505 S. First, Champaign

S 1st St, Champaign, 61820, United States
From
$870
per month
0.5 mi from City Center
( 3m. 12m. 12m)
View map
University of Illinois Urbana | 0.93 mi
Parkland College | 2.97 mi
Pay In Instalment
parking
laundry facility
furnished
Elevator

Offers (1)

  • Exclusive Cashback Of US$50 For Referring A Friend On Amber!

About the Property

Located in the heart of Champaign, 505 S. First Champaign, 61820, USA, has become a prominent choice for student housing in Champaign. These off-campus student housing in Champaign provides a range of shared apartments, catering to different needs and preferences. Students from The University of Illinois Urbana and Parkland College find this location particularly convenient, being at a commutable distance that supports both their academic and social lives.

Champaign, Illinois, nestled in the heart of the American Midwest, is a city teeming with academic vitality and Midwestern charm. Champaign, a lively city known for its thriving educational environment, is home to a diverse student population and has a rich culture that adds to the overall experience of school life. With a student population of over 55,000, largely from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, the city thrives as an educational and cultural hotspot. Ranked 85th in the QS Best Student Cities, Champaign offers a dynamic and inclusive environment for students from across the globe. Known for its attractions, Champaign combines cultural experiences with outdoor recreation. Its bustling downtown features a thriving arts scene, unique restaurants, and entertainment venues that appeal to students. Affordable living, excellent public transportation, and access to cutting-edge research facilities make Champaign a top choice for learners. The city’s emphasis on innovation, community engagement, and career-building opportunities ensures that students find both personal and professional growth in this vibrant Midwest destination.

505 S. First Champaign IL not only presents comfortable student housing in Champaign but also places students in the heart of a city celebrated for its university life. 505 S. First student housing promises a blend of convenience, community, and culture, perfect for students eager to make the most of their college years.

Features

At 505 S. First Champaign, experience top-tier student housing designed for comfort and convenience. The property prides itself on its great campus location and state-of-the-art design large units that cater to students' every need. Students can choose from various room types, including 2 bed 1 bath, 3 bed 2 bath, and 4 bed 2 bath configurations, each promising ample space and privacy. Embedded in every unit are room amenities that ensure a seamless living experience. Tenants appreciate the fully furnished rooms with modern furniture, allowing for a stylish and comfortable living environment. The granite countertops and cabinets add an elegant touch to the modern aesthetic. Practical needs are not overshadowed, with a suite of appliances including a stainless steel dishwasher, fridge, stove, and microwave. Clothing care is convenient with an in-unit washer and dryer**, while hardwood floors give the space a sleek and clean look.

The elevator ensures easy access to all floors, while off-street parking provides ample space for vehicles. Safety and support are paramount, exemplified by a secure building with security cameras and 24-hour maintenance staff ready to address any concerns. Additionally, students can enjoy swift connectivity with free fiber internet, keeping them connected for both study and entertainment purposes. Living at 505 S. First St means embracing a lifestyle that aligns with academic and personal growth, where convenience meets contemporary living.

Location and What's Hot?

Students attending the University of Illinois Urbana and Parkland College are perfectly positioned to cherish a vivacious lifestyle around 505 S. First, Champaign. This bustling area, enriched with educational excellence, is also a hub of culinary delights and social junctions. Just a casual stroll away, students can indulge in the aromatic brews of Café Kopi or savor the artisan dishes at Maize Mexican Grill. For those craving late-night bites, the illustrious Joe's Brewery offers not just a vibrant pub scene but an array of scrumptious eats. Within the echo of laughter and chatter, Escobar Restaurant presents an upscale yet cozy dining experience that speaks to the heart. Moreover, the essential daily provisions are within easy reach, with the likes of Schnucks Champaign nearby, ensuring that pantry restocks are a breeze.

