic Center along Bell Road is the most central part of the city, close to the Ottawa University campus, city hall, and a growing range of dining and retail options. Newer apartment communities in this area offer modern amenities with convenient access to campus.
Marley Park
Marley Park is a popular master-planned community in central Surprise featuring tree-lined streets, a community center, and pools. Single-family homes and townhomes available for rent here attract students with families and professionals who prefer a quieter residential feel with easy freeway access.