Hey there! If you’re a student in Gainesville FL , you’re probably looking for a neighborhood that is close to campus, has all the conveniences you need to be set up for success, and maybe even a little excitement!
Lucky for you, Gainesville has a variety of neighborhoods that offer proximity to UF and Santa Fe, convenient shops, and a ton of great restaurants, cafes and night spots.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best neighborhoods in Gainesville FL for students, including Midtown, Duckpond, Pleasant Street Historic District, Innovation District, and Haile Village.
Midtown
Let’s start with Midtown. This neighborhood is a popular spot for students due to its proximity to the University of Florida campus. Midtown is known for its lively atmosphere and abundance of restaurants, bars, and entertainment options serving students.
You’ll find a mix of newly constructed apartment buildings with individual leases and a handful of quaint houses that have been passed on from one student generation to the next. The rent is relatively affordable compared to other neighborhoods near campus. It’s a great option for those who want to be in the heart of the action and don’t mind a bit of noise.
Parking is limited in Midtown, so be sure to talk to your property manager to see if they will have designated parking for residents.
Key neighborhood features:
- Popular with undergrads
- Walking distance to campus
- Lively nightlife
Locals Love:
- Ben Hill Griffin Stadium
- The Social at Midtown
- Grog House
Apartments in Midtown Gainesville: Ansley’s Way
Who said apartments had to be stacked sky high? The cottage suites at Ansley’s Way offer the privacy and comforts of home in the heart of Midtown, just two blocks from the University of Florida!
Each apartment features central air, a full kitchen, laundry in the unit, ample storage, high ceilings, insulated windows, and each spacious bedroom suite has its own private bathroom. Find an available unit >>
Duckpond
Next up is Duckpond. This neighborhood is located just east of downtown Gainesville and is known for its historic homes set on serene tree-lined streets. Duckpond is more laid back than Midtown but still offers easy access to the vibrant downtown nightlife scene and UF and Santa Fe’s downtown campuses.
Many students opt to live in shared houses in Duckpond, which can be a great way to save money on rent while still enjoying an elegant and convenient neighborhood. The homes of the Duckpond are spacious and full of character.
Key neighborhood features:
- Quiet and friendly vibe
- Thomas Center and Gardens
- Popular with grad students
Locals love:
- Vine Bakery and Cafe
- Mojo Hogtown Bar-B-Que
- Free concerts at Bo Diddley Plaza
Pleasant Street Historic District
If you’re looking for a neighborhood with a lot of character, check out the Pleasant Street Historic District. This up-and-coming slice of downtown Gainesville is located just west of the Duckpond and is still close enough to campus to bike or walk.
Known for its historic cottages and African American churches, it’s a great option for students who want to live in an interesting and diverse neighborhood. You’ll find a mix of rental properties in this area, including brand-new apartments and affordable cottages.
Key neighborhood features:
- Diverse neighborhood
- Thrift stores and brewpubs
- Popular with grad students
Locals love:
- Bragging Rights Amusements
- Flashbacks Thrift
- Lebowski’s Pup Pub
The Reef Gainesville: Spacious Townhouse Living for Students Budgets
The townhome suites at The Reef are the perfect home base for any student attending UF or the new Santa Fe Blount Center.
Ideally located on NW 3rd Ave between downtown Gainesville and the University of Florida, these stylish and modern townhomes offer spacious master suites with private bathrooms, fully equipped kitchens, luxury wood flooring, high ceilings, in-unit washer and dryer and more.
Call KNR at (352) 213-6410 to set up a tour today!
Innovation District
Another neighborhood worth mentioning is the Innovation District, which includes the area around Sorority Row. This neighborhood is a hub for Gainesville’s burgeoning tech industry. It’s home to the University of Florida’s Innovation Hub, where students collaborate alongside established entrepreneurs.
The Innovation District and Sorority Row are located near the UF Health Shands Hospital and the VA Medical Center, making this neighborhood a great option for students in the health sciences.
You’ll find a variety of recently built housing options in this area, including apartments and luxury townhouses that can be individually leased by the room. Most apartment complexes have ample car and scooter parking. As with all of Gainesville’s undergrad-heavy neighborhoods, the area closest to campus gets lively on game days and is pretty low key the rest of the time.
Key neighborhood features:
- Entrepreneurial vibe
- Mix of students and young professionals
- Innovation Hub
Locals love:
- 4th Avenue Food Hub
- Opus Coffee at Innovation
- The Swamp
Haile Village
Finally, we have Haile Village. This neighborhood is located a bit further from campus, but it’s worth considering if you’re looking for more of a small-town feel. Haile Village is known for its beautiful townhomes and well-manicured streets. It’s a bit more upscale than some of the other neighborhoods on this list, but you’ll still find some affordable rental options overlooking the charming village center with its shops and restaurants.
Key neighborhood features
- Beautifully landscaped planned community
- Shops, restaurants, and farmer’s market within walking distance
- Family friendly vibe
Locals love:
- Patticakes
- Volcanic Sushi
- The Queen’s Arm Pub
So there you have it – some of the best neighborhoods in Gainesville for students. Whether you’re looking for a lively and convenient spot like Midtown or a quiet and charming neighborhood like Duckpond or Haile Village, Gainesville has something for everyone. Happy house hunting!