Health and wellness are not relegated to the backdrop as McKinley Health Center lends its services, ensuring peace of mind for both students and parents alike. Beyond the routines of academic life, 505 S. First Champaign student housing proves ideal for cultural and leisure pursuits. The iconic Virginia Theatre offers a spirited mix of live performances and classic films, while the Krannert Art Museum challenges the senses with its rich and diverse art displays. The Illini Union, a cornerstone of student life, not only serves as a study sanctuary but also a premier venue for socializing and unwinding between classes. For those seeking a verdant escape, Scott Park provides an oasis for both tranquil reflection and recreational activities. Natural beauty harmonizes with academic ambitions here, as students find solace and inspiration amidst its serene backdrop. And when the weekend comes calling, the historic Urbana's Market at the Square is a wonderland of local produce, vibrant crafts, and delightful delicacies. Indeed, 505 S. First Champaign IL captures the essence of a genuine student haven where practical conveniences merge seamlessly with the pulsating community spirit. Here, youthful energy thrives, and the bond of academia fuses effortlessly with the zeal of discovery.

Commute

For students calling 505 S. First Champaign their home, commuting within the city of Champaign is incredibly convenient thanks to its proximity to various modes of transportation. When residing at 505 S. First student housing, students can easily catch a bus at two of the nearest bus stops, Illini Union (North Side Shelter) bus stops and Gregory Dr & Dorner Dr bus stops, ensuring hassle-free travel around the town and academic institutions. Additionally, the accessibility of this housing in Champaign is further enhanced by the nearby Springfield Ave train station, allowing for greater connectivity. Whether it's for grocery runs, meeting up with friends, or heading to classes, the well-located transport links make living at 505 S. First Champaign a top choice for students prioritizing ease of commute.

Room Types

Clear
All (0)
Amenities
Bills Included
Fiber Internet
Common Amenities
Great Campus Location
Outstanding Location
State Of The Art Design Large Units
Elevator
Off Street Parking
24-Hour Maintenance

Cancellation Policies (1)

  • Other cancellation policies
    General cancellation policies may apply to this property.

Payment Policies (4)

  • Booking Deposit
    This property requires booking deposit.
  • Pay In Instalment
    This property offers 1, 12 flexible instalment plans.
  • Mode Of Payment
    Payment via easy transaction modes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pest control service available?

Your apartment will receive quarterly preventative pest control service and inspection.

Is pet allowed?

Pets are prohibited and residents cannot keep any pets in or about the leased premises or the building without advanced written permission of the Lessor. The no pet policy also applies to pets of resident’s guests and visitors.

What is the Plumbing facility?

If your toilet is overflowing, first shut off the water. The water shut-off valve is located behind the toilet. Turn the valve counter clockwise and you should hear the water stop running. Next insert the plunger in the toilet and begin plunging.  The blockage is clear when the water in the toilet starts to drain down.To turn the water back on, turn the water shutoff valve clockwise. Let water in the tank fill up and flush. If the problem persists, repeat the instructions above. Sometimes it takes a few tries to clear the blockage.

What is roommate matching?

The University Group will place you with roommates in a multi-bedroom apartment. You will have your own bedroom and an individual, separate lease. Utilities will be included to simplify your experience.

Which benefits do you get for roommate matching?

Individual leases Meet new people Utilities included Lower rent costs than most studio or one-bedroom options

What is provided for safety and security?

Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are provided in each unit.  Please do not alter any carbon monoxide and/or smoke detector provided in the unit. If the smoke detector beeps once every minute, it is indicating a low battery.  Residents have the responsibility to test and provide general maintenance to said detectors within the unit, including the responsibility to replace the batteries, and to notify the Maintenance Department of any deficiencies which the resident cannot correct.  If the smoke detector sounds a constant, loud alarm, it has detected smoke and you should check the apartment and call 911 if there is an emergency.  If your building has an elevator and the elevator service is interrupted during a fire, you should go to the nearest stairwell landing.  The Fire Department is trained to check stairwells first when responding to a fire.

What is security deposit in the property?

Your security or damage deposit is used to insure that you keep the apartment in good condition. This sum can be used to rectify any damage, abuse, excess cleaning, and other issues that may exist. The damage deposit cannot be used to pay the last month’s rent. The damage deposit will be refunded within 30 days of your lease expiration date. The damage deposit will be refunded in one check per apartment as stated in your joint lease.  It will be the residents’ responsibility to split the damage deposit refund check among roommates.

