Large Group Houses at Walk2Campus Western Kentucky University
6-10 bedroom houses on College, Chestnut, and State Streets for large friend groups living together. · Bowling Green, KY
Published in partnership with Walk2Campus Western Kentucky University · ← All Walk2Campus Western Kentucky University services
Book online anytime
Walk2Campus WKU offers large group houses with 6-10 bedrooms strategically located on College Street, Chestnut Street, and State Street — prime locations within walking distance of Western Kentucky University campus. These properties are specifically designed for friend groups who want to live together, featuring multiple bedrooms, shared common areas, and enough space for large groups to maintain both community and privacy. Each house is managed with student tenants in mind, offering furnished or unfurnished options depending on availability, and positioned on streets known for their proximity to campus facilities, classroom buildings, and student life.
Session options and pricing
| Session | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 6-Bedroom House (per person) | $450-$550/month | Individual bedroom in 6-bedroom house, shared common areas, typically 2 bathrooms |
| 8-Bedroom House (per person) | $400-$500/month | Individual bedroom in 8-bedroom house, shared common areas, typically 3 bathrooms |
| 10-Bedroom House (per person) | $350-$450/month | Individual bedroom in 10-bedroom house, shared common areas, typically 3-4 bathrooms |
What Are Large Group Student Houses?
Large group student houses are residential properties specifically configured and leased to accommodate 6-10 college students who want to live together. Unlike traditional apartments where students might rent individual units or pair up in twos and threes, these houses allow entire friend groups to share one cohesive living space with individual bedrooms for privacy and extensive common areas for group activities. This housing model has become increasingly popular at universities like Western Kentucky University, where students value the social benefits and cost savings of communal living.
These properties are typically older homes near campus that have been adapted for student living, often featuring multiple stories, several bathrooms, large kitchens, and common rooms. The houses on streets like College, Chestnut, and State near WKU campus were originally single-family homes that have been reconfigured over time to accommodate student groups. Property management companies maintain these houses specifically for student tenants, understanding the unique needs and timeline of the academic year.
The large group house model differs significantly from traditional dorms (which assign roommates and have strict rules) and from small apartments (which limit group size). Students get the independence of off-campus living combined with the built-in community of living with chosen friends, creating a home-away-from-home environment throughout their college years.
Benefits of Living in a Large Group House Near Campus
The primary advantage of large group houses is economic: splitting rent and utilities among 6-10 people significantly reduces individual housing costs compared to smaller apartments or on-campus options. At WKU, students in large group houses often pay $350-$550 per month including their share of rent, compared to $600-$800+ for individual apartments or $700-$900+ for campus residence halls with meal plans. The savings over an academic year can exceed $2,000-$4,000 per student.
Beyond finances, the social and practical benefits are substantial. Students living with large friend groups report stronger support systems during stressful academic periods, built-in study partners, shared meals and activities, and reduced feelings of isolation common in college life. Having 5-9 roommates means someone is usually around to help with emergencies, share transportation, or simply provide companionship. For students away from home for the first time, this creates a family-like atmosphere.
Location is another critical advantage for Walk2Campus WKU's properties on College, Chestnut, and State Streets. These streets position students within easy walking distance of campus facilities, eliminating parking hassles, transportation costs, and the time wasted commuting. Students can return home between classes, access campus resources easily, and participate more fully in university life. The walkability factor is especially valuable during Bowling Green's winter weather when reliable transportation becomes more challenging.
What to Expect When Renting a Large Group House
The leasing process for large group houses requires coordination among all prospective tenants. Groups typically begin searching 6-9 months before their desired move-in date, with viewings and applications happening during fall and winter for August occupancy. Each group member must complete an application and provide references, proof of income or student status, and usually a co-signer (typically a parent or guardian). The property management company evaluates the entire group's application collectively.
Once approved, the lease — usually 12 months from August to July — requires all tenants' signatures. Some properties use joint leases where everyone is mutually responsible for the total rent, while others issue individual leases for each bedroom with several liability only. Security deposits equal to one month's rent per person are standard, along with possible pet deposits if the property allows animals. Move-in inspections document the property's condition to protect both tenants and landlords.
