Student Housing in Knoxville

Knoxville is located in East Tennessee and has that laid-back, college-town vibe. You can walk to a coffee shop, meet friends near campus, or try out a new restaurant without much hassle. The outdoors are just as close & the weekends go fast with nearby hikes and river trips. Thanks to big schools like the University of Tennessee, Knoxville always has a fresh wave of students moving in. Hence, on-campus housing fills up before you know it, which pushes a lot of students to look for off-campus student housing Knoxville TN. There’s a bit of everything for students. Private rooms if you want your own space, shared apartments for saving cash, studios, one-bedrooms, and even bigger layouts if you’re living with friends.

Amber makes it simple to compare Knoxville student apartments in one place with verified listings, filters that actually help (budget, distance to campus, amenities), and support from search to lease. If you’re looking for apartments near the University of Tennessee or want something closer to Downtown/Old City for food and nightlife, you can shortlist based on commute and lifestyle. On average, student rent in Knoxville typically ranges from about $800 to $1,500/month, depending on location, bedroom count, and amenities. The best options for apartments for rent in Knoxville are Society 865 and Commons At Knoxville.

Knoxville sits in East Tennessee along the Tennessee River and acts as a practical hub between the Smokies and bigger Southern cities. It’s best known for being home to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK), and South College. UTK’s campus energy shapes the city’s daily rhythm, game days, student-friendly food spots, and neighborhoods built around quick commutes. Knoxville’s population is roughly 190,000 and above, which keeps the vibe active but not overwhelming for students who want a city feel without big-city pricing.

Knoxville is also a great fit for students who like being outside. You’re close to trails and riverfront parks, and weekend hikes are a normal part of student life. For culture and Gen Z-friendly events, the city calendar is stacked: Big Ears Festival brings major music energy downtown, and Dogwood Arts Festival is a spring highlight with art, food, and live performances. Academically, UTK anchors the city, while nearby colleges and community programs make Knoxville a steady student market with plenty of housing demand. Many amber-listed Knoxville student apartments sit within quick bus or bike distance of campus areas, so students can balance classes, part-time work, and social plans without needing long drives.

Finding the right place matters because it affects everything, like how easy it is to get to class, how safe you feel coming home late, and whether you have space to study and reset. Most students prioritize proximity to campus, budget, safety, amenities, and a community feel that doesn’t distract from school. Amber helps by keeping options verified and making it easy to compare student housing Knoxville TN, by commute, layout, and features. Knoxville has options across budgets, and “affordable” doesn’t have to mean bare-bones. Many students find cheap student housing in Knoxville by choosing a shared layout (like a 2-bedroom or 3-bedroom) or living a little farther from the main campus blocks while staying close to bus routes. Here are some of the best options for apartments in Knoxville TN for students:

1. Society 865 - It offers modern student living close to the University of Tennessee, with room types including 2-bedroom, 3-bedroom, and 4-bedroom apartments designed for shared living and study balance. Its community spaces, fitness center, and convenient location make it ideal for students who want comfort and connectivity. - From $799 per month

2. Commons At Knoxville - It provides stylish student apartments with 2-bedroom, 3-bedroom, and 4-bedroom layouts, plus shared study areas and social lounges that help students stay productive and social. Located near UTK and local dining spots, it’s perfect for daily student life and easy commuting. - From $890 per month

3. University Walk - It features contemporary student apartments with 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and 3-bedroom options, giving students flexible choices based on budget and roommate preferences. Its short drive to campus and Downtown Knoxville, making it a practical pick for both social and academic schedules. - From $899 per month

4. Villas Knoxville - It offers spacious units with 2-bedroom, 3-bedroom, and 4-bedroom room types, ideal for roommates or students wanting extra space while keeping utility costs down. With convenient access to campus and nearby shopping, it suits students seeking community living with easy amenities. - From $975 per month

Knoxville neighborhoods can feel very different depending on what you want: quiet study-first living, walk-to-class convenience, or being close to food and nightlife. Here are five student-friendly areas to consider for Knoxville student apartments:

Knoxville students usually pick housing based on how they want to live day-to-day: quiet space for studying, a social roommate setup, or full independence. Amber listings commonly include a mix of these room types:

1. 2-Bedroom and 3-Bedroom Apartments

These are a go-to for students who want a private bedroom but still split costs. You’ll share the kitchen and living room, which makes it easier to stay social without living in a noisy setup. This layout works well for friends moving in together or students who want roommate energy while still having personal space.

2. 4-Bedroom (and Larger) Apartments

If you’re optimizing for budget, bigger shared apartments can lower your per-person rent. These are common in student communities where roommates want a “built-in” social circle. The tradeoff is more shared living, so it helps to set house rules early (quiet hours, cleaning, shared grocery basics).

3. Studio Apartments

A studio is best when you want full control of your space, sleep, study, and chill without roommates. It’s a popular choice for students with heavy course loads, internships, or anyone who values privacy. Studios can cost more, but they simplify your routine and often feel easier to keep organized.

4. 1-Bedroom Apartments

A 1-bedroom gives you separate sleeping and living spaces, which feels more comfortable than a studio if you spend a lot of time at home. It’s great for students who want privacy but also want a clearer “work zone vs. rest zone” setup.

5. Private Rooms

Private rooms are a smart middle ground: your own bedroom (often furnished), with shared kitchens and common areas. This is ideal for students who want privacy on a budget and still like having roommates around.