Introduction

When it comes to student housing, affordability and quality don’t always go hand in hand. Many students at Colorado State University (CSU) find themselves weighing budget-friendly but outdated options against pricier apartments in Fort Collins with modern features. The challenge is finding the perfect balance of cost, convenience, and lifestyle.

That’s where Flats at the Oval stands out. With a prime location directly across from campus and steps away from Old Town Fort Collins, this community offers a lifestyle tailored to student needs. But how much does it cost to live here, and what kind of value do residents actually get for their money? This article explores exactly that—the true cost & value of living at Flats at the Oval.

Understanding the Pricing Structure

The first question most students and families ask is: How much is rent? At Flats at the Oval, pricing is transparent and per-person, which makes it easier to budget.

• Three-Bedroom Units: Starting around $1,059/month per person, making them the most cost-effective choice for students who don’t mind living with roommates.
• Two-Bedroom Units: Slightly higher, but still affordable given the balance of privacy and shared cost.
• One-Bedroom & Studio Units: These come at a premium since you’re not sharing expenses with others, but they provide maximum privacy and independence.

Unlike traditional apartments where the entire lease amount is divided among tenants, Flats at the Oval offers individual leasing, meaning each student is responsible only for their share of rent. This structure reduces financial risk and makes budgeting much easier.

What’s Included in Rent

When evaluating student housing, it’s important not to look at rent in isolation. The value of living at Flats at the Oval becomes clear when you consider everything included in the monthly payment.

• High-Speed Internet – Essential for online classes, research, and streaming.
• Water, Sewer, and Trash – Saves students from managing multiple utility bills.
• Furnished Apartments – Each unit comes with stylish, functional furniture, so there’s no need to buy or move bulky items.
• In-Unit Laundry – A rare and convenient feature compared to traditional apartments that require shared laundry rooms.

These inclusions eliminate many extra costs that students would otherwise face in off-campus housing.

The True Value of the Location

One of the biggest selling points at Flats at the Oval is its location. Living directly across from CSU means:

• No commuting costs – Save money on gas, parking passes, and time spent in traffic.
• Walkability – Students can walk or bike to class, the library, and campus events.
• Steps from Old Town Fort Collins – A hub for restaurants, shops, coffee houses, and nightlife.
• Access to MAX Transit and Mason Trail – For quick, eco-friendly transportation around the city.

When you factor in these advantages, the cost of living here stretches further, because the value of proximity saves both time and money compared to more distant housing options.

Premium Features That Add Extra Value

In addition to standard inclusions, Flats at the Oval offers premium features that enhance the living experience. While some come at an added cost, they provide value that many students and families find worthwhile.

• Balconies and Premium Views – Enjoy extra outdoor space or a better outlook over campus and Old Town.
• Covered Parking – Especially valuable in snowy Colorado winters, ensuring your car stays safe and accessible.
• Pet-Friendly Options – Students who want to bring their furry friends can enjoy housing that accommodates pets.

Though these features increase the monthly cost, they also elevate comfort and convenience, creating a lifestyle that many students find worth the investment.

Community Amenities That Stretch Your Dollar

The value of living at Flats at the Oval extends beyond the apartments themselves. The community offers a variety of shared amenities that enhance daily life and build connections:

• On-Site Coffee Shop and Restaurant – Convenience without leaving home.
• Resident Social Events – Activities like Grocery Bingo, study sessions, and mixers create a strong community atmosphere.
• Secure Access and Bike Storage – Adds peace of mind for safety-conscious students.
• Furnished Common Spaces – Great for group projects or casual hangouts.

Instead of paying extra for gym memberships, coworking spaces, or entertainment, students can take advantage of amenities built into their living environment.

Financial Safety with Individual Leases

Traditional apartment rentals often tie all tenants together under one lease, meaning if a roommate leaves, the remaining tenants are left covering the full rent. Flats at the Oval avoids this risk with individual leasing, where each student is only responsible for their share.

This setup offers a significant financial advantage because it provides peace of mind for students and families. Even in shared apartments, you’ll never have to worry about being liable for someone else’s rent.

Comparing Cost vs. Traditional Apartments

When comparing Flats at the Oval to traditional apartments in Fort Collins, the differences in value are clear.

Traditional off-campus housing may appear cheaper at first glance, but many additional expenses add up quickly:

• Utilities like internet, water, sewer, and trash
• Furniture costs
• Parking fees
• Laundry expenses
• Commuting costs from living farther away

Flats at the Oval bundles many of these expenses into rent, making it a more predictable and often more affordable option overall. Plus, the convenience of living steps from campus and Old Town is difficult to put a price on.

Social & Academic Value

Living at Flats at the Oval isn’t just about saving money—it’s about enhancing the college experience. The community is designed to balance social life and academics, offering spaces and events that support both.

• Resident Events create opportunities to meet friends, relax, and de-stress.
• Quiet Study Areas provide an academic advantage by making it easier to focus.
• Built-In Community through roommate matching and shared spaces encourages collaboration and belonging.

The value of a strong social and academic support system often translates into better student success, which is an important but often overlooked benefit of living here.

Who Gets the Best Value?

Different types of students may find unique value at Flats at the Oval:

• Freshmen or new CSU students benefit from the community atmosphere and roommate matching.
• Upperclassmen and graduate students enjoy the privacy of one-bedroom and studio options.
• Budget-conscious students save money in three-bedroom layouts while still having their own private bathroom.
• Social students thrive with events, on-site dining, and proximity to Old Town nightlife.

By offering a variety of floorplans and lease options, Flats at the Oval ensures that every student can find the right balance of cost and value.

Tips for Maximizing Value

To make the most out of your investment at Flats at the Oval, consider these strategies:

1. Choose the right floorplan – Balance budget with privacy needs.
2. Utilize included amenities – Take advantage of Wi-Fi, laundry, and social spaces to save money elsewhere.
3. Consider roommate matching – Share a two- or three-bedroom unit for maximum affordability.
4. Weigh upgrade options carefully – Only pay for extras like covered parking or premium views if they truly fit your lifestyle.
5. Engage in the community – Get involved in events and networking opportunities to build a stronger college experience.

Conclusion

When evaluating the cost & value of living at Flats at the Oval, it’s clear that this student community offers much more than just a place to sleep. With modern apartments, included utilities, furnished spaces, and a prime location across from CSU, residents enjoy a lifestyle that balances affordability with convenience and comfort.

While premium features and parking may add to the monthly cost, the overall value is undeniable. From individual leasing for financial safety to amenities that foster academic and social success, Flats at the Oval represents one of the smartest housing choices for Colorado State University students.

Ultimately, choosing to live here means investing not just in an apartment, but in a complete college experience—one that supports your budget, your studies, and your social life.