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Wisconsin Lutheran College is a private liberal arts college affiliated with the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod, located at 8800 W Bluemound Rd in Wauwatosa, a suburb just west of Milwaukee. The college enrolls approximately 1,100 undergraduate students and offers a close-knit academic community with strong programs in business, education, and the sciences. Its urban-adjacent location gives students access to Milwaukee's cultural and professional resources while maintaining a small-campus atmosphere. Wisconsin Lutheran is known for integrating Christian faith with rigorous academics.
Wisconsin Lutheran College requires all full-time freshman students to live in on-campus housing for their first year. This requirement helps new students integrate into the campus community and take advantage of academic support resources close to their residence halls.
Students who have completed their freshman year and are in good academic and conduct standing may apply to live off campus. Seniors, students over a certain age, married students, and those living with family within a defined distance of campus are typically eligible to waive the residency requirement.
The Wauwatosa and Milwaukee rental market picks up in late winter, with most landlords listing units for the next academic year starting in January and February. Students aiming to secure housing near Wisconsin Lutheran's campus should begin their search by February to avoid missing the best options.
Housing policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with Wisconsin Lutheran College before signing a lease.
Students who start their off-campus housing search in November or December for the following year will have the most choices in Wauwatosa and the surrounding Milwaukee neighborhoods. Early searching is especially valuable for students hoping to live within walking distance of campus, as those units are limited and rent quickly.
The peak rental season near Wisconsin Lutheran College runs from January through March, when the majority of upperclassmen are securing leases for the next school year. During this period, well-priced units in Wauwatosa and nearby Milwaukee neighborhoods fill fast, and competition among students can be high.
Students searching in April or May will find fewer options near campus but can often locate housing in surrounding Milwaukee neighborhoods with short commute times. Platforms like Zillow, Apartments.com, and local Milwaukee-area Facebook groups can help late searchers identify available units.
In Wauwatosa, with apartment buildings and rental homes within biking or driving distance of campus.
Near North Avenue, a lively mix of coffee shops, restaurants, and walkable streets popular with students.
Just east into Milwaukee, with more affordable apartments within a 10 to 15 minute commute.
Common questions from students searching for housing.
Yes, all full-time freshmen are required to live in on-campus housing at Wisconsin Lutheran College. Exceptions are made for students who meet specific criteria, such as living with family nearby or commuting from a permanent residence.