What do you do for clearing snow and ice?

Your security or damage deposit is used to insure that you keep the apartment in good condition. This sum can be used to rectify any damage, abuse, excess cleaning, and other issues that may exist. The damage deposit cannot be used to pay the last month’s rent. The damage deposit will be refunded within 30 days of your lease expiration date. The damage deposit will be refunded in one check per apartment as stated in your joint lease.  It will be the residents’ responsibility to split the damage deposit refund check among roommates.

Which criteria is there for wall hangings?

Please use slender nails that are 1/16” in diameter or less such as “Gorilla” or “Monkey” hook picture hangers or picture hanging nails.  Please do not use double-faced tape or adhesive hangers.  Displaying any window, door, or yard signs is not allowed.

Is parking available?

Based on parking availability, current and prospective residents will be given the option to sign a parking space agreement at their apartment lease signing. Current and prospective residents may choose from a map of available spaces and sign the parking space agreement for that particular space. Parking is first come, first served.  Once all parking spaces at a building are leased, a waiting list will be started for that building.  If a parking space becomes available, we will call the first person on the waiting list for that building.  If the first person does not sign a parking space agreement by the specified deadline, we will proceed down the waiting list.  The parking rent will be paid each month along with the apartment rent on the specified dates.

Is A/C & Heating available?

For apartments with central air conditioning or a wall unit: To cool your apartment as quickly as possible, close the doors to the bedroom and bath areas. During extremely hot weather, it is suggested to start your air conditioner in the early morning before it gets too hot to maintain a cool apartment. Please do not set the thermostat below 70 degrees Fahrenheit for cooling or the air conditioner unit will freeze up. Please do not remove air filters. If air filters are removed you will be held liable for any damage or maintenance to the heating or air conditioner. Please check the operation of the air conditioner prior to the start of the cooling season, if it does not operate it often takes 5 to 10 days for service.

Is garbage disposal available?

If your garbage disposal is not working, first reach below the unit and feel around for the reset button. Push the button to reset the unit. If that doesn’t work then there may be something jammed in the unit. You need to rotate the unit to free it up. Take an allen wrench and insert it into the hole in the center of the bottom of the disposal. Rotate the wrench back and forth until you feel the blockage is freed. DO NOT apply too much pressure to the grinder.

Is Stove/Oven available?

If your stove or oven won’t light, you will either need to relight the pilot light OR contact Ameren Illinois Power to make sure you have turned the gas on in your name.  If your stove burners won’t light, gently lift the base of the stove-top. Next locate the pilot light (two total). Use a lighter or match to relight the pilot light. If your oven won’t light or warm up, look below the base of the oven or directly below it to locate the pilot light. Use a match or lighter to relight the pilot light.

Can we park bicycles?

Please only park/lock bikes to the designated bike rack at your building.  Bikes are not allowed to be parked in hallways, in the stairwells, or attached to any part of the building, railings, fence, etc. If parked in one of these locations they will be removed and you will be charged $25.00 to get the bike back. If your bicycle is impounded for any reason, it will be retained for 30 days before it is discarded or sold to cover removal costs.

If apartment do not have power, what to do?

If outlets or lights in an area of the apartment don’t have power while other areas in the apartment still have power, please first check the GFI(Ground Fault Interrupter) outlets in the kitchen and bathroom. This is a special electrical outlet that prevents electrocution in situations where water may come into contact with an electrical appliance. If you lose electrical power in the kitchen or bathroom, try pressing the “reset” button. Pressing the “test” button will intentionally trip the GFI. Press the “reset” button to reset the GFI. If resetting the GFI does not restore power please reset the circuit breaker. Every apartment has its own circuit breaker box. If you can’t find yours, try checking in the closets or in the mechanical room next to the water heater. Once you locate the circuit breaker box, open the cover and you’ll see what looks like several light switches. Feel each switch to make sure that it’s firmly in the ON position. Don’t worry touching these switches won’t shock you. Once a breaker is tripped it will feel loose. Flip the switch to the OFF and then ON. This will reset the breaker and power should be restored. If the breaker won’t reset, there may be  too many things plugged into an outlet. If this occurs try unplugging the items and plugging only one or two items back in to the outlet.

