Lansing - Housing FAQ's
What is it like to live in Lansing?
According to an article in the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce's July 2004 issue of Focus, Expansion Management magazine awarded a "Five Star" rating to the Lansing region in its annual "Quality of Life Quotient" for the second year in a row. The article indicates that the magazine rates 329 metropolitan statistical areas across the United States in nine categories which consider housing affordability, quality of the metro area's public schools, standard of living, crime, traffic congestion and safety, air accessibility, continuing education, adult education, and adult employability.
What is the housing market like in Lansing?
There are many nice apartments for rent in the downtown area close to Cooley and throughout the metropolitan Lansing area based on your lifestyle needs and living preferences.
What can I expect to spend on rent and utilities?
Most apartments rent from around $400/month to around $800/month. Utilities vary, depending on the type of heat and water heater you have, but the costs are generally quite reasonable.
Does Cooley have on-campus housing?
No.
But there are many apartments for rent in downtown Lansing within walking distance from Cooley.
What apartment complexes are located downtown by Cooley Law School?
- Apartments – Downtown on the Riverfront: (517) 372-1770 or (888) 470-1770
- Capitol Commons: (517) 484-0505
- Capitol Commons Seniors: (517) 482-0880
- Colonial Place Apartments: (517) 579-4934
- Dean Apts: (517) 484-7403
- Executive House Apts: (517) 579-4934
- Ferris Park Towers: (517) 482-2378
- Fountain Place: (517) 484-9023
- Midtown Apartments: (517) 579-4934
- River Street/Hillsdale Apartments: (517) 579-4934
- Washington Apartments (927 S. Washington): (517) 482-9921
Where are the more desirable areas to live in Lansing?
The west side of Lansing (Delta Township) and downtown. Other desirable areas are Okemos, East Lansing, Haslett, Grand Ledge, Holt and Dewitt.
Is there transportation if I don't bring my car?
There is a public transit system called Capital Area Transit Authority (CATA). The phone number is: (517) 394-1000.
Capital Area Transit Authority - Fixed Route Fares
- Adults - $1.00
- College Students with a valid College or Adult Student ID card - $.50
- Students ages 13 - 18 with a CATA Student ID Card - $.50
- Students ages 12 and under - no Student ID care required - $.50
- Without Any Card - $1.00
- Children (under 42 inches) - Free
- Tokens 10 or more (each) - $.85
What areas are safe in Lansing and the surrounding areas?
In the City of Lansing it depends on which streets you're interested in, usually the east and north sides of town are fairly safe. Downtown by Cooley is nice as well. Okemos, Haslett, East Lansing, and Holt are nice areas, but the cost of apartments is higher.
I live in another state, how can I find a place to live without being there?
There are services who will help you find what you are looking for, e.g., All About Apartments, Lansing Rental Guide. You can also call one of the large management companies and ask for their advice.
Which companies provide phone, cable, and utility services?
It depends on where you will live, but the main companies are:
How do I get to school If I live in the outlying areas of Lansing?
- Ride the bus. CATA has a $.50 student rate, with free transfers. The system does serve a fairly wide area, including Lansing, East Lansing, Holt, Mason, Webberville, and Williamston. Their phone number is (517) 394-1000, and they can provide a map of their service area.
- Drive to school. Parking is somewhat costly, but when compared to a big city, it's actually very inexpensive. Some garages also offer monthly rates, instead of daily. The Lansing Parking System has information: (517) 483-4240.
In addition to street parking, there are six parking ramps within three blocks of the Capitol.
- City Parking Ramp - Capitol and Kalamazoo (517) 483-4240
- City Parking Ramp - Allegan and Grand Avenue (517) 483-4240
- City Parking Ramp - Ottawa and Grand Avenue (517) 483-4240
- City Parking Ramp - Capitol and Shiawassee (517) 483-4240
- Wolverine Parking Co. - 316 S. Grand Ave. (517) 482-8231
- Tower Parking - 231 S. Capitol (517) 484-4435
Is it possible to sign a lease for an apartment that is for a period less than 12 months?
Many apartment complexes offer a six month lease. However, an additional monthly fee may be charged. Some apartments that offer a six month lease are:
- Villas of Woodgate (517) 393-4904
- Plumtree Apts. (517) 321-1765
- Oak Park Village (517) 694-3971
- Club Meridian (517) 347-1850
- 2900 Place (517) 351-5199
- Castle Pointe (517) 351-1278
- Lakewood (517) 339-9849
- Neomke Trails (517) 349-2614
Do apartment managers offer discounts to Cooley students?
Some Apartment complexes such as Castle Pointe Apartments, and 2900 Place both located in East Lansing as well as Lakewood apartments and Nemoke Trails apartments in Haslett offer discounts to all Cooley students.
Do I need an appointment to look at an apartment?
Most apartment offices welcome walk-ins during the weekdays. However, weekend visits usually require appointments.
Which apartments allow you to have pets?
Many apartments in the Lansing area accept small pets. Some allow only cats. A deposit or a monthly pet fee may be charged.
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