Philips Baron Realty 

Price range: ~$1076 for a two-bedroom/two-bathroom; studios and one-bedroom/one-bathroom units also available

Pet policy: Only cats allowed, for a fee 

Amenities: Water and gas included in rent, central A/C

Parking: Free street parking; garage for $75

Walk: 15-20 minutes, door-to-door

Philips Baron Realty is a family-owned apartment complex on Lindell, near the St. Louis Basilica. You can pick up groceries from Whole Foods on your way home, and it is five minutes from Schnucks, Walgreens, and CVS. It is a 15-20-minute walk to campus, and the number 10 bus leaves from the apartment and drops you off on campus if walking is not your thing.

The building is older but well maintained, the landlord is extremely responsive, and all concerns are addressed within 48 hours. The only downside to these apartments is the fact that laundry is shared and is $1/load. Yes, you still need quarters, and the machines are always available. Still, for the price this is a total steal, and my roommate and I love living here.