A World-Class City with an Affordable Cost of Living
As a WashU student, you’ll enjoy the benefits of living in a vibrant metropolitan area without the high costs associated with many major cities. St. Louis offers an exceptional quality of life, combining affordable housing, diverse neighborhoods, renowned cultural institutions, professional sports, extensive parks and green spaces, and a thriving food scene. Whether you’re looking for a walkable urban neighborhood, easy access to outdoor recreation, or opportunities to connect with the community, St. Louis provides an ideal environment to live and learn.
Making St. Louis Home
Moving to a new city is an exciting opportunity, and St. Louis offers something for everyone. Graduate and professional students can choose from a variety of neighborhoods that fit different lifestyles, budgets, and commuting preferences.
Transportation
WashU offers an extensive transportation program designed to provide safe, convenient, and affordable travel throughout the university community and the greater St. Louis area.
- The Campus Circulator travels regularly throughout both the Danforth and Medical Campuses, making it easy to navigate around the university.
- WashU’s Metro U-Pass program allows eligible students to ride MetroLink and MetroBus services at no additional cost. MetroLink stations and MetroBus stops are located on or within walking distance, providing convenient access throughout the region.
- Shuttle offerings provide safe rides home during evening hours for students living in designated off-campus neighborhoods.
Housing
Graduate and professional students have access to a variety of housing options both on and off campus. University-affiliated housing offers convenient access to campus resources, while the surrounding neighborhoods provide a wide range of apartments, homes, and shared living arrangements to accommodate different budgets and lifestyles. Below are just a few housing resources to help students navigate rental options, understand leasing considerations, and identify neighborhoods that best fit their needs.
Safety & Well-being
At WashU, your health, well-being, and safety are a key priority. We understand that academic and personal success depend on feeling secure and supported, and the university is committed to providing resources that promote a safe campus and community environment. Students have access to a comprehensive network of safety services, including the WashU Police Department (Danforth Campus) and WashU Protective Services (Medical Campus), 24/7 emergency response, campus-to-home escort services, and safety education programs.
WashU’s Campuses are located at the intersection of Clayton, University City, and St. Louis—communities that are home to thousands of WashU students, faculty, and staff. WashU security services routinely patrol campus and designated off-campus neighborhoods. WashU works closely with local law enforcement agencies and provides 24/7 emergency response, crime prevention programming, and safety education for the university community.