The 5 Best Overall Student Apartments Near USF (October 2026)

1. 1.

   

   ULake Apartments

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   3.7(6 reviews)FMP Score

   why it ranked: ULake Apartments earns its ranking on the strength of a maintenance team that residents consistently celebrate as exceptional. The property combines a beautiful, well-kept setting with staff members who bring genuine warmth to their work like Vicky, whose enthusiasm during tours leaves a lasting impression. Students appreciate the reliable upkeep and the sense of care that goes into keeping the community looking sharp. As one resident shared, "The maintenance team is THE BEST!!!" and paired with staff who make you feel welcomed, it's easy to see why ULake creates a comfortable living experience.

   $845/person/moOverpricedPoor management
2. 2.

   

   Hawks Landing

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   5.0(5 reviews)FMP Score

   why it ranked: Hawks Landing earns the top spot for overall student living near USF by nailing the fundamentals: a tight-knit community backed by staff who genuinely show up for residents. Students rave about the personal touch from team members like Joao Gabriel and Trejer, who make the experience feel less like a transaction and more like home. The property keeps things lively with regular events like movie nights and Waffle Wednesday, while maintaining a clean, organized environment that makes everyday living better. As one resident put it, "Amazing staff and security guards" paired with "lots of events" create the kind of place where you actually want to spend your time.

   $520/person/mo
3. 3.

   

   220 Madison

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   5.0(5 reviews)FMP Score

   why it ranked: 220 Madison stands out for delivering the full package: thoughtfully designed spaces, responsive management, and amenities that go beyond the basics. Residents consistently praise the study rooms, coffee station, and gym, plus the walkability to campus and stunning views that make the space feel less like a dorm and more like a real home. What really sets it apart is the management philosophy staff go the extra mile from move-in through maintenance, and property manager Christin has earned a reputation for genuinely caring. As one four-year resident noted, "management that actually cares and quiet study/work environments on the third floor" make it "easily one of the best apartment complexes in the City of Tampa."

   $1339/person/mo
4. 4.

   

   Apella on Newport

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   4.2(5 reviews)FMP Score

   why it ranked: Apella on Newport rises to the top of the rankings by combining modern, spotless living spaces with a community culture built on responsiveness and genuine care. The property's commitment to cleanliness is real maintenance cleans seven days a week and that attention to detail carries through to the office staff and amenities like the pool. Community Manager Isabella and the broader team earn consistent praise for being helpful, available, and genuinely kind. As one resident put it, "super clean and modern" with "office staff and maintenance is very responsive and always available to help," making Apella feel less like typical student housing and more like a place where you belong.

   $1930/person/mo
5. 5.

   

   The Retreat at Tampa

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   3.4(5 reviews)FMP Score

   why it ranked: The Retreat at Tampa earns its spot as a top overall choice near USF largely because of its genuinely invested staff who go the extra mile. Students consistently praise the front desk team Antonio and Charlee stand out for their attentiveness, professionalism, and real knowledge of the property, making the leasing process smooth and the day-to-day experience better. The management approach here feels personal; as one resident noted, Antonio is "always attentive when at the front desk. Always smiling and always happy to answer questions no matter what he's doing at the time." When your biggest complaint is about coffee pod placement, you know the property's doing something right.

   $996/person/mo

Walk times are door-to-door to USF campus. Rent is per person, per month.