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Student Housing in San Marcos

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San Marcos, Texas, is a classic college town known for its laid-back charm and thriving student community. With Texas State University at the center of the city, thousands of students look for comfortable and convenient student apartments in San Marcos each year. While on-campus student living San Marcos is limited and fills up fast, many turn to off-campus housing near Texas State University campus, where there’s a wide mix of studios, shared spaces, and larger units designed for student living. Whether you’re after modern San Marcos TX apartments or budget-friendly apartments for rent in San Marcos TX, there’s something to match every lifestyle. The city itself is a blend of riverside recreation, a buzzing downtown, and plenty of student-friendly neighborhoods.

Students enjoy easy access to hiking spots, local cafes, and cultural events that make San Marcos feel like more than just a study destination. No wonder it consistently earns its place among the most popular college towns in Texas, as highlighted in guides to the best colleges in Texas. Amber makes it simple to find the best student housing in San Marcos with verified listings, flexible lease options, and 24/7 support. Popular picks for student living apartments San Marcos include The Thompson and The View on the Square, both offering modern amenities such as fitness center, in unit washers, private bathrooms and prime locations close to campus. For anyone searching for apartments near Texas State University or well-connected apartment complexes in San Marcos TX, amber is the easiest way to find off campus student housing San Marcos that feels like home with PMGs like American Campus Community.

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Westfield, San Marcos

West Ave, San Marcos, 78666
2.0 mi from City Center
( 8min. 46min. 46min)
1.43 mi from Texas State University
2 Offers
Instant Booking
6 Room Options
swimming pool
internet
resident events
Complimentary Coffee Bar
On TXST Bus Route
From
$500/ month

Cottages at San Marcos, San Marcos

Craddock Ave, San Marcos, 78666
2.3 mi from City Center
( 8min. 51min. 51min)
1.95 mi from Texas State University
2 Offers
Instant Booking
Pay In Instalment
4 Room Options
gym
swimming pool
game room
Wi-Fi
Study Rooms
Huge Clubhouse
Resort-Style Pool with Swim-Up Cantina Bar
Hammock Beach Area
Sauna and Steam Room
24/7 State-of-the-Art Fitness Center
Pilates and Zumba Room
Tanning Bed
Basketball Courts
Sand Volleyball Courts
Private Shuttle Bus
Outdoor Fire Pits
BBQ Grills
From
$789/ month

Treehouse, San Marcos

N LBJ Dr, San Marcos, 78666
1.2 mi from City Center
( 6min. 26min. 26min)
0.31 mi from Texas State University
2 Offers
Instant Booking
Pay In Instalment
4 Room Options
gym
swimming pool
game room
High Speed Internet
Lounge
Pet Friendly
Coffee Bar
Roommate Matching
Laundry Facilities
Furnished or Unfurnished Options
Walking distance to San Marcos Center
2 Minute Walk to Campus
Walking Distance to the San Marcos River
Air Conditioning
Heat
Dish Washer
On-site Maintenance
Picnic Area
Grills
Balcony
From
$631/ month

Bishops Square, San Marcos

Craddock Ave, San Marcos, 78666
1.9 mi from City Center
( 8min. 29min. 36min)
1.44 mi from Texas State University
3 Offers
Instant Booking
Pay In Instalment
4 Room Options
swimming pool
sundeck
fitness center
Pet Friendly
Community Kitchen
Bike To Class
Free Printing
On-site Dog Park
Sand Volleyball Court
Cardio Machines
Free Weights
Individual Liability Leases
24-hour On-call Staff
Limited Access Community
Minutes To Texas State University’s School Of Engineering
On The Bobcat Tram Bus Route
Maintenance
Minutes To Construction Science
Poolside Cabanas
Professional Bbq Grills
From
$664/ month

The Retreat, San Marcos

Old Ranch Rd 12, San Marcos, 78666
1.6 mi from City Center
( 5min. 34min. 34min)
1.43 mi from Texas State University
3 Offers
Instant Booking
Pay In Instalment
17 Room Options
gym
swimming pool
laundry facility
Community Kitchen in the Clubhouse
Media Area With Tv and Couch Seating
Internet Included in Every Unit
Academic Success Center With Imacs and Free Printing
Group Study Lounges
State-of-the-art Fitness Center With Strength Equipment
Cardio Machines and Free Weights
Recreation Center With Billiards
Foosball and Air Hockey
Golf Simulator
Basketball Court
Sand Volleyball Court
Horseshoe Pit, Ping-pong Tables and Corn Hole
Professional, on-site Management and Maintenance
Courtesy Patrol Officer (See Office for Hours of Service)
24-hour, on-call Staff
Bike to Texas State University
Minutes to Texas State University School of Engineering and Construction Science
Walk to the Texas State Student Rec Center
On the Bobcat Tram Bus Route
Professional Bbq Grills
Grassy Interior Courtyard
Outdoor Gathering Pavilions
From
$749/ month

