"We offer a 24/7 gym and yoga facility, along with a study space, lounge and grill," Kylea Montel, the community assistant at Campus Village, said.

Montel said Campus Village has a commitment to fostering an active lifestyle, and when paired with its tranquil study environment, the complex is an attractive choice for students. 

This combination of fitness and relaxation creates a well-rounded living experience that appeals to a diverse range of students, Montel said.

These amenities play a crucial role in shaping students’ living experiences. For nursing junior Vivian Diller, it was the variety of amenities at SkyVue Apartments that got her hooked.

"At SkyVue, the amenities include lots of study lounges, a sky lounge, a hot tub, and a lounge area outside with TVs, a gym, and in-unit laundry," Diller said. 

The communal spaces encourage socialization and collaboration among students, which Diller said creates a "lively atmosphere" at the complex. 

While currently searching for her next home, human biology sophomore Shea Willette leans toward an apartment that is "close to campus, has good study areas, is well-maintained, has a good gym and includes some furniture."

Willette’s priorities reflect a trend among students who value convenience and functionality in their living spaces. Proximity to campus minimizes commute times, allowing for more time to focus on studies and extracurricular activities. Some apartment complexes farther from campus include complimentary bus passes as well. 

For students who drive, proximity means little if they don't also have a place to park. 

Diller said when considering an apartment, the parking situation can weigh heavily for students who plan to have friends visit or who have their own cars. Some complexes offer free parking while others have to pay, making the cost of parking another factor to consider. Diller said her apartment complex has free parking for her and her guests. Campus Village also includes parking that comes with signing a lease, Montel said.   

Another amenity to consider is laundry. Most students can get used to the comfort of having laundry as they live in a dorm. Diller said one main factor in her apartment hunting is in-unit laundry. 

"We didn't want to have to leave our apartment to do our laundry or have to pay for each load," Diller said. 

The variety of amenities offered at apartment complexes can significantly influence students’ housing decisions. Whether it’s the "lively atmosphere" that Diller describes at SkyVue, the appeal of free parking or the pre-furnished apartment that Willette is looking for, each element can play a crucial role in making a complex feel like home.