Estimated monthly costs

Housing landscape near Highline College

Highline College serves about 3,487 students in Des Moines, WA. Most students who live off-campus prioritize budget, commute time, or more independence after their first year.

Average rent near campus

Studios average $2,200/mo, 1-bedroom units $2,700/mo, and 2-bedroom units $3,750/mo. Shared leases often reduce per-person cost toward $1,900/mo.

On-campus vs off-campus

Most Highline College students weigh convenience, independence, and total monthly cost. On-campus housing simplifies billing; off-campus offers more space and roommate flexibility.

• Start your search 60–90 days before classes — inventory near Des Moines moves quickly before fall.
• Compare total monthly cost: rent + utilities + internet + transport, not just the listed rent.
• Tour at the time of day you will commute — traffic and noise differ by hour.
• Ask whether parking, furniture, and utilities are included before you sign.

How to search effectively

Typical all-in monthly costs near Highline College land around ~$3,460/mo estimated when sharing a 2BR. Use the budget calculator and roommate tools before signing — headline rent is only part of the story.

• Set a total monthly budget including utilities and transport
• Tour neighborhoods at your commute hour
• Use roommate matching before signing joint leases
• Set price alerts when inventory is limited

Next steps

Browse live listings, explore category filters (cheap, furnished, walking distance), and read neighborhood guides for Des Moines Heights, Midtown, Downtown, College Hill.