Quick Stats
Undergrads in Off Campus Housing
43 %
Best Time to Look for a Place
November—housing options quickly decrease over time, especially after winter break
Average Rents
- 1 BR - $850.00
- 2 BR - $950.00
- House - $550.00
- Studio - $700.00
Popular Areas
- 312 College Avenue
- Collegetown Plaza
- Eddygate Park Apartments
- Gun Hill Residences
- Ravenwood Apartments
- Valentine Park Apartments
College Prowler Take
Many students at Cornell tend to live off campus subsequent to freshman year. Those who do, agree that off-campus housing is the best choice, allowing for more of a social, independent, and unrestrained living environment. While options are abundant, it’s advisable to begin searching as early as possible (November). The hot spots, clustered directly in Collegetown and within effortless walking distance from campus, are snatched up quickly. These options are also the most expensive but by far the most luxurious and convenient as well. Other possibilities that are not as close are generally more affordable.
Regardless of living preference, Ithaca has numerous options, all of which are feasible, and each of which has its own perks (utilities inclusive, gym, parking). Some students even live on Cayuga Lake, offering one of the most spectacular views at the expense of a nasty commute to campus. Regardless of the living situation, if you own a car, be sure to inquire about parking situations. Some landlords charge exorbitant rates to park in their lots.
Students Speak Out
Love your school more than free food? Hate your school more than term papers?
Somewhere in between? Show the world what YOU think of YOUR school:
farabove2010 says: Cornell University 2014 Engineering  |
There are many places to live off...
There are many places to live off campus, but some apartments are very expensive. Usually cost is dependent on location, so if you want to pay less you might have to sacrifice convenience.
Off-Campus Housing: January 22, 2009
Report |
Anonymous says:  |
Most students tend to move out of...
Most students tend to move out of the dorms after freshman year, although optional housing for upperclassmen is centralized on west campus. If you pledge a fraternity or sorority, living in a house is a possibility. Housing in Collegetown is en vogue, not just for locality, but for comfort and spaciousness as well. These perks come at a high cost. Large houses on Dryden and Eddy Street or apartments at Valentine are much more affordable. Living with close friends off campus is a memorable experience and still allows you the chance to bond with neighbors in the vicinity and around the block. |
Anonymous says:  |
Housing off campus is very...
Housing off campus is very convenient and definitely worthwhile. Having to deal with Cornell’s ridiculously complicated and stringent housing regulations are a hassle. Although Cornell tries to regulate off-campus housing, you have much more freedom, which allows for a more relaxing and enjoyable living situation. |
Anonymous says:  |
Most people live off campus...
Most people live off campus following freshman year. Word to the wise: start early in November, and look at many different places. |
Anonymous says:  |
Roughly one-third of freshmen will...
Roughly one-third of freshmen will become part of the Greek system, so that offers one housing solution. If freshmen plan on living off campus, they should start looking early for two reasons: 1) off-campus housing goes fast—middle of 1st semester, and 2) there is a lottery based on seniority to determine who gets which dorms. Think and prepare ahead! |
Did You Know?
During orientation week of the first semester and rush week of the second semester, students gather in Collegetown for massive off-campus block parties at private residences that are along College Avenue and Stewart Avenue.
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