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University of St. Thomas is a private Catholic university located on Summit Avenue in the Macalester-Groveland neighborhood of St. Paul, MN. The university enrolls approximately 6,000 to 7,000 undergraduate students and is well regarded for its programs in business, engineering, law, and the liberal arts. St. Thomas sits in one of St. Paul's most attractive residential neighborhoods, with Highland Park and Summit Hill nearby. The Twin Cities rental market is active and competitive, giving students a wide range of off-campus housing options close to campus.
The University of St. Thomas requires all first-year students to live in university-managed housing on or near campus for their freshman year. This policy helps new students build community and adjust to university life before moving off campus.
Students who have completed their freshman year are eligible to live off campus. Sophomores, juniors, and seniors routinely rent apartments and houses in the Mac-Groveland, Highland Park, and Summit Hill neighborhoods surrounding the university.
The Twin Cities student rental market moves early, with the best units in neighborhoods near St. Thomas leasing in November and December for the following fall. Students who wait until spring risk a significantly reduced selection.
Housing policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with University of St Thomas MN before signing a lease.
Students who begin searching in October or November will find the best inventory in Mac-Groveland and Highland Park. Landlords in these neighborhoods often list units 9 to 12 months in advance, so acting early is genuinely rewarded. Early searchers also have more flexibility to choose roommates and negotiate lease start dates.
November through January is the peak leasing season for students near UST. Houses and larger apartments close to Summit Avenue are particularly competitive, and desirable units can be signed weeks after they are listed. Students targeting this window should have their finances and roommate group organized before reaching out to landlords.
Students searching in spring will find fewer options but can still secure housing. Some landlords hold units for late leasers, and subleases from departing students become available in spring and summer. Being open to a slightly longer commute or a different roommate setup will expand available choices.
Immediately surrounding UST, the most popular area, with historic homes, coffee shops, and restaurants within walking distance.
A close second, with apartment buildings and single-family homes at a range of price points.
Charming Victorian architecture near Grand Avenue's shops and dining.
More affordable rents a short bus or bike ride away, with easy access via the Twin Cities transit network.
Common questions from students searching for housing.
Yes, the University of St. Thomas requires first-year students to live in university housing for their freshman year. After completing freshman year, students may choose to live off campus.
Other universities in St Paul share a similar off-campus housing market.
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