Student Housing Near Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona
Find verified off-campus housing near Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona in Altoona, PA
About Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona
Penn State Altoona offers an intimate college experience within Pennsylvania's vibrant mountain region, serving over 2,400 students seeking quality higher education at an accessible price point. As part of the renowned Penn State University system, this campus delivers bachelor's degree programs with the academic rigor and resources of a major institution while maintaining a tight-knit, supportive community atmosphere. Located in historic Altoona, the campus benefits from a rich industrial heritage and genuine small-town charm. Students enjoy direct access to the scenic Allegheny Mountains, perfect for hiking, outdoor recreation, and weekend adventures. The welcoming admission process reflects the university's commitment to providing educational opportunities to diverse learners, with a 97% acceptance rate that emphasizes accessibility without compromising academic standards. The surrounding Altoona community embraces its student population with local shops, restaurants, and cultural venues that cater to college life. Living near campus means affordable housing options, walkable neighborhoods, and a genuine sense of belonging within a town that values its university partnership. Whether you're seeking a supportive learning environment, outdoor recreation, or an authentic college town experience, Penn State Altoona combines Penn State's academic excellence with the personalized attention and community integration that define successful student life.
Quick Facts
- Institution Type
- Public
- Highest Degree
- Bachelor's
- Setting
- Small City
- Retention Rate
- 77%
- Accreditor
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Cost & Financial Aid
Annual tuition and estimated costs
Penn State Altoona's housing costs are moderate compared to major universities, with total attendance costs ranging from $40,648 to $51,372 annually when including tuition and estimated housing expenses. Students can significantly reduce costs through on-campus housing, roommate arrangements, or off-campus shared apartments in the affordable Altoona area.
- ✓Live on-campus during freshman and sophomore years to lock in regulated housing rates and avoid commuting costs
- ✓Share off-campus apartments with 3-4 roommates to split rent, utilities, and internet expenses in Altoona's affordable rental market
- ✓Consider housing stipends and work-study programs through Penn State's financial aid office to offset residential costs
- ✓Explore nearby communities outside central Altoona for rental options 10-15% cheaper while remaining within reasonable commuting distance
Living Near Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona
# Penn State Altoona Housing Guide for Students Altoona offers an affordable, walkable college town experience with genuine community integration. The campus sits in downtown Altoona, making off-campus living convenient and accessible. Popular student neighborhoods cluster within walking distance of campus. The downtown corridor along 12th Street features restored historic buildings with apartments, while the Evergreen area offers quieter, residential options just blocks away. Both neighborhoods provide easy pedestrian access to classes and local amenities. Getting around is straightforward—most students walk or bike to campus and nearby destinations. Altoona's compact size means errands rarely require transportation. CATA bus service provides additional connectivity if needed, and regional transit connects to State College and Pittsburgh. Downtown Altoona has revitalized significantly, offering diverse dining from casual cafes to established restaurants. Discount superstores and shops line nearby corridors, while the historic downtown district provides unique boutiques and entertainment venues. The Railroaders Memorial Museum and nearby parks offer recreational options. The community maintains a safe, welcoming atmosphere with active neighborhood associations. Students generally report feeling secure and integrated into Altoona's tight-knit community. This small-city setting provides the college experience while keeping housing costs reasonable and maintaining genuine town-gown relationships.
Other Housing Near Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona
Wehnwood Court Student Housing
Wehnwood Court is a 53-unit apartment community located 0.4 miles from Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona. Built in 1990, the property offers fully furnished units with full kitchens, high-speed internet, and amenities including a fitness center, game room, and 24/7 maintenance. Individual leases are available with controlled access entry.
The Elizabeth Apartments
The Elizabeth Apartments is an apartment community located at 2015 Broad Ave in Altoona, PA, approximately 2.4 miles from Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona. The property offers furnished units with appliances including a range oven, refrigerator, microwave, and dishwasher, along with amenities such as a fitness center, laundry facilities, cable TV, elevator access, and tile flooring.
Station Square Apartments
Station Square Apartments is a 40-unit apartment community located at 807 13th St in Altoona, PA, approximately 2.1 miles from Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona. Built in 1978, the property offers amenities including in-unit washer/dryer, high-speed internet, 24-hour fitness facilities, air conditioning, and on-site management. The smoke-free community features a clubhouse, resident events, balcony patios, and wheelchair accessibility.
Oak Residence Hall
Oak Residence Hall is located at 3037 Nittany Dr in Altoona, PA, just 0.1 miles from Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona. This student housing property offers convenient proximity to campus for Penn State Altoona students.
Spruce Residence Hall
Spruce Residence Hall is located on Gwin Rd in Altoona, PA, just 0.1 miles from Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona, making it convenient for students attending the campus. The residence hall provides on-campus housing options for students.
Nittany Pointe
Nittany Pointe is an apartment community located at 200 Campus View Dr in Altoona, PA, approximately 0.3 miles from Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona. The property offers student housing options in close proximity to campus facilities and academic buildings.
Fairview Hills Main Office
Fairview Hills is an apartment community with 170 units located at 1614 1st St in Altoona, PA, approximately 1.0 mile from Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona. The property provides student housing options convenient to campus.
Maple Residence Hall
Maple Residence Hall is located at 3075 Nittany Dr in Altoona, PA, just 0.1 miles from Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona. This student housing property provides on-campus accommodations for university students.
College Park Apartments
College Park Apartments is located at 212 Park College Dr in Altoona, PA, approximately 0.6 miles from Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona. This apartment community provides housing options for students in proximity to campus.
Walnut Place
Walnut Place is an apartment community located at 2701 Walnut Ave in Altoona, PA, approximately 2.7 miles from Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona. The property offers student housing options in proximity to campus.
City Hall Commons
City Hall Commons is an apartment community located at 1130 13th Ave in Altoona, PA, approximately 1.7 miles from Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona. The property offers student housing options in a convenient location near campus.
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