What to do if not get hot water?

If you do not have hot water, be sure the circuit breaker for the water heat is switched to the “on” position before submitting a maintenance request.  To reset a circuit breaker, first switch it to the “off” position and then switch it to the “on” position.

What is the policies for loosing keys?

Every individual tenant receives an apartment key. One mailbox key and one laundry room key is also provided to each apartment when the lease starts. All lost keys will be replaced at the resident’s expense. Lost keys are $25 per key. Lost key fobs are $50 per fob.  In some cases, this may entail re-keying or replacing the lock. A mailbox key replacement is $25.

What is the procedure of lockout?

Lock outs after hours are not considered emergencies. The lock out charge is $50 payable in cash only. You must provide a photo id. Please do not attempt to break in to your apartment, as you will be held responsible for any damages you may cause.

How we can receive mail and packages?

Please place your name on your mailbox in order to receive your mail.  Please check your mail on a regular basis as accumulated mail can make the mailbox difficult to open and close.  If you are unable to check your mail for more than a few days, please contact the United States Postal Service to have your mail held. The University Group does not accept packages at their office for residents.  All packages must be sent directly to your apartment.  For secured entry buildings, UPS, FedEx, USPS have entry keys and will attempt to deliver the package to your apartment door. They highly recommend requiring a signature when ordering packages and putting a note on your apartment door instructing the mail carrier not to leave the package if no one is home.
505 S. First, Champaign
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Student Accommodations in Champaign

Champaign Student Housing

Champaign is a buzzing student hotspot, thanks to its dynamic university scene, and this has fueled a booming market for student housing. On-campus accommodations are always in demand and fill up quickly, making off-campus student housing Champaign IL the go-to choice for students. The city offers a range of student housing Champaign IL options—private rooms, shared apartments, ensuite rooms, and studio apartments—tailored to suit different budgets and lifestyles. Whether you're looking for a quiet study retreat or a lively student community, there’s something for everyone.

Amber is your ultimate companion in finding the perfect student home. With a super easy-to-use platform, verified property listings, and a vast variety of options, amber ensures your search is seamless. From premium spots like Hub on Campus, 605 S. Fourth, Yugo Champaign South 3rd Lofts, 507 S. Second, and Seven07 near the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Chamberlain University you’ll find Champaign student housing that checks all the boxes—proximity, affordability, and style. Plus, amber offers flexible leases, personalized booking assistance, and round-the-clock support to make your transition stress-free. With prices starting around $500/month and averaging up to $1,200/month for premium studios, Champaign student housing caters to all budgets. Join thousands of students who’ve trusted amber to simplify their accommodation hunt and secure a space they can call home! You also check Student Housing in Seminole Heights, Staley and Harbour Post Drive offer great student stays

About Champaign

Located in the heart of Illinois, Champaign is a vibrant city that’s a magnet for students, thanks to its blend of top-tier education, youthful energy, and cultural appeal. With roots tracing back to the mid-19th century as a railway hub, the city now thrives as a bustling center of innovation and education. Home to over 207,000 students, Champaign is diverse and brimming with green spaces, like the nearby Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Nearest areas like  Bloomington can also be explored on the weekend.

The city is alive with music festivals like the Pygmalion Festival, showcasing indie artists and tech innovation, and the Eberfest Film Festival, co-founded by legendary film critic Roger Ebert. It’s also home to major universities, including the prestigious University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, which ranks among the top 75 universities globally, and Parkland College. With student-friendly neighborhoods, academic hubs, and a young, diverse population, Champaign offers the perfect environment for student life. Amber-listed student housing Champaign IL is conveniently located for students. For instance, properties like HERE Champaign are within a 4-minute drive from the University of Illinois Urbana campus, making it easy to commute while enjoying the perks of city life. Whether it’s the buzzing cultural scene, excellent education opportunities, or affordable living, Champaign delivers the ultimate student experience. Also, Icon, 505 S. First, 807 S Locust St-7, The Tower At Third, and The Village at Colbert Park are top choices for student housing near Parkand College.

