According to its website, Element Downtown offers furnished student apartments near MU. It is listed under Real Estate & Property on Rooted CoMo.

Element Downtown is listed at 1221 E Walnut St, Columbia, MO 65201, USA.

Listed hours: Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Saturday: Closed; Sunday: Closed. Hours can change, so it's a good idea to call ahead, especially on holidays.

You can call (573) 637-4181 or visit elementcolumbia.com.

Element Downtown had a 4.3 out of 5 rating from 486 Google reviews as of May 2026.

Based on its listed hours, Element Downtown is closed on Saturday and closed on Sunday.

Columbia's housing market has remained relatively stable compared to many U.S. cities, supported by consistent demand from MU faculty, staff, students, and healthcare workers. Median home prices in Columbia have risen over the past several years but remain more affordable than comparably sized university cities. The market is competitive, and well-priced homes in desirable Columbia neighborhoods often receive multiple offers.

Look for agents who are active specifically in the Columbia market and have recent transaction history in the neighborhoods you care about. Ask about their experience with buyers or sellers (depending on your need), their average days-on-market vs. list price ratios, and their communication style. Many Columbia agents are Realtors (members of the National Association of Realtors), and you can search the Columbia Board of Realtors member directory.

Columbia has several distinct neighborhoods appealing to different lifestyles. Downtown Columbia is walkable and vibrant, popular with young professionals. The Old Southwest neighborhood features historic homes near downtown. South Columbia (Forum area) has newer developments and is popular with families. North Columbia offers more affordable housing with good access to I-70. The East Campus area near MU attracts university affiliates. Each area has its own character and price range.

Real estate commissions in Columbia, MO are negotiable. Traditionally, a 5 to 6% commission split between buyer's and seller's agents has been standard. However, following industry changes in 2024, buyers now typically negotiate their agent's compensation directly. When selling a Columbia home, expect 2.5 to 3% for the listing agent and a negotiated amount for the buyer's agent. Flat-fee and discount brokerage options are also available in Columbia.

Columbia's rental market is heavily influenced by MU's enrollment cycle. Vacancies peak in May and June as students move out, and demand surges in July and August before fall semester. For non-student renters, year-round availability is better in South and West Columbia. Average Columbia rent for a 2-bedroom apartment runs $900 to $1,300/month. The City of Columbia has a rental inspection program for multi-family properties, which provides some quality assurance for renters.