Best Places to Live for University of Hawaii Students
Deciding where to live is one of the biggest choices you'll make as a student attending the University of Hawaii. From breathtaking beaches to urban convenience, Hawaii offers a wide range of housing options. But with so many neighborhoods and apartment choices, how do you pick the best place to call home?
Living On or Near Campus
Manoa (Close to UH Manoa Campus)
Manoa is the most popular choice for students attending the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Why? It’s the closest neighborhood to campus, making it incredibly convenient.
Pros
Proximity to campus means you can easily walk or bike to class.
The area is lush and scenic, with plenty of green spaces for relaxation.
You’ll find plenty of coffee shops and spots like Morning Glass Coffee for your study breaks.
Cons
Rent in Manoa tends to be higher than in other areas due to its desirability and proximity to the university.
Limited nightlife options if you’re looking for an area that’s more lively.
For those who don’t mind paying a little extra to eliminate a long commute, living in Manoa is hard to beat. Many students choose off-campus housing such as shared apartments or rent rooms in Manoa homes.
Student Housing at UH Manoa
If convenience is your top priority, the official student housing offered by UH is a great option. The residence halls are within walking distance of your classes and come with built-in opportunities to connect with other students.
Typical Options
Hale Aloha Towers offers shared dorm-style housing perfect for undergrads eager to make connections.
Frear Hall provides suite-style living with more privacy, often preferred by upperclassmen.
Pros
Short walk to campus facilities.
Utilities are usually included in the housing fee.
Social events and activities create a vibrant student community.
Cons
Limited freedom in terms of decor, visitors, and space.
Rooms fill up quickly, so you’ll need to apply early.
Student housing options are on the older side
If you’re a first-year student or just arriving in Hawaii, starting in student housing is an easy way to acclimate.
Exploring Off-Campus Housing Choices
Moiliili (Budget-Friendly and Central)
Just south of Manoa is Moiliili, another highly recommended area for University of Hawaii students. This neighborhood is more affordable than Manoa itself but still close enough to campus to minimize your commute.
Pros
Budget-friendly rental options, including apartments and shared houses.
Home to lots of local food joints like YogurStory and Waiola Shave Ice.
Frequent bus routes that make it easy to reach campus and other parts of Honolulu.
Cons
Slightly older apartment buildings with fewer modern amenities.
Can be a bit noisy due to traffic and the busier environment.
Waikiki (For Beach Lovers)
If you’ve dreamed of living by the beach, Waikiki could be your perfect fit. While it’s a little farther from UH Manoa (about a 15-20 minute drive), the stunning ocean views more than make up for it.
Pros
Endless access to iconic beaches like Waikiki Beach and relaxing outdoor activities.
Proximity to restaurants, nightlife, and shopping centers.
Some apartment complexes include amenities like pools and gyms.
Cons
Higher rent compared to other neighborhoods.
Touristy vibe may not appeal to everyone.
For students who want to balance their studies with living in one of Hawaii’s most famous areas, Waikiki offers the perfect mix of work and play.
Kaimuki (Local Charm and Vibrant Community)
Kaimuki is located just a short distance from UH Manoa and offers a more residential, authentic feel compared to Waikiki. This neighborhood is known for its local charm, quaint streets, and popular dining spots.
Pros
Affordable rental options might fit tighter student budgets.
Loads of local eateries and bakeries like Leonard’s Bakery and Koko Head Cafe.
A quieter atmosphere than Waikiki or Moiliili, while still convenient.
Cons
Limited nightlife options for those seeking a livelier neighborhood.
Depending on where you live in Kaimuki, walking to campus could be impractical and require transportation.
For those who want to experience authentic, local Hawaii life while staying close to campus, Kaimuki may be the best fit.
Downtown Honolulu and Ala Moana
If you prefer living in a more urban environment, the Downtown Honolulu and Ala Moana areas are great picks. Though a bit farther from campus, these neighborhoods offer plenty of excitement and amenities.
Pros
Public transportation options like TheBus make it easy to commute to campus.
Close to Ala Moana Center, the largest open-air shopping center in the world, so shopping and dining are always within reach.
Vibrant nightlife and entertainment options.
Cons
Commutes can be longer during rush hour traffic.
Apartments may be on the pricier side.
If you’re looking for an energetic environment with lots of conveniences, this urban area might be the perfect choice.
Key Considerations When Choosing Housing
No matter which neighborhood or housing situation you choose, keep some of these factors in mind:
Budget: Apartment rents in Honolulu can be pricey, so it’s important to set a budget early. Consider sharing with roommates to cut costs.
Transportation: If you live farther from campus, be sure to check bus routes or parking availability if you have a car.
Lifestyle: Think about your priorities. Do you want to live near bustling nightlife, or do you prefer a quieter space to study?
Proximity: Decide how close you need to be to campus for convenience. Living closer often comes at a higher cost but saves commuting time.
Closing Thoughts And Finding Your Ideal Home
Hawaii’s gorgeous scenery, rich culture, and friendly community make it one of the most incredible places to live as a student. The key to finding the best place to live for University of Hawaii students is understanding your preferences and balancing them with your budget and commute requirements.
Take your time to explore different neighborhoods, visit apartments, and consider what works best for your studies and lifestyle. A little extra effort at the start of your housing search can make all the difference in finding a place you can truly call home.
If you’re ready to start the next chapter of your University of Hawaii adventure, start exploring your options today!
