Your Guide to ASU’s Shuttle and Transit Options from Off-Campus Housing
Living off-campus when you’re attending college means more independence, a lot more room, and the opportunity to have a living space that feels more like home than a dorm can. One concern that both students and parents have about ASU off-campus housing is how long it will take to get to classes every day.
Tempe and the surrounding area are built with students in mind. From free neighborhood shuttles to inter-campus buses, light rail, and walkable streets, you’ll find that getting around without a car is not only possible but pretty easy.
At Paseo on University, students get the best of both worlds—modern floorplans that suit a variety of lifestyles, and a location that is a walkable and bikeable distance to ASU Tempe campus.
Benefits of Using Tempe Public Transit
For students, the biggest advantage of public transit is cost savings. Monthly parking permits and fuel can add up quickly, while bus and light rail passes are far more affordable—especially with the discounts offered to students. Beyond money, there’s the added benefit of time. Instead of battling campus traffic, you can sit back, listen to music, or go over class notes while you ride.
Tempe has invested heavily in transit options that cater to the student population. Valley Metro operates light rail and bus routes across the city, and Tempe also offers neighborhood circulators like the free Orbit shuttles: Earth, Jupiter, Mars, Mercury, Venus, and others. These smaller buses are easy to spot, and they connect apartments, local shops, and residential areas to the main university campus.
ASU Inter-Campus Shuttle Service
Arizona State University has its own shuttle service that links all four campuses: Tempe, Downtown Phoenix, Polytechnic, and West Valley. For students taking classes in more than one location or joining clubs and activities outside of Tempe, the shuttle system is a lifeline.
The Gold Route runs between Tempe and Polytechnic, with frequent weekday departures and weekend service every two hours. The Tempe-West Valley Express provides an easy connection for students based at the West Valley campus, with weekday service running throughout the day. All rides are free for students and faculty, so make sure to carry a valid ASU ID.
The shuttles have Wi-Fi, which means you have the option to study, check email, or just relax during the ride. Trips can take close to an hour depending on traffic, so having that extra homework time is a bonus.
Valley Metro Light Rail
The Valley Metro light rail is frequently used by ASU students, as it runs through downtown Tempe with stops on or near Mill Avenue as well as close to the main ASU campus buildings. Trains run every 15 to 20 minutes during peak hours, which makes it easy to coordinate.
Students living in Paseo on University may not need the light rail to make it to class since they can walk or bike there, but the light rail is a quick way to get to downtown Phoenix, Mesa, or Sky Harbor to check out more of the area.
The Tempe Streetcar makes short trips even easier, as it runs in a loop through the downtown and campus area and connects to the light rail system.
ASU Valley Metro Bus Routes
For students who don’t live right along the light rail, Valley Metro buses help fill in the gaps. With more than 100 routes across the region, plenty of them pass near ASU, so getting to and from campus is rarely a problem. During peak times, some buses come every 10 minutes, which makes it easy to stay on schedule. Most stops are shaded—a small detail that makes a big difference during Tempe’s hotter months.
For students living at Paseo on University, the bus system isn’t something you’d need for the short walk to campus, but it’s still a convenient option for reaching other parts of Tempe, running errands, or connecting with the light rail and Orbit shuttles for longer trips.
Bike and Scooter Sharing Options for ASU Students
Bikes and scooters are a great choice for ASU students, especially for short trips that still feel a little too far to walk. Valley Metro makes it easy to combine them with public transit, and buses have racks up front for bikes, or scooters can usually be folded and carried on board.
For students living at Paseo on University, campus is just a short walk away, but having a bike or scooter can still come in handy for running errands, getting across Tempe, or connecting with the light rail when you’re heading farther out.
How Walkable is Tempe for ASU Students?
Some of the best off-campus housing options are located within walking distance of ASU, and Paseo on University is one of the best options. Being able to walk to class means no transportation costs, or travel time, and the freedom to come and go as needed. When you do need to drive, having assigned covered parking plus extra guest parking makes life even easier
Tips for Making the Most of Transit Options in Tempe
- Get an ASU transit pass or U‑Pass
- Download and use the Copper Card or Valley Metro app
- Track shuttle and bus arrival times
- Use Orbit for neighborhood access
- Layer your commute
- Know shuttle schedules by term
- Build in buffer time
- Keep safety in mind
Finding the Right ASU Tempe Student Transportation
When you’re considering ASU off-campus housing transportation, think about how often you’ll be traveling, your budget, and how close your apartment is to where you need to go (including transit stops). Tempe student transportation is intended to give you options, and finding the right balance of buses, shuttles, or even walking and biking can make your time at ASU smoother and less stressful.
If you’re just starting your search for off-campus student housing, look for apartments that offer easy access to public transportation near ASU. Paseo on University is located conveniently near everything you need which will make all the difference in how you experience campus life.