Eugene is filled with unique and distinct neighborhoods that not only show off the character of their residents, but also provide great housing at sometimes-reasonable prices. The following neighborhoods are popular with students because of their affordability and their close proximity to the University and other nearby resources.
1. Autzen/Kinsrow
Over the river and through some woods is the Kinsrow area across from Autzen Stadium. Composed of giant apartment complexes, the area is a great stop for students after their freshman year because some complexes, such as Stadium Park and Duck’s Village, provide furnished apartments. They also have pools, hot tubs, basketball courts and gyms for their residents, which is convenient for those who don’t have time to trek back to campus to work out. Lane Transit District route 79X runs Monday through Friday with steady service and Saturday nights until 2:30 a.m., but it’s recommended you have a car for getting around on the weekends. The Duck ‘N’ Go convenience store is within the neighborhood, and the Albertsons grocery store is nearby on Coburg Road.
2. West and South University
Easily two of the most student-populated neighborhoods within the immediate vicinity of campus, the West University and South University districts are well-known for their nightlife and collegiate atmosphere. Here you can find most of the fraternity and sorority houses. In the West University district, most students either live in apartments or townhouses because older houses are starting to be bulldozed away and replaced by apartment complexes. Meanwhile, in the South University district, there are more houses for students to choose from. There are a variety of corner markets and restaurants nearby to feed a hungry student. Plus, it’s an easy bike ride or walk to Safeway on 18th Avenue between Pearl and Oak streets.
3. Fairmount
Located east of campus and much calmer than the wilder neighborhoods of the West and South University districts, Fairmount is a great neighborhood if searching for a house to live in with your roommates or your family. In Fairmount, students mix much more with permanent residents than in other neighborhoods. It’s close to Hendricks Park, a great location for a morning run, and is full of little pubs and restaurants like Agate Alley Bistro, Villard Street Pub and Prince Puckler’s Gourmet Ice Cream. Tom’s Market is a little deli and convenience store that serves the area, and Market of Choice and Hirons Pharmacy are close by on Franklin Boulevard.
4. Downtown
Although it’s the farthest from campus, the downtown neighborhoods can provide a wide range of housing options for students, including apartments, studios and houses. Also, it’s easier to find a month-to-month lease in downtown than it is in the other popular student neighborhoods, which is great for victory lap seniors. Downtown also boasts a vibrant nightlife, featuring many popular bars near Olive Street, including John Henry’s, the Starlight Lounge and Jameson’s.
5. On Campus
Of all the convenient locations mentioned, University Housing is the easiest, albeit probably not the cheapest. But where else can you not worry about meals and furniture or not worry about getting out of bed until 10 minutes before your lecture begins? Plus, there are plenty of dining options, and you have the ability to choose whether or not to eat healthy or pig out.
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Get to know your side of town
Daily Emerald
August 29, 2010
Aaron Marineau
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