Student housing for rent in Des Moines, IA
Apartments in Des Moines, IA for student housing, short-term rentals, long-term stays, corporate housing and vacation rentals
Featured studios and 1-bedroom apartments in Des Moines
Perfect for students looking for privacy. Everything is set up before you arrive, so you can focus on your studies from day one.
1/3
Available 08 Nov 2026
Studio
1#1534884P • University Avenue, Drake
Available 08 Nov 2026
11#1534882P • University Avenue, Drake
Available 08 Nov 2026
11#1534885P • University Avenue, Drake
Available 14 Oct 2026
Studio1#1534878P • University Avenue, Drake
Available 20 Oct 2026
11#1534932P • University Avenue, Drake
Available 18 Oct 2026
Studio1#1534880P • University Avenue, Drake
Available 10 Dec 2026
Studio1#1534883P • University Avenue, Drake
Available 06 Nov 2026
11#1534891P • 24th Street, Woodland Heights
Available 23 Oct 2026
11#1534894P • Ingersoll Avenue, Woodland Heights
Featured 2+ bedroom apartments in Des Moines
These multi-bedroom apartments are ideal for students who want to stay with friends or fellow students.
Elevate your stay with
Book easily • No hard credit checks, and no credit needed for international students.
All utilities included • Costs are predictable, so you can plan your budget with confidence.
Contract freeze • You can choose to freeze up to 3 months when you’re away.
Study space • All our apartments have a dedicated study space and super-fast Wi-Fi.
Referral bonus • Refer a classmate and earn a $150 discount (paid in local currency) for referrals.
Welcome gift • Snag a $50 Gift Card (paid in local currency) as part of your 'Welcome Kit' upon move-in.
Book easily • No hard credit checks, and no credit needed for international students.
All utilities included • Costs are predictable, so you can plan your budget with confidence.
Contract freeze • You can choose to freeze up to 3 months when you’re away.
Study space • All our apartments have a dedicated study space and super-fast Wi-Fi.
Referral bonus • Refer a classmate and earn a $150 discount (paid in local currency) for referrals.
Welcome gift • Snag a $50 Gift Card (paid in local currency) as part of your 'Welcome Kit' upon move-in.
Universities near our Des Moines apartments
1/2
Trusted by students and families worldwide
“Great prices for this type of accommodation. The flat came with furniture and appliances, it felt like an excellent deal!”
Katja S.
“Picking between neighborhoods made me feel good about where my daughter would live. I knew it was a safe area and I didn’t need to worry.”
Emma H.
Most viewed apartments this week
1/4
Available 04 Nov 2026
11#1285755P • Walnut Street, Downtown Des Moines
Available 07 Nov 2026
Studio1#1534873P • Walnut Street, Downtown Des Moines
Available 25 Oct 2026
11#1534877P • Walnut Street, Downtown Des Moines
Available 31 Dec 2026
11#1534874P • Walnut Street, Downtown Des Moines
Available 09 Nov 2026
11#1534875P • Walnut Street, Downtown Des Moines
Available 26 Oct 2026
11#1534876P • Walnut Street, Downtown Des Moines
Available 08 Nov 2026
11#1534879P • University Avenue, Drake
Available 30 Oct 2026
11#1534888P • Walnut Street, Downtown Des Moines
Available 29 Jan 2027
11#1534892P • Ingersoll Avenue, Woodland Heights
Available 24 Oct 2026
Studio1#1534890P • 26th Street, Drake
Available 01 Nov 2026
11#1534895P • Ingersoll Avenue, Woodland Heights
Available 06 Jun 2027
11#1534893P • Ingersoll Avenue, Woodland Heights
Your perfect student housing, just 3 steps away
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Live availability & pricing
show you exactly what's available and what you'll owe, letting you book with confidence.
A seamless booking experience
provides payment options to suit your preferences, with the option to book on behalf of others.
Flexible payment plans
put you in control of your budget.
