20 Tips To Help Your Move To Your First State College Apartment
July 27, 2021
You're moving into your first Penn State apartment. The transition from your dorm to a larger apartment can be slightly overwhelming. Maybe you just don't know where to start.
If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. A great majority of first-time college apartment renters experience anxiety when transitioning from a dorm to an apartment.
Luckily, we've compiled a list of tips to make the transition easier for you. For your convenience, we've broken down our guide into two sections. The first includes items to make your life easier. The second is general tips you might want to follow to make your transition smoother. Read on for the most essential information for your first college apartment.
Things You'll Need
Making a move from a dorm to an apartment is a significant change. There will be items you'll need in the apartment that you didn't have space for in the dorm. Certain commodities and appliances that were once obsolete have become essential again. We separated everything by room to make it easier for you.
The Bedroom
The Bed
1. You can most likely pick up a larger mattress now. Don't be afraid to upgrade.
2. There's room for added comfort. Pick up a mattress topper if it helps you sleep better.
3. Grab some extra blankets and pillowcases while you're at it. You deserve to splurge a little bit.
The Bedroom Furniture
4. You should have more space for bedroom furniture now. Don't hesitate to grab an extra dresser.
5. Get some nightstands to put next to your bigger bed.
6. You can get a desk and desk chair now if you don't have one already. If you do, you can upgrade to a bigger one.
The Bathroom
Before the move, you may have had to share a bathroom with a whole floor. Now you can customize one all your own.
7. Grab whatever towels and wash clothes you'd like. This is something you might already have, but don't be afraid to add to the collection.
8. You're going to need storage space for the bathroom. Cheap plastic bins you can buy from retail stores will do just fine for this purpose.
9. Don't forget a shower curtain and rugs for your bathroom floor.
10. Add a trashcan to the list if you don't have one for the bathroom already.
The Kitchen
11. The kitchen will be pretty straightforward. You can usually grab a whole kitchen set that includes all your pots and pans. Grab a silverware set, plates, bowls, and a kitchen table set with some chairs, and consider your Ramen noodle days over.
12. It's not a bad idea to grab a couple rugs for the kitchen area along with some dishtowels and potholders.
Don't be afraid to shop at discount and second-hand stores for some items on this list. Most likely, you will be on a budget. You'd be surprised at some of the high-quality scores you can find that people throw away.
Tips for Your Transition
Besides the items you're going to need for your move, there are a few practices that can make your life a lot easier during your transition.
13. Make a Wish List
Once again, most likely, you will be on a budget. Don't be overwhelmed with purchasing and getting everything done all at once.
Start with the most essential items first when you're doing your shopping. Beyond that, make a wish list for extra things you may need or want for your apartment. Don't rush into buying everything all at once. Take your time and budget your money.
This will make the transition much easier on your wallet. Taking your time also ensures you get the items you really want instead of rushing and getting things that may not suit your style.
14. Treat Your Place Respectfully
Many times dorms end up getting trashed. The hectic mixture of independence, partying, and school can lead to a neglect of your living space at times.
Remember, you may be in this apartment for a while. Consider your apartment to be your fortress of solitude. Treat it with respect and keep it clean. This leads to a greater sense of accomplishment and pride. Take care of your place, and it will take care of you.
15. Patience Is a Virtue
Many new apartment tenants want to accomplish everything at once. This can lead to extra stress and anxiety. Be patient with your new place and pace yourself. You don't have to get everything done as soon as you move in.
Using your wish list is key here. Set small goals and start with the necessities first, then slowly move towards your wants.
16. Be Organized
Even though you may have a ton of extra space compared to your Penn State dorm, it's crucial to stay organized. Don't get too carried away with your additional square footage.
Make good use of storage bins and closet space and stay as organized as you can. A clean apartment is a comfortable apartment. You're still in school, and organization is going to make your life much easier.
17. Look for Bargains
Not everything for your new apartment has to be top-of-the-line. There's no problem going for quality or brand new purchases on more significant items, like appliances. Everything else you can typically find at a bargain price.
Second-hand and discount stores are perfect for saving money. Don't forget about Craigslist, Facebook marketplace, and other sites.
18. Make It Yours
Decorate your apartment the way you want it. This will be your home for a while, and you've earned it. Don't be afraid to make it yours. This will give you a space you're more than happy to come home to. Nothing beats the feeling of accomplishment, so reward yourself.
19. Do It The Right Way
This goes back to the concept of taking your time. Pace yourself and make your apartment look the way you truly visioned it. Don't rush just for the sake of finalizing your place. You'll end up much happier with the final product.
20. Cleaning/Reducing Clutter
Don't wait until the situation is overwhelming to clean your apartment. Nobody wants to take on an enormous cleaning job. Keeping everything clean as you go along leads to less stress.
Keep your clutter as low as possible, and don't let junk pile up. Get the things you want but don't get carried away. An extra ten or fifteen minutes per day will eliminate hours of cleaning on the weekends.
Following these tips will make your transition from a tiny dorm to a more spacious State College apartment much smoother. If you have roommates work together with them to make the experience as enjoyable as possible. Designate certain days and chores for different people. Don't let the workload fall on you or your roommate.
