Whether you're buried in books, catching up on some much-needed rest, or bonding with other students, your college dorm room will likely become your ultimate safe haven. Naturally, you'll want your dorm to be a comfortable space, so it's worth putting some thought into your living arrangements when you head off to college.
This page will cover the top college dorms you can find this year. Plus, we'll guide you through the process of selecting the best dorm for your needs, because a little pre-planning can go a long way.
8 best college dorms this year
Choosing a college is a big decision, and we've got you covered with the top college dorm choices. From useful amenities to unique features that foster social connections, these dorms have it all.
Washington University in St. Louis
Washington University excels in both academics and campus living! At WashU, you'll find a multitude of programs, study abroad opportunities, sorority options, and other extracurricular activities to enrich your college experience.
Now, let's talk about their fantastic dormitories. One highlight is the South 40 area, a bustling "small town" within the college campus. It features a fitness center, dining locations, technology space, student meeting rooms, recreation areas, and music practice rooms.
This vibrant hub creates a strong sense of community and provides convenient amenities right at your doorstep. Plus, you can choose between modern and traditional rooms equipped with everything you need for a successful college year.
Texas Christian University
At Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, you'll find a thriving community and an array of amenities that make dorm living truly exceptional. From traditional residence halls to modern apartment-style complexes, you'll have a range of dorm choices to suit your lifestyle. And with over 400 student organizations on campus, you'll have countless opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals who share your interests.
Game rooms provide spaces for socializing and relaxation, while vending machines offer convenient snacking options. Plus, study lounges provide quiet areas for focused work.
Harvard University
Harvard University, nestled in historic Cambridge, Massachusetts, offers a unique and enriching dormitory experience. First-year students reside in Harvard Yard, where they are assigned to one of the iconic freshman dormitories, fostering a close-knit and inclusive community.
After the first year, students are placed in one of Harvard's 12 undergraduate houses. Each house is its own mini-campus, complete with dining halls, libraries, fitness facilities, and common spaces, creating a home away from home. With its historic charm and modern amenities, Harvard's dorms provide a perfect blend of tradition and comfort.
Amherst College
Amherst College in Massachusetts takes dorm living to the next level, focusing on community and connection. First-year students settle into one of five residence halls on the Main Quad, putting them right in the heart of campus life. It's all about making it easy to meet new friends and stay close to everything you need.
Upperclassmen have plenty of options, including traditional dorms, apartment-style living, and even themed houses for those with specific interests. Many dorms feature perks like common spaces and shared kitchens, giving students a chance to relax, collaborate, and cook.
Bowdoin College
At Bowdoin College in Maine, the housing system is all about building community and keeping students connected. First-year students are assigned to one of eight residence halls, fostering a close-knit residential community intended to ease the transition into college life. Regular dorm activities, such as shared meals and events, also encourage connections among students.
Upperclassmen can enter a housing lottery to snag on-campus rooms or apartments, apply for one of eight College Houses, or, with special approval, live off campus as a junior or senior. Bowdoin's residency requirement means most students stay on campus, but exceptions are available for unique situations, like housing for spouses or dependents.
But who would want to live off-campus when Bowdoin dorms are known for being so clean, modern, and comfortable? They feature spacious common areas, kitchens, and laundry facilities.
High Point University
Located in North Carolina, High Point University is home to exceptional dorms with lots of amenities such as a gym, movie theaters, upscale on-campus dining, and state-of-the-art gaming areas. Whether you prefer shared spaces or single apartment-style rooms, they have campus housing options to suit your needs.
Not to mention, the campus living experience is vibrant and engaging, with numerous perks like dining halls, campus events, thrilling volleyball and other sports matches, and a ton of college student organizations.
Emory University
At Emory University in Georgia, you'll find a range of comfortable and inviting dorms that cater to your preferences. They have different residence halls for first-year students and upperclassmen, with options for co-ed or single-gender student housing. With amenities like student lounges, WiFi, digital and cable TV, and laundry facilities, Emory offers convenience right within your dorm.
Plus, Emory is committed to sustainability. For instance, Raoul Hall is LEED Gold certified, incorporating eco-friendly features such as energy-efficient systems and sustainable building materials. If you want to attend college with as small a carbon footprint as possible, this might be the school for you.
Union University
With over 140 academic programs, Union University is a top-ranked private school in Tennessee that offers a well-rounded education and a friendly student atmosphere.
