State College City Guide 2026: Everything You Need Before Moving Here

Pennsylvania. It is home to the Pennsylvania State University, one of the most popular universities in State College and the US. Generally, the area has a lower overall crime rate compared to the national average, with figures around 11-17 crimes per 1,000 residents.

State College streets are home to a variety of cafes, bakeries, restaurants, study spots, and galleries. With a large student population, the town feels energetic yet comfortable for everyday life. From exploring the University Creamery for the best ice creams in the world to hiking the scenic trails nearby Rothrock State Forest, State College offers a blend of chill environment and outdoor adventure.

If you are planning to move here, this State College city guide will help you understand what living in State College as a student feels like. 

Things to Do in State College, Pennsylvania

State College offers a fun mix of culture, campus energy, and small-town comfort, making student life in State College, Pennsylvania, lively and social. You can take a self-guided tour of Penn State University, known for its beautiful campus, historic buildings, and happening student life. The Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts, held by Downtown State College, is for students who enjoy art exhibitions and live music performances. You can also explore its local shops, biking trails, and affordable meal options. 

Students love to visit the Arboretum at Penn State, featuring a variety of gardens, walking paths, and sculptures, providing a peaceful escape from the study. Tussey Mountain and Mount Nittany are the best options for outdoor activities. 

And when the weekend hits, there are a lot of fun things to do in State College for students. Beaver Avenue lights up with music, game-day excitement takes over the town, and local breweries and casual hangouts become the perfect place to chill with friends.

This State College city guide for students also highlights popular attractions like Millbrook Marsh Nature Center, Beaver Stadium, and The State Theater.  

Ultimate State College City Guide

State College has a population of around 40,000–45,000 residents, and is a true college town shaped by Penn State University, which has a student population of around 50,000+ at the University Park campus. 

Affordability is one of the biggest reasons students love living here. Rent, groceries, and day-to-day expenses are generally more manageable compared to major US cities like Philadelphia, New York, or Washington D.C. This makes State College a great option for students who want a comfortable lifestyle, a safe environment, and an active social scene without spending too much. 

Whether you are an undergraduate student, an international student, or moving here for your Master’s, this guide will help you understand State College quickly. From the best areas to live in State College and student travel tips to cost of living, food, and transportation, this is your Ultimate State College City Guide.

Best Areas to Live in State College

Finding the right student apartments in State College plays an important role in your overall experience. From areas close to Penn State University to quieter residential pockets with affordable rent, each locality has its own perks. 

This section of the State College student city guide breaks down the best areas to live in State College, helping you choose a neighborhood that matches your commute, safety needs, and day-to-day lifestyle.

1. Downtown State College

With a population of 9500, Downtown State College is located just a 5-minute drive from Penn State University. It’s a student hub filled with cafes, bars, libraries, and late-night food spots. The safety index is 74, making it one of the best areas to live in College Station. The average monthly rent here is $1,850/month.

2. Holmes-Foster

Holmes-Foster is home to 3800 people living peacefully here. Students can chill at nearby parks. With minimal traffic and neighborhood watch programs, Holmes-Foster turns out to be safe for students. Safety index is 84, and the average rent is $1,400/month.

3. Foxpointe

With a population of 2900, Foxpointe is one of the best areas to live in College Station. Its safety index is 88, making it an ideal place for student apartments in State College. Located just a 10 to 15-minute bus ride away from Penn State University, the area offers access to grocery stores and a nearby shopping plaza. Average rent here is $1,450/month.

4. Laurel Hills

If we talk about the safest and best areas to live in State College, Laurel Hills tops the list. It has a population of 3700 and a safety index of 93. Strong community, walkable streets, and regular police patrols help reduce the crime rate and maintain safety in the area. Average rent here is $1,800/month.

Cost of Living in State College

State College is one of the most budget-friendly student towns in Pennsylvania. This State College student guide gives you a total breakdown of the cost of living in State College. 

Altogether, the cost of living in State College is lower than in other Pennsylvania cities like Philadelphia, which makes it a priority for budget-conscious students. 

Transportation Links

State College is a student-friendly town where getting around is simple. Most students rely on walking, cycling, and public buses, especially since Penn State and Downtown State College are closely connected.

The best part is that the public transport is well-designed around major student routes. Hence, it gets easy for students to commute to campus, grocery stores, libraries, and student-friendly spots.  

The Center Area Transportation Authority(CATA) takes care of buses around the town. 

For longer travel, State College is connected through:

• State College Regional Airport (SCE)
• Intercity buses
• Ride-share options

Food Scene in State College

If you're moving to State College, you will fall in love with its food. You will find a lot of dining spots, cafes, student-friendly hangouts, and late-night food joints like Irving’s Bagels, The Original Waffle Shop, Allen Street Grill, and Otto’s Pub and Brewery. 

If you prefer cafes, there are options like Abba Java Coffeehouse, Sowers Harvest Café, and Webster’s Bookstore Café for good coffee, pastries, and a relaxed vibe. You can also explore some international options such as Pizza spots, Asian comfort food, and Middle Eastern Bites. 

Altogether, whether you are craving a quick meal or a proper dining experience, State College has a variety to keep your journey deliciously amazing. 

Universities in State College

State College is known as the home of Penn State University, making it the ultimate student-focused town in Pennsylvania. This section of the State College student city guide highlights the top universities in the town, attracting students worldwide.

1. Penn State College of Engineering

This is one of the leading choices for domestic and international students, especially for mechanical engineering and computer science.

2. Smeal College of Business

It is one of the best business schools in the US, known for its strong MBA programs. 

3. South Hills School of Business & Technology

A career-focused local institute offering job-ready programs in business, IT, and healthcare support fields.

State College offers everything students need. From affordable student housing to the overall cost of living, the town truly supports both academic and lifestyle. You get plenty of food spots, cafes, and social hangouts around to lighten your mood. 

If you’re planning your move, this State College student city guide should help you make smart choices for living, studying, and everything else that is needed

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