Residence Halls

Middle Earth is not only a place where Hobbits live in J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings trilogy, it is also a housing community at UC Irvine! Centrally located just off of Ring Road between Social Science and Engineering, Middle Earth is made up twenty-four classic halls and two towers. Each residential community has a common space for studying and socializing, a small kitchen, and laundry facilities.

Please note: For fall quarter (2020), all residence hall rooms will be occupied by a single student. Room rates will be set at the double-occupancy level for each building type, i.e., classic double or tower double room rate. Occupancy limits will be reassessed at the end of fall quarter, and students will be given advance notice of any changes planned for winter or spring quarters. More details here.

Most residential communities are mixed-gender, though all-female and gender-inclusive (see Open House theme hall) options are available. Each residential community has spaces for studying and socializing, a small kitchen, and laundry facilities.

Theme Communities

What are you interested in? Middle Earth themed communities provide opportunities to explore your interests and talents, build relationships, learn and grow outside the classroom. Live with peers who share your interests or explore new interests in of of the general interest halls. All residents have the opportunity to participate in First Year Initiative (FYI) Programs that support academic success, community involvement, and personal wellness. New for 2019-20—Middle Earth will offer programming to support the Continuing Student Experience for residents who are returning to the halls for a second year. Click on "Community-wide Theme Programs" and "Theme Halls" in the right column to learn more.

Featured Theme Hall: Open House is an inclusive and non-judgmental community where diversity and the exploration of identity are celebrated.

Learn More

Open House is intended as a safe and affirming environment that recognizes unique needs and challenges to the LGBTQ community. Residents of any sexual orientation or gender identity are encouraged to apply, as are allies and supporters of the LGBTQ community. Click on Open House under the “Theme Halls” heading in the right column to learn more.

Meal Plans and Dining Facilities

All students living in the residence halls are required to hold a meal plan, and each res-hall community has a dining facility that serves three meals a day, Monday-Friday, and two meals a day on Saturday & Sunday. More information here.

What do residents say about Middle Earth?

"Living in Middle Earth is like a dream come true: Convenient on-campus location, friendly staff and residents, and everyone comes to eat lunch or dinner here - What more could you ask for?”

"The convenience and atmosphere of Middle Earth are the best! It's really allowed me to adapt well to college life."

"Middle Earth creates a welcoming environment that is close-knit and allows a safe place for residents to meet new people."

Pippin Renovation

Renovation of Pippin Commons began in winter 2020 with completion expected in winter 2021. New facilities will include a new mail center, workout facilities, music rooms, and entertainment & gaming center for all Middle Earth residents. More information here.

View Photos and Videos

Check out residence hall photos and videos on Facebook, YouTube, and the Housing Tours page.

Contact Middle Earth