Whether you're looking for a tight-knit community, housing for graduate students, or places for families, Union University has a variety of college housing options.
And guess what? The dorms come fully furnished with all the convenient amenities you could ask for, like laundry facilities, private bathrooms, and full kitchens. But it doesn't stop there! Get ready for some serious fun with student events in the common areas, holiday celebrations, and friendly competitions for an incredible college experience.
How to find the best dorm for your needs
Let's talk about finding the best dorm for you. It doesn't matter where you want to attend - finding the best dorm for you is all about considering what suits your style and preferences. From the location and amenities to the overall vibe, here are a few key factors to keep in mind.
Dorm location
Location is key! Seriously, who wants to trek a mile to get to their classes every day? So, when you're on the hunt for the perfect dorm, make sure to prioritize its proximity to your classes, campus facilities, dining spots, and all those awesome student services.
Having everything within "arm's reach" will save you precious time, spare you the hassle, and keep that headache of being off-campus at bay.
Room size and layout
The size of your room and its layout is crucial to consider. First, take a good look at what you absolutely must bring with you. You'll want to make sure you have room for that super cozy chair you can't live without or that funky piece of furniture you just have to bring along.
For the layout, do you prefer the privacy and independence of a single apartment-style room, or would you be open to sharing a suite-style space? Or maybe you're into the traditional setup with multiple rooms for you and your roommates to enjoy. And let's not forget about the vibe - modern or traditional? Do you like the open-concept design where your room flows seamlessly into a common area?
Whatever your style, choose a dorm with the right layout that fits your needs and creates a space where you can truly be yourself.
Roommates
Sharing your dorm with a roommate can be a big decision. You'll need to look for someone with similar habits, sleep schedules, and even shared interests to make the transition as smooth as possible.
In terms of your dorm, something to think about is the size of your kitchen and living room space, as well as the size of each room. You also want to think about the process of finding a roommate. Most colleges make it pretty easy: You typically fill out an application, and they carefully pair you with a student, or you can request a specific student if you have someone in mind.
Communication is key here! Establish expectations and find compromises that work for both of you. But if you prefer solitude, going solo in a single room is always an option.
Amenities
When it comes to amenities, your dorm can be a game-changer in providing convenience and comfort. Think about the little things that make a big difference, like having a washer and dryer, a fridge, a microwave, reliable WiFi, and the blissful luxury of air conditioning. These amenities can make your college life easier and more enjoyable, allowing you to focus on what matters most.
Safety and security
When you're checking out potential dorms, take a moment to consider the safety measures they have in place. Look for stuff like secure entry systems, well-lit common areas, and maybe even some surveillance cameras.
And don't forget about your own room, too. Make sure it's got sturdy locks and windows. If you have any concerns, don't hesitate to ask about on-site security staff and their emergency protocols. Having that peace of mind is key and will allow you to focus on your studies and enjoy your college experience with confidence.
Noise level
We all have different preferences when it comes to our study environment. Some of us thrive in pin-drop silence, while others find a bit of background buzz to be comforting.
When considering the noise level in a dorm, important factors to look at include the location of the dorm (Is it near busy roads or construction areas?), its proximity to potentially loud communal spaces, and dorm policies on the noise level.
Cost
While it may be tempting to follow friends, take a moment to assess the expenses and find a dorm that fits your budget.
Wondering which college has the most expensive dorms? It might just be Georgetown University, with on-campus housing room rates reaching as high as $9,361 per semester for a single room in a renovated townhouse ($18,722 annually). If that's not in your budget, East Carolina University (ECU) - which has some of the cheapest dorms - is an alternative option. The lowest annual cost for on-campus housing is $5,916 for a standard room.
Remember, it's your journey, so choose a dorm that aligns with both your financial needs and lifestyle.
Areas to socialize
Look for dorms that offer common areas where you can hang out and connect with other students. These spaces are the perfect spots to unwind, decompress from those long study hours, and let loose a little. Whether it's a vibrant lounge, a lively game room, or an outdoor courtyard, having these socialization hubs within your dorm can make your college experience better.
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College Rover gets the majority of its data directly from the U.S. Department of Education (DOE). The DOE publishing schedule "lags" the most current data which some colleges post on their official websites. This may cause there to be a difference in the data you see on College Rover and an individual college website. College Rover's website is updated as the DOE data becomes available and is configured for the College Rover website.
