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Your First Year Starts Here

Congratulations! You’ve been accepted to University of Maryland. If you’re already planning for your freshman year as part of the Class of 2030, one of the first big decisions ahead is choosing where to live.

From traditional residence halls to off campus communities, each option offers a different college experience. Securing housing for next year is one of the first major steps, and planning early makes a difference.

This guide walks through what to expect and what to consider when searching for freshman housing at University of Maryland. If you’d like personalized guidance as you explore your options, schedule a consultation with a Rambler team member to get your questions answered and learn more about finding the right home for your first year at UMD.

Where do UMD freshman students live?

A look at where UMD students actually live, from on-campus residence halls to off-campus student communities and the neighborhoods in between. We break down the trade-offs of each so you can find your fit.

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Three young women sit on a blanket in a grassy park, posing for a selfie. They are smiling, wearing casual clothes, and have backpacks nearby.
On-Campus Living

UMD offers more than 25 residence halls and university-operated apartment communities, including White Creek Apartments on the west side of campus. On-campus housing typically includes shared bathrooms, community lounges, study spaces, and access to campus resources.

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Two students walk down the steps outside a brick building with white columns labeled Zeta Psi. Trees frame the entrance, and a Greek letter symbol is painted on the walkway in front of the building.
Off-Campus Traditional Apartments

For a more budget-conscious option, traditional apartment communities in College Park provide a less student-focused environment. Rates are typically structured per unit rather than per bedroom and often range from $900 to $2,500+ per month depending on size and location.

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Empty room with white walls, dark wooden floor, a large window with a door leading outside, and sunlight streaming in.
Off-Campus Student Apartments

Purpose-built student apartment communities in College Park are designed specifically for UMD students and are commonly located in areas like Northgate, along University Drive, and throughout the Wellborn and Holleman corridors.

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A cozy, modern bedroom with a neatly made bed, earth-toned pillows, a blue bolster, wall art, plants, a desk with a lamp, shelves, and a view into a bathroom with a white shower curtain.
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Why live off campus as a freshman?

Starting at UMD marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter, and where you choose to live can shape that experience in meaningful ways. While residence halls are a common first step, many freshmen explore off campus living as a way to create a college routine that feels more independent and aligned with their goals.

Modern white kitchen with wood flooring, stainless steel appliances, an island with two barstools with yellow legs, and bright lighting. Open doors lead to adjacent rooms.

Cook your own meals.

UMD residence halls provide meal plans and shared kitchen spaces, but flexibility can be limited. Off-campus apartments offer full kitchens that allow freshmen to prepare meals on their own time. Having access to a personal kitchen provides greater control over daily routines and dining preferences.

A cozy living room with a blue sofa, coffee table, TV, plants, wall art, and a window with beige curtains letting in natural light. Neutral decor and a striped rug complete the modern, inviting space.

Enjoy your own space.

Dorm living often includes shared bedrooms and communal bathrooms. Off-campus housing near UMD typically offers private bedrooms and, in many cases, private bathrooms. The added space makes it easier to focus on academics, recharge after busy days, and settle into a comfortable routine.

A courtyard with artificial grass, benches, a bocce court, landscaped plants, and tall apartment buildings surrounding the area under a partly cloudy sky.

Stay all year round.

Students planning to take summer classes, internships, or remain in College Park between semesters often prefer year-round lease options. Unlike residence halls that close during extended breaks, many off-campus communities allow continuous residency.

A modern lounge with foosball table, round table with chairs, and people sitting on a couch watching TV. Large windows let in natural light, and pendant lights hang from the ceiling.

Access to amenities.

Many off-campus communities include amenities that support both academics and connection. Study lounges, fitness centers, pools, and gathering spaces provide convenient access to dedicated spaces for focus, activity, and relaxation.

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FAQ

Finding the right roommates is an important part of planning for freshman year. At Rambler, roommate matching is available to help pair residents based on lifestyle preferences and floor plan selection, making the process simple and structured from the start.
For more details about how roommate matching works or to discuss current availability, contact the leasing team for additional information.

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