HOUSING
Housing at Texas State University
On campus or off? Real costs, how to apply, and what to check before you sign a lease.
On-campus residence halls
| Room type | Features | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional hall | Double rooms, shared bathrooms by floor, lowest cost | First-year students who want to save and socialize |
| Suite-style | Two bedrooms sharing one bathroom | More privacy while staying on campus |
| Apartment-style | Kitchen, living room, 2–4 students per unit | Upper-year and graduate students |
Housing & Food in the 2026–27 cost of attendance is about $13,330 for 9 months (meal plan included). Housing contracts run for the academic year (Fall + Spring).
Applying for housing — 4 steps
Follow this order
- Get your admission letter → activate your student account (NetID)
- Submit the housing application on the Housing & Residential Life portal + pay the deposit
- Rank preferred halls and room types, name a roommate if you have one
- Receive your room assignment by email before move-in
Key tips
- Apply the moment you are admitted — popular halls fill fast
- Do not wait for your visa to apply for housing
- Bedding and lamps are cheap at Target/Walmart in San Marcos — no need to pack them
- U.S. outlets are 110V with flat prongs — bring an adapter
Off-campus apartments
Reference rents
Student housing rents by the bedroom in furnished 2–4 bedroom units: roughly $600–$900 per person per month depending on location and amenities.
Popular areas
Near campus/downtown (walkable, pricier); along Aquarena Springs and Post Road (large complexes with shuttle); Wonder World Drive (quieter, near H-E-B and the outlets).
12-month leases
Unlike halls, private leases usually run 12 months — you pay through summer even if you fly home.
Before you sign a lease
Frequently asked questions
Must first-year students live on campus?
TXST encourages first-year students to live on campus for a faster transition. Specific policies vary by intake — the International Office will confirm for you.
Do halls stay open over winter break?
Some halls close during winter break. If you stay in the U.S., register for break housing or rent off campus.
Can I request a specific roommate?
Yes — both students name each other on their applications. Many international students choose a domestic roommate to improve their English faster.
What does it really cost per month?
Off campus shared: about $600–$900 rent + $60–$100 utilities and internet. On campus, everything is included in the $13,330 for 9 months.
Need help choosing housing?
The International Office helps you submit the housing application and connects you with current students for first-hand advice.