Drexel…. where to live? Potential graduate student (Downingtown: safe area, school)

[dms6005]

Hello all,

I have recently gained interest in drexel for grad school. I grew up in Downingtown, but never spent a TON of time in the city except for very recently, so I don't know a whole lot.
Housing and living situation will be very important for me whenever and wherever I go to grad school. I am a young white female, so I feel like I need to be somewhere safe for sure. I'm not sure yet whether I plan to live alone or with others, but either way, money will be a little tight (won't be able to afford areas in center city like rittenhouse square).
My friend went to drexel for undergrad, and I think she lived on 32nd and haverford (powelton village?). She never had any problems, and the one time I visited seemed fine.

So I guess my question is, where would I definitely want to avoid? Is it realistic to live somewhere within walking distance to campus in a very safe area? Are the areas right around campus somewhat affordable/good value?

Thank you!

[kyb01]

Originally Posted by dms6005

Hello all,

I have recently gained interest in drexel for grad school. I grew up in Downingtown, but never spent a TON of time in the city except for very recently, so I don't know a whole lot.
Housing and living situation will be very important for me whenever and wherever I go to grad school. I am a young white female, so I feel like I need to be somewhere safe for sure. I'm not sure yet whether I plan to live alone or with others, but either way, money will be a little tight (won't be able to afford areas in center city like rittenhouse square).
My friend went to drexel for undergrad, and I think she lived on 32nd and haverford (powelton village?). She never had any problems, and the one time I visited seemed fine.

So I guess my question is, where would I definitely want to avoid? Is it realistic to live somewhere within walking distance to campus in a very safe area? Are the areas right around campus somewhat affordable/good value?

Thank you!

32nd and Haverford is probably Mantua. Mantua has been improving especially the parts close to Spring Garden St. If your friend didn't have any problems I would use her as a kind of guide as to what to expect.

There is so much going on, and planned, on and near Drexel's campus. The expected investment will change the campus, and University City, in dramatic ways in a few years or less. It can only get better.

Places that I would have advised you to avoid not too long ago aren't as bad now. But, I would still avoid the immediate area around 40th and Market.