Lubbock Student Life: A Local Expert's Guide to Top Neighborhoods to Rent Near Tech and Other Local Campuses
If you're planning to go to college in Lubbock, Texas, (or send your kiddo that way), I promise you won't go wrong with choosing this far-west little city in the Lone Star State.
First, I'm going to acknowledge the obvious. Sure, Lubbock doesn't have the glitz and glam of Dallas, Houston's Gulf Coast swag, or a quirky vibe like Austin has. But Lubbock has its own kind of magic. Big smiles. Bigger skies. And breathtaking sunsets over the South Plains.
Plus, there's lots of fun stuff to do in the "Hub City" (that's what the locals call Lubbock). And most importantly, you'll make tons of new friends from all over the state, country, and the world.
For decades, I worked in the workforce development world, along with playing a big role in higher education. I've traveled all over Texas, and spent weeks and months in every corner of our vast state. And yes, I've spent a lot of my time getting to know Lubbock. I actually brought my own daughter to Lubbock for a college tour, with a couple of her BFFs in tow. My daughter ended up going somewhere else, but one of those BFFs? She now has a nursing degree, courtesy of Texas Tech. And she loves Lubbock.
I'm Tiff, your ApartmentHomeLiving.com local expert on Lubbock and several other Texas cities. I'm here today to help you get to know some of the most popular neighborhoods for students near the top five colleges and universities in Lubbock. Buckle up!
1. Texas Tech University
Texas Tech is truly the heart of Lubbock. As I said, I've visited the campus multiple times, and it's one of a kind. Tech is a massive Tier One research university known for everything from its law school and engineering programs, to its strong school spirit and winning football team. The campus is beautiful with its Spanish Renaissance architecture. In the last few years, Tech's been getting some much-deserved positive attention because it's the college home of none other than Super Bowl winning quarterback Patrick Mahomes (Go Chiefs!). Guns up!
South Overton
Current Rental Pricing for the South Overton Neighborhood
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $727 | $391 | $1,141 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartments | $873 | $376 | $1,388 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartments | $874 | $454 | $1,667 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartments | $829 | $550 | $2,000 |
| 4 Bedroom Apartments | $748 | $449 | $2,600 |
If you want to live close to downtown, but in a quieter neighborhood, South Overton is for you. It's located just south of the campus. That means you can literally roll out of bed, and walk to class. The area is packed with students, and you can count on there always being an energetic vibe. This is where you'll find popular bars like The Library and Chimy's Cerveceria, where the patios are always full. For food, you can grab a slice at One Guy from Italy or hit up Local for a good burger. J&B Coffee is a legendary spot for studying or just hanging out. You're also right next to Overton Park, which is a nice green space to toss a frisbee or relax when the weather is good.
- Walk score: 75 / 100
- Transit score: 42 / 100
- Bike score: 67 / 100
Jackson-Mahon
Current Rental Pricing for Apartments in the Jackson-Mahon Neighborhood
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $727 | $391 | $1,141 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartments | $909 | $376 | $1,388 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartments | $885 | $454 | $1,667 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartments | $840 | $550 | $2,000 |
| 4 Bedroom Apartments | $766 | $449 | $2,600 |
Just west of campus, the Jackson-Mahon neighborhood gives a slightly more relaxed feel while still being very close to everything. You'll find a mix of student rentals and single-family homes. A more settled and residential atmosphere. A great choice if you want easy access to Tech without the constant noise of Broadway Avenue. For a classic Lubbock meal, Orlando's Italian Restaurant is your go-to destination right there in the neighborhood. You'll love Sugar Brown's Coffee for unique drinks and its cozy study environment. Outdoor spaces? Mahon Park. Students love the popular Paws Pet Adoption center and disc golf course.
