State College Off-Campus Housing: A Review of New and Established Options
The off-campus housing market near Penn State University in State College, PA, has seen significant changes in recent years. With the introduction of new student housing complexes, students now have a wider variety of options to consider. This article examines several of these options, focusing on both the newly opened and more established apartment complexes, and their impact on the local community.
Newly Opened Student Housing Complexes
Four new student housing complexes-The Retreat, The Heights, The Grove, and The Villas at Happy Valley-have garnered considerable attention from students. These developments have attracted students with promises of upscale amenities, but some have faced challenges in meeting completion deadlines.
The Retreat
Located on Waupelani Drive, The Retreat opened without significant issues for its 587 tenants. This complex offers cottage-style housing plans with two-, three-, four-, or five-bedroom units and 18 different floor plans. Monthly rents range from $695 to $915 per person. The Retreat distinguishes itself with amenities such as a cybercafe, a sauna, and spa suites, according to Jerrilynn Cipar, its leasing and marketing manager.
One resident, Claudia Bonilla, a junior from Puerto Rico, stated, "I believe it is worth every penny. Management takes really good care of us and makes sure that we have everything we need." However, Bonilla noted that the 1.5-mile distance from campus could be an issue, requiring self-discipline to balance the comforts of the complex with academic responsibilities.
The Retreat's presence has also raised concerns among its neighbors. Lou Walley, a resident on Waupelani Drive, expressed concern about the increased traffic and congestion in the area. Walley stated that original plans called for single-family homes on the property. She said, "The area here is already heavily congested with transient people in terms of apartment buildings and other student housing. What used to be a very nice, quiet neighborhood is now far from that.” She also noted that increased bus traffic contributes to the congestion, making it difficult for residents with small driveways to navigate the roads.
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The Heights and The Grove
In contrast to The Retreat, The Heights and The Grove faced construction delays. The Heights, located on Blue Course Drive, was slated to open 213 apartments for 639 tenants during move-in weekend, August 23-25. However, many residents had to be temporarily housed elsewhere until their apartments were ready. Omayra Soto, a senior from Puerto Rico and a resident of The Heights, recounted her experience: "It was horrible the first two weeks because I was living out of my suitcase, and I stayed with a friend here at The Heights as well." She noted that the walls weren’t ready, painting wasn’t done, and nothing was installed. Despite the initial frustrations, Soto expressed satisfaction with her two-bedroom apartment, praising its spaciousness.
The Grove, situated on Toftrees Avenue in Patton Township, experienced similar issues. Campus Crest Communities, the property owner, acknowledged that some portions of the 216-unit complex were still being completed after the move-in date. Like The Heights, some residents were accommodated in hotels until their apartments were finished. The units at The Grove feature personal bathrooms, walk-in closets, a washer and dryer, a full-size kitchen, and free parking.
One resident, Simpson, described the condition of her apartment upon move-in: "The air was full of it, and it smelled like paint fumes, so we tried to open a window only to realize that there were no screens installed.” Simpson compared the complex to new furniture that was damaged during transport, noting that it has a lot of potential but felt rushed. However, she added, "Now that everything has been fixed (and cleaned) in my apartment, I love it."
The Villas at Happy Valley
The Villas at Happy Valley, located on Dreibelbis Street, appears to have had a smoother opening. The complex offers three-bedroom townhomes for $595 per person. The two-story townhomes are divided into different sections based on resident preferences, with quieter sections available for graduates, professionals, families, and studious students. The Villas at Happy Valley offers off-campus student living in State College, PA. These three-bedroom, pet-friendly apartments and townhomes feature fully equipped and spacious kitchens, hardwood flooring, a flat-screen TV in the living room, an in-unit washer and dryer, and more. At The Villas at Happy Valley, residents enjoy a convenient location near Penn State and easy transportation to campus with the CATA bus line. Within this student living apartment community, you can also enjoy ample outdoor amenities like a resort-style heated pool, volleyball court, community grills, and firepit.
The Villas at Happy Valley is located at 1335 Dreibelbis St, State College, PA. The Villas at Happy Valley offers 3 bed, 3.5 bath 1,256 sqft sqftunits. The Villas at Happy Valley offers off-campus student living in State College, PA, just minutes from Penn State University. Our three-bedroom, pet-friendly apartments and townhomes are thoughtfully designed and feature fully equipped, spacious kitchens, hardwood flooring, a flat-screen TV in the living room, in-unit washer and dryer, and more. Residents also receive a complimentary CATA bus pass, making commuting to campus easy and convenient.
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Renovations across the community, including apartment interiors, shared amenities, and outdoor spaces, are coming. These upgrades will bring modern finishes, enhanced technology, and refreshed social areas-creating an even better environment to live, study, and connect. Within the community, residents enjoy a wide range of amenities, including a resort-style heated pool, volleyball court, outdoor grills, and a firepit.
Changes in Established Apartment Complexes
The emergence of new housing units has prompted changes in established apartment complexes. One such complex, The Park at State College (formerly known as State College Park), raised its rates for the 2013-14 school year. Rent for a top-floor, four-bedroom apartment increased from $496 per month to $519. In the spring, The Park was turned over to new management, The Scion Group, and a $2.5 million budget for renovations was announced. Renovations include hardwood floors, new furniture, updated gym equipment, and a computer lab for the 2013-14 school year. Displays in the clubhouse advertise the updates.
According to General Manager Sheri Lucas, "New development had no discernible impact on us this year," and The Park is fully occupied. The Park on Blue Course Drive has two- and four-bedroom apartments that start from $509 to $669.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Off-Campus Housing
Choosing the right off-campus housing involves considering several factors:
- Cost: Compare monthly rents and factor in additional fees such as utilities, parking, and amenities.
- Location: Evaluate the distance from campus and the availability of transportation options like bus routes.
- Amenities: Consider the importance of amenities such as fitness centers, pools, study areas, and social spaces.
- Apartment Condition: Check the condition of the apartments, including the quality of furnishings and appliances.
- Management: Research the management's responsiveness to resident concerns and maintenance issues.
- Community: Consider the type of community you prefer, whether it's a quieter environment for studying or a more social atmosphere.
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