Cabana Beach San Marcos, San Marcos

Sadler Drive, San Marcos, 78666
3.0 mi from City Center
( 0min. 13min. 1h 6min)
2.65 mi from Texas State University
2 Offers
Instant Booking
Pay In Instalment
4 Room Options
Covered Parking
Outdoor Lounge and Game Areas
Resort-style Swimming Pool
Dog Park
Study Rooms
Pet Friendly
Renovated Fitness Center
Sand Volleyball Court
Basketball Court
Computer Lab
Grilling Stations
From
$745/ month

The Outpost San Marcos, San Marcos

Post Rd, San Marcos, 78666
2.4 mi from City Center
( 8min. 53min. 53min)
1.79 mi from Texas State University
3 Offers
Instant Booking
Pay In Instalment
2 Room Options
swimming pool
laundry facility
Hot Tub
24-Hour Resident Clubhouse
24-Hour Business Center
Breakfast Alley with Coffee, Tea, and Snacks
Bike Racks
Community WiFi
Pet Friendly
24-Hour Fitness Center
Basketball Court
Billiards
Sand Volleyball Court
On-Site Management
24 Hour Emergency Maintenance
Electronic Front Door Locks
1st Pickup on Campus Shuttle Route
Grilling Stations
Resident Events & More!
Covered Parking
Resort-Style Pool with Sun Deck
From
$1042/ month

Axis At San Marcos, San Marcos

Avalon Ave, San Marcos, 78666
3.2 mi from City Center
( 10min. 46min. 1h 12min)
2.54 mi from Texas State University
2 Offers
Instant Booking
Pay In Instalment
6 Room Options
gym
swimming pool
laundry facility
Private Study Lounge
Business Center
Off-Leash Dog Area
24-Hour Fitness Center
Yoga Studio
Cycle Room
Sand Volleyball
Basketball Courts
Game Room
Movie Theater
Golf Simulator
Tanning Studio
24/7 Maintenance and On-Site Support Team
Package Acceptance and Convenient Mailroom Access
Roommate Matching and Individual Leases
TXST Shuttle Access
Resort-Style Pool
Hot Tub
From
$725/ month

The View On The Square, San Marcos

S Guadalupe St, San Marcos, 78666
0.4 mi from City Center
( 5min. 10min. 10min)
0.7 mi from Texas State University
2 Offers
Instant Booking
Pay In Instalment
16 Room Options
parking
pet friendly
laundry facility
Bike-Centric Community with Secure Bike Storage
Onsite Lounge with Bike Wash & Bike Repair Shop
Ultramodern Two-Story Clubhouse w/ Green Wall
Dog Park
Computer Centers & Private Study Rooms on Each Floor
Fitness Center
Yoga Studio
Private Aerobic Room With 3 Exercise Bikes
Sand Volleyball Court
Billiard & Ping-Pong Tables
Secured Latch Access Control
Walk to Class at Texas State University
Steps from Shops & Restaurants in Historic Town Square
Connected to the San Marcos Trails Project, Which is Currently Underway, Featuring a 72 Mile Interconnected Trail System
EV Charging Stations
Minutes From Campus
Resort-Style Pool
BBQ Grilling Area
From
$624/ month

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The Parlor, San Marcos

W San Antonio St, San Marcos, 78666
0.2 mi from City Center
( 3min. 5min. 5min)
0.53 mi from Texas State University
3 Offers
20 Room Options
Computer Lab
Gaming Area
Outdoor TV
Indoor Lounges
Three Pet Parks
High-speed Data
2,500 Sq Ft Fitness Center
Key Fob
Bluetooth Controlled Access
Valet Trash Service
Grilling Stations
Amazon Hub Package Lockers
Two Resort-inspired Pools
Hammock Grove
From
$989/ month
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are San Marcos student apartments suitable for international students?

Yes. Texas State University sees an average of 30% increase in its international student population. This allows student apartments in San Marcos to open up for international students as well.

What types of student housing in San Marcos are available?

You can choose from student apartments in San Marcos TX, like private studios, shared apartments, and multi-bedroom units. Amber offers apartments near Texas State University that often include furnished rooms, study lounges, and social spaces for students.

How do I find the best student housing San Marcos TX?

The best student housing San Marcos TX combine location, safety, and amenities such as fitness center, in unit washers and private bathrooms. Look for apartment complexes in San Marcos TX that offer Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, fitness areas, and communal lounges.

When should I start looking for off-campus apartments near Texas State University?

It’s recommended to begin your search for student apartments in San Marcos TX 4 to 6 months before the semester starts. Off-campus housing Texas State University fills quickly, especially apartments for rent near the Texas State University campus.

