The twin cities of Champaign and Urbana combine to form a vibrant, innovative community in which the university is at the heart. Booking student apartments near University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign with Student.com will allow you to make this affordable, micro-urban location your home.

Enjoy the many perks of big-city living with University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign housing that will place you a stone’s throw from class in an area full of trendy restaurants, varsity sports venues, and social green spaces.

Make yourself at home in a luxury student apartment where you can walk to class and then spend your downtime exploring the neighbourhood’s attractions. If you are seeking affordable student accommodation near UIUC and do not know where to start, give us a call, or text your queries on our website’s live chat or on WhatsApp. Our expert booking consultants are always happy to help you find the ideal student home for your individual needs!

Where is the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign located?

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s main campus is located in the twin cities of Champaign-Urbana in east-central Illinois.

The cities have a combined population of about 130,000 and the Champaign-Urbana metropolitan area has just under 240,000 inhabitants. The twin cities are located about 130 miles (210 kilometres) south of Chicago, 120 miles (193 kilometres) west of Indianapolis, and 165 miles (265 kilometres) northeast of St. Louis.

“C-U” is well-known for its progressive, micro-urban feel and excellent neighbourhoods, schools, and parks. The twin cities feature three distinct areas (Campustown, downtown Champaign, and downtown Urbana), with dozens of locally owned restaurants, nightclubs, shops, and boutiques.

History

Established in the early 19th century, these twin cities have grown from humble beginnings into a vibrant hub of academia and culture. But as you tread the streets, you can almost feel the whispers of the past mingling with the energy of the present. Victorian homes stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time in the historic district of Urbana and its cobblestoned streets echo of students who trailed it before forging their own tales of academic triumphs and midnight adventures.

Where the Midwest meets academic magic

Urbana-Champaign has developed into a canvas where students’ academic journeys unfold against the backdrop of history, culture, and natural beauty.

From the iconic Green Street, adorned with eclectic shops and buzzing cafes, to the hidden gems tucked away in Champaign’s Campustown, every nook and cranny tells a story of student life.

Enjoy fair-trade coffee and the laid-back retro feel of the established coffeehouse chain Espresso Royale, or the joyous chaos of the Krannert Art Museum, where your mind can wander freely among the brushstrokes and sculptures, providing the perfect escape from the rigours of academia.

Culture, diversity, and inclusion

“C-U” wears its cultural tapestry with pride. As a student, you will become a member of a diverse and inclusive community that spans the globe.

International Education Week is not just an event there, it’s a celebration of the rich mosaic of cultures that call these twin cities home. Feel the rhythm of the world during the annual International Festival, where the quad transforms into a vibrant marketplace of traditions and flavours. As you sway to the beats of Brazilian samba or savour the spices of Indian cuisine, you’ll realise that Champaign-Urbana is a global village that welcomes all with open arms.

Studying at UIUC

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) is the flagship campus of the University of Illinois, which is the second oldest public university in the state of Illinois.

UIUC boasts a stellar reputation for academic excellence, undoubtedly standing out as a premier institution on the global stage. From its world-class academic programs to its commitment to sustainability and innovation, it provides a comprehensive and enriching experience for students seeking to broaden their horizons.

The university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. It’s particularly celebrated for its programs in engineering, computer science, business, agriculture, and the sciences.

UIUC’s commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed.

Accolades and achievements

The university consistently receives accolades for its academic achievements, research output, and contributions to various fields. It has been recognised for its entrepreneurship programs, with the Research Park serving as a hub for innovation and collaboration between academia and industry.

Global rankings

UIUC’s reputation for high-quality education is further underscored by its impressive global university rankings. The institution consistently holds a position among the top universities worldwide, placing 42nd in the 2024 Times Higher Education World University Rankings and 64th in the QS World University Rankings.

Facilities and resources

UIUC’s state-of-the-art facilities contribute significantly to its reputation as a leading educational institution. The library system is extensive, with multiple libraries catering to different disciplines, ensuring that students have access to a wealth of resources for their studies and research. It holds one of the biggest collections of any public library in the US, with some 13 million volumes across nearly 40 library sites.

