Joaquin
The classic student neighborhood between downtown and BYU
← All Provo neighborhoodsJoaquin fills the blocks between downtown and BYU campus, and it has been Provo's signature student neighborhood for generations — historic homes divided into apartments, purpose-built student complexes, and a constant walk-and-bike flow toward campus. It's also more than students: long-time homeowners and young families hold down many of the tree-lined blocks.
Where it is
Between roughly 500 West and 900 East, from Center Street's north side up toward campus at 800 North.
The housing
Early-1900s bungalows and four-squares (many converted to student apartments), classic red-brick walk-ups, and newer student-oriented complexes. One of the densest neighborhoods in the city.
Schools
Provo City School District; Provo Peaks Elementary sits just south of the neighborhood. Confirm current attendance boundaries with the district.
Getting around
Most residents walk or bike to campus; UVX runs the University Avenue edge. Downtown is ten minutes on foot.
Parks & outdoors
- Memorial Park at 800 East Center
- Kiwanis Park a few blocks southeast
Walk or bike to
- BYU campus
- Center Street
- Provo Library at Academy Square
- Smith's on 500 West
Students who want the classic Provo experience, and buyers who love historic housing with energy around it.
Related guides
- The BYU-area neighborhood, explained →
- Best apartments near BYU →
- Provo neighborhoods overview →
- Browse homes & rentals on the Provo.com marketplace →
Neighborhood names and district groupings follow Provo City's official Neighborhood Program. School mentions are nearby schools, not boundary guarantees — attendance areas change, so confirm any address with Provo City School District before relying on it.