Transportation:
- Walk score: 61 / 100
- Bike score: 57 / 100
- Transit score: 31 / 100
Heart of Lubbock
Current Rental Pricing for Apartments in the Heart of Lubbock Neighborhood
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $725 | $391 | $1,141 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartments | $875 | $376 | $1,388 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartments | $861 | $454 | $1,667 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartments | $833 | $550 | $2,000 |
| 4 Bedroom Apartments | $773 | $449 | $2,600 |
True to its name, the Heart of Lubbock neighborhood is centrally located just south of Tech. This is an older area with a lot of character. You'll see charming brick houses and tree-lined streets. It's a bit quieter than the neighborhoods closer to campus, but you're still just a short bike ride away. You can get your caffeine fix at Gold Stripe Coffee Roasters. And when you need a break from studying, Maxey Park is a huge green space. Think a lake and walking trails.
Transportation:
- Walk score: 69 / 100
- Bike score: 60 / 100
- Transit score: 31 / 100
2. Lubbock Christian University
Lubbock Christian University is known for its close-knit community and faith-based education. The smaller class sizes allow for a very personal experience. The campus is beautiful and feels like a small town all on its own. A supportive atmosphere for everyone there.
Coronado
Current Rental Pricing for Apartments in the Coronado Neighborhood
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $699 | $590 | $1,379 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartments | $819 | $572 | $1,249 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartments | $894 | $589 | $1,650 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartments | $1,233 | $919 | $2,700 |
| 4 Bedroom Apartments | $1,517 | $1,280 | $1,725 |
The Coronado neighborhood sits just east of LCU. It's a classic suburban neighborhood with well-kept homes and quiet streets, so it's perfect if you're looking for a peaceful place to study. You're also right by a lot of shopping and dining options along Slide Road and the Loop 289 access road. Yellow House Coffee is a popular local spot that's just a short drive away. For recreation, A.C. Read Park has tennis courts, a playground, and plenty of open space to enjoy a sunny afternoon.
- Walk score: 66 / 100
- Transit score: 21 / 100
- Bike score: 53 / 100
Bowie
Current Rental Pricing for Apartments in the Bowie Neighborhood
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $800 | $590 | $1,379 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartments | $865 | $572 | $1,750 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartments | $984 | $649 | $1,650 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartments | $1,332 | $919 | $2,700 |
| 4 Bedroom Apartments | $1,487 | $1,280 | $1,695 |
Located south of the LCU campus, Bowie is another comfortable residential neighborhood that's a great fit for students. It shares a similar quiet, suburban feel with Coronado and give you a mix of affordable apartments and rental houses. The neighborhood is very safe and family-friendly. It's also close to all the commercial activity on Slide Road, so you're never far from grocery stores or restaurants. Bowie Park provides a nice, small green space within the neighborhood for a quick walk or study break.
Transportation:
- Walk score: 50 / 100
- Bike score: 42 / 100
- Transit score: 22 / 100
West End
Current Rental Pricing for Apartments in the West End Neighborhood
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $814 | $590 | $1,379 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartments | $878 | $572 | $1,750 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartments | $1,004 | $649 | $1,650 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartments | $1,349 | $919 | $2,199 |
| 4 Bedroom Apartments | $1,510 | $1,280 | $1,695 |
If you want modern living with tons of amenities, check out the West End development. It's not a traditional neighborhood but a newer, master-planned community just a short drive from LCU. Here you'll find contemporary apartments and townhomes. Plus, a huge shopping center with places like Costco and Cabela's. You can catch a movie at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema and grab dinner at P.F. Chang's. Or, go for a walk along the trails that connect the area.
- Walk score: 46 / 100
- Transit score: 20 / 100
- Bike score: 38 / 100
3. South Plains College Downtown Center
South Plains College is a top-tier community college. The Downtown Center brings a fresh academic energy to Lubbock's downtown. This campus focuses on providing core academic courses for students looking to transfer to a four-year university. Its location makes it a key part of the ongoing revitalization of downtown Lubbock.
Downtown Lubbock
Current Rental Pricing for Apartments in the Downtown Lubbock Neighborhood
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $740 | $391 | $1,469 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartments | $848 | $376 | $1,444 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartments | $920 | $454 | $1,667 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartments | $1,024 | $550 | $2,700 |
| 4 Bedroom Apartments | $861 | $449 | $2,600 |
Living downtown puts you right in the middle of Lubbock's cultural and entertainment scene. The area has seen a huge revival with old warehouses being turned into cool loft apartments. Oh, and amazing galleries and restaurants. You can walk to the First Friday Art Trail or catch a show at the Cactus Theater. Then hang out in the Depot Entertainment District. For food and drinks, The Brewery LBK has local craft beer, Triple J Chophouse has live music. Monomyth Coffee is the go-to for a caffeine boost before class. You're also close to Mackenzie Park (Lubbock's largest recreation area).
