question re: housing in corvallis (Philomath: apartment complex, rental, house)

[sophiedvm]

I am a veterinary student considering completing my last year at OSU. I did my undergrad in San Luis Obispo, CA, and loved it, so im hoping Corvallis has the same atmosphere (although maybe a bit more rain). Ive been in school in the caribbean for the last 2 years, so i know ill have to get used to cold weather again! Anywho, Ive been looking into a one-bedroom rental in Corvallis, for me and my cat, but have been a little alarmed at reviews that make everywhere out to be noisy, dorm-like living. I love the college town atmosphere, but do not want to re-live my days in undergrad. I would love to be close to coffee shops, a whole foods-esqe market, etc.
Can anyone recommend areas or properties for rent where a hip, liberal, not-quite-30, student can enjoy life in corvallis without feeling like im in a frat house? areas to avoid would be greatly appreciated as well. thank you.

[bobmulk]

I'm an OSU alum so I can speak somewhat about Corvallis, although it's been a few years since I was a student.

I think the apartments people are speaking of are those close to the campus which are going to be "dorm-like" with lots of students, parties, etc. There are apartments all over Corvallis that are much nicer that won't be the student slums. Truthfully, you'll just have to visit and check the place out. Corvallis has 54,000 people so it's not terribly big. Good luck.

[Pharaoh07]

bobmulk is absolutely right. I moved to Corvallis after graduating from college, and I had NO intent of living in a loud apartment complex full of undergrads. Stay away from the college campus and look at the north side of town. Also, take a look at Philomath, you can rent a house there for cheap. Philomath is closer to the veterinary program on campus, so you won't have to be driving through town to get there. Corvallis is a wonderful town to live in and you CAN get away from the college noise!

[jjpop]

Check out the neighborhood along NW Grant between 29th and Kings Blvd. Easy bike or walking access to campus which is only about a half mile, and much quieter than neighborhoods closer to campus. Close proximity to granola shopping and caffeine fixes.