Can I view apartments in San Marcos before booking?

Yes. You can connect with the property provider to schedule a visit. If you are an international student, then many San Marcos TX apartments provide virtual tours on the amber’s page itself.

What amenities are typically included in student apartments in San Marcos?

Student apartments in San Marcos usually include Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, study areas, fitness center and communal kitchens. Some Texas State University off-campus housing also features gyms, pools, and outdoor spaces for socializing.

How safe are college town San Marcos student apartments?

Many housing options in San Marcos TX, like townhomes, have gated access, CCTV, and 24/7 security. Always check the safety features in your housing agreement when choosing off-campus housing Texas State University.

Are there discounts on student apartments in San Marcos?

Yes, early booking or longer leases can help you save on apartments for rent in San Marcos TX. Platforms like Amberplus highlight deals and special offers on new apartments near Texas State University.

Are grocery shopping and the dog park easily accessible from apartments near Texas State University?

Absolutely. Most apartments near Texas State University are in the perfect place, close to grocery stores, dog park, cafes, and shopping areas, making daily life convenient for students. Including pet friendly options as well.

Can I rent short-term student apartments in San Marcos?

Yes, off-campus housing Texas State University often includes flexible lease options with management approval. Amber can help you find apartments for rent near Texas State University for semester-long or shorter stays.

Student Housing in San Marcos

About San Marcos

College town San Marcos is a growing city in Central Texas, located along the I-35 corridor between Austin and San Antonio. It has a population of around 67,500 residents and is best known as the home of Texas State University, which attracts thousands of students every year. The city has a long history, with settlements around the San Marcos River dating back over 12,000 years, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited areas in North America. and is also home to popular community spots such as the field stadium. Today, San Marcos is recognized for its student-friendly atmosphere and balance of academics with outdoor recreation and the best options for San Marcos student housing.

With a safety index of 54.64, San Marcos provides a secure environment for students and families. The city is a hub of higher education, with over 40,000 students enrolled at Texas State University. The presence of the university fuels demand for student apartments in San Marcos. With its blend of academic strength, natural landscapes, and a lively social atmosphere, San Marcos is an ideal city for students. If you’re searching for the best student apartments in San Marcos.

Best Student Housing in San Marcos

Finding the right student apartments in San Marcos includes choosing the right amenities and finding a community that supports both academics and social life. With amber, you can explore a wide selection of verified student housing in San Marcos, including private rooms, shared apartments, and modern studios. You can get amenities like a resort-style swimming pool, high-speed internet access, stainless steel appliances, in-unit washers and dryers, security cameras, a dog park, and more. These options make off-campus student housing in San Marcos TX, more convenient and enjoyable, especially for those seeking off-campus apartments near Texas State University campus. Here are some of the best apartment complexes in San Marcos TX that are pet-friendly:
1. The Parlour San Marcos—From $915/month
2. The View on the Square—From $829/month
3. The Thompson San Marcos – ★★★★☆ – Spacious rooms and a quiet, study-friendly setup, ideal for Texas State students. From $799/month
4. Hillside Ranch San Marcos – From $779/month
5. Arba San Marcos – From $776/month

Affordable Student Apartments in San Marcos TX

Student apartments in San Marcos range from affordable to premium ones. However, choosing budget-friendly apartments does not mean compromising on comfort or convenience. Most of the top affordable San Marcos student housing options are close to Texas Tech University.

Some of the cheap student apartments for rent in San Marcos include,
1. Bishops Square - A shared San Marcos student housing with 2–3 bedroom layouts that include community amenities like a resort-style pool, gym, and social lounges, just 25 minutes from Texas State University.
2. The Retreat - Located only 0.5 miles away from the university, The Retreat is a popular off-campus housing near Texas State University. It offers great outdoor sports areas along with regular facilities like wifi, TV, and study lounges.
3. Treehouse - Made for students who like sharing their place while also enjoying their privacy, Treehouse San Marcos is a student-friendly apartment with private rooms. It offers all the amenities needed for a comfortable life, just 15 minutes from TXST.
4. Cabana Beach - Affordable apartments with various floor plans, a fitness center, and outdoor pool areas. The property is perfect for students wanting a balance of study and leisure.
5. The Outpost - Large 2–4 bedroom apartments featuring upgraded kitchens, community lounges, and a pet-friendly environment close to apartments near Texas State University.

Best Areas to Live in San Marcos, TX

The best areas to live in San Marcos include student favorites such as Downtown San Marcos and Hughson Heights, along with crowd-pleasers Willow Creek and Discovery Hills. Most of the areas that are close to the top San Marcos universities are popular among students for easy commute and nearby cafes and other places of interest.