Best Student Housing in Champaign

Finding the perfect student housing in Champaign IL can make or break your experience, right? It’s not just about a place to crash—it’s about having a space that’s comfy, close to campus, and lets you focus on both studying and making memories. When choosing a spot, key factors like proximity to campus (because let’s be real, who loves early morning commutes?), budget-friendly options, top-notch safety, and amenities like Wi-Fi, gyms, and study spaces are total game-changers. A solid community vibe? That’s just the cherry on top. This is where amber steps in as your ultimate housing sidekick. With a massive lineup of verified student accommodation Champaign options, amber simplifies the hunt by offering tailored options to match your lifestyle, budget, and location needs. From plush studios near the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign to shared apartments in bustling student-friendly neighborhoods, amber’s got you covered. Plus, with features like dedicated support teams and flexible lease options, finding your dream student pad in Champaign has never been easier. Here are some of the best student housing in Champaign IL.

1. The Dean Campustown

2. HERE Champaign

3. Octave

4. 903 S First St

5. Hub on Campus

6. 32 E Green St

7. 103 E Healey St

8. 307 E Daniel

9. Element on Main

10. 1008 S. Fourth

11. Retreat At Illinois

12. 501 S. Sixth

13. 512 W. Green

14. Illini Tower

15. Icon

16. 505 S. First

17. 807 S Locust St-7

18. The Tower At Third

19. The Village at Colbert Park

20. 507 S. Second

Affordable Student Housing in Champaign

Looking for cheap off-campus apartments Champaign IL that doesn’t skimp on quality? You’re in luck—this vibrant college town has options for every budget, from basic setups to more upscale digs. Whether you’re saving up for that weekend road trip or just prefer to keep it simple, Champaign offers budget-friendly housing that’s still big on comfort and convenience. Even the most affordable spots come with essential amenities like high-speed Wi-Fi, cozy study areas, and great locations near campus hotspots. Amber takes the hassle out of your search, offering a range of cheap student apartments in Champaign that check all the boxes—comfort, location, and affordability. Whether it’s a shared apartment with a friendly community vibe or a no-frills private room close to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, you’ll find budget student housing Champaign options that don’t compromise on the essentials. Here are a few affordable student housing Champaign IL.

1. Retreat At Illinois: Costing $599/month, this student housing Champaign IL offers several 2, 3, & 4-bedroom apartments. Just an 8-minute drive from the University of Illinois Urbana, it provides amenities like private study rooms, a game lounge, and a pool table.

2. The Village at Colbert Park: One of the cheap student apartments Champaign IL, this off-campus housing University of Illinois Champaign costs $490/month. Here you get a range of 1, 2, 3, & 4-bedroom apartments with amenities like a 24-hour fitness center, yoga studio, and free parking. Plus, it’s just a 16-minute drive away from Parkland College.

3. Latitude: Featuring an array of ensuites, studios, and 1, 2, & 4-bedroom apartments, it is a 9-minute drive from the University of Illinois Urbana. Here, make the most of amenities, such as a rooftop terrace, 24/7 fitness center, and high-speed internet.

4. 708 S 1st St: Located at S 1st ST, this student housing near UIUC has a selection of 1, 2, & 3-bedroom apartments. Offering amenities, such as parking and parcel collection, this student housing Champaign is a 5-minute drive from the University of Illinois Urbana.

5. 501 S. Sixth: A highly sought-after affordable off-campus housing University Illinois Champaign is just a 6-minute drive from the institution. It offers a range of 3, 4, & 5-bedroom apartments with amenities like a fitness center, coffee bar, and bike storage.

