For any college student, deciding where to live is a big deal.
Whether it’s a shared dorm in Helaman Halls or an off-campus apartment near University Avenue, housing can shape an entire year’s worth of experiences at BYU.
The decision between living on-campus or off-campus comes with a mix of lifestyle, financial and practical factors.
On-campus options, including Helaman Halls, Heritage Halls and Wyview Park, offer fixed-semester pricing and often include utilities, internet and meal plans.
For the 2025–26 academic year, Heleman Halls averages about $2,000 per semester for a shared room, with the required dining plan adding $2,100 or more. Getting a spot can be competitive.
“Housing priority begins after new admits for the fall are released in February,” Chauncey Wilkes, Assistant Manager at BYU Residence Life, said. “Students are ranked and receive housing in order of their BYU application date.”
Certain halls, such as Stover Hall and some Heritage dorms, tend to fill first.
Wilkes said this year, BYU is also shifting more freshman women to the Riviera complex due to higher-than-expected enrollment.
Community ranks high among reasons to live on campus, especially for freshmen.
“I met some of my best friends living in the dorms my freshman year,” Lydia Harris, a senior, said. “I’m still living with some of them now, and they’ll be my friends for life.”
On-campus residents enjoy walkable access to the Harold B. Lee Library, the Wilkinson Student Center and many class buildings.
Residence Life also organizes frequent events, hall activities and intramural sports teams.
Off-campus students, meanwhile, often have to take a more proactive approach to building community.
Off-campus housing offers more variety and independence.
“Living off campus has given me more freedom,” Justice Larkin, a sophomore at BYU, said.
Prices vary widely. Most students pay $450 to $650 per month for shared apartments, though private rooms and upscale complexes cost more.
Some complexes are known for being more social, which can raise both demand and price.
Transportation can be a bigger factor off-campus. Students often rely on UTA’s free UVX bus, bikes or cars. Weather and wait times can be obstacles at times.
“Getting to class from off campus in the snow was brutal sometimes,” Larkin said. “If you don’t have a car, plan time for that.”
Ultimately, each option has strengths.
On-campus living can be ideal for new students who want structure and built-in community, while off-campus apartments offer more freedom and diversity in neighbors.
“Don’t just go with what your friends are doing,” Harris said. “Think about where you are in your BYU timeline and what experience you want.”
For more information and resources, visit (https://housing.byu.edu/secure/services/c_main/default.aspx)