Student Housing in Decatur

Decatur is a city that offers a small-town warmth with a well-connected Midwest city in Illinois. This city makes it an appealing destination for students from around the world seeking balance, affordability, and opportunity. Students often prefer to move to Decatur for its strong educational environment, with universities like Millikin University and Richland Community College. Millikin University has a mandatory three-year residency requirement for full-time, undergraduate students, freshmen, sophomores, and juniors) up to the beginning of their 7th semester. They must live in University-approved housing. Beyond academics, the city has a welcoming atmosphere, convenient transportation facilities, and a lower cost of living than the major metro areas, ideal for students trying to stretch their budgets without compromising quality.

Choosing an ideal apartment in Decatur is a much easier process with amber. This global student housing platform offers students 100% verified properties that are completely furnished and have great modern facilities. Amber offers 24/7 customer support, guiding students to select their dream apartment with minimal stress or confusion. With the help of an easy interface and filter options to compare, browse, and book the apartments easily near top-rated universities, amber makes it a smooth journey for students in securing their ideal home away from home.

Decatur, Illinois, offers a small-town charm that is very inviting and with filled with full of academic opportunities. The city is renowned or its affordable lifestyle with a safe, community-oriented environment surrounded by cultural events and leisure spaces. This city is also home to Millikin University, with a student population of around 1,700 students, and Richland Community College. It attracts students from all over the world. The supportive community with accessible facilities and lively campus life makes it an ideal place for students to grow academically and socially.

Decatur, Illinois, has a safety index of 60 out of 100, supported by community policing programs, neighborhood watch groups, and improved street protection to improve the safety of the students. The city’s happiness index sits at the rate of 65 out of 100, due to the local parks, community events, and accessible leisure activities. The city’s job employment rate averages about 94%, with strong opportunities in fields like healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, and agricultural technology.

Students living in Decatur benefit from the city’s affordability, support services, and career-building opportunities, making it a practical place for students to move and thrive academically. The city focuses regularly on community engagement, development, and economic improvements to help create a stable environment for students. Students can explore and enjoy cultural attractions like the Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater, the Hieronymus Mueller Museum, and the Scovill Zoo. There are local festivals, art exhibitions, farmers' markets, and workshops that offer plenty of ways to experience the Midwestern culture while connecting with other students.

Students prefer student housing and apartments in Decatur because everything they need is conveniently located nearby. Be it libraries for late-night study sessions, cozy cafes, local museums, parks, and affordable public transport options. This friendly student atmosphere, paired with Decatur’s employment growth in fields like healthcare, manufacturing, and business services, makes the city an excellent place for achieving long-term academic and career goals. Easy access to shopping districts, bike trails, cultural events, and educational facilities makes settling in Decatur both practical and motivating for students.

Amber streamlines the entire housing search process by offering a fully verified list of affordable properties with secured booking options. Whether students want private or fully furnished student housing Decatur Illinois, for rent, amber provides the real-time availability and detailed facilities like WiFi, social lounges, laundry facilities, and more. The platform also offers students virtual tours, documentation assistance, 24/7 customer support, and move-in guidance. As a global student housing solution, amber ensures that students can find and finalize student housing safely, quickly, and without stress.

Along with the right choice of student housing apartment, it is essential to choose the best area to live in Decatur. Student housing in good neighborhoods offers local and convenient facilities.  Below are some areas where students can consider moving in.

1. Near Millikin University: The area around this university has a good walkability score of around 70 out of 100,  surrounded by the Millikin University and student-friendly neighborhoods in Decatur. Students enjoy the short walk to campus, cafes, bookstores, and study spots. The neighborhood also provides easy and nearby access to bus stops, grocery stores, and fitness centers. The average monthly rent ranges from $750 to $1,050, making it suitable for an active academic atmosphere.

2. West End: The West End scores about 65 out of 100 for walkability, offering peaceful streets close to parks, local markets, and casual dining. It’s a preferred area for students seeking a calm environment with easy access to everyday facilities. With nearby facilities like Krekel’s West, grocery stores, and recreational spaces, students find a good balance of comfort and affordability. It takes 5 to 7 minutes by car from the West End to Millikin University (MU).The average rent in this area typically ranges from $700 to $1,000 per month.

3. Downtown Decatur: The Downtown boasts a walkability score of nearly 75 out of 100, making it one of the most accessible parts of the city. Students who enjoy urban living benefit from proximity to museums, coffee shops, entertainment venues, and public transportation services. The lively atmosphere and quick travel options make it especially attractive for both study and work. The rent in this neighborhood ranges from $900 to $1,300 per month, depending on the building. This area is around 7 to 10 minutes by car to MU.

4. North Decatur: North Decatur holds a walkability score of 60 out of 100, known for its quieter vibe and spacious residential layout. Students are drawn to this area for its affordability and proximity to everyday conveniences such as clinics, supermarkets, and fast-food chains. It’s ideal for those who prefer to enjoy a suburban feel while staying within easy reach of colleges. Monthly rent typically averages from $650 to $950, making it a budget-friendly choice. Milkin University is 10 to 12 minutes from this place to MU.

5. South Shores: South Shores offers a peaceful setting with scenic surroundings and access to Lake Decatur. The walkability score is average, around 55 out of 100, but students enjoy the peaceful environment, vast green spaces, and friendly community vibe. The nearby facilities include shopping plazas, restaurants, and leisure spots. The rent in South Shores usually falls between $700 and $1,100 per month, attracting students who prefer a quieter and natural setting. It takes around 12 to 15 minutes by car to MU.

Amber offers a wide range of options in student housing Decatur for Illinois student housing, according to different budgets and preferences. For students seeking affordable options, there are numerous student apartments for rent in Decatur IL that balance comfort, convenience, and cost, making every student feel right at home.

1. 1-Bed or 2-Bed Apartments: 1 or 2 Bedroom apartments are ideal for friends or small groups. These student apartments for rent in Decatur IL, provide separate bedrooms with shared facilities like kitchens and living areas. They offer a semi-private, spacious setting place for students who want a homely feel.

2 Bedroom and 3 Bedroom flats: These student apartments in Illinois are perfect for students who want both privacy and social interaction. Located within a convenient distance from campus, these student housing in Decatur come with a private bathroom and a shared kitchen or lounge area.

3. Studio Apartments: Studios offer complete privacy and feature a personal kitchen, bathroom, and study area. They’re great for students who value independence or have demanding academic schedules. Studios are among the most sought-after private and furnished student housing Decatur Illinois for rent.

4. Shared Apartments: Shared apartments are an excellent choice for students who enjoy socializing and want to experience a sense of community. These furnished student housing Decatur Illinois for rent allow students to live with friends or meet new people, sharing common areas like kitchens, living rooms, and bathrooms.

5. Private Apartments: These fully furnished private apartments in student housing Decatur come with modern interiors, including a private bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom. Many private apartments also feature in-unit laundry, high-speed Wi-Fi, and access to on-site amenities such as fitness centers, study rooms, and lounges.