Best Areas to Live in Champaign

Finding the perfect place to live in Champaign is about more than just proximity to campus—it’s about finding a neighborhood that fits your vibe. Champaign offers a variety of areas that cater to different lifestyles. Whether you’re looking for convenience, affordability, or a strong community feel, each neighborhood brings something unique to the table. Let’s explore some of the best areas for students to call home:

1. Downtown: If you’re all about being where the action is, Downtown Champaign is the place to be. This bustling hub is packed with trendy cafes, quirky boutiques, and an exciting nightlife scene—ideal for students who love to socialize and explore.

2. Jackson Park: For students who prefer a quieter vibe but still want easy access to campus, Jackson Park is a dream. Known for its lush green spaces, this neighborhood is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy jogging or picnics. Its student-friendly atmosphere and nearby cafes and grocery stores make it a balanced choice for academics and relaxation.

3. Arbor Chase: Arbor Chase is a hidden gem for students who want a peaceful environment without sacrificing convenience. This area features a mix of affordable and upscale student housing Champaign IL options, making it a flexible choice for different budgets.

4. Maynard Lake: If scenic views and serenity are your priorities, Maynard Lake should top your list. This area boasts a calm and picturesque environment, with its namesake lake providing a perfect backdrop for unwinding after classes. Popular properties here is are Latitude and Yugo Champaign South 3rd Lofts.

5. Ironwood: A lively and vibrant neighborhood, Ironwood is a favorite among students for its strong sense of community and easy access to amenities.

Room Types for Student Housing in Champaign

Finding the perfect Champaign Illinois student housing is all about choosing a room type that fits your lifestyle, budget, and preferences. Amber offers a diverse range of high-quality options, designed to cater to every kind of student—whether you’re a social butterfly or someone who thrives in their own space. Here’s a breakdown of the room types you can find in Champaign:

1. Ensuite Rooms: These are the sweet spot between privacy and community living. These rooms come with a private bedroom and an attached bathroom, giving you a personal space to relax, study, and unwind. The shared kitchen and living areas allow you to connect with your flatmates and enjoy a vibrant social atmosphere.

2. Studios: If you’re all about having your own space, studios are the ultimate pick. These self-contained units include a bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom, all in one cozy setup. Ideal for students who value independence, studios give you total control over your space while ensuring comfort and privacy. They’re especially great for final-year students or postgraduates who need a quiet place to focus on academics.

3. 1-5 bedroom apartments: Looking to live with friends or make new ones? 1-5 bedroom apartments let you experience the best of shared living. These apartments offer private bedrooms for each resident, with shared communal spaces like kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms. They’re perfect for creating a close-knit community vibe while splitting living costs. Plus, the flexible configurations mean you can find the right setup for your group size, whether you’re looking for a small shared space or a larger apartment for multiple people.

Cost of Living

Living in Champaign as a student doesn’t have to break the bank—it’s all about smart budgeting! The city strikes a good balance between affordability and quality of life, making it a great spot for college-goers. Housing is likely to be your biggest expense, but with plenty of student-friendly accommodations (shoutout to amber for options that suit every budget), you can find something that works for you. Groceries, dining out, public transportation, and entertainment add to the expenses. On average, students spend between $1,100 to $1,500 per month, depending on their lifestyle. Here's a breakdown of the expenses you will incur here.

1. Off-campus housing: $800 - $900/month

2. Food & Groceries: $200 - $400/month

3. Transportation: $20 - $40/month

4. Education: $17,640 - $46,000/month

5. Entertainment: $300 - $400/month

6. Utility: $100 - $150/month

Student Travel Champaign

Getting around Champaign is a breeze for students, thanks to a variety of transportation options that are convenient, efficient, and budget-friendly. Whether you’re rushing to class, exploring the city, or taking a weekend trip, Champaign has you covered with reliable modes of travel that suit every student’s lifestyle.

1. Bus: The Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District (MTD) operates a robust and student-friendly bus network. The buses connect key locations, including the University of Illinois campus, major student housing areas, and popular hangout spots. With buses running frequently and late into the night, they’re a dependable choice for daily commutes. Students can enjoy discounts with their university ID or opt for affordable student passes. The average bus fare costs around £10/week or £35/month with a student pass. You can take the Illinois Terminal bus station.

