On- or Off-Grounds? We Can Help.
Students have the option to pursue off-Grounds housing options after their first year. Housing & Residence Life offers resources and information to assist you in making a decision about living on-Grounds vs. living off-Grounds. We also support those students who choose to live off-Grounds.
Here are some things to be taken into consideration in making the decision to move off-Grounds:
What do you want from your living experience?
- Are you looking for a community?
- Do you want privacy?
- Do you expect to have a place to study? To relax?
- What amenities are important to you?
Who do you want to live with?
Fun friends don’t always make good roommates. Carefully think through your decision of a roommate.
You can utilize our Roommate Agreement before signing your lease to establish some basic ground rules on issues including cleanliness, chores, visitors, and noise.
Where do you want to live?
Consider the basics of location. The Corner? JPA? Preston? Virginia Ave?
What are your preferences for parking, getting to and from class, neighbors, and noise levels? How near is the closest bus stop? Is the area secure, or do you feel any compromise to your personal safety?
How much will it cost and how much can you afford?
Consider these estimated costs for the 2024-2024 academic year, which concern rent only:
- 1-bedroom apartment = $830 – $2,311. Average monthly cost = $1,513.
- 2-bedroom apartment = $535 – $1,803. Average monthly cost = $993 (per room).
- 3-bedroom apartment = $650 – $2,025. Average monthly cost = $1,190 (per room).
- 4-bedroom apartment = $641 – $1,567. Average monthly cost = $1,097 (per room).
Some utilities, such as water, sewer, and trash, may be included in rent. Or you may need to pay for these items on top of your monthly rent. Combined expenses for electricity, heating, gas, water and/or trash not included in rent average $140 per month for a 915 ft² apartment. Also keep in mind that some apartments are furnished, and some are unfurnished.
Additional services, such as Internet, cable TV, or streaming/on-demand services may increase your monthly costs as well.
Many apartments require a non-refundable application fee. A security deposit of a month's rent may be required as well. Some security deposits are refundable when you move out, depending on the condition of the apartment. Make sure you take pictures when you move in and when you leave, and uthat you understand the requirements to have your security deposit returned.
When do you need to look for housing and make a decision?
You'll hear this a lot, but there is no housing shortage in Charlottesville. You really need to have the answers to the questions above before you consider signing any lease, which is a legally binding document.
Find Options
To research off-Grounds options or search for potential roommates, check the Off-Grounds Property Listings. With your UVA email address you can create an account, search listings, seek potential roommates, and post on the message boards. Without a University email address, you can create a guest account to search listings.
Find Support
Although off-Grounds apartments are not managed by the University, Housing & Residence Life provides support and information on off-Grounds residential issues and concerns. For assistance, please contact us at housing@virginia.edu or 434.924.3736.
Housing & Residence Life
Gibbons House
425 Tree House Drive
If you have questions about lease signing, security deposits, etc., please see Student Legal Services' website. They can also assist or provide advice with specific off-Grounds housing issues.