Living Off-Campus at UAlbany: Costs, Tips & Best Areas

Finding a place to live during college is a vital decision that can profoundly affect academic and social experiences. At the University at Albany (UAlbany), selecting between on-campus housing options or off-campus options requires thoughtful consideration of factors such as cost, convenience, lifestyle preferences, and costs. With this guide as your guidebook for off-campus options near UAlbany, let us help you navigate this process smoothly!

Can You Live Off Campus at UAlbany?

Yes, UAlbany students do have the option of living off-campus. Although the university offers on-campus housing, many choose to live off-campus for more independence, lower costs, and a wider range of living arrangements. When weighing your off-campus options, evaluating your needs and situation is important to make the best choice.

UAlbany Offers Housing Cost Analysis

Housing expenses are an essential consideration for students. For the UAlbany 2025-2026 academic year, the residence hall rates range from $10,346 for a standard double room with a shared bathroom to $12,416 for single bedrooms with a shared bathroom (Rent has increased compared to 2024-2025).

Off-campus housing costs can vary significantly based on factors like location, amenities, and roommate demographics. One popular off-campus complex such as Block75 provides units range $980 - $1,300 monthly rent.

Top Off-Campus Housing Options Near UAlbany

1. Block75

Block75 at 1475 Washington Avenue offers students both convenience and a lively, welcoming community. It provides fully furnished apartments ranging from one to four-bedroom floor plans and amenities such as washers and dryers in each unit, fitness centers, study lounges and a game room. Starting at $980 monthly rent, this off-campus housing option combines comfort with affordability for students living off campus.

2. Empire Commons

Empire Commons is managed by UAlbany and offers apartment-style living on the uptown campus. Each unit contains four single bedrooms, a living area, a kitchen and two bathrooms. Rates are $14,306 per resident with shared bathroom access or $14,824 for private bathroom access per academic year. This rate includes utilities, internet and campus facility access.

3. Liberty Terrace

Also managed by UAlbany, Liberty Terrace provides apartment-style housing in four-bedroom units. Each unit comprises single bedrooms with a shared living area, kitchen and two bathrooms for each resident residing there. Their rate per resident for an individual bedroom is $13,802.

4. Freedom Apartments

Freedom Apartments offers both double and single-bedroom options in standard and efficient apartments. Rates from $11,353 to $13,798， giving residents both privacy and community living options at once.

Factors to Keep in Mind When Selecting Off-Campus Housing

Finding suitable off-campus housing involves considering several key elements:

• Proximity to Campus: Living near UAlbany can save time and transportation costs. Neighborhoods near Washington Avenue tend to be popular with students.
• Security: Selecting a safe neighborhood and apartment complex is should be a top priority. Look for properties with controlled entry, security cameras, well-lit parking areas, and proximity to campus security services such as Block75 which offers secure entry with on-site management to provide students with a safer living environment. Furthermore, be sure to research local crime rates as well as speak to current residents about their experiences.
• Transportation: For those without access to a car, choose a neighborhood that is near bus lines or within walking distance.
• Amenities: Keep in mind what amenities matter most to you like in-unit laundry services, fitness centers, study areas or security services when making your decision.
• Lease Terms: Before signing a lease agreement, take time to thoroughly understand its length, payment schedules and any penalties for early termination.
• Budget: Create an estimated budget that considers rent, utilities, groceries and transportation expenses in order to select an accommodation option which fits with your financial status.

Steps for Securing Off-Campus Housing

• Researchers Should Start Early: Begin your search several months in advance to give yourself enough time to weigh all your options and choose wisely.
• Tour Potential Properties: When possible, visit potential apartments to evaluate their condition, safety and suitability before making decisions about where you should live.
• Review Lease Agreements: Before signing any lease agreement, carefully read and understand its terms, paying special attention to clauses regarding maintenance costs, subletting arrangements, and security deposits.
• Consult Current Students or University Housing Resources: Get advice from current university students or housing resources regarding reliable landlords and properties.

Final Thoughts: Why Block75 Is an Excellent Option for UAlbany Off-Campus Housing

Block75 stands out as one of the premier off-campus housing options near UAlbany, providing the optimal balance of convenience, comfort and affordability.

• Prime Location: Situated just steps from campus, eliminating long commutes.
• Modern Amenities: Fully furnished apartments featuring in-unit laundry, fitness center access and study lounges.
• All-Inclusive Rent: No need to make separate utility payments each month!
• Student-Friendly Community: With affordable pricing and a variety of floor plans available, Block75 provides students at UAlbany looking to live off-campus an excellent option.

What's Next?

1️⃣ Exploring More UAlbany Housing Options: Explore on-campus and off-campus options to see which one best meets your needs.

2️⃣ Plan Your Visit: If you're considering Block75 or any nearby apartments, schedule a tour so that you can view them directly.

3️⃣ Plan Your Move: After finding housing, start collecting the necessary items to bring with you when moving day arrives.

FAQs

Q1. Are utilities usually included with off-campus housing rent?

A1: That depends on the property. Some apartments provide all-inclusive rent that includes utilities while others require tenants to set up and pay separately for electricity, water, and internet service. Check your lease agreement for details.

Q2: On average, how much does off-campus housing near UAlbany cost?

A2: Off-campus housing near UAlbany typically ranges in cost from $800 to $1,500 per month depending on location, apartment size and amenities included in a lease agreement.

Q3: Are living off-campus at UAlbany cheaper than living on-campus?

A3: That depends on your housing choice. While UAlbany offers on-campus rates that include utilities and access to campus facilities, off-campus living can often be more economical when shared among roommates or when rent is split among roommates. However, other costs should also be factored in, such as groceries, transportation costs, or utility payments.

Q4: Where should UAlbany students reside off-campus?

A4: Washington Avenue, Fuller Road and Western Avenue are among the most desired neighborhoods due to their closeness to campus, access to public transportation services and student-centric amenities.

Q5: Do I require a car if I live off-campus?

A5: Not necessarily. Many apartments near UAlbany are within walking distance or on bus routes that link directly with campus, making CDTA bus travel a viable transportation option for students who do not own a vehicle.

Q6: What should I keep an eye out for when signing a lease for off-campus housing?

A6: Some key considerations include lease duration, payment terms, security deposit policies, maintenance responsibilities and any additional fees. It would also be wise to have someone you trust review your lease before signing it.