Tips for next year’s housing search
It may seem early, but now is the time to start thinking about where you would like to live next year. Whether you’re moving off campus for the first time or you’ve lived in Boulder for a while, review these tips from Off-Campus Housing & Neighborhood Relations.
Explore different options
Getting a start on the housing search can make the process less stressful. However, you shouldn't feel pressured to sign a lease early. It can be better to wait for a housing situation that fits your needs and budget.
Take steps to explore different neighborhoods and housing options to find what works for you. Popular Boulder neighborhood areas for students include The Hill, Martin Acres, East Aurora, Goss Grove and North Boulder.
- Create a budget that includes rent, utilities, internet and other expenses to determine what they can afford.
- Look at public transportation options.
- Check out the crime rates.
- Ask other students about their experiences living in their neighborhoods.
, CU’s official rental database, is an excellent resource for students to search for available apartments, townhomes, condos and houses in the Boulder area. You can filter options by neighborhood, price, number of bedrooms and other categories. You can also use Ralphie’s List to find roommates.
Consider transportation needs
As you explore different neighborhoods, you can also research your potential commute to campus by reviewing public transportation options.
Many students commute to campus by bus for free with their Buff OneCard. has routes that serve all of Boulder and nearby communities. Students may want to consider researching properties in neighboring communities such as Longmont, Superior, Louisville or Lafayette that have bus routes to campus.
Attend a housing fair
Be sure to attend one of our Off-Campus Housing Fairs this semester.
Off-campus property managers, city offices and vendors will attend these events, where you can ask questions and explore more resources related to living in Boulder. Can’t make it? Don’t worry, there will be an additional housing fair in the spring on Feb. 20.
Learn about city ordinances
As you prepare to live off campus, be aware of city ordinances to avoid tickets and other consequences.
- Review the .
- Learn about the new chronic nuisance ordinance that went into effect Sept. 7, 2024, and other city ordinances.
- Keep noise levels within prescribed limits for residential areas.
- Never leave trash in your yard, and use trash receptacles appropriately (especially if you live in a neighborhood that requires bear-resistant trash containers).
- Register your parties with Off-Campus Housing & Neighborhood Relations. If a neighbor makes a noise complaint about your address, Boulder Police will notify you and issue a warning. This warning gives you 20 minutes to shut down the party before police are dispatched to your house or apartment and can help you avoid a noise or nuisance ticket.
Get legal advice
A lease is a legal contract that students should understand before signing. Before signing a lease, you can with attorney Bruce Sarbaugh through Off-Campus Housing & Neighborhood Relations for a free lease review before signing. Students can also get free legal advice on other rental concerns, from lease agreements to landlord disputes.
Student Legal Services also provides free lease reviews and landlord/tenant consultations. Learn more about scheduling an appointment.
Find support
Off-Campus Housing & Neighborhood Relations offers opportunities and resources to students living off campus. With students who are seeking housing, they help educate them on their rights and responsibilities as tenants and assist students in resolving landlord/tenant problems and/or roommate conflicts. Stop by their office in UMC 313 or email och@colorado.edu to get insights from a neighborhood ambassador for advice on living in Boulder.
Beyond Campus Buffs also provides support for first-year students living off campus and commuter students. Stop by the Commuter Lounge in UMC 102 to find out more.