If you’re a student gearing up to live in Orem, Utah—whether you’re attending Utah Valley University (UVU) or Brigham Young University (BYU) nearby—finding the right apartment can make or break your college experience. Orem’s a great spot: it’s got a chill vibe, easy access to the Wasatch Front, and plenty of student-friendly amenities. But with so many options, how do you narrow it down? Here’s a rundown of the key things to look for when hunting for a student apartment in Orem.
1. Location: Proximity to Campus and Essentials
First things first—where’s the apartment in relation to your school? If you’re at UVU, you’ll want something close to the campus hub near I-15. BYU students might look a little south toward Provo, but Orem’s northern edge can still work if you’re okay with a short commute. Check how far it is from class—can you walk, bike, or do you need a car? The Utah Transit Authority (UTA) runs buses and the FrontRunner train, so bonus points if your place is near a stop.
Beyond campus, think about daily life. Is there a grocery store nearby (think Smith’s or Macey’s)? How about coffee shops or cheap eats like Costa Vida or Cafe Rio? Orem’s got a solid spread of these, but you don’t want to be stuck driving 20 minutes for a late-night snack run.
2. Budget: Rent and Hidden Costs
Let’s talk money. Orem’s student housing scene varies wildly—shared rooms can start as low as $300-$400 a month, while private rooms or full apartments might push $600-$900, depending on how fancy you go. Decide what you can swing and stick to it. But don’t stop at rent: ask about utilities (water, electricity, internet). Some places bundle these in; others don’t, and that $50-$100 extra can sneak up on you. Also, check for parking fees—Orem’s not big on street parking in some complexes, so you might pay for a spot.
Pro tip: Split costs with roommates to save cash. Most student apartments in Orem are built for that anyway, with 2-4 bedroom setups being the norm.
3. Roommate Vibes and Living Arrangements
Speaking of roommates, this is huge. Some complexes (especially student-specific ones like The Branbury or University Gateway) offer roommate matching, which is clutch if you’re flying solo. Ask about the vibe—are people chill, studious, or party-central? Your late-night study sessions won’t mix well with a DJ-wannabe next door. Also, peek at the layout: shared bathroom or private? Kitchen size? Is there enough fridge space for everyone’s leftovers?
4. Amenities: What’s Worth It?
Orem’s student apartments love to tout amenities, but focus on what you’ll actually use. High-speed Wi-Fi is non-negotiable—Zoom classes and Netflix aren’t optional. A gym or pool? Nice if you’re into that, but don’t pay extra if you’ll never swim a lap. Laundry’s another biggie—on-site washers and dryers beat hauling clothes to a laundromat in the snow (yep, Utah winters are real). Some places even throw in study rooms or social lounges, which can be gold for meeting people or cramming for finals.
5. Condition and Maintenance
Not all apartments are created equal. Check the place out in person if you can—pictures lie. Look for red flags: water stains, funky smells, or sketchy wiring. Orem’s got a mix of older spots and shiny new builds, so don’t assume everything’s pristine. Ask how fast maintenance responds—leaky faucets or broken heaters in February are no joke. Reviews from past tenants can spill the tea on this; hunt those down online.
6. Lease Terms: Flexibility Matters
Student life’s unpredictable, so read the lease like it’s your final exam. How long are you locked in—semester, year, or month-to-month? Can you sublet if you snag that summer internship elsewhere? What’s the deal with breaking the lease if plans change? Orem’s student-heavy market means some landlords cater to this, but others are less forgiving. Know before you sign.
7. Safety and Community Feel
Orem’s pretty safe overall, but scope out the neighborhood. Is it well-lit at night? Any sketchy vibes? Student complexes often have keycard entry or security cameras, which can ease your mind. Also, think about the community—some places host events or have a tight-knit feel, which is great if you’re new to town. Others are more “keep to yourself,” which might suit you better.
8. Transportation and Parking
If you’ve got a car, parking’s a must-know. Some complexes offer free spots; others charge or have limited spaces—first-come, first-served. If you’re car-free, lean into Orem’s bike-friendly streets or UTA routes. The UVX bus line’s a lifesaver for UVU students, and it’s free with your student ID.
Apartment hunting in Orem can feel overwhelming, but break it down to what matters most: location, cost, and how it fits your student life. Start early—good spots near UVU and BYU get snatched up fast, especially around August. Hit up sites like KSL Classifieds or local Facebook groups for listings, and don’t be shy about touring a few places. The right apartment isn’t just a place to crash—it’s your home base for surviving (and thriving) in college.
