Yes—it's generally easy to get around the University of South Florida campus without a car, thanks to free campus transportation, walkable pathways, and student-friendly public transit options. Getting around off campus is still very doable, but it may require a bit more planning.
Getting Around On Campus at USF
USF offers several convenient transportation options designed specifically for students:
- Bull Runner Shuttle: This free campus shuttle runs continuous loops around campus and to student housing near USF, making it easy to reach academic buildings, libraries, and student apartments efficiently.
- Walking & Biking: While USF is a large campus, it's very walkable, and biking is popular. Students have access to bike racks and Coast Bike share stations throughout campus.
- SAFE Team: For late-night safety, the SAFE Team provides transportation services to help students get around campus after hours.
These options make living in apartments near USFespecially convenient for students who don't plan to bring a car.
Getting Around Off Campus in Tampa
Traveling beyond campus is still feasible without a car, especially for students who take advantage of free and discounted services:
- HART Buses: Tampa's public bus system connects directly with the Bull Runner. Even better, USF students ride HART buses for free with a valid USF ID, making trips to shopping centers, dining areas, and medical facilities like AdventHealth Tampa more accessible.
- Rideshares & Taxis: Uber, Lyft, and taxi services are widely available for errands, internships, or nights out.
- PSTA Connections: The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) offers express routes connecting the Tampa campus to surrounding areas in Pinellas County.
Students living in apartments on Fletcher Ave., Bruce B. Downs Blvd., or apartments on 42nd Street often benefit from easier access to these transit options.
Things Students Should Consider
Campus Size: USF Tampa is large, so while walking is possible, most students rely on the Bull Runner for longer distances.
Late Nights: Shuttle service hours are limited, so rideshares or SAFE Team services may be needed after hours.
Living in Tampa without a car is absolutely manageable for USF students, especially when choosing apartments close to campus and major transit routes. While a car can offer extra flexibility, many students successfully navigate college life using shuttles, buses, biking, and rideshare services—making location a key factor when selecting an
apartment near USF.