I’m starting at The University of Tampa in the fall. Where can I find the best off campus apartments in Tampa?

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Bell Channelside Apartments in Downtown Tampa

Finding an apartment in Tampa can seem like a daunting task because Tampa is a large metro area. The first question you want is to ask is are you looking to live near campus. If you're looking to live near The University of Tampa it's best to look at apartments in Downtown Tampa, Channelside, or Hyde Park. The bad news is that these apartments can be expensive. But fear not South Tampa has a lot of apartments to choose from and based on your needs you'll be able to find the perfect one. Here are some tips for finding your perfect off-campus Tampa apartment.

What is your budget?

First, look at those apartments within those areas to see if they fit your budget. The obvious benefit to living in Downtown is easy access to lots of food and nightlife options. Channelside also has a lot happening and is close to the Amalie arena, so if you're a Tampa Bay Lightning fan this can be a huge plus. If you like nightlife, Hyde Park is a big winner. With lots of eateries, pubs, and lively nightlife within walking distance, this is definitely a neighborhood to check out. Hyde Park has popular pubs like MacDinton's, an Irish pub known for fun Happy Hours. Also, eateries like Datz, that are sure to satisfy your every craving. Hyde Park is also home to the world-famous Bern's Steakhouse with an entire area just for dessert and one of the largest wine cellars you'll ever see!

Finding A Budget-Friendly Apartment

If you're finding that those options are out of your budget, there are still more choices that are close to campus. The University of Tampa is located on West Kennedy Blvd. and one of the more popular roadways that intersect with Kennedy is Dale Mabry. You can start your search by looking off Dale Mabry. Or another spot that's popular with UT students is apartments off Gandy Blvd. and from Westshore Blvd. to Dale Mabry. It's a little further of a drive but the apartments are more affordable than those closer to UT and many of your fellow UT students take up residence there so you'll still feel like you're part of the community. 

Consider Roommates

Besides geography, also think if you'd be willing to have a roommate. Having a roommate can make living closer to downtown more affordable and feasible. Downtown Tampa has many two-bedroom apartment options available and some even three-bedroom options available. Apartments in Hyde Park and Channelside also offer multi-bedroom options. Plus, it may be fun to meet some new people and have someone to share the grocery shopping with.

Transportation to UT Campus

Transportation is another factor to keep in mind. If you're not going to have a car with you the Tampa apartments that are further from downtown may not be an option. However, the downtown Tampa apartments are a quick walk across the Hillsborough river bridge to get to The University of Tampa's campus. If you're ok with public transportation, there is transit available from Channelside to The University of Tampa as well. 

 

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