State College apartment tips for PSU students when moving off campus
October 1, 2021
Moving to a new State College apartment off-campus and away from the safety and convenience of PSU dorms can be really stressful and hard to plan. With many options for State College housing, it's essential to choose an apartment that best suits your needs and budget. Here's a convenient move-out checklist that will help make your move as easy as possible while being fun and exciting.
Choosing the place
Choosing an apartment or house to live in comes with a variety of choices - from how many roommates to have, to the time it will take to drive or walk back to Penn State campus for class. When choosing a location, keep the following in mind.
Apartment or house?
State College apartments can be convenient with many buildings close by campus and some apartments offering cheaper rent options for students than renting a house. Apartments offer the experience of being free from the dorms, without the need to take on someone else's mortgage payment - as happens when you rent a house.
Getting a roommate or two can help cut the cost of renting an apartment. Living alone will cost more than living with others, so prepare yourself mentally and emotionally to be dealing with a few other people in similar situations.
Checking the living space
It's essential to check the apartment you want to move into before you sign the lease. Most apartments in State College will allow you to come and tour the place before you sign a lease. If you're looking at apartments, ask if you can take a look at the place you'll actually be living in. Check under the sinks, in drawers and around the corners of the rooms for signs of bugs or rodents. Keep a lookout for water damage.
Remember to ask any questions that come to mind about laundry, noise level, quiet hours, etc.
Convenience and accessibility
Know what the State College neighborhood is like around the building, including grocery stores, gas stations and walkability. Have an idea of how accessible parking will be during different hours of the day and confer with roommates about their needs concerning location and nearby neighborhood. Make sure you're comfortable walking around the area and don't strain yourself when running errands or going out for jogs. Knowing the area beforehand is essential to comfortably moving into your new State College apartment.
What to bring
Before moving off-campus for the first time, assemble a list of items you have and items you'll need to live comfortably. Check in with roommates to see what they'll be bringing so no one overlaps.
Appliances
Many apartments in State College will already have stoves and fridges. You might need a microwave, coffee pot or toaster depending on your preferences and any other kitchen appliance that suits you. Some State College apartments come furnished with TVs and beds but you'll likely need to bring your own TV and potentially a washer and dryer depending on the location. Apartments usually opt for a laundry area on the first or basement floors or no area at all on the premises.
Know ahead of time what is included with the living space and what you'll need, going through each room to determine a list. From the kitchen to the bathroom to the living room, each room will likely need something that isn't provided.
Furniture
From nightstands to beds to kitchen tables, something is sure to be missing and will need to be included in your list of needs. Unlike appliances, which are immediately helpful and can be necessary, not all the furniture will need to be bought when moving in. If you're on a budget, focus on the important items and move down the list. For example, a bed should be a high priority item while a couch might be lower. Compile all the belongings you have between you and your roommates and slowly work toward other items to buy in the future. Thrifting is a great way to get unique and affordable furniture without breaking the bank.
Comfort items
Blankets, clothes and towels are essential items to start off with which you'll likely have from your time living in the dorms. Most if not all of your items from your previous housing can be brought to the new location to make it more homey and less strange in the beginning. Decorate the space to fit your interests and feel confident and comfortable in your location decision. Bring items like signs and posters, candles, dish towels with unique sayings and more to personalize the space. It may take some time to completely decorate the living space just like with the furniture but each new comfort item is an achievement.
Cleaning supplies
Cleaning supplies are essential with antiseptics, bleach, sponges, scrub brushes, gloves and more greatly helping to clean the place up before moving in. Taking care of an entire apartment with no breaks for spring or summer can mean a lot of maintenance, cleaning and vacuuming. Prepare ahead of time based on total carpeting, the type of kitchen and bathroom cabinets and even the paint on the walls. All of these details will affect how easy it is to clean and what sort of cleaners and scrubs you should be using in order not to cause damage.
Conclusion
Moving off campus can be a scary ordeal with a lot of unknown factors, from dealing with a new environment to new neighbors. With enough informed preparation and knowledge when choosing a State College apartment and the ability to make a cohesive list and communicate with roommates, moving into your new apartment can be a wonderful time of change and independence.
Nevins Real Estate Management rents apartments in State College. Contact them
at 814-238-0153 to learn more.
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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.
Smart, Stylish, and Stress-Free Guide To State College Apartments