Off Campus Apartments at California University of Pennsylvania

Graduating college, for most students, is an unbelievable feeling. It signifies achievements born from years of struggle by students and their families. It marks the end of more than 17 years of formal education and the beginning of a new era of responsibility and freedom. Graduation elicits mixed emotions, nervousness and hope for the future and is particularly special when you have had the opportunity to study at The California University of Pennsylvania.

This small-town Public University is nestled in California, PA, just 35 miles from Pittsburgh, PA. It was founded as a teacher’s college by the community in 1852, has enjoyed massive growth and funding in recent years and now boasts an annual enrollment just under 10,000 full and part-time students. As a result of the CalU’s increased popularity, though, affordable Off Campus Apartments at California University of PA can be difficult to find.

With “supply and demand” in full play, it’s imperative for students (and parents) to get an early start on their search for Student Housing, but what should you be looking for? Here are some key factors when searching for rentals at CalU.

• Basic necessities should be included in pricing (Appliances, Utilities, Wi-Fi, Parking, Storage)
• Distance between student housing & campus – shorter is better
• Safety & Security – Is the unit well maintained and inspected by the School or Municipality?
• Reputation of the landlord/owner – talk to other tenants
• Affordability vs Convenience – closer to campus can cost you more, but it doesn’t have to

How to search for a space?

• Referrals - New students should network with upperclassmen to identify opportunities to acquire rentals being vacated by graduating students. Also, friends and family can be a huge help in finding housing for those who are new to the area.
• Place an ad – There are several options here – College Paper, online, bulletin boards. Find people with common interests and lifestyles that might know of an available unit and who make good roommates.
• Web Search – There are lots of companies pitching their off campus apartments near California University of Pennsylvania. Stick to the local sites. You will often find better prices, better service and better accommodations when you buy local.