The Nest at University Center: Student Housing Near USC's Campus

What The Nest at University Center offers

The Nest at University Center is a student housing community located at 1525 Sumter Street in Columbia, directly adjacent to the University of South Carolina's campus. The property offers furnished apartments designed for undergraduate and graduate students, with floor plans ranging from studios to four-bedroom units. Each apartment includes utilities, high-speed internet, and cable television in the rent.

The community features common areas including a fitness center, study lounges, a game room, and a rooftop terrace. Residents have access to a 24-hour front desk, package receiving, and on-site maintenance. The building is pet-friendly, though breed and size restrictions apply. Parking is available on-site, and the location puts most USC academic buildings within a short walk or bus ride.

Key Takeaways

• The Nest is a furnished student housing option directly next to USC's campus with utilities and internet included in rent.
• Floor plans range from studios to four-bedroom units, with common amenities including a fitness center, study spaces, and rooftop access.
• The building allows pets with restrictions and provides 24-hour front desk service and on-site maintenance.
• Parking is available on-site, and the Sumter Street location puts you within walking distance of most USC academic and residential areas.

Floor plans and unit types

The Nest offers several layout options to match different living situations. Studio apartments work for single students or those who prefer their own space. One-bedroom and two-bedroom units accommodate roommate arrangements or students who want separate sleeping and living areas. Three-bedroom and four-bedroom floor plans are available for larger groups of students sharing rent.

All units come furnished with beds, desks, and living room furniture. Kitchens include basic appliances. The exact square footage and specific amenities vary by floor plan, so it's worth reviewing the property's floor plan diagrams before deciding. Lease terms are typically 12 months, though shorter terms may be available during certain periods of the year.

What's included in rent

Rent at The Nest covers more than just the apartment itself. Utilities—electricity, water, sewer, and trash—are included, which simplifies budgeting since you won't receive separate bills for these services. High-speed internet and cable television are also part of the monthly payment. Furnished units mean you don't need to buy or move beds, desks, or living room seating.

The 24-hour front desk staff can receive packages, which is helpful during move-in or when ordering textbooks and supplies. Maintenance requests are handled on-site, so repairs and maintenance issues are typically addressed quickly. These inclusions make The Nest a turnkey option for students who want to minimize setup costs and hassle.

Location and campus proximity

Sitting at 1525 Sumter Street puts The Nest at the edge of USC's campus rather than requiring a commute. Most undergraduate academic buildings, including the historic Horseshoe and the business school, are within a 10-minute walk. Graduate programs and professional schools are similarly accessible. The location also puts you near the Russell House student center and many student dining options.

Public transportation is available through COMET, USC's bus system, which connects to other parts of campus and the broader Columbia area. The Five Points neighborhood—known for restaurants, shops, and student gathering spots—is a short walk away. For students with cars, on-site parking eliminates the need to hunt for street parking or pay for a separate lot.

Amenities and community features

The Nest includes a fitness center with cardio and weight equipment, useful for students who want to work out without paying for a separate gym membership. Study lounges throughout the building provide quiet spaces for coursework, group projects, or exam preparation. A game room offers recreational options, and the rooftop terrace provides outdoor space for socializing or studying in good weather.

The furnished common areas and 24-hour front desk create a community atmosphere while maintaining security. The building's proximity to campus means you can easily return to your apartment between classes or grab something from your room during the day. These features appeal to students who want both independence and the convenience of campus living.

Pet policy and restrictions

The Nest allows pets, which is a significant advantage for students who want to bring animals to college. However, the property does enforce breed and size restrictions—not all dogs or cats are permitted, and some breeds commonly associated with higher insurance liability are typically excluded. Pet deposits and monthly pet fees apply on top of regular rent.

Before committing to bringing a pet, contact The Nest directly to confirm whether your specific animal meets their requirements. Getting approval in writing prevents conflicts later and ensures your pet is welcome when you move in. If you're considering a pet, factor the additional monthly cost into your housing budget.

How to contact The Nest and next steps

The Nest at University Center is managed by a professional property management company. You can reach them through their leasing office, typically located in the building itself. Most student housing communities hold open leasing periods in the fall and spring, with peak leasing for the following academic year happening in the months before summer.

When you contact them, ask about current availability, lease terms, move-in dates, and any specials or promotions they may be running. Request a tour if possible—seeing the actual floor plan, common areas, and the neighborhood helps you decide whether the location and setup match your needs. Ask about the application process, required documentation, and any guarantor or co-signer requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Nest only for USC students?

The Nest is marketed primarily to USC students, but policies on who can lease may vary. Contact the leasing office directly to confirm whether graduate students, non-degree students, or other residents are permitted. Some student housing communities do accept residents who aren't enrolled, though this is less common.

Can I break my lease early if I need to move?

Most student housing leases are firm 12-month commitments, and breaking them early typically results in significant penalties or fees. Some properties offer summer sublet options or allow lease transfers to other students. Ask about these options when you sign, and review the lease terms carefully before committing.

Are utilities really included, or are there hidden charges?

Utilities, internet, and cable are included in the advertised rent, which means you won't receive separate bills for these services. However, review your lease to confirm exactly which utilities are covered. Some properties exclude certain services or charge extra for usage above a certain threshold, so clarify this before signing.

What happens if I need maintenance or repairs?

The Nest has on-site maintenance staff and a 24-hour front desk. Submit maintenance requests through the leasing office or an online portal if available. Emergency repairs are typically prioritized, while routine maintenance may take a few days. Ask about their average response time when you tour the property.

Can I have roommates, or do I have to live alone?

The Nest offers multi-bedroom units specifically designed for roommate situations. You can lease a two, three, or four-bedroom unit with friends and split the rent. The leasing office can explain how roommate agreements work and whether they require all residents to sign the lease or just one primary leaseholder.