Daily life in a large group house requires strong communication and clear expectations among roommates. Successful groups establish house rules early about cleaning schedules, quiet hours, guest policies, shared expenses for household supplies, and kitchen/bathroom usage. While property management handles major maintenance and repairs, tenants are responsible for keeping the property clean, reporting issues promptly, and respecting both the property and each other. The most successful large group living situations involve roommates who communicate openly and address small issues before they become major conflicts.
How Large Group Houses Compare to Other Student Housing
Compared to on-campus residence halls, large group houses offer significantly more independence, privacy, and cost savings, but require more responsibility. Dorm residents have built-in meal plans, structured support systems, and minimal maintenance duties, but pay premium prices and live under university rules. Large group house residents cook their own meals, manage their own schedules, and handle household maintenance, but enjoy lower costs, flexible lifestyles, and the ability to create their own living culture.
When compared to small apartments (1-4 bedrooms), large group houses provide better per-person economics and stronger social environments, but require more coordination among roommates. Smaller apartments offer more privacy and fewer potential conflicts, while large houses create vibrant social hubs with constant activity and interaction. Students who value community and cost-effectiveness prefer large houses; those prioritizing peace and autonomy lean toward smaller units.
Location distinguishes Walk2Campus WKU properties from many off-campus options. While some student housing near WKU requires driving or bus service to reach campus, houses on College, Chestnut, and State Streets offer true walkability. This seemingly small difference profoundly impacts daily life — students save money on parking permits and gas, get more sleep by living closer to early classes, and integrate more fully into campus culture by physically being near academic and social facilities throughout the day.
What's Included
6-10 Private Bedrooms: Individual bedrooms for each tenant in the house, providing personal space within the group living environment
Multiple Shared Bathrooms: Typically 2-4 full bathrooms depending on house size, reducing morning congestion for large groups
Full Kitchen & Dining Area: Complete kitchen with appliances (refrigerator, stove/oven) and space for the group to cook and eat together
Common Living Spaces: Shared living rooms and common areas where the group can gather, study, and socialize
Prime Campus Location: Houses positioned on College, Chestnut, or State Streets within 5-15 minute walk to WKU campus facilities
Bottom line: Research on college student housing consistently shows that living with peers in off-campus houses is associated with higher satisfaction when roommate compatibility is strong, but also higher conflict risk when group dynamics are poor. Studies indicate that students in shared off-campus housing report greater autonomy and life skills development compared to dorm residents, though academic outcomes depend more on individual student characteristics than housing type.
Journal of College Student Development research on off-campus housing experiences; National Survey of Student Engagement data on living arrangements and student outcomes; American College Health Association findings on student housing and wellbeing
Who Is Large Group Houses Good For?
Good candidates: Large group houses are ideal for established friend groups of 6-10 WKU students who want to live together, value community living, and prioritize cost savings and campus proximity. Best suited for students who communicate well, can handle shared household responsibilities, and prefer social environments over solitary living. Particularly good for sophomores through seniors who have formed strong friendships and want to create a home-base throughout their remaining college years.
Who should consult a doctor first: Students should carefully evaluate their friend group's compatibility before committing to a joint lease. Consider whether everyone has similar cleanliness standards, lifestyle habits, and financial responsibility levels. Groups with members who have significantly different schedules, social preferences, or reliability may struggle with large group living. Students with specific accessibility needs should verify that the particular house accommodates those requirements, as older homes may have limited accessibility features.
General safety: Large group living requires clear agreements about guests, security, and emergency procedures. With 6-10 people coming and going, it's essential to establish policies about locking doors, limiting guest access, and ensuring all roommates feel safe in their home. Students should verify that houses have working smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and adequate emergency exits. Review the neighborhood's safety profile and discuss as a group how to handle situations where roommates' guests or behaviors make others uncomfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does rent cost per person in a large group house?
