For students attending the University of New Hampshire (UNH), location matters. Balancing academic responsibilities, social life, and day-to-day logistics becomes far easier when you live in a convenient, accessible spot. The Lodges at West Edge, a popular off-campus housing community, aims to strike that balance for students who want the benefits of independence while staying connected to their university life. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the distance between The Lodges and the UNH campus, available transportation options, nearby amenities, and what it’s like to live in a community that combines comfort with accessibility.

Proximity to UNH Campus

The Lodges at West Edge is situated approximately 1.1 miles from the main UNH campus in Durham, New Hampshire. This short distance equates to about a 5-minute drive, depending on traffic, or roughly a 20 to 25-minute walk for those who prefer to get their steps in. This makes The Lodges one of the more conveniently located off-campus housing options for students who want to live near school but enjoy the extra space and amenities that often come with student-focused apartment complexes.

What stands out about The Lodges is not just how close it is, but how easily students can get to and from campus. Many students appreciate the flexibility this distance offers. Whether you’re running late to a morning class or heading home after a late-night study session at the library, being just over a mile away provides peace of mind and quick accessibility.

Shuttle Services: Bridging the Gap

To accommodate students without cars—or those who simply don’t want to deal with campus parking—The Lodges offers a shuttle service that operates during peak school hours. This service is a major perk for many residents, especially during colder months or rainy New England weather when walking or biking becomes less appealing.

The shuttle typically runs in the mornings and afternoons, aligning with common class schedules to make commuting as seamless as possible. For students with tight schedules or back-to-back classes, this added convenience can make a significant difference in their daily routine.

It’s also worth noting that the shuttle system is an environmentally-friendly alternative to individual car use, helping to reduce traffic congestion and emissions in the area. Many students use the shuttle not only to commute to class but also to visit nearby destinations like grocery stores, libraries, or downtown Durham.

Walking and Biking Options

While the area is considered somewhat car-dependent, many students still choose to walk or bike to class. Sidewalks and pedestrian pathways make the route safe and manageable for foot traffic. Biking, in particular, is a popular option given the relatively flat terrain and short distance.

There are also bike racks available both at The Lodges and around campus, encouraging more students to adopt a sustainable and healthy commuting lifestyle. During warmer months, this can be an enjoyable part of your daily routine—especially when scenic views of Durham and the surrounding nature are involved.

Public Transportation and Regional Access

Aside from the private shuttle service, The Lodges benefits from its proximity to local public transportation routes. The COAST bus system operates in the Seacoast area of New Hampshire, including Durham, and provides an affordable, reliable option for students without cars.

Using local transit, students can reach other towns like Dover, Portsmouth, or Newmarket, expanding their access to entertainment, shopping, part-time jobs, and internships. This access is particularly valuable for students who want to explore the area beyond the university while still enjoying the relative quiet and safety of living near campus.

UNH also offers a university-run bus system, Wildcat Transit, which is free for students and covers various routes around Durham and surrounding communities. Students living at The Lodges can take advantage of this service by catching the shuttle to campus and transferring to Wildcat Transit for extended trips.

Everyday Conveniences Nearby

Another major benefit of living at The Lodges is its proximity to everyday essentials. Within a short walk or drive, students can access:

• Grocery stores like Hannaford or Market Basket
• Local dining options ranging from coffee shops to casual eateries
• Fitness centers and recreational facilities
• Pharmacies and other essential services

These nearby amenities help students live more independently without needing to travel far. Whether it’s picking up groceries, grabbing a bite with friends, or running errands, having these conveniences close by enhances the overall quality of life.

The Value of Community Living

More than just a place to sleep, The Lodges offers a vibrant student-focused community. With amenities like a clubhouse, fitness center, study rooms, and social events, residents enjoy a well-rounded living experience that supports both their academic and social lives. Living in this kind of environment fosters connections and a sense of belonging that can be hard to find in more isolated housing options.

It’s not just about convenience—it’s about building a lifestyle that supports your growth as a student and as a person. That’s why many students searching for a community living near University of New Hampshire find The Lodges to be the perfect blend of independence and support.

The term “community living near University of New Hampshire” isn’t just a real estate buzzword—it reflects a true sense of place. Students living at The Lodges benefit from being close enough to stay fully engaged with campus life, while also enjoying the independence and social perks that come with off-campus housing.

Safety and Accessibility

The Lodges is located in a relatively quiet and secure neighborhood. The area is well-lit, and the property itself includes features like secure building access, onsite management, and 24/7 maintenance support. These factors contribute to a safe environment that gives peace of mind to both students and their families.

Accessibility also matters for students with different mobility needs. The shuttle system and nearby transit options are especially valuable for students who may have difficulty walking long distances. Ground-level units and elevators within the complex provide additional accessibility benefits.

Student Testimonials

Many residents of The Lodges mention the convenience of location as one of their favorite features. Here's what a few had to say:

“I love that I can sleep in a bit longer and still make it to class on time thanks to the shuttle. It’s super reliable!” – Jess, Junior, Biology Major “Biking to campus is actually one of my favorite parts of the day. It clears my head before class and takes less than 10 minutes.” – Alex, Senior, Psychology Major “Living here makes it easy to be social but also focus when I need to. The location is ideal.” – Michael, Sophomore, Business Major

Final Thoughts: Is The Lodges a Good Fit?

In terms of distance and access, The Lodges at West Edge checks all the right boxes. Whether you walk, bike, drive, or take the shuttle, getting to the UNH campus is straightforward and quick. With nearby amenities and solid transportation options, students can enjoy the best of both worlds: proximity to their studies and a vibrant, supportive living environment.

For those seeking community living near University of New Hampshire, The Lodges offers more than just housing—it offers a lifestyle tailored to student success. Between the prime location, transit options, and built-in community feel, it’s easy to see why The Lodges continues to be a top choice for off-campus living in Durham.