
Finding student housing in Rockville for rent requires balancing budget constraints with quality living conditions and location convenience. Over 675 student-friendly rentals offer options from studios to multi-bedroom apartments accommodating various needs. Woodmont Park Apartments provides one-bedrooms starting at $1,465 monthly with pool access and one month free. The Villages at Decoverly offers one-bedrooms from $1,590 with fitness center and hardwood floors. The Met Rockville features studios at $1,632 downtown providing most affordable individual living option.
College students face unique housing challenges including limited income, academic schedules, and temporary housing needs. Traditional leases require year-long commitments when students may need just nine months. Roommate matching, proximity to campus or internships, and furnished options all matter significantly. Understanding available options and budgeting strategies helps students secure quality housing without financial stress.
Understanding the Rockville Student Housing Market
Student housing in Rockville for rent serves diverse educational institutions and intern populations nearby. Montgomery College Rockville Campus sits within the city providing substantial local student demand. University of Maryland College Park students sometimes choose Rockville for quieter suburban living. Federal government internships and NIH programs bring temporary student workers needing housing. This variety creates robust market of 675 properties accommodating student needs.
Pricing for student-appropriate housing typically ranges from $1,400 to $2,500 monthly per unit. Studios and one-bedrooms suit individual students or couples attending school together. Two-bedroom apartments enable roommate cost-sharing reducing per-person monthly expenses substantially. Three and four-bedroom units accommodate larger roommate groups maximizing affordability for everyone. For comprehensive city context, explore this detailed Rockville city guide.
Location considerations balance school proximity, Metro access, and neighborhood safety for students. Properties near Twinbrook and Shady Grove Metro stations enable car-free commuting to Washington. Downtown Rockville locations provide walkability to dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Suburban complexes offer quieter study environments with parking for students with vehicles. According to Apartments.com's student housing listings, the variety accommodates different student priorities and budgets.
Lease flexibility matters more for students than traditional renters needing long-term stability. Nine-month leases align with academic calendars avoiding summer payment obligations when away. Month-to-month options accommodate unpredictable graduation dates, internships, or program changes suddenly. Some properties allow subletting during summer enabling students to offset costs effectively.
Most Affordable Student Housing Options
Affordable student housing in Rockville provides quality living without excessive costs straining limited budgets. Several properties specifically accommodate student needs through competitive pricing, convenient location, and practical amenities.
Budget-Friendly Apartments for Students
Properties offering best value for student budgets include:
- Woodmont Park Apartments ($1,465+ one-bedroom, $1,920+ two-bedroom, $2,190+ three-bedroom): Located at 1001 Rockville Pike with one month free promotion reducing effective costs. Pool, dishwasher, disposal, and high-speed internet come standard throughout units. The Rockville Pike location provides easy access to major roads and shopping centers. Three-bedroom units enable three roommates to split costs paying just $730 each monthly.
- The Villages at Decoverly ($1,590+ one-bedroom, $1,932+ two-bedroom, $2,467+ three-bedroom): Property at 9901 Gable Ridge Terrace offers special promotions periodically throughout the year. Fitness center, pool, high-speed internet, and hardwood floors comprise standard amenities offered. Three-bedroom units allow roommates to pay approximately $822 monthly each when shared. The pet-friendly policy accommodates students with emotional support animals registered properly through healthcare providers.
- The Met Rockville ($1,632 studio, $2,118+ one-bedroom, $2,690+ two-bedroom): Located at 255 N Washington Street downtown with discount opportunities available periodically. Studios provide most affordable individual living at $1,632 monthly total for students. Downtown location enables walking to restaurants, shops, and entertainment without owning vehicles. Two-bedroom units split between roommates cost approximately $1,345 each monthly reducing costs.
- Huntington at King Farm ($1,710+ one-bedroom, $2,404+ two-bedroom, $2,985+ three-bedroom): Property at 801 Elmcroft Boulevard in desirable King Farm neighborhood location. Pet-friendly with dishwasher, in-unit washer and dryer, and stainless steel appliances included. Three-bedroom units enable $995 per roommate when split three ways between students. Maintenance on-site ensures quick repair response during busy academic schedules and exam periods. This neighborhoods guide provides comprehensive area coverage.
- Scarborough Square ($1,751+ one-bedroom, $2,035+ two-bedroom, $2,559+ three-bedroom): Property at 438 College Parkway near Montgomery College Rockville Campus conveniently located. The proximity to campus enables walking or short driving to classes daily. Three-bedroom units accommodate roommates at approximately $853 each monthly when costs get split.