The university’s research centres and laboratories are equipped with cutting-edge technology, providing students with the tools they need to explore and innovate. From the National Center for Supercomputing Applications to the Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, UIUC’s facilities are at the forefront of technological advancement.

Pioneering research

The university is also renowned for its strong emphasis on research and innovation. Illinois has a long-standing history of life-changing innovations from contributions to the development of the internet, the transistor, and the discovery of the Archaea, to revolutionary photosynthesis advances.

Researchers at the university have made foundational discoveries that have shaped modern electronic devices, agriculture, the microbial world, and government policies.

Alumni

Several Nobel laureates and illustrious men and women, such as Marc Andreessen and Larry Ellison, have graced UIUC’s hallowed halls. Over 10 of the university’s graduates have gone on to win Nobel Prizes, with more than 15 winning Pulitzer Prizes.

UIUC student life

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) is not merely a place to attend lectures and bury your nose in textbooks, it’s a mix of world class education and student attractions that will make your study abroad experience unforgettable.

Diversity

The campus is a melting pot of cultures, a living testament to the university’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. From International Education Week celebrations to cultural festivals that transform the quad into a global carnival, you’ll find UIUC a second home, regardless of where you’re from. As the aroma of global cuisine wafts through the air during the International Food Fair, you’ll realise that UIUC is a microcosm of the world. The friendships you’ll forge here will be as diverse as the flags that flutter proudly on the quad.

Student entertainment

Whether you’re into cheering your heart out at sporting events or basking in the glory of the arts, the UIUC campus is a bustling hub of activity.

The Illini Union beckons with its diverse array of student organisations and a food court that could rival any global culinary mecca.

Enjoy Friday evenings at the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, where the notes of a symphony create a harmonious soundtrack to your academic journey.

The State Farm Center, the university’s colossal sports arena that looks like a flying saucer, hosts everything from basketball showdowns to concerts featuring chart-topping artists.

The Krannert Center for the Performing Arts is a haven for the artsy souls from ballet to theatre to music – you name it. This cultural mecca is where creativity takes centre stage, and you’ll be left in awe of the sheer talent that graces its stages.

Social clubs and associations

International students find solace in the numerous cultural clubs and associations that celebrate diversity and create a home away from home. From the Indian Student Association’s Diwali celebrations to the African Student Organisation’s vibrant cultural nights, you’ll likely find a piece of your own culture on campus, wherever in the world you might be from.

But it’s not just about cultural ties. Greek life at UIUC is like joining an extended family – a community where you’ll forge bonds that last a lifetime. Whether you’re a Sigma, a Phi, or something in between, the Greek scene is a rite of passage for many Illini.

Student services and support

UIUC takes care of its own. The Career Center is students’ go-to for internships, job searches, and resume critiques. It provides the services and support that keep the well-oiled Illini machine running smoothly.

The Illini buses, affectionately called the “mopeds of the road,” will get you from class to class with a dash of adventure. And when you need a break, the Main Quad is your green oasis – a perfect spot to soak in the sun, play frisbee, or just people-watch.

The Illini experience

From the heart-pounding excitement of game day to the quiet moments of reflection in the Arboretum, your time with the orange and blue promises to be a tapestry woven with the threads of remarkable stories.

“The Illini spirit” is contagious – it’s in the cheers at the football games, the late-night study sessions at the libraries, and the friendships that bloom like wildflowers.

You’ll find yourself immersed in a sea of orange and blue on game days, cheering alongside students whose passion for the ‘Fighting Illini’ is contagious. The campus may be vast, but the Illini community makes it feel like a tight-knit family.

History of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

The Illini tale began in the mid-19th century when the Illinois Industrial University, later renamed the University of Illinois, was established through the Morrill Act of 1862.

Chartered in 1867, the university was envisioned as a hub for education and research in agriculture, mechanics, and military tactics.