- Walk score: 69 / 100
- Transit score: 38 / 100
- Bike score: 46 / 100
Guadalupe
Current Rental Pricing for Apartments in the Guadalupe Neighborhood
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $727 | $391 | $1,141 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartments | $857 | $353 | $1,388 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartments | $910 | $454 | $1,667 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartments | $881 | $550 | $2,000 |
| 4 Bedroom Apartments | $739 | $449 | $2,600 |
The Guadalupe neighborhood is one of Lubbock's oldest and most culturally rich areas. Living here gives you a chance to experience a unique part of the city's heritage. You'll be close to some of the best authentic Mexican food in town. Montelongo's Mexican Restaurant being a local favorite. The community is centered around the historic St. Joseph's Catholic Church and Guadalupe Park. A nice gathering spot for residents.
- Walk score: 41 / 100
- Transit score: 26 / 100
- Bike score: 40 / 100
North Overton
Current Rental Pricing for Apartments in the North Overton Neighborhood
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $727 | $391 | $1,141 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartments | $900 | $376 | $1,388 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartments | $900 | $454 | $1,667 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartments | $841 | $550 | $2,000 |
| 4 Bedroom Apartments | $787 | $449 | $2,600 |
Not to be confused with South Overton by Texas Tech. North Overton is located north of downtown and the medical district. This is a more residential neighborhood and has a mix of older homes and some new houses and townhomes. It's a great option if you want to be close to your classes at the Downtown Center but want a more traditional neighborhood setting. You're just a few minutes from the restaurants and coffee shops downtown. But you can escape the noise when you need to. Rodgers Park is a nice community green space with a playground and sports facilities.
Transportation:
- Walk score: 78 / 100
- Bike score: 67 / 100
- Transit score: 46 / 100
4. South Plains College Career and Technical Center
The SPC Career and Technical Center on the south side of town is a powerhouse for workforce training. I've spent time here, and it's incredible. This campus is all about hands-on learning. Programs include trades like welding and automotive technology. Also, their culinary arts program is very popular. Students can get the practical skills they need to jump right into a successful career.
Clapp Park
Current Rental Pricing for Apartments in the Clapp Park Neighborhood
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $724 | $484 | $1,469 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartments | $728 | $450 | $1,124 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartments | $906 | $625 | $1,300 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartments | $1,312 | $775 | $2,000 |
| 4 Bedroom Apartments | $1,592 | $1,295 | $1,850 |
Clapp Park is a very popular place to live in Lubbock because of its central location and amazing recreational activities nearby. The park itself has a public pool and a garden, and also a world-class arts center. The neighborhood is mostly made up of brick ranch-style homes from the mid-20th century. You're close to great local eats like Capital Pizza and the Holly Hop Ice Cream Shoppe. Nostalgia for the win!
Transportation:
- Walk score: 70 / 100
- Bike score: 48 / 100
- Transit score: 27 / 100
Bayless Atkins
Current Rental Pricing for Apartments in the Bayless Atkins Neighborhood
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $1,469 | $1,469 | $1,469 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartments | $660 | $615 | $735 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartments | $745 | $650 | $900 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartments | $1,095 | $795 | $1,395 |
| 4 Bedroom Apartments | $1,850 | $1,850 | $1,850 |
Just to the east of the technical campus, Bayless Atkins is a quiet, affordable residential neighborhood. It's a practical choice for students who want a short commute and a no-frills place to live. Mostly, this area has modest single-family homes and has a reputation for being a peaceful community. While it's mostly residential, you're only a short drive from the shopping and dining options on Slide Road and 50th Street. For a bit of fresh air, Atkins Park is a small neighborhood green space perfect for a quick break.