- Persei at Pike and Rose ($1,771+ one-bedroom, $2,855+ two-bedroom): Located at 900 PerSei Place in North Bethesda development area near shopping. The Pike and Rose location provides walkability to shops and restaurants reducing transportation needs. Two-bedroom units split between roommates cost approximately $1,428 each monthly total.
- Axis at Shady Grove ($1,800+ studio, $1,890+ one-bedroom, $2,610+ two-bedroom): Located on Corporate Boulevard near Shady Grove Metro station providing transit access. Pet-friendly with fitness center, pool, and modern kitchen appliances included standard. Two-bedroom units split between roommates cost approximately $1,305 each monthly reducing costs. The Metro proximity eliminates parking costs and vehicle maintenance expenses substantially.
- Mallory Square ($1,826+ studio, $2,034+ one-bedroom, $2,414+ two-bedroom): Property at 15251 Siesta Key Way with special promotions available periodically. Pet-friendly with dishwasher, in-unit washer and dryer, maintenance on-site, and package service. Two-bedroom units split between roommates cost approximately $1,207 each monthly total.
- The Trails at King Farm ($1,845+ one-bedroom, $2,140+ two-bedroom, $2,860+ three-bedroom): Property at 465 Elmcroft Boulevard with one month free promotion reducing annual costs. Fitness center, pool, dishwasher, in-unit washer and dryer, and high-speed internet included. Three-bedroom units enable roommates to pay approximately $953 each monthly when shared. The King Farm location provides walkability to shops reducing car dependency significantly. For young professional and student insights, check this young professional areas guide.
- BLVD Forty Four ($1,958+ studio, $2,185+ one-bedroom, $2,889+ two-bedroom): Located at 44 Maryland Avenue downtown providing urban living experience for students. Studios at $1,958 monthly provide affordable individual living in walkable location. Two-bedroom units split between roommates cost approximately $1,445 each monthly total.
- Bell Shady Grove ($1,964+ studio, $2,050+ one-bedroom, $2,505+ two-bedroom): Property at 15250 Siesta Key Way near Shady Grove Metro station. Pet-friendly with fitness center, pool, dishwasher, refrigerator, and kitchen included standard. Two-bedroom units split between roommates cost approximately $1,253 each monthly when shared.
- MAA Fallsgrove ($1,980+ one-bedroom, $1,698+ two-bedroom): Located at 102 Fallsgrove Boulevard with special promotions available reducing costs. Interestingly, two-bedroom units cost less than one-bedrooms at this property currently. Two-bedroom units split between roommates cost just $849 each monthly providing exceptional value.
- The Laureate ($1,995 studio, $2,128+ one-bedroom, $2,752+ two-bedroom): Property at 8005 Gramercy Boulevard offering studios under $2,000 monthly. Two-bedroom units split between roommates cost approximately $1,376 each monthly total.
- Avalon at Traville ($1,975+ one-bedroom, $2,167+ two-bedroom, $3,110+ three-bedroom): Located at 14240 Alta Oaks Drive with one month free promotion available. Pet-friendly with fitness center, pool, high-speed internet, grill, and courtyard spaces included. Three-bedroom units split three ways cost approximately $1,037 per roommate monthly.
- BLVD Ansel ($2,054+ studio, $2,349+ one-bedroom, $2,858+ two-bedroom): Property at 33 Monroe Street downtown with premium amenities included. Fitness center, pool, clubhouse, package service, concierge, EV charging, and rooftop deck. Two-bedroom units split between roommates cost approximately $1,429 each monthly total.
- Elms Shady Grove ($2,057+ one-bedroom, $2,636+ two-bedroom, $3,271+ three-bedroom): Located at 10031 Blackwell Road near Shady Grove Metro station conveniently. Pet-friendly with fitness center, pool, dishwasher, in-unit washer and dryer, and controlled access. Three-bedroom units split three ways cost approximately $1,090 per roommate monthly.
- Fenestra at The Square ($1,986+ one-bedroom, $2,535+ two-bedroom): Property at 20 Maryland Avenue downtown with controlled access security. Pet-friendly with fitness center, in-unit washer and dryer, clubhouse, and package service. Two-bedroom units split between roommates cost approximately $1,268 each monthly reducing costs.
- The Ivy Rockville ($2,514+ two-bedroom, $2,433+ three-bedroom, $3,151+ four-bedroom): Located at 1699 Yale Place with one month free promotion available. Pet-friendly with fitness center, dishwasher, in-unit washer and dryer, and package service. Four-bedroom units enable roommates to pay approximately $788 each monthly providing excellent value.
