Student housing in Guadalajara, Mexico

Guadalajara, one of the largest and liveliest cities in Mexico, is an ideal place for an international student experience. With renowned universities such as the University of Guadalajara and the ITESO, every year students from all over the country and abroad arrive, creating a young and dynamic environment.

Student apartments for rent in Guadalajara, Mexico

Looking to rent a student apartment in this Mexican city? Student apartments for rent in Guadalajara are usually mainly two or more rooms, since it’s most common to share the apartment with other young people to reduce costs. Rentals in the most sought-after areas such as Americana, Providencia, or Chapultepec can be high if rented alone, which is why sharing is the preferred option. There are also studio apartments, but they’re more limited and are usually priced higher.

As for the features, many apartments come furnished, although it's always important to confirm this at the time of your visit. They usually include a fully equipped kitchen, living room, shared bathroom, and, in some cases, a balcony or small terrace. In addition, buildings often offer common spaces such as a gym, terrace, laundry area or even a swimming pool, especially in more modern buildings.

Another thing to keep in mind is that some rentals include services such as water, gas, internet or maintenance in the monthly price, although it’s always necessary to verify it. It’s also key to ask about building security.

Student rooms for rent in Guadalajara, Mexico

If you're looking for student flats, here are the most important things to keep in mind.

In Guadalajara, rooms for rent for students are usually mainly individual, although there are also shared options, especially in large residences or apartments. Many of these rooms are part of shared apartments with other students, although they can also be found within student residences, where services are usually included and the vibe is more international, or family apartments, which allow for a much more intense immersion in the local culture.

Most rented rooms are furnished, with bed, desk, wardrobe, and, in some cases, private bathroom.

It’s important to check if the bills such as water, electricity, gas, and internet are included in the rental price, as this varies greatly between accommodations. It’s also advisable to ask about the rules of behaviour and the minimum duration of the contract, since some owners ask for contracts of at least six months.

Student accommodation in Guadalajara, Mexico

An important fact that you have to know when looking for accommodation in Guadalajara, and in Mexico in general, is that there they normally refer to the areas of the city as “colonias" and "barrios". In summary, "colonia" is a more official and administrative term, while "barrio" has a more social and cultural touch.

Now, let's move on to the areas where student accommodation is most common in Guadalajara:

Flats for rent in Guadalajara Centro

Living in the city centre can be a good option for students looking to be close to everything and near the University of Guadalajara. The area has good transport links, plenty of food options, markets and access to cultural and historical areas. Plus, rents tend to be cheaper than in other, more modern neighbourhoods. However, it's a busy and somewhat noisy area, which may not be ideal for everyone.

Apartments in Providencia

Providencia is an ideal neighbourhood for students who want to be close to everything but live in a quieter and more relaxed environment. It’s a residential area which offers a more relaxed atmosphere than the city centre, but maintains proximity to shopping malls, supermarkets and cafes. In addition, it’s well connected by public transport with the downtown area and the universities.

The apartments in Providencia are usually modern and have several services included, which makes the cost of rent high for Mexican standards.

Rooms for rent in Americana (Chapultepec)

The Americana colony is a favourite among students for its bohemian atmosphere and its cafes, galleries, and bars with a youthful vibe. This is a safe and well-lit area, with a lot of social life and comfort. It includes the Chapultepec, highly sought after by students for its nightlife.

The cost of rent in Americana is usually a little more expensive than in the centre, but the neighbourhood's standard of living justifies it. In addition, it’s well connected by public transport, allowing easy access to universities such as UdeG, the Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara or the ITESO.

Student accommodation near the Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara

Students at this private institution who want to live close to campus typically look for accommodation in Zapopan, a city next to Guadalajara and with very good connections. Some of the neighbourhoods you might want to consider in this city are Jardines Universidad, Loma Real, Puerta de Hierro and Puerta Plata.

Student residences in Guadalajara, Mexico

Are you considering living in a student residence in Guadalajara? There are both university residences, managed by the UdeG or the ITESO, as well as private residences focused on international students. University residences tend to be more affordable and located closer to campus, but offer fewer amenities. Private residences, on the other hand, generally offer modern rooms with private bathrooms, gyms, study rooms, and social areas, albeit at a higher cost.

International exchange and Erasmus programme in Guadalajara, Mexico

Did you know that you can also study in Guadalajara with Erasmus+? Although this programme is best known for exchanges between European countries, it also has a section that allows you to study at universities in Latin America. In Guadalajara, there are institutions such as the ITESO or University of Guadalajara that have agreements with European universities. If you're studying for a degree or a Masters in Europe, you can apply to take part in the programme or do an internship in this and other Mexican cities. You just have to get informed well from your home university and apply on time!

FAQ about studying in Guadalajara, Mexico