Off-Campus and Student Housing near University of Maryland - College Park

Living off campus in College Park

Introduction to Off-Campus Living: The University of Maryland, College Park, is located just outside Washington, D.C., in a busy university community with convenient access to regional employment, entertainment, and cultural attractions. Students can choose from high-rise apartments near Route 1, traditional rental houses, shared homes, and apartment communities in surrounding neighborhoods. Housing close to campus is popular, so start looking early and compare rent, utilities, lease dates, parking, and transportation. Before signing, check whether the property is licensed and properly registered with the City of College Park, and understand which utilities and services are included.

Popular Neighborhoods: The area along Route 1 and near the campus entrance is popular with students seeking apartments, restaurants, shops, and an easy commute to classes. Old Town College Park offers historic homes and established residential streets close to campus and the Metro station. Berwyn and Berwyn Heights provide additional rental houses and a more neighborhood-oriented setting, while Calvert Hills has historic homes and convenient access to the campus area. Lakeland and North College Park offer other residential options. Compare each location's bus access, walking distance, parking rules, and commute before choosing a rental.

Party Restrictions and Local Rules: College Park has specific noise and unruly social gathering ordinances. For gatherings of eight or more people, violations can include excessive or underage drinking, illegal activity, guests spilling onto neighboring property, vandalism, fighting, or noise above city limits. Noise limits are 65 decibels from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. and 55 decibels overnight, with the lower limit extending to 8 a.m. on weekends and holidays. A first gathering violation can bring a $500 fine for the responsible tenant; subsequent violations can reach $1,000. Planned parties can be registered with the city, but registration does not excuse violations. UMD may also address off-campus student misconduct.

Transportation: UMD's Shuttle-UM system connects campus with College Park neighborhoods, nearby shopping, and selected destinations beyond the city. Students can ride Shuttle-UM without purchasing a separate fare, while College Park residents who are not university students can apply for complimentary passes through the city. The College Park–University of Maryland Metro station provides Green Line access to Washington, D.C., and other regional destinations. The city also has access to the MARC Camden Line. Walking, biking, and shared e-bikes or scooters can work for shorter trips. Check current routes and schedules before choosing housing farther from campus.

Climate and Community Lifestyle: College Park has a humid four-season climate, with warm, humid summers, cool autumns, chilly winters, and mild-to-warm springs. NOAA climate records for the area show average January temperatures around 43°F for daytime highs and 26°F for overnight lows; July averages are near 89°F and 69°F. Rain occurs throughout the year, and summer thunderstorms can be intense. Students can enjoy campus events, Big Ten athletics, local restaurants, nearby parks, and the cultural opportunities of Washington, D.C. The community includes students, university employees, families, and long-term residents, so being considerate of neighbors is important.