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Off-Campus Housing Near Carnegie Mellon University
$505+/unit
Fees may applyAllegheny Commons
$425/unit
Fees may applyPenn Commons
$384+/unit
Fees may applyUniversity Commons
About Off-Campus Housing Near Carnegie Mellon University
Carnegie Mellon University is a top-tier private research university on Forbes Avenue in Pittsburgh's Oakland and Squirrel Hill neighborhoods. Founded in 1900 by Andrew Carnegie, CMU is recognized for programs in computer science, engineering, fine arts, drama, and public policy. The main campus covers roughly 157 acres between Forbes Avenue and Frew Street, anchored by the College of Fine Arts building and Hamerschlag Hall. CMU enrolls around 16,000 students across undergraduate and graduate programs. Freshmen are required to live on campus in halls like Mudge House and Morewood Gardens. Upperclassmen move into Oakland, Squirrel Hill, Shadyside, and Greenfield, one of the most competitive off-campus rental markets in western Pennsylvania.
Carnegie Mellon University Housing Requirements
Freshman Live-On Requirement
Carnegie Mellon requires all incoming freshmen to live in university housing for their first year. Students are assigned to residence halls such as Mudge House, Morewood Gardens, Donner House, or the Residence on Fifth, and must sign a one-year housing contract.
Off-Campus Eligibility
Students who have completed their freshman year are eligible to live off campus. Sophomores, juniors, seniors, and graduate students routinely rent in Oakland, Squirrel Hill, Shadyside, and Greenfield.
Lease Timing
The Pittsburgh off-campus market moves fast. Landlords near CMU begin listing August units in November and December, and the best apartments in Oakland and Squirrel Hill are typically claimed by late January or early February.
Housing policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with Carnegie Mellon University before signing a lease.