- Park Terrace Apartments ($1,549+ one-bedroom, $1,740+ two-bedroom, $2,155+ three-bedroom): Property at 500 Mt Vernon Place offering excellent student value overall. Three-bedroom units split three ways cost approximately $718 per roommate monthly total. The affordable pricing makes this accessible for students with limited financial aid budgets.
- The Perry ($2,356+ one-bedroom, $4,928+ two-bedroom): Located at 12430 Park Potomac Avenue in Potomac area nearby. Higher-end pricing reflects premium location and amenities offered to residents.
Individual Rental Listings
Individual apartment listings sometimes offer better value than large complex rentals for students:
- Furnished Studio at 2621 Research Boulevard ($2,309): Fully furnished studio eliminates furniture costs for temporary student housing needs. The furnished option particularly suits international students or those relocating from distant locations.
22-34. Various units at 14240 Alta Oaks Drive ($2,310-$3,800): Multiple one, two, and three-bedroom apartments available at this address. One-bedroom units range $2,310-$2,420 monthly for individual students or couples. Two-bedroom units range $2,530-$3,410 enabling roommate cost-sharing arrangements effectively. Three-bedroom units range $3,410-$3,800 split among three roommates costing $1,137-$1,267 each. For family-focused neighborhood information, explore this family neighborhoods guide.
How Much Should I Pay for Student Accommodation
How much should I pay for student accommodation in Rockville depends on several factors affecting budgets. Financial aid packages, part-time employment, family support, and savings all influence affordable rent levels. General guidelines help students budget realistically without overextending finances during school years.
Student Budget Guidelines
Housing costs should not exceed 30% of total monthly income ideally per financial planning guidelines. Students earning $2,000 monthly from part-time work should cap rent at $600 maximum. This budget often requires roommate arrangements since individual apartments exceed this threshold substantially. Multiple roommates enable expensive apartments to become affordable per person through strategic cost-sharing.
Financial aid awards sometimes include housing allowances helping offset rental costs throughout academic semesters. Federal student loans allow borrowing for living expenses beyond just tuition and fees. However, minimizing student debt requires keeping housing costs as low as possible reasonably. Graduating with less debt provides better financial foundation for post-college life and careers.
Parent contributions vary dramatically between families with some covering all costs and others nothing. Students should clarify family support levels before committing to rental agreements anywhere in Rockville. Overestimating available support leads to financial stress and potential housing loss mid-semester. Honest conversations about money prevent difficult situations requiring withdrawal from school temporarily.
Cost-Sharing Through Roommates
Roommate arrangements dramatically reduce per-person housing costs making expensive apartments affordable for students. Two students splitting $2,000 two-bedroom pay just $1,000 each monthly total. Three students in $2,500 three-bedroom pay approximately $833 each monthly reducing costs. Four students sharing $3,000 four-bedroom pay just $750 each monthly total overall.
Finding compatible roommates requires careful screening beyond just financial considerations importantly always. Study habits, cleanliness standards, noise preferences, and schedules all affect roommate compatibility significantly. Mismatched roommates create stress affecting academic performance and mental health negatively over time. Taking time to interview potential roommates prevents conflicts arising later during semester coursework.
Roommate agreements should clarify financial responsibilities, utilities, supplies, and guest policies upfront clearly. Putting expectations in writing prevents misunderstandings causing conflicts later during tenancy periods. Agree on cleaning schedules, quiet hours, shared space usage, and bill payment methods. These proactive conversations create smoother living situations throughout the entire academic year successfully.
Is It Expensive to Live in Rockville, MD as Student
Is it expensive to live in Rockville, MD compared to other student housing markets regionally? Yes, Rockville costs more than many college towns due to Washington proximity and amenities. However, strategies exist for making Rockville affordable on typical student budgets with careful planning.
Cost Comparison Context
Rockville rental prices exceed traditional college towns like College Park or Baltimore significantly overall. University of Maryland students pay $600-1,000 monthly per person in College Park typically. Rockville's higher costs reflect better schools, safety, and proximity to professional internship opportunities. Students willing to commute from cheaper areas save money but sacrifice convenience daily.
Comparing Rockville to downtown Washington, D.C. reveals Rockville offers better value for students. Capitol Hill studios rent for $1,800-2,500 monthly easily exceeding Rockville equivalent options. Georgetown and Dupont Circle neighborhoods command even higher premiums from student renters. Rockville provides suburban safety and value while maintaining Metro access to downtown.
Living with parents or relatives in Rockville eliminates housing costs entirely for local students. Montgomery College Rockville Campus students from the area save thousands annually through this. Students should consider this option honestly despite desire for independence during school years. The financial benefits create better foundation for independence after graduation completion later.
