Student Housing Near South Carolina State University
Find verified off-campus housing near South Carolina State University in Orangeburg, SC
About South Carolina State University
South Carolina State University, a historic public institution founded in 1896, serves as a vital educational hub in Orangeburg with an enrollment of 2,757 students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees. As one of South Carolina's only historically Black universities, SCSU maintains a proud legacy of fostering academic excellence and cultural pride within its close-knit community of learners. The university's welcoming admission rate of 82% reflects its commitment to providing accessible higher education to a diverse student population. Beyond academics, SCSU students thrive within a vibrant campus culture that celebrates African American heritage and traditions. The Orangeburg community embraces its university with genuine support, offering local businesses, restaurants, and entertainment venues that cater to college life. Living near South Carolina State University means becoming part of a supportive, historically significant community where students find affordable housing options and a genuine sense of belonging. The proximity to campus creates a walkable college town atmosphere, while Orangeburg's growing downtown revitalization efforts provide students with engaging social spaces and part-time employment opportunities. For those seeking an authentic HBCU experience rooted in tradition and community connection, SCSU offers an enriching home away from home.
Quick Facts
- Institution Type
- Public
- Highest Degree
- Graduate
- Setting
- Town
- Retention Rate
- 59%
- ACT Median
- 17
- Accreditor
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Classification
- Master's University (Small)
- Designation
- HBCU
Cost & Financial Aid
Annual tuition and estimated costs
South Carolina State University offers relatively affordable housing options compared to national averages, with on-campus residence halls typically costing $8,000-$10,000 per year. Combined with tuition and fees, total annual costs remain moderate, especially for in-state students whose net price after aid averages $18,268.
- ✓Live on-campus during freshman and sophomore years to lock in lower housing rates and reduce commuting costs, then explore off-campus apartments with roommates junior and senior year
- ✓Apply early for on-campus housing to secure preferred dorms and potentially lower rates, as late applicants often face limited options and higher costs
- ✓Form a housing group with 3-4 other students to rent a house or multi-bedroom apartment off-campus, splitting utilities and rent to reduce individual costs by 20-30%
- ✓Look into South Carolina State's housing scholarship programs and resident assistant (RA) positions, which offer free or heavily discounted room and board in exchange for minimal duties
Living Near South Carolina State University
# Housing Guide for South Carolina State University Students Orangeburg is a charming small town in central South Carolina, offering an intimate college community atmosphere. The area surrounding SCSU's campus features a mix of residential neighborhoods and local businesses, creating a walkable environment perfect for students. Popular student housing areas include the neighborhoods directly adjacent to campus and the downtown Orangeburg district, both accessible by foot or short bike rides. The compact campus setting makes walking the primary transportation method, though biking is also practical for exploring the broader town. Limited public transit exists, so having personal transportation is helpful for reaching shopping and dining destinations beyond immediate campus areas. Downtown Orangeburg offers casual dining at local restaurants, small retail shops, and entertainment venues within reasonable distance. The Edisto Memorial Gardens provides beautiful outdoor recreation nearby. The community maintains a safe, welcoming environment with visible campus security and local police presence. Students generally feel comfortable in the residential neighborhoods surrounding SCSU, and the town's smaller size fosters a genuine sense of belonging. Many locals embrace the college presence, making the area feel integrated rather than separated. This tight-knit community atmosphere is one of Orangeburg's strongest appeals for student housing seekers.
Other Housing Near South Carolina State University
Roosevelt Garden Apartments
Roosevelt Garden Apartments is a 200-unit apartment community located at 1000 Presidential Dr in Orangeburg, SC, approximately 2.1 miles from South Carolina State University. Built in 1973, the property offers furnished units with range ovens, refrigerators, and window blinds, along with amenities including 24/7 maintenance, a business center, laundry facilities, and on-site management.
Claflin Commons (Male)
Claflin Commons is a male student housing facility located at 400 Magnolia St in Orangeburg, SC, just 0.3 miles from South Carolina State University's campus. The residence provides on-campus accommodations designed for student residents attending the university.
Campus Corner
Campus Corner is an apartment community located at 1291 Campus Dr in Orangeburg, SC, approximately 0.5 miles from South Carolina State University. The property provides housing options for students attending the university.
Truth Hall
Truth Hall is a student housing property located at 300 College Ave in Orangeburg, SC, just 0.1 miles from South Carolina State University's campus. The residence provides convenient on-campus proximity for students attending the university.
Hugine Suites
Hugine Suites is located at 300 College Ave in Orangeburg, SC, approximately 0.2 miles from South Carolina State University's campus. This student housing property offers convenient proximity to university facilities and campus resources.
High Rise (Female) - Claflin University
High Rise is a female student housing residence located on Goff Avenue in Orangeburg, South Carolina, serving Claflin University students. The property is situated 0.3 miles from South Carolina State University, providing convenient access to both campuses.
University Village at South Carolina State University
University Village is an apartment community located at 700 US-21 BYP in Orangeburg, SC, approximately 0.5 miles from South Carolina State University. The property offers residential housing convenient to the university campus.
University Corner
University Corner is an apartment community located at 415 Dorchester St SE in Orangeburg, SC, approximately 0.5 miles from South Carolina State University. Built in 2008, the property contains 9 units and is designed to serve students attending the university.
Summit Apartments
Summit Apartments is located at 236 Summit Parkway in Orangeburg, SC, approximately 1.3 miles from South Carolina State University. This apartment community offers housing options for students in the area.
Willington Lakes
Willington Lakes is an apartment community located at 401 Willing Lakes Ct in Orangeburg, SC, approximately 3.1 miles from South Carolina State University. The property offers student housing options in a convenient location for university commuters.
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