Union on Knox, University View, and The Alloy are all near the University of Maryland area in College Park. Each one fits a different renter. This guide breaks down what makes each apartment stand out — and which one is right for your situation.
Quick Answer
Union on Knox works well for students who want study rooms, a gym, and social spaces.
University View works well for UMD students who want furnished housing and roommate matching.
The Alloy works well for renters who want a more regular apartment feel with 1, 2, and 3 bedroom homes.
Quick Comparison
| Apartment | Best For | Main Strength | Main Watch-Out |
|---|---|---|---|
| Union on Knox | Students who want more shared spaces | Study rooms, gym, yoga studio, lounge spaces | It may cost more once fees get added |
| University View | UMD students who want easy student housing | Furnished units, roommate matching, per-person contracts | It may feel very student-heavy |
| The Alloy | Students or young workers who want a calmer feel | 1, 2, and 3 bedroom homes, pool, fitness club, study spaces | It may not offer the same student lease setup |
Union on Knox
Union on Knox is a student apartment near UMD.
It lists high-speed internet, community Wi-Fi, study rooms, a 24-hour gym, a yoga studio, a coffee bar, and a pet spa as community features. Source: Union on Knox amenities.
This makes Union on Knox a good fit for students who want more than a bedroom. You can study, work out, and spend time with friends inside the building.
University View
University View is built for UMD students.
It offers studio, 2 bedroom, and 4 bedroom off-campus apartments at 8204 Baltimore Avenue in College Park. Source: University View homepage.
University View also lists furnished spaces, roommate matching, per-person contracts, in-unit laundry, and internet access. Source: University View features.
This makes it a strong pick if you want an easy move. You may not need to buy much furniture or find every roommate on your own.
The Alloy
The Alloy feels more like a regular apartment building near campus.
It offers 1, 2, and 3 bedroom layouts with quartz countertops, kitchen islands, in-unit laundry, and some private balconies. Source: The Alloy homepage.
The Alloy also lists a pool with cabanas, a fitness club, co-working lounges, and private study areas. Source: The Alloy homepage.
This makes it a good fit for students, grad students, couples, or young workers who want a more grown-up apartment feel near UMD.
Union on Knox and University View feel more student-focused than The Alloy. The best choice depends on whether you want student life, easy roommate setup, or a calmer apartment style.
Best Choice by Need
| Need | Best Pick | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Most student-focused feel | University View | It is made for UMD students |
| Best shared study and fitness spaces | Union on Knox | It lists study rooms, gym space, yoga, and lounges |
| More regular apartment feel | The Alloy | It offers 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartment homes |
| Easiest roommate setup | University View | It offers roommate matching and per-person contracts |
| Best for grad students or young workers | The Alloy | It feels less like a student-only building |
| Best for active student life | Union on Knox | It has many shared spaces and social features |
Final Pick
Choose Union on Knox if you want a student apartment with strong study, fitness, and social spaces.
Choose University View if you want simple UMD student housing with furniture and roommate help.
Choose The Alloy if you want a more normal apartment feel near campus.
Before you sign, ask each property for the full monthly cost. That should include rent, fees, parking, utilities, and lease dates.
If you're exploring the broader Maryland rental and condo landscape, our guide on hidden gem condo markets in Baltimore, Rockville, and beyond is a good next read.