Question 1

How much does off-campus housing near University of Hawaii at Manoa cost?

Accepted Answer

A shared room or by-the-bed setup near campus usually runs about $700-$1,100/month per person, while a private room in a shared Manoa or Moiliili apartment lands closer to $900-$1,400/month. Honolulu runs high overall, so splitting a place with roommates is how most students keep it manageable. Budget another $80-$150/month for utilities, and remember AC and parking often cost extra on the island.

Question 2

Are freshmen required to live on campus at UH Manoa?

Accepted Answer

No. UH Manoa has no mandatory live-on rule for freshmen, which is rare for a large public university. On-campus beds are limited, so many first-years live with family or off campus right away. If you do want a dorm, apply early since priority placement and the roughly 3,700 spaces fill fast.

Question 3

Where do most UH Manoa students live off campus?

Accepted Answer

Manoa valley itself is the closest and quietest, while Moiliili and McCully are the dense student pockets a short walk or bus ride toward the ocean. Kaimuki draws people who want shared houses and a neighborhood feel, and Waikiki or Kakaako pull students who want beach or city energy and don't mind a longer commute.

Question 4

Do I need a car at UH Manoa, or is transit enough?

Accepted Answer

You can get by without one. TheBus covers the whole island and runs frequently near campus, and the area around Manoa is walkable and bikeable. A car helps for north shore trips or late-night runs, but parking is scarce and pricey, so plenty of students skip it and rely on transit and rides.

Question 5

When should I start looking for housing near UH Manoa?

Accepted Answer

Start in May or June for a summer move-in, since the best spots near campus turn over and get claimed quickly before the late-August start of fall classes. If you're searching later, widen your map to McCully or Kaimuki. January is good for mid-year sublets from students heading abroad or graduating in December.

Question 6

What's a typical lease length near campus, and any island quirks?

Accepted Answer

Twelve-month leases are standard, though some student-heavy buildings offer shorter terms. Watch for occupancy caps and strict subletting rules, which Honolulu landlords enforce closely. Confirm whether parking and AC are included, since both are often separate, and expect to put down first month, last month, and a deposit up front.

Question 7

Which areas near UH Manoa are safest for students?

Accepted Answer

Manoa valley and the residential stretches of Kaimuki are quiet and well regarded. Moiliili and McCully are busy and student-friendly but mix in nightlife, so check the specific block. As anywhere in a city, walk the area at night before signing and trust your read on a street, since feel varies block to block.

Question 8

Are utilities included in off-campus rentals near UH Manoa?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes, but not always. Older walk-up buildings may fold water into the rent while leaving electricity to you, and Hawaii's electric rates are among the highest in the country, especially if you run AC. Ask exactly what's covered before signing, and budget around $80-$150/month per person if utilities are on you.

Question 9

How does subletting or finding roommates work at UH Manoa?

Accepted Answer

Roommates are basically essential given Honolulu's high rents, and most students split apartments or shared houses in Moiliili, McCully, or Manoa. The university's off-campus housing portal lists roommate profiles, and student social pages move fast. Check your lease before subletting, since many island landlords restrict it or require written approval.

Question 10

Can I live near the beach while attending UH Manoa?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but it comes with tradeoffs. Waikiki puts you steps from the sand and is a popular student pick, though you'll get less space and a busier scene than quiet Manoa valley. The bus connects Waikiki to campus easily, so beach access without a car is doable if you don't mind the commute.

Off-Campus Housing Near UH Manoa

About Off-Campus Housing Near University of Hawaii at Manoa

University of Hawaii at Manoa Housing Requirements

Freshman Live-On Requirement

Off-Campus Eligibility

Lease Timing

When to Start Looking for Housing Near University of Hawaii at Manoa

Early Searchers

Peak Demand Window

Last-Minute Options

Neighborhoods Near University of Hawaii at Manoa

Manoa

Moiliili and McCully

Kaimuki

Frequently Asked Questions: Off-Campus Housing Near University of Hawaii at Manoa

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