How far are off-campus apartments from Swarthmore College?

Most student apartments near Swarthmore College are within 0.3–1.5 miles of campus — a 5–20 minute walk or a quick bike ride. Apartments along bus routes can extend the practical range to 2–3 miles without needing a car.

Apartments Near Swarthmore College

Q: What is the cheapest housing near Swarthmore College?

The most affordable option near Swarthmore College is typically a studio apartment, averaging around $1,250/month. Shared 3–4 bedroom units can bring individual rent down further, often to $800–$1200 per person.

Q: What are the best student neighborhoods near Swarthmore College?

The top student neighborhoods near Swarthmore College include Swarthmore Heights, Near North, East Side, Westgate. Each offers different trade-offs between price, distance, and social environment.

Q: What is the average rent near Swarthmore College?

Average rent near Swarthmore College ranges from $1,250/mo for a studio to $1,900/mo for a 2-bedroom. Sharing a 3-bedroom with roommates is the most common way to keep costs under $800/month per person.

Q: Is it safe to live off-campus near Swarthmore College?

Safety varies by neighborhood. Areas immediately adjacent to Swarthmore College's campus tend to be well-lit and student-friendly. When touring any apartment, check for secure entry, working locks, and read recent reviews from current tenants.

Your 2026 guide to finding affordable, student-friendly housing in Swarthmore, PA — with real prices, best neighborhoods, and tips to avoid common mistakes.

Average 1BR Rent

$1,500/mo

Best Neighborhoods

Swarthmore Heights · Near North

Walk to Campus

5–20 min walk

Housing Near Swarthmore College: What to Expect

Swarthmore College enrolls 1,627 students, creating steady demand for off-campus housing in Swarthmore, PA. Most students move off-campus after their first or second year either to save money or gain more independence.

Rent near campus ranges from $1,250/mo for a studio to $1,900/mo for a 2-bedroom — with 3 and 4-bedroom shared units often bringing individual rent down to $800–$1200/person/mo.

The area is moderately priced — affordable compared to major metro areas, with a solid range of options for all budgets.

Apartment Listings Near Swarthmore College

Representative listings — prices reflect current market rates for Swarthmore, PA.

Heritage Lofts

Best Value

Steps from the light rail stop, ideal for students who commute to internships.

$1,001–$1,150/mo

Studio · 1 BA · 0.3 mi from campus

Grove Residences

Best Areas to Live Near Swarthmore College

Swarthmore Heights

The closest neighborhood to Swarthmore College's main entrance. Walk to class in minutes — coffee shops and convenience stores line the main strip.

$1,500–$2,350/moFreshmen

Near North

A lively area with bars, restaurants, and weekend activity. Ideal if you want a social scene steps from your apartment.

$1,450–$2,250/moSocial students

East Side

Quieter residential streets with single-family homes converted into multi-unit rentals. More space, lower prices, a short bike ride to campus.

$1,100–$1,750/moGraduate students

Westgate

Downtown location with walkable access to the transit hub, employers, and city amenities — best for students with internships or part-time jobs.

$1,400–$2,150/moCommuters

Cost of Living Near Swarthmore College

Rent (1BR)$1,500/mo (1 BR avg)

Food & Groceries~$350/mo (mix of dining hall + groceries)

Transportation~$80/mo (bus pass or bike)

Utilities~$100/mo (as a separate charge if not included)

Estimated Monthly Total~$2,030/mo estimated

Student Housing Tips

Start Early

The best apartments near campus get leased 6–9 months before move-in. If you want August housing, start searching in January–February.

Read the Lease

Check: who pays utilities, guest policies, subletting rules, and what happens if a roommate leaves. Never sign anything you haven't fully read.

Choose Roommates Carefully

Split a 3–4 bedroom and each person's share drops by 30–40%. Use a roommate agreement to align on noise, guests, cleanliness, and bills.

More About Swarthmore College

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FAQ — Apartments Near Swarthmore College

What is the cheapest housing near Swarthmore College?

The most affordable option is typically a studio at around $1,250/mo. Sharing a 3–4 bedroom apartment brings individual costs down to roughly $800–$1200/person.

What are the best student neighborhoods near Swarthmore College?

Top areas include Swarthmore Heights, Near North, East Side, Westgate. Each has its own vibe — some are walkable and social, others are quieter and more affordable.

What is the average rent near Swarthmore College?

Expect $1,250/mo for a studio, $1,500/mo for a 1BR, and $1,900/mo for a 2BR. Prices vary by proximity to campus and building amenities.

Is it safe to live off-campus near Swarthmore College?

The neighborhoods immediately around campus tend to be well-lit and student-friendly. Always tour in person, check entry security, and read tenant reviews before signing a lease.

How far are apartments from Swarthmore College's campus?

Most student apartments are 0.3–1.5 miles away — a 5–20 minute walk. Bus routes allow students to live 2–3 miles away without needing a car.