The Retreat, San Marcos

San Marcos offers a variety of student apartments that cater to different lifestyles, budgets, and study needs. Whether you prefer complete privacy or a more social living experience, there’s an option for everyone near Texas State University.
1. Studio Apartments:
Studio apartments in San Marcos provide a fully self-contained space with a private bedroom, bathroom, and compact kitchen area. Students who choose studios enjoy complete independence and control over their environment, making them ideal for those with intense study schedules or anyone seeking maximum privacy.
2. 1-Bed or 2-Bed Apartments:
These apartments include one or two private bedrooms with shared living areas such as the kitchen and living room. Perfect for students who want a quieter, semi-private setup, these apartments are great for friends or roommates who want to live together while maintaining personal space.
3. Shared Apartments:
Shared apartments feature multiple private bedrooms within a single unit, with communal kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas. This setup fosters a social and community-oriented atmosphere, allowing students to make friends while still having their own private space.
4. Private Rooms:
Private rooms offer a personal bedroom equipped with essentials like a study desk and bed, while still providing access to shared facilities. This option strikes a balance between independence and social interaction, appealing to students who want their own space but enjoy the benefits of a shared living environment.

Understanding the cost of living in San Marcos is crucial for students planning their budgets. San Marcos offers a relatively affordable lifestyle compared to larger Texas cities, making it an attractive option for students. Here's a breakdown of typical monthly expenses to help you plan:
1. Accommodation: $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

San Marcos is a student-friendly city with efficient transportation options, making it easy for students at Texas State University to commute to classes, apartments, and the city’s hotspots. Whether you live in private or shared student apartments in San Marcos, getting around is affordable and convenient. Here’s a breakdown of the main transport options available for students.
1. Bobcat Shuttle: Texas State University operates this free shuttle system connecting campus buildings, nearby student apartments, and key city locations. It’s a convenient option for students living in off-campus housing Texas State University or apartment complexes in San Marcos TX. Cost: Free for all passengers.
2. San Marcos Transit (CARTS): This city bus network covers both local and regional routes, including stops near popular student neighborhoods. Students in apartments near Texas State University can easily access downtown San Marcos and surrounding areas. Cost: Free for local routes; regional trips cost $4–$6 per ride.
3. Cycling: Many students choose bikes to navigate San Marcos, with dedicated bike lanes and trails connecting residential areas and the TXST campus. Apartments for rent in San Marcos TX often offer secure bike storage, making cycling a practical option. Cost: Free aside from the initial bicycle purchase.
4. Ride-Sharing Services: Services like Uber and Lyft are widely available for students in San Marcos, providing flexible transport for evenings or weekends. Cost: Varies based on distance.

Student Transit Tips: Full-time Texas State University students often have access to discounted or free transportation options, including the Bobcat Shuttle and select regional services. Evening and weekend travel is easily managed via ride-sharing or the shuttle network.

San Marcos offers a unique blend of academic excellence and lively student life, making it an ideal city for students seeking both intellectual growth and social engagement. With its rich history, diverse culture, and dynamic student life, San Marcos provides a unique environment where academic pursuits and leisure activities go hand in hand.

San Marcos boasts low crime rates, and neighborhood properties like The Retreat and Campus Trailhead are popular among students for their safety and proximity to campus. These areas are home to essential amenities such as the Alkek Library and student-friendly cafes like Kerbey Lane Café and Jo's Café. Grocery stores like H-E-B and Walmart Supercenter are conveniently close, ensuring students have everything they need within reach. For a caffeine fix, students flock to Kerbey Lane Café, a local favorite known for its artisan brews and inviting atmosphere. When hunger strikes, Jo's Café offers a dining experience with a menu that caters to diverse tastes. For those seeking a lively nightlife scene, Zelicks Icehouse and The Growling are student favorites, offering music, dancing, and a great selection of drinks. During the day, the San Marcos River provides a peaceful setting for relaxation or study sessions amidst nature.

San Marcos's cultural calendar is packed with events that resonate with students. The Selena Effect Exhibit at the Wittliff Collections showcases rare and previously unseen items honoring the legacy of singer Selena Quintanilla-Pérez. These events offer students opportunities to immerse themselves in the local culture and connect with the community.

San Marcos is home to prestigious institutions that attract students nationally and internationally with their strong academic programs and student communities. For students searching for student apartments in San Marcos
1. Texas State University: Texas State University is the flagship institution in San Marcos, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Known for academic excellence and a lively student culture, TXST draws students from across the country. Popular apartments near Texas State University include The View on the Square and The Thompson, providing fully furnished apartments, study spaces, and easy access to campus.
2. Texas State Technical College (TSTC): TSTC offers career-focused programs in engineering, IT, and manufacturing. Students often choose The Retreat or Cabana Beach, which offer modern amenities, private bedrooms, and communal spaces, making them ideal for those seeking student housing in San Marcos.
3. Southwest Texas Junior College (SWTJC): SWTJC provides associate degrees and certificate programs to help students transition to four-year universities. Nearby San Marcos TX apartments such as Arba San Marcos offer 2–3 bedroom layouts, fitness facilities, and study lounges, perfect for students seeking a balance of comfort and convenience.