2. Bikes: For eco-conscious students or those who love staying active, biking is a top pick. Champaign is known for its bike-friendly infrastructure, with dedicated lanes, secure parking, and bike-sharing programs readily available. Bicycle rentals start at £5/week, or invest in a personal bike for around £30/month.

3. Trains: Looking to venture beyond Champaign? The Amtrak station is a gateway to nearby cities like Chicago, Indianapolis, and St. Louis, making it perfect for weekend getaways or travel during holidays. Trains are comfortable, and with booking, you can snag some great deals. One-way tickets start at £20 depending on the destination and time of travel.

4. Rideshare Services: Apps like Uber and Lyft are a lifesaver for those times when public transport isn’t convenient. Whether it’s a quick trip to the grocery store, a late-night ride back to your dorm, or heading to a party, rideshares offer a safe and easy option. Short rides average £10-£15, while longer trips may cost more depending on distance.

Student Lifestyle and Living in Champaign

Life in Champaign hits all the right notes for students—safe neighborhoods, vibrant social scenes, and a mix of cultural hotspots to keep boredom at bay. Whether you're into hitting the books or hitting the dance floor, this city’s got your vibe covered. With low crime rates and student-focused neighborhoods like Downtown and Jackson Park, Champaign offers peace of mind along with easy access to cafes, libraries, and study-friendly spaces. It’s the perfect blend of cozy and connected student life. Need a caffeine fix or a chill hangout? Check out Mad Goat Coffee or The Original Pancake House for your study sessions. Try out delicious meals at Seven Saints, Black Dog Smoke & Ale House, and Big Grove Tavern.

Night owls will love the buzzing energy at popular student bars like Hound's Rest and Esquire Lounge or karaoke nights at Memphis on Main. When you need a breather, head to Hessel Park or Crystal Lake Park to picnic, jog, or just soak in the fresh air. The city knows how to keep things fresh with events like the Ebertfest Film Festival and Urbana’s Market at the Square. From live music gigs to art walks, there’s always something happening to shake up your routine and connect you with the city’s creative pulse. In Champaign, student life isn’t just about studying—it’s a whole experience of fun, culture, and connection. Get ready to live your best life, one awesome hangout at a time!

Champaign Tourist Attractions

Champaign might be a cozy college town, but it punches way above its weight when it comes to tourist attractions. This city is where small-town charm meets big-city vibes, offering a mix of cultural landmarks, Insta-worthy spots, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Let's dive into the must-visit spots, many near student housing Champaign that make this town so much more than just a pit stop!

1. Krannert Art Museum

2. Prairie Farm

3. The Virginia Theater

4. Meadowbrook Park

5. Sholem Aquatic Center

6. Alto Vineyards and Winery

7. Anita Purves Nature Center

8. University of Illinois Arboretum

9. Champaign Public Library

10. Antiques & More at Staley Road

Universities in Champaign

Champaign is a vibrant hotspot for higher education, attracting students from all over the globe with its mix of top-tier universities, inclusive atmosphere, and student-centric environment. Whether you’re diving into world-class research, pursuing creative arts, or exploring hands-on technical programs, this city offers something for every kind of learner.

1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign: This flagship institution is internationally acclaimed for its groundbreaking research and innovation. UIUC shines in programs like engineering, business, computer science, and agriculture, offering a campus filled with state-of-the-art facilities, rich traditions, and a dynamic student community. The stunning Krannert Art Museum and Spurlock Museum add cultural flair.

2. Parkland College: With its strong focus on affordability and accessibility, Parkland College offers a gateway to higher education for students aiming for a smooth transition into the workforce or four-year universities. Known for its small class sizes, personalized learning experiences, and diverse programs like aviation, health sciences, and graphic design, it’s a hidden gem for those looking to learn with flexibility.

3. Illinois State University: While located a short distance from Champaign, ISU is a favorite among students in the area for its robust education programs, creative arts degrees, and lively campus life. Its emphasis on community and a wide array of extracurriculars ensures students get a holistic college experience.