Additional Living Expenses
Utilities add $100-150 monthly per person when not included in base rent costs. Electric, gas, water, internet, and streaming services combine quickly affecting student budgets. Roommates splitting utilities reduces per-person costs compared to individual apartment living arrangements. Some complexes include utilities in rent simplifying budgeting and preventing seasonal bill surprises.
Food costs run $200-400 monthly per person depending on cooking versus dining out habits. Grocery shopping and meal preparation saves substantially over constant restaurant eating daily. Meal prepping on weekends reduces weeknight stress while controlling food expenses effectively. Students with meal plans at Montgomery College may reduce food costs further overall.
Transportation expenses vary based on car ownership versus Metro pass purchase decisions made. Monthly Metro passes cost approximately $200 providing unlimited rides throughout the entire system. Car ownership adds insurance ($150+ monthly), gas ($100+ monthly), and parking fees ($50-150 monthly). The Metro option typically saves money while eliminating parking hassles and maintenance stress.
Student-Friendly Amenities and Features
Certain amenities particularly benefit students beyond general apartment features benefiting all typical renters. High-speed internet enables online classes, research, and entertainment without buffering issues constantly. In-unit washer and dryer saves time and money compared to laundromats requiring quarters. Fitness centers eliminate separate gym membership costs of $30-50 monthly typically charged.
Study-friendly environments include quiet neighborhoods, good lighting, and adequate desk space in units. Students prioritize sleep and concentration over nightlife proximity during academic semesters and exams. Noise complaints and disruptive neighbors create academic performance problems through lost sleep nightly. Visiting properties during evenings reveals actual noise levels before signing leases blindly anywhere.
Package service prevents delivery theft for students receiving textbooks and supplies frequently through online ordering. Controlled building access provides security for students living alone or with roommates daily. On-site maintenance ensures quick repairs preventing issues from disrupting study schedules and routines. These features justify slightly higher rents through convenience and reduced stress during semesters.
Pet-friendly policies matter for students with emotional support animals reducing anxiety and depression symptoms. Proper ESA documentation from licensed mental health professionals provides legal protections students need. Pet deposits and monthly pet rent still apply to ESAs in most cases typically. Understanding specific property policies prevents surprises during application processes requiring proper documentation.
Lease Terms and Student Considerations
Standard 12-month leases create challenges for students needing nine-month housing during academic years. Summer sublets allow recouping costs when away for break or summer employment opportunities. Some properties prohibit subletting requiring full 12-month payment obligations regardless of actual occupancy. Understanding subletting policies before signing prevents paying for empty apartments during summer breaks.
Academic calendar alignment requires planning move-in dates around class schedules carefully each semester. August and January move-ins coincide with semester starts requiring advance planning and security deposits. Competition for August rentals peaks as students return simultaneously from summer breaks everywhere. Starting housing searches in May-June provides better August options than waiting until July.
Early termination clauses protect students from full lease obligations if circumstances change unexpectedly during year. Graduation, program changes, or financial hardship may require leaving before lease ends officially. Understanding termination penalties and notice requirements prevents surprises if situations change dramatically. Some properties charge 2-3 months rent as early termination penalty fees typically.
Finding and Securing Student Housing
Multiple search channels help students find housing matching budgets and preferences effectively online currently. Apartments.com and similar sites filter by price, bedrooms, and student-friendly features specifically listed. University housing offices sometimes maintain off-campus housing listings and roommate matching services available. Social media groups for specific schools connect students seeking roommates and housing arrangements.
Timing matters significantly with peak leasing season running May through August for fall semester moves. Properties near Montgomery College lease quickly during this period requiring early action from students. Winter leasing for spring semester moves sees less competition and potential negotiation opportunities. Flexible move-in dates sometimes yield better deals from landlords filling vacant units quickly.
Virtual tours enable initial screening before committing time to physical property visits saving effort. Matterport 3D tours provide comprehensive views of layouts and finishes accurately represented online. Video tours showcase amenities and community spaces supplementing photos provided in listings well. These tools help narrow options to serious contenders worth visiting in person physically. Living in Rockville Town Square offers downtown student living details.
Finding student housing in Rockville for rent requires balancing affordability, location, and quality carefully always. Roommate arrangements make expensive apartments affordable through strategic cost-sharing reducing per-person payments substantially. Properties starting at $1,465 monthly provide accessible options for budget-conscious students sharing costs effectively. Metro-accessible locations enable car-free living saving substantial transportation costs throughout semesters and academic years. Over 675 student-appropriate rentals provide options across various price points and neighborhoods throughout Rockville. Planning ahead, finding compatible roommates, and understanding lease terms help students secure quality housing without excessive financial stress.