Transportation:
- Walk score: 48 / 100
- Bike score: 40 / 100
- Transit score: 22 / 100
Wheelock and Monterey
Current Rental Pricing for Apartments in the Wheelock and Monterey Area
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $717 | $484 | $1,469 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartments | $760 | $450 | $1,124 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartments | $908 | $625 | $1,300 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartments | $1,326 | $795 | $2,700 |
| 4 Bedroom Apartments | $1,592 | $1,295 | $1,850 |
These two adjacent neighborhoods are located in the bustling heart of south Lubbock. This area is defined by its proximity to some of the city's busiest commercial streets, including Indiana Avenue and Slide Road. You'll find a huge variety of apartments here, along with tons of restaurants, stores, and entertainment options like the 50th Street Caboose. It's a great place to live if you want convenience and endless things to do. For outdoor activity, you have Wagner Park close by. Get some chill time in by taking a walk or playing some hoops with friends.
Transportation:
- Walk score: 70 / 100
- Bike score: 56 / 100
- Transit score: 28 / 100
5. Wayland Baptist University
The Lubbock campus of Wayland Baptist University has classes for working adults and non-traditional students, plus students who come straight out of high school. The environment is known for being super supportive of students. You can finish your degree, even if you have to work and take care of a family. The curriculum is focused on practical fields like business, in addition to education and Christian ministry.
North by Northwest
Current Rental Pricing for Apartments in the North by Northwest Neighborhood
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $679 | $610 | $725 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartments | $915 | $625 | $1,240 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartments | $1,077 | $695 | $1,626 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartments | $1,216 | $645 | $1,650 |
| 4 Bedroom Apartments | $1,106 | $519 | $1,700 |
As the name suggests, this neighborhood is in the growing northwest quadrant of the city. It's a newer area characterized by modern suburban development and new apartment complexes. If you're looking for a fresh, clean, and quiet place to live, this is a solid option. You'll be close to the retail growth happening along Milwaukee Avenue. Guy Park and H.P. Webb Park offer nice green spaces with playgrounds and walking paths for you and your family to enjoy.
Transportation:
- Walk score: 22 / 100
- Bike score: 33 / 100
- Transit score: 21 / 100
Arnett Benson
Current Rental Pricing for Apartments in the Arnett Benson Neighborhood
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $727 | $391 | $1,141 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartments | $900 | $376 | $1,388 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartments | $882 | $454 | $1,667 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartments | $846 | $550 | $2,700 |
| 4 Bedroom Apartments | $746 | $449 | $2,600 |
Arnett Benson has a traditional feel, with big gorgeous old trees and friendly neighbors. It's known for being affordable with a welcoming community. The perfect neighborhood for students. There's a strong sense of identity here, and conveniently located near major roads like Marsha Sharp Freeway. Stumpy Hamilton Park can give you some relaxing time outdoors for studying.
Transportation:
- Walk score: 59 / 100
- Bike score: 54 / 100
- Transit score: 35 / 100
Northridge
Current Rental Pricing for Apartments in the Northridge Neighborhood
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $707 | $590 | $1,379 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartments | $881 | $572 | $1,750 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartments | $1,023 | $675 | $1,626 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartments | $1,337 | $919 | $2,199 |
| 4 Bedroom Apartments | $1,516 | $1,280 | $1,700 |
Located in far north Lubbock, Northridge is a large neighborhood with a diverse mix of housing, from modest homes to newer constructions. It's a bit further out, but it has a quiet, suburban lifestyle that many students and their families appreciate. You're a short drive from the shopping and dining options along North Quaker Avenue. The biggest draw for outdoor lovers is your proximity to Mackenzie Park, Lubbock's premier park, which features Prairie Dog Town, Joyland Amusement Park, and multiple golf courses.
Transportation:
- Walk score: 53 / 100
- Bike score: 47 / 100
- Transit score: 24 / 100
Conclusion
Lubbock is a true college town. Best of all, there's a place (and a neighborhood) for every type of student. After many years working in this community, I know how important it is to settle into the right spot. After all, you'll be living some of the best (and busiest) years of your life there. Hopefully, this guide gives you a good starting point for finding your perfect spot in the "Hub City."
