If you’re planning to visit CIPA for our spring Open House weekend this year—or if you’re making an individual visit – one of your objectives may be to get a sense of where to live during your time in Ithaca. There are a variety of options available to suit all graduate student needs.
On-Campus Housing
Some students, particularly international students, prefer the convenience of on-campus housing options. CIPA students are eligible to live in either the Hasbrouck Apartments or the Maplewood Park Apartments. Both of these options are also open to students with partners and/or families who will be moving to Ithaca with them. On-campus housing is offered on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to get your application in early.
Off-Campus Housing
Ithaca is home to a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own personality and quirks. Here is a sample of some popular areas for graduate students to live. Many apartment listings in these areas are posted throughout the year on Craigslist and other real estate websites.
Collegetown
Collegetown is the name given to the area immediately outside Cornell’s campus boundaries to the southwest. Full of various shops, restaurants, and bars, Collegetown is particularly popular with undergraduate students. Its proximity to campus makes it an appealing place to live for students who don’t mind the hustle and bustle.
Downtown/Fall Creek
Down a steep hill from campus are the Downtown Ithaca and Fall Creek neighborhoods. Many of these residential streets feature large houses that are subdivided into apartments for anywhere from one to four tenants (occasionally more). Both neighborhoods are walkable to a variety of shops and restaurants while being a bit removed from the congestion of Collegetown. Campus is accessible by a walk or bus ride up the hill.
Cayuga Heights
Cayuga Heights borders Cornell’s campus to the north. It is a primarily residential area that contains subdivided houses and a few apartment buildings. Walks to campus are a bit longer than from other areas, but there is regular bus service through the area.
Northeast and Lansing
The area north of Cayuga Heights (2-3 miles from Cornell’s campus) is home to several shopping malls and the Ithaca airport. There are several larger apartment complexes in this area, which are generally run by leasing agencies and can feature amenities such as gyms and swimming pools. Buses to campus regularly serve this area.
No matter what your preferences or circumstances, chances are there’s a perfect housing option for you in and around Ithaca. Check out the Cornell Graduate School’s housing page for even more information.