If you are splitting the apartment, make sure the bills and expenses are outlined in the beginning. Make sure it's evident who is responsible for what costs. This can eliminate potentially disastrous arguments in the end. Happy moving!
To view amazing apartments in State College, contact the State College apartment experts at Nevins Real Estate Management at (814) 238-3153.
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As the rental landscape shifts heading into 2026, students searching for apartments in State College — especially near Penn State University — need to be prepared. Understanding key trends, planning early, and knowing what to look for will help you secure a great place. Here’s a guide to what’s new and what remains essential. 1. Early Leasing Is Even More Important Data shows that in the student-housing sector, preleasing rates are strong . For example, national markets reported preleasing in the Yardi 200 dataset at 85.3% by June for the 2025-26 cycle. Multifamily Executive+2Student Housing Business+2 For students looking at student apartments near Penn State , that means you’ll want to start your search well in advance — think fall of the previous year for a lease starting in August/September 2026. 2. Expect More Focus on Value and Flexibility – With rising costs and more choices, renters increasingly look for value-driven options (utilities included, furnished, shorter lease terms). – Reports indicate the student housing market is seeing affordability pressures and shifts in renter preferences. Student Housing Business+1 3. New Supply Means More Options — But Also More Competition According to a national student housing supply report, by fall 2026 there are ~30,000 new beds across 37 campuses scheduled. RealPage In the State College market, this means students may have more options but must act quickly and choose wisely to get the best units (location, amenities, price). 4. Location, Amenities & Tech Still Matter While the basics remain the same (proximity to campus, safe neighborhood, cost), in 2026 you’ll see stronger emphasis on: High-speed internet and good study spaces (students are more digital-and-remote friendly) Community and wellness features (quiet zones, outdoor space, mental-health friendly design) — trends flagged by design/architecture firms. Gensler Smart pricing and lease transparency: how much is included, what you’re really paying for. 5. Be Smart About Lease Terms & Budgeting When renting in 2026 in State College, students should ask: What is included in the rent (utilities, internet, parking)? Is the lease individual (you’re on your own) or joint (all roommates responsible)? What are subletting or summer lease options? Are there incentives (early-leasing discounts, move-in specials for 2026) your property manager is offering? Conclusion Renting a student apartment in State College in 2026 is going to be about being early , informed , and strategic . Students who start their search early, understand what’s included in rent, and pick properties that highlight value and convenience will have the edge.
Renting your first apartment in State College, PA is a big step — especially if you're a Penn State student moving off-campus. With dozens of student apartment complexes, private rentals, and housing options near campus, it’s important to know what to expect before you sign a lease. Here's a helpful guide for first-time renters navigating the State College student housing market. Apartments Rent Quickly — Plan Ahead State College is a true college town. That means thousands of Penn State students are all looking for apartments at the same time — usually for August move-ins. Many properties begin leasing nearly a year in advance , so start your search in the fall semester if you plan to move the following summer or fall. Pro tip: Waiting until spring means you may be choosing from limited availability. Expect to Pay First and Last Month’s Rent (and Maybe More) When signing a lease for State College apartments, you’ll likely need: First month’s rent Last month’s rent Security deposit (typically equal to one month’s rent) Application fee Pro tip: Make sure you budget for these upfront costs. Ask your landlord or property manager exactly what’s due at signing so there are no surprises. Not All Apartments Are Furnished Some student apartments near Penn State come fully furnished — especially larger complexes aimed at undergraduates. But many privately owned units do not. Always ask: Is furniture included? Is there a bed, desk, or couch? Are appliances included (microwave, fridge, etc.)? Pro tip: If you’re bringing your own furniture, factor in moving costs. Parking Might Cost Extra Parking in State College can be limited, especially downtown or near campus. If you’re bringing a car, check: Is a parking spot included in rent? Is it on-site or off-site? Is there guest parking? Pro tip: Some properties offer assigned spots , while others rely on street parking or municipal lots. If you don’t need a car, you may be able to save money by skipping parking altogether. Learn the Lease Terms Carefully Many apartments in State College are leased by the year — not by the academic semester. Read the lease carefully and ask: What is the lease length? Are sublets allowed in summer? Who is responsible for utilities? Are there quiet hours, guest policies, or other rules? Pro tip: Some properties offer individual leases (you’re only responsible for your rent), while others offer joint leases (all roommates share responsibility). Utilities Aren’t Always Included Make sure you ask what’s included in the rent: Heat Water Electricity Internet/Wi-Fi Trash service Pro tip: All-inclusive rent can be easier for budgeting, especially for students, but it may be slightly higher. Work With Local Property Managers Instead of only using big national apartment websites, check listings from local property managers in State College. They often have: Earlier access to listings Better knowledge of the student rental cycle Competitive pricing Pro tip: Working with a local team makes maintenance and communication easier once you move in. Final Thoughts: Renting in State College as a First-Time Renter Finding your first student apartment near Penn State can feel overwhelming, but knowing what to expect helps you avoid costly mistakes. Start your search early, ask the right questions, and work with a trusted local property manager to find a place that fits your lifestyle and budget.
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