I’m thinking about living around USC and possibly looking at apartments nearby. I have heard rather mixed things about the area, some people say it has improved, while others still recommend being pretty careful once you get a few blocks away from campus.
I will be new to Los Angeles. Do I need a car to get around in that area?
It has improved A LOT compared to what that area was like 15–20 years ago. USC has kinda expanded its footprint. There’s much more security around the campus now. That being said, this is still central LA, and the neighborhood can change pretty quickly depending on which direction you walk or drive. Campus and USC Village feel very different from areas just a few blocks away.
Nope. That area is pretty well connected. Metro E Line with the stations Jefferson USC and Expo Park / USC are right by the campus. The bus service there is also one of the best in the city.
It's pretty safe nowadays. There was way more going on back in the day. Just stay in areas you become familiar with. Make friends and explore with them.
You really don't need a car near USC. That university has plenty of public transportation. I wouldn't waste my money while on campus.
Hey there, welcome to Los Angeles.
Let me put some light here.. A place two blocks from campus can feel totally different from somewhere 10 blocks away. If you’re apartment hunting, try to see the exact street yourself. If you get the chance, then see it during the day and at night. The area around USC has certainly improved, but it's not West Hollywood or Santa Monica.
Be aware that traffic in L.A. is a bit**. Why not live on the campus itself?
Not nearly as safe as the UCLA campus area. A couple of friends of mine visited USC. They told me it wasn't that safe back then. That changed a bit from what I was told.
I am considering that as well. I am not assigned to any dorms yet. I prefer to study in quiet places. That's why I am checking the options.
Okay, that is nice. I won't push for a car then.
Gotcha. This always depends on your roommate.
I really enjoyed my time on campus. It's not for everyone, though. USC itself is a great university. I hope you can enjoy your time.
Thank you. I am really looking forward to it. This was always one of my dreams, but I only know this city from TV. I will have more questions in the future, that's for sure. I am less anxious about the neighborhood now and I will study the area once I am there.
The USC streets and blocks are relatively safe compared to surrounding areas. Security and law enforcement are highly visible around the University of Southern California.
DPS patrols the campus and an extended 2.5-mile radius into the surrounding neighborhood 24/7. So if you want your own apartment, I suggest staying in that radius. Rooms are always available as students come and go.
This sums it up correctly. As long as you stay close enough, you'll most likely be fine. Always be cautious at night, especially when drinking. Most of the crime in that area is theft. I studied there for 4 years before I moved to NY. You will be safe if you use common sense. Don't worry too much.
The USC area is heavily patrolled. I think drug trafficking and theft are the most common crimes in that area. A lot of times the students themselves cause the trouble (which I wouldn’t recommend).