908 S. First Champaign, located at 908 S 1st St, Champaign, IL 61820, United States, offers thoughtfully designed studios along with 1, 2, and 4-bedroom layouts, making it a sought-after option for student apartments in Champaign IL. Perfectly placed less than a 15-minute car ride from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) and only an 11-minute drive away from Parkland College, 908 S. First Champaign blends convenience with comfort, ensuring students can stay close to academics while enjoying a lively community. With modern floor plans and smart amenities, 908 S. First Champaign creates the ideal setup for anyone searching for reliable UIUC off-campus housing.
Champaign itself has grown into one of the most student-friendly cities in Illinois, with nearly 50,000 students fueling its lively and diverse atmosphere. Beyond its world-class academic reputation, the city is celebrated for its cultural mix, research-driven economy, and welcoming student-centered lifestyle. Neighborhoods like Campustown, Downtown Champaign, and Midtown offer students plenty of coffee shops, dining options, and social spots, making daily life engaging both on and off campus. When it comes to quality of life, Champaign balances affordability and safety. The city records a crime rate of about 22.4 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is lower than the national average, giving students added peace of mind. With a happiness index of 7.2/10, a high employment rate of 95%, and a cost of living averaging between $1,100 and $1,300 a month, the city creates a stable environment for both studying and socializing. Weekends in Champaign are far from ordinary. Students can unwind at the Krannert Art Museum or the Virginia Theatre or explore green spaces like Hessel Park and Meadowbrook Park. Local landmarks such as the Morrow Plots and the Stone Arch Bridge add historical depth to the city. Altogether, living at 908 S. First Champaign means more than just having a comfortable apartment; it’s about becoming part of a thriving student community in a city designed around learning, culture, and connection.
At 908 S. First Champaign, students can pick from versatile layouts like the 4 Bedroom 4 Bathroom Apartment, the 2 Bedroom 1 Bathroom Apartment, or a cozy Studio. Each unit is designed with comfort in mind, offering private rooms, private bathrooms, and a shared kitchen setup, with floor plans reaching up to 1,245 sq. ft. The apartments are fully furnished, making moving in easy, and come with essentials like a comfortable bed for every resident. Inside, modern finishes such as hardwood-style flooring create a warm, clean aesthetic, while stainless steel appliances add a sleek touch to the kitchen. To make downtime better, each living room includes a 50-inch 4K Smart TV, perfect for entertainment. Plus, having an in-unit washer & dryer ensures laundry is never a hassle.
Life outside 908 S. First Champaign is just as convenient, thanks to thoughtful shared amenities. The property features an inviting outdoor lounge with BBQ grills & entertainment, ideal for socializing on weekends, while individual and group study rooms provide quiet spots for academic focus. A coffee bar and stylish clubroom offer additional hangout spaces, while the fully equipped fitness center helps students maintain an active lifestyle. Residents also benefit from free community-wide Wi-Fi, bike storage, and secure garage parking. For peace of mind, the building ensures controlled access and individually keyed bedrooms, creating a safe environment for all. With its prime location, Academy Campustown, 908 S First St Champaign IL sets a high standard for modern student housing in Champaign IL, offering both the comforts of home and a strong sense of community.
Living at 908 S First St Champaign IL, puts students in the middle of everything that matters. The property sits right next to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), less than a 15-minute drive away, making it an ideal pick for anyone looking for UIUC off-campus housing. It’s also just an 11-minute drive to Parkland College, giving residents easy access to another major academic hub. With nearly 69,000 students enrolled across local universities and colleges, the city thrives with a lively student culture. For those keen to explore funding opportunities, here’s a helpful guide on University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign scholarships.
Students living at 908 S. First Champaign never run short of coffee spots. Sinclaire’s Coffee, Espresso Royale Cafe—Campustown, and Espresso Royale Cafe—GIES College of Business are all close by, perfect for late-night study sessions or early-morning caffeine fixes. Dining is just as exciting with choices like Sakanaya for sushi, Northern Cuisine for hearty Chinese dishes, and Forage Kitchen for fresh, wholesome meals. Once the books are closed, the nightlife scene comes alive at popular hangouts like Murphy’s Pub and Legends, two student favorites within walking distance.
Daily needs are easily met, too, with grocery options such as Annapoorna Stores, J6 Mart, and Target Grocery nearby at 908 S. First Champaign. Students can also rely on Lehman’s Pharmacy and CVS Pharmacy for health essentials. For larger shopping sprees, Johnstowne Center and Country Fair Shopping Center are excellent choices. Entertainment is well-rounded with venues like the Armory Free Theatre, Foellinger Auditorium, and the iconic University of Illinois Memorial Stadium. Museums such as the Krannert Art Museum and the Sousa Archives and Center for American Music add cultural flair, while Anita Purves Nature Center and Helms Park bring fresh green escapes into the mix. Historical gems like the Stone Arch Bridge and Morrow Plots also highlight the area’s deep heritage. The presence of trusted healthcare centers, including OSF Healthcare and Champaign County Christian Health Center, ensures peace of mind for residents. Taken together, 908 S. First Champaign balances academics, lifestyle, and leisure, making it one of the best places to live in Illinois.
Students at 908 S. First Champaign enjoy easy access to reliable transit options just steps from their doorstep. Nearby bus stops like Third & Daniel (SW Corner) and Green & Second (SW Corner)make getting to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and other parts of the city simple and quick. For regional travel, trains are available from the Champaign-Urbana, IL, station, while Willard Airport handles air connections. On top of that, ride-share services such as Uber and Lyft operate throughout the area, giving students flexible and dependable transportation whenever they need it.
Explore the property through a virtual walkthrough and discover a variety of in house amenities all at highly affordable rents.