How to Find College Rentals in Duluth, MN:
A Guide for Students

1. Start Early

One of the most important steps in securing a rental in Duluth is to start your search early. The demand for student housing can be high, especially during the fall semester, so begin looking for available rentals at least 6 months before your intended move-in date for a house. This gives you ample time to explore your options, ask questions, and negotiate terms if necessary. If you’re looking for an apartment, you can look 3-4 earlier than needed!

2. Know Your Budget

Duluth offers a wide range of rental options, from affordable shared apartments to more upscale homes. Establishing a budget before you start looking will help narrow down your choices. Factor in not just rent, but utilities, parking fees, and other living expenses. The cost of living in Duluth is generally lower than in larger cities, but rental prices can still vary significantly depending on the neighborhood and size of the property.

3. Consider Your Location

Duluth is a relatively small city, but different neighborhoods offer distinct vibes. If you’re attending UMD or CSS, you may prefer to stay closer to campus to save time and transportation costs. Popular neighborhoods for students include:

• Downtown Duluth: Offers a mix of apartments and houses with easy access to shops, restaurants, and the waterfront. It’s an ideal location for those who want to be near both school and city life.
  
  
• Kenwood: A quiet, residential neighborhood with access to parks and trails. It’s a great area for students who prefer a more peaceful environment but still want to be close to campus.
  
  
• East Hillside: This neighborhood is home to many student rentals and offers a variety of affordable housing options, from shared apartments to single-family homes.

Deciding on a location that’s close to your school, grocery stores, and public transportation will make life much easier.

4. Use Local Rental Listings

Duluth has several online resources and websites dedicated to finding rental properties. Here are some places to start:

• Craigslist Duluth: A popular platform where landlords often post listings for apartments, houses, and rooms for rent.
  
  
• UMD Off-Campus Housing: The University of Minnesota Duluth has an off-campus housing website that lists apartments and rental houses available to students.
  
  
• Facebook Marketplace: Many landlords and students use Facebook Marketplace to post available rentals, including private listings and sublets.
  
  
• Zillow and Apartments.com: While more general, these websites have a robust selection of rental listings and can help you get an idea of what’s available in Duluth.
  
  
• Local Property Management Companies: Many property management companies in Duluth, such as Friday Properties Management, offer listings specifically geared toward students.

5. Check University Bulletin Boards and Campus Resources

Both UMD and the College of St. Scholastica have bulletin boards (both physical and online) where students post available rooms, apartments, or houses for rent. These resources can often give you access to rentals not listed on larger rental websites. It’s also worth talking to your school’s housing office—they may have recommendations or connections to rental properties in Duluth.

6. Visit Properties in Person

While online listings are convenient, nothing beats seeing a property in person. Schedule showings to get a feel for the space, the condition of the property, and the surrounding neighborhood. Pay attention to:
The overall condition of the property (e.g., cleanliness, maintenance).
Proximity to public transportation, grocery stores, and other essentials.
Safety features, such as secure entryways, proper lighting, and working locks.

If possible, try to tour multiple properties in one day to get a better sense of the local rental market. Schedule a tour with us here.

7. Be Prepared for the Application Process

Once you find a rental that you like, be prepared to apply quickly. The rental market in Duluth can be competitive, especially during peak moving times. You may need to submit an application, pay an application fee, and provide references or proof of income. If you’re a student without a significant income, landlords may ask for a co-signer (such as a parent or guardian) to guarantee the lease.

8. Understand Your Lease Terms

Before signing a lease, carefully review the terms and conditions. Pay attention to:

• The length of the lease (typically 12 months or the school year).
• Rent payment due dates and accepted payment methods.
• Security deposits and any clauses related to damages or late fees.
• Rules about pets, parking, and noise.

If anything is unclear, ask the landlord or property manager for clarification before committing to the rental.

9. Look for Roommate Opportunities

Renting with roommates can significantly reduce your housing costs, and many students in Duluth opt for shared rentals. Whether you’re looking to split a house or share an apartment, having roommates can provide both financial and social benefits. Some online platforms, like Facebook groups and Craigslist, have specific roommate search sections, which can help you find someone compatible.

10. Stay Flexible

Sometimes, the first rental you find might not be the perfect fit. If you’re having trouble finding a place that suits your needs, try to stay flexible in terms of location, amenities, or rental terms. Be open to exploring different areas of Duluth, and you may discover hidden gems that offer both value and convenience.