Popular amenities for student housing in Des Moines
Pets allowed
Washer/dryer in unit
Parking
Air conditioning
Balcony
Elevator
BluegroundDes Moines, IAStudent housing
Pocket guide to student housing in Des Moines
Des Moines, Iowa, is a student destination known for institutions such as Drake University and Des Moines University, as well as its arts scene, state-capital setting, and annual Iowa State Fair. It attracts undergraduate and postgraduate students, along with international, Erasmus, and other exchange students. Finding housing can be difficult because of limited availability, fixed lease terms, application requirements, and the practical challenges of moving from abroad. Fully furnished student accommodation in Des Moines offers a straightforward option for students seeking reliable rentals, while off-campus housing in Des Moines can provide greater flexibility beyond university residence halls.
Blueground’s student apartments in Des Moines are fully furnished and move-in ready, with flexible lease lengths that can align with academic terms or other study schedules. Homes may be located near universities, public transport, shops, and everyday services, helping students manage commuting and daily life. Features such as dedicated study space, high-speed internet, and fully equipped kitchens support both independent living and shared arrangements. For students comparing off-campus apartments in Des Moines, a furnished home can reduce the need to purchase household essentials or coordinate utilities before arrival.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum length of stay for student accommodation in Des Moines?
Blueground student accommodation in Des Moines typically has a minimum stay of 30 days, depending on the apartment and lease terms. Stays can accommodate a semester, term-time period, or full academic year, offering flexible off-campus student housing in Des Moines. International students and those attending short-term programs, including Erasmus or other exchange programs, can choose dates that fit their schedules, subject to availability and minimum-stay requirements.
Are Blueground's student housing options suitable for international and Erasmus students?
Yes, Blueground’s student apartments Des Moines are accessible to international and Erasmus or exchange students, with fully online booking and flexible lease options. Furnished, ready-to-move-in apartments and availability for shorter stays make it easier to arrange off-campus living around a semester or exchange program. Students seeking student accommodation Des Moines can explore locations near campus and public transport, with support services to help them settle in.
How much does student housing in Des Moines cost, and are utilities included?
The cost of student housing in Des Moines varies by apartment size, location, season, and length of stay. Utilities such as electricity, water, internet, and heating may be bundled into rent or billed separately, depending on the property and lease. For predictable budgeting, local and international students should request an itemized estimate of monthly costs and confirm any utility usage limits, deposits, and mandatory fees before signing. Comparing total costs—not just advertised rent—helps students avoid unexpected charges.
How is staying with Blueground different from staying in a student dorm?
Blueground offers fully furnished student accommodation in Des Moines with more privacy than university dorms, plus your own kitchen and living spaces. With off-campus housing in Des Moines, you can choose a location convenient to campus and enjoy flexible lease lengths that fit your study plans. You’ll have more control over your study environment and space to host friends, without the shared hall rules typical of dorm life. It’s a more independent way to live while keeping the comforts of home.
Can I extend my stay with Blueground if I want to stay longer?
Yes, students can often extend their Blueground lease if their academic program continues, subject to apartment availability. For students seeking student accommodation Des Moines, this flexibility can make semester-to-semester extensions a convenient option for off-campus living. Staying in the same furnished apartment means you can avoid moving and keep your routine while continuing your studies. If you’re exploring student housing Des Moines or student rentals Des Moines, contact Blueground before your lease ends to check extension options.
What documents do students need to rent an apartment with Blueground?
Students typically need a valid passport or government-issued ID, proof of enrollment or student status, and basic personal and contact information to rent with Blueground. The process is designed to be accessible for international, Erasmus, and exchange students, with no local guarantor required in many cases. You can explore student apartments in Des Moines and complete booking and verification digitally. Exact documentation requirements may vary, so confirm what’s needed for your chosen apartment before booking.
Can I cancel a reservation or end my stay early?
For Blueground-managed homes
- After booking, if you request to cancel 15 or more days before move-in, there’s a half month’s rent charge. If you request to cancel fewer than 15 days before, there’s a one month’s rent charge. There are no service/booking or card processing fee refunds.
- If after moving in you wish to end your stay early, then you can do so provided that the minimum stay has been met and you've provided at least 30 days’ written notice. Your rate will be adjusted based on your actual length of stay.
- After booking, if you request to cancel 30 or more days before move-in, there’s a charge of 12% of the booking value. If you request to cancel fewer than 30 days before, there’s a one month’s rent charge. There are no service/booking or card processing fee refunds.
- If after moving in you wish to end your stay early, then you can do so provided that the minimum stay has been met and you've provided at least 30 days’ written notice. Your rate will be adjusted based on your actual length of stay.