Rent per person in a 6-10 bedroom house typically ranges from $350-$550 per month depending on the specific property, location, and whether utilities are included. The total house rent is split evenly among all tenants, so a 10-bedroom house generally offers the lowest per-person cost. Most houses require a security deposit equal to one month's rent per person. Contact Walk2Campus WKU directly for current pricing on available properties, as rates vary by house and lease term.
Are utilities included in the rent for large group houses?
Utility arrangements vary by property. Some large group houses include water, sewer, and trash in the monthly rent, while tenants are responsible for electricity, gas, internet, and cable. Other properties require tenants to set up and split all utilities independently. Walk2Campus WKU provides clear information about utility responsibilities during the leasing process. Budget approximately $40-$80 per person monthly for utilities not included in rent, depending on usage and season.
How does the lease work when renting with a large group?
Large group houses typically require all tenants to sign either a joint lease (where everyone is collectively responsible) or individual leases with co-signer requirements. Lease terms are usually 12 months, running from August to July to align with the academic year, though some properties offer flexible start dates. All roommates must be approved through the application process. If one person moves out mid-lease, the remaining tenants are typically responsible for finding a replacement or covering that portion of rent, though policies vary by property.
How far are these houses from WKU campus?
Large group houses on College Street, Chestnut Street, and State Street are positioned within a 5-15 minute walk to central WKU campus locations. College Street properties are particularly close to classroom buildings and the student center, while Chestnut and State Street locations offer quick access to dining facilities and residence hall areas. All locations are designed for students who want to walk to class without relying on campus shuttles or parking, making them ideal for groups who value convenience and campus proximity.
What's included in these large group houses?
Most large group houses include essential appliances like refrigerators, stoves/ovens, and in many cases, washers and dryers. Houses feature multiple bathrooms (typically 2-4 depending on bedroom count), full kitchens with dining areas, and shared living rooms. Some properties come furnished with beds and basic furniture, while others are unfurnished. Outdoor spaces like porches or yards are common. Central heating and air conditioning are standard. Walk2Campus WKU handles lawn maintenance and major repairs as part of property management services.
What happens if roommates have conflicts or someone wants to move out?
Roommate conflicts should first be addressed within the group, as you'll be sharing the space together. Walk2Campus WKU can provide guidance but cannot mediate personal disputes. If a tenant needs to move out before the lease ends, they're typically responsible for finding an approved replacement tenant or continuing to pay their portion of rent. Some leases allow for lease transfers with landlord approval and a transfer fee. It's recommended that friend groups discuss expectations, house rules, and conflict resolution strategies before signing a lease together.
When should our group start looking for a large house for next year?
Large group houses for the following academic year typically become available for viewing and leasing in October through February, with the best selection available in November and December. Popular houses on prime streets like College and Chestnut often lease quickly once available. Groups should organize early — ideally by late fall semester — to tour properties and submit applications together. Having your full group committed and financially ready (with co-signers if needed) gives you the best chance of securing your preferred house.
Can we choose our own roommates or do you assign them?
Walk2Campus WKU's large group houses are specifically designed for pre-formed friend groups who want to live together. You choose your entire roommate group — this is not a roommate-matching situation. All members of your group apply together for a specific property. This model works best when everyone in the group knows each other, has discussed living expectations, and is committed to the lease term together.
Book online anytime
Contact & Location
Book online: Book Large Group Houses at Walk2Campus Western Kentucky University →
Phone: (270) 844-4795
Address: 1240 Center Street, Bowling Green, KY 42101 (Get directions)
Website: walk2campus.com/property/list/id/4/market/Bowling+Green/0/default/1/1
Facebook: Walk2Campus Western Kentucky University on Facebook
X: Walk2Campus Western Kentucky University on X
Instagram: Walk2Campus Western Kentucky University on Instagram
All services: View all Walk2Campus Western Kentucky University services →
| Mon | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Tue | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Wed | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Thu | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Fri | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Sat | Closed |
| Sun | Closed |