In 1870, the first classes were held in two temporary buildings in Champaign, marking the birth of what would become a distinguished institution.

Expansion and growth (1870s-1900)

The university quickly expanded its curriculum and facilities, embracing a mission to provide a comprehensive education. The 1880s saw the construction of iconic buildings like Altgeld Hall and the Morrow Plots, which remain integral to the campus’s identity.

The 1890s marked the inclusion of liberal arts programs, broadening the university’s academic scope. A significant moment in UIUC’s history occurred in 1896 when the Illinois Industrial University merged with the Illinois College of Agriculture and the Illinois College of Engineering in Urbana. This union of educational forces gave birth to the current Urbana-Champaign campus, solidifying the university’s commitment to excellence in various disciplines.

The era of the World Wars (1910s-1940s)

UIUC played a crucial role during the two World Wars, contributing to research efforts and serving as a training ground for military personnel.

In the 1910s, the War Department established the Military Training Camp at the university, fostering a strong connection between UIUC and the armed forces. During World War II, the campus hosted the Navy Pier training centre and the Illini Union became a USO centre.

Post-war boom and academic innovation (1950s-1970s)

The post-war period witnessed a surge in enrolment, with returning veterans eager to pursue higher education. The university responded by expanding its academic programs and infrastructure.

The 1950s and 1960s saw the establishment of renowned research centres like the National Center for Supercomputing Applications (NCSA) and the Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology.

Civil rights movement and social changes (1960s-1970s)

UIUC, like many institutions, experienced the impact of the civil rights movement and social upheavals during the 1960s and the 1970s. Student activism played a role in shaping the university’s policies, reflecting a broader societal shift towards inclusivity and equality.

The birth of the internet (1980s)

In the 1980s, UIUC played a pivotal role in the development of the internet. The NCSA, housed at UIUC, was a primary site for the creation of Mosaic, one of the earliest web browsers. This innovation laid the groundwork for the internet as we know it today.

Recent decades (1990s-)

The late 20th century and the beginning of the 21st century witnessed continued growth and innovation at UIUC. The Research Park, established in 1999, became a hub for industry collaboration and innovation. The university has consistently ranked among the top public institutions globally, with its programs in engineering, computer science, and business earning widespread acclaim.

Frequently asked questions about off-campus student apartments near University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

How can I book off-campus student housing near UIUC on Student.com?

Booking off-campus housing on Student.com is quick and easy. First you need to find a property that suits your needs. You can use the filters and the map on this page to help with your search. After finding a property you like, go to the property page by clicking on ‘View rooms’.

On the property page you’ll need to choose your preferred room type and the dates you’d like to book the room for. After choosing, click on ‘Enquire’ or ‘Book Now’ and leave your contact details. One of our booking consultants will contact you shortly. They’ll answer any questions you may still have and help you through the next steps in the booking process once you are ready to make a booking.

Student.com does not charge you anything during the booking process. You’ll only be required to pay your rent to your landlord.

What are the different room types you offer for apartments near U of I?

We currently offer three different types of rooms near UIUC:

The Shared Rooms we list accommodate two or more people sleeping in the same bedroom. Other living facilities are also shared with other students.

Our Private Rooms have only one person in each bedroom. Depending on the property and the exact room you choose, your bathroom will be either private or shared. Other living facilities are shared with tenants from other rooms.

The Entire Place offers a fully self-contained studio apartment with a private bedroom, bathroom and kitchenette for cooking your meals. You don’t have to share anything, so this room type is perfect for you if you love your privacy!

Are bills included in the rent?

Most apartments in Champaign-Urbana have at least some bills included in the rent, but not necessarily all. When you find a property you like, make sure to check on its property page what bills, if any, are included in your rent there.

Are the apartments fully furnished?

Almost all the apartments we list in Champaign-Urbana are fully furnished, but we do also list some unfurnished ones. If you’d prefer to rent a furnished apartment, you can see only them by selecting the filter ‘Furnished available’ at the top of this page.