Housing and Meals

Housing & Meals

Whether you prefer on-campus convenience or the freedom of off-campus living, Honolulu offers diverse housing options for University of Hawaii at Manoa students.

Temporary Housing (when you first arrive)

Some student housing providers may not allow you to move in to your accommodation until a certain date (often a few days before the start of the semester). It will be your responsibility to arrange alternate, temporary housing if you arrive in Hawaii early. Here are some options that students consider:

  • Many students arrange to stay at a Hostel or Hotel when they first arrive and then find more permanent housing. Hostelling International has two locations in Honolulu – one in Waikiki, and one next to UHM. Airbnb is also a popular option.
  • Study & Stay Hawaii is a local service provider, offering private rooms in approved homes at affordable rates. They also can provide condos, student residences, and hotels.
  • The International Hospitality Center offers a unique homestay program with an American host family for young adults aged 18 to 30. Students must apply at least six weeks prior to arrival.
  • UHM Conference Housing offers temporary on-campus housing on a space-available basis throughout the academic year and summer.

On-Campus Housing

On-campus housing is a good option for students who want to experience dormitory life and be close to classes and on-campus facilities. Students can learn more about the on-campus housing options on the Student Housing Services website. 

Rooms

Most dorms offer double occupancy with shared amenities. Single occupancy rooms are limited and tend to be more expensive. Each resident is generally provided with a bed (extra long twin), desk and chair, closet, dresser, shelves, and internet. Personal items such as bed linen, pillows, and towels are not provided for residents. Cooking an eating utensils are also not provided in the community kitchens. Air conditioning units in rooms are also not standard. Only rooms in Frear Hall and Hale Ānuenue have AC units included in rooms.

Facilities

Most of the on-campus dormitories have community laundry centers, community kitchens, and student lounges. While some dormitories offer a private bathrooms shared between two to four residents, most dorms have community bathrooms, which are bathrooms shared by an entire hall of residences.

Residential dining

A meal plan is required for students living on-campus and optional for students living off-campus. The meal plans entitles you to various meal options each week during the semester, plus a predetermined amount of retail meal points per semester. 

Application process

After you have been admitted to the program and have received your UH ID number, you can apply for housing online via the Student Housing Services website. On-campus housing is not guaranteed. However, if you apply by the priority deadline (May 1 for placements beginning in the fall semester, December 1 for placements beginning in the spring semester) you will have a good chance of receiving an on-campus housing assignment.

Moving in (and out)

Please see Student Housing Service’s move-in and move-out page for advice and guides. Students who arrived before their scheduled hall opening dates must find alternative off-campus housing.

Health Clearance

Students must complete the health clearance process before moving into on-campus housing.

Off-Campus Housing

Living off-campus is popular among students seeking independence and flexibility in choosing their neighborhood. Neighborhoods such as University, Mānoa, Punahou, Mo‘ili‘ili, McCully, Waikiki, Kapi‘olani, Kapahulu, Kaimuki, St. Louis Heights, Wilhemina Rise, Pololo, Makiki and Ala Moana are well-connected by TheBus, which you can ride for free with your student ID card. Rent prices vary according to the quality of the apartment and location. As of June 2024, the average rent in Honolulu is $1,662 per month. 

The following are options that are commonly considered by exchange and visiting students:

The University of Hawai’i Board of Regents and the University of Hawai’i (collectively “UH”) do not inspect any of the properties or resources listed on this website. The listing or advertisement on this website does not constitute an approval or endorsement of any properties by UH. UH does not confirm the accuracy or reliability of statements made in any listings or advertisements. If you are interested in leasing a rental property, you are responsible for visiting the specific property you are considering, and thoroughly inspecting it. The University of Hawai’i is not responsible or liable for any loss or damages related to your lease or the rental property. UH expressly disclaims any and all responsibility for any claims, issues, or problems that may arise from or relate to such property or rental units or with regard to disputes between landlords and tenants concerning such property or rental units.

Meals & Dining

Honolulu offers a rich culinary landscape with diverse dining options to satisfy every palate, both on and off campus.

On-Campus Dining

Numerous dining facilities are located throughout campus, including restaurants, cafes near key locations like Campus Center and Hamilton Library, and food trucks offering convenient meals. Use Dining Dollars on your UHM ID card for seamless transactions.

Grocery Stores

Grocery stores and markets located close to campus are:

Restaurants

There are many eateries close to campus, especially around the intersection of University Avenue and South King Street. The Ala Moana Shopping Center also has tons of restaurants, and is also a great place to go shopping.

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