Some of the neighborhoods where students can find top student apartments in San Marcos include:


Area/NeighborhoodDescriptionAverage Rent
Downtown San MarcosA popular area where most popular restaurants and venues are located.$600 to $1,200 per month
Blanco River VillageQuiet neighborhood with a river nearby for students who like river adventure activities.$940 to $1,500 per month
Willow CreekPopular for its proximity to Texas State University, this area is also great for hiking, biking, and camping.$795 to $1460 per month
Craddock AreaOnly a mile away from TXST, this neighborhood is literally a few steps away from the university, and hence quite popular among students.$615 and $1450 per month
Sunset AcresQuiet and safe neighborhood, this area leans more towards luxury and peace.$1,300–$1,500 per month

Room Types Available in San Marcos TX

Whether you enjoy your own company or love socializing with others, San Marcos student apartments in Texas have a room type that suits your preference. Students can choose from a range of apartments for rent near Texas State University that are convenient, comfortable, and offer privacy, community, or both.

Popular room types available in San Marcos, TX, include:

1. Studio Apartments:
Want to maximize your privacy? Studio apartments are for you. They offer a private space with a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen, all to yourself. Student apartments like The Parlor and The View On The Square offer spacious studios near the university.

2. 1-Bed or 2-Bed Apartments:
For students who don't want to live alone and yet want some privacy, bedroom apartments are great. These are apartment buildings with separate rooms but a shared kitchen and living room. Students can find one to five-bedroom apartment layouts in properties like Bishops Square and The Retreat. While most of these private units have an ensuite bathroom, private rooms with a shared bath are often cheaper.

Cost of Living

If you are planning to move to the city, knowing the cost of living in San Marcos can help students budget their expenses. San Marcos living costs are approximately 14% lower than the national average, allowing students to live comfortably. Compared to Austin, San Marcos rents are also 30% lower, making it a popular college town among national and international students.

Here's how much you can expect to spend every month on average:

1. Off-campus apartment rent: $600–$900/month
2. Groceries: $110–$170/month
3. Transportation: $50–$70/month
4. Utilities: $40–$60/month
5. Internet: $30–$45/month
6. Leisure & Social Activities: $90–$140/month

Student Travel San Marcos

Being a college town, students can expect dedicated shuttles, student discounts, and similar other perks for travelling in and around San Marcos. Here are some of the popular transport options you can use:

1. Bobcat Shuttle: Texas State University operates a free shuttle system connecting campus buildings, nearby student apartments, and city center locations. The service is available for students and the general public equally, but only for the academic year. The service is free for all.
2. San Marcos Transit (CARTS): The city bus network covers both local and regional stops, including stops near popular student neighborhoods. The buses are free for local routes and cost around $4-$6 per ride for regional routes.
3. Cycling: Students often choose bikes to travel around San Marcos for its  dedicated bike lanes and trails connecting major places, including the TXST campus. If you choose to buy a bike, most apartments for rent in San Marcos, TX, offer secure bike storage.
4. Ride-Sharing Services: If you are going long distance, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a more viable option for students in San Marcos. It allows for flexible transport for evenings or weekends. The cost may vary based on the distance of your travel.

Student Lifestyle and Tourist Attractions in San Marcos

San Marcos is a college town with a population of around 85,000 people, and half of this is the student population attending TXST. Apart from the university, the place offers great natural retreat spaces for outdoor activities. Places like the Purgatory Creek Natural Area and the Blanco River are popular choices for hiking, swimming, canoeing, camping, and kayaking.

Students who like indoor recreational activities can visit the Little Free Libraries around the city, the San Marcos Public Library, or the university's own Schneider Music Library. Places like The Whitliff Collections and Texas State Galleries are places where art students can find inspiration. Apart from these, students who want to watch the stars beyond the night sky can visit the Texas State Observatory.

Multiple restaurants and cafes surround the university, so you can explore new cuisines every day if you wish. Most popular San Marcos student apartments are close to the university, allowing you to visit all the popular places within a half-hour drive at most.

Top Universities in San Marcos

While the most popular university in San Marcos, Texas, is Texas State University, the city is also home to smaller colleges that are affiliated with the university in one way or another. With amber, you can find San Marcos student apartments for rent near these universities.

1. Texas State University: The main university in the city of San Marcos, Texas State University offers a variety of courses and majors, attracting thousands of national and international students every year. Which is also why you will find many student apartments near TXST. Some of the most popular ones include The View on the Square and The Thompson.
2. Texas State Technical College (TSTC): TSTC offers career-focused programs in engineering, IT, and manufacturing. If you've chosen to study here, you can choose student housing San Marcos TX, properties like The Retreat or Cabana Beach.
3. Southwest Texas Junior College (SWTJC): SWTJC provides associate degrees and certificate programs to help students transition to four-year universities. San Marcos TX apartments such as Arba San Marcos are the closest to the university.

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