Overlooking the stunning San Francisco Bay lies Berkeley, a California gem that houses the esteemed University of California, Berkeley. Each year, thousands of students from across the nation come to this prestigious academic institution, creating a competitive rental market for those seeking off-campus housing.
Whether you’re a new or returning student, finding off-campus housing in Berkeley can come with its challenges. However, with the right tools and resources, you can find the perfect off-campus rental for your time as a California Gold Bear. Read below for our guide on how to navigate the Berkeley rental market and find quality off-campus housing.
Where Do Most UC Berkeley Students Live Off-Campus?
Berkeley provides a myriad of off-campus housing options for local university-goers. From waterfront areas right by the Bay to more urban communities in the heart of the city, you’ll find neighborhoods of all shapes and sizes when living off-campus at UC Berkeley.
While students can be found throughout the Bay Area and even in the neighboring Oakland, most congregate near campus in neighborhoods like the following:
Southside
Located directly south of the UC Berkeley campus, Southside spoils student renters with quick walks to class and easy access to downtown amenities. This area is particularly popular among undergraduate students looking to integrate into campus culture and have fun while doing it! Residents here tend to live in social apartment communities like The Atrium at Prospect or Piedmont Palace, where they can make friends and enjoy a lively college atmosphere.
Elmwood
Farther south of campus lies the historic Elmwood, Berkeley’s oldest commercial shopping district. This area is best known for its two-block hub of over 80 independently owned eateries and shops, as well as its historic Rialto Cinemas Elmwood, which hosts film festivals year-round. Student renters in Elmwood can be found in mid-range to upscale apartments like The Laureate or rental homes like 2638 Regent St.
Berkeley Hills
Neighboring the scenic Tilden Regional Park, Berkeley Hills puts a picturesque twist on the university experience. Here, you’ll find the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Downtown Berkeley, with stunning views of hills and canyons and expansive hiking trails and swimming holes. Though it won’t give you the same proximity to campus as other areas, Berkeley Hills creates a one-of-a-kind living experience for student renters. Most dwellings here are single-family homes, such as 1179 Keith Ave or 919 Shattuck Ave.
How Much Does Off-Campus Housing Cost in Berkeley?
As of September 2024, the average cost of rent in Berkeley is $2,250 per month. This is 44% higher than the national average rent price of $1,563 per month, making Berkely exponentially more expensive than most other U.S. cities.
When you rent an apartment in Berkeley, you’ll notice that prices fluctuate based on square footage and location. For example, the average studio apartment is $1,996 per month for 442 square feet, while a one-bedroom averages $2,250 per month for 570 square feet. If you’re looking to live with roommates, expect to pay $3,169 per month for a 789-square-foot, two-bedroom apartment or $4,469 per month for an 871-square-foot, three-bedroom apartment. However, with multi-bedroom units, you’ll likely split the rent evenly with your roommates.
Certain areas of Berkeley will generate higher rental costs than others. This is important to keep in mind if you’re on a budget, as you might have to sacrifice certain luxuries to live comfortably in an off-campus rental. If you’re looking for more affordable options, areas like Claremont Hills, Elmwood, and Aquatic Park will be your best bet. These areas have units for sizable square footage at a relatively affordable monthly rate.
If you want to splurge on an off-campus rental, you’ll probably gravitate towards areas like North Berkeley, Downtown Berkeley, or Berkeley Hills. However, it’s important to remember that you’ll also be responsible for paying utilities. Your monthly utility costs will vary from month to month, but you can expect to pay an average of $100 to $200 for utilities, along with your monthly rent rate.
Can You Live Off Campus as a Freshman at UC Berkeley?
You can live off campus as a first-year student at UC Berkeley. However, over 95% of freshmen opt to live on campus during their first year of enrollment to fully immerse themselves in the campus culture and build a community. Many consider this conducive to getting the full university experience.
All incoming first-year students are guaranteed on-campus housing. That said, it’s no surprise that the remainder of the student body goes for off-campus options. According to the U.S. News Overview for UC Berkeley, 73% of students live off campus. As you can imagine, this creates a competitive rental market for off-campus housing, which is where resources like Apartments.com come in handy.
What to Consider When Searching for UC Berkeley Student Housing
The worst thing you can do as a student renter is just go with the first unit you find. When you do this, you risk renting a place misaligned with your academic and personal pursuits. Instead, give yourself time to research and consider factors that matter to you. Here are a few things to consider when searching for off-campus housing near UC Berkeley:
Proximity to Campus and Downtown
Rentals near campus or downtown tend to generate a lot of student appeal. Not only do these provide shorter commutes to class, but they also allow students to experience all the shops, dining, and entertainment that makeup Berkeley’s unique culture.
Areas like Poet’s Corner and North Berkeley are along the perimeter of Downtown and offer a wide range of rentals, from high-rise apartments to townhomes. Bosco and Hillside Village are great examples of upscale apartment complexes near campus and downtown. However, you can also find spacious rental homes in the same proximity, such as 1927 Grant St or 1118 Bancroft Way.
Walkability
Many university students prefer to travel by foot, especially when living off-campus. Using a personal vehicle or public transit often results in slower commutes and parking struggles, whereas walking offers convenience as well as mental and physical benefits.
With a walk score of 99, Berkeley is known to be a pedestrian-friendly city with a vast network of sidewalks, paths, and walking trails. Here, you’ll find walkable neighborhoods close to campus and downtown, like Southside and Elmwood. While much more scenic, the earlier mentioned Berkeley Hills is a bit more remote and car-dependent.
Public Transportation
Public transportation is a great option for students living a bit farther from campus. The city of Berkeley offers two primary public transit options: the Alameda-Contra Costa Transit, or AC Transit, and the Bay Area Rapid Transit, otherwise known as BART. Both options offer routes that run through or near campus, simplifying long commutes for off-campus renters.
Lifestyle Fit
At UC Berkeley, you’ll find students of all different interests and lifestyles. While some might be social butterflies interested in campus involvement, others might be reserved bookworms looking for some peace and quiet. If you resonate with one of these or find yourself somewhere in the middle, you’ll want to remember this when searching for an off-campus rental.
If you want to be at the center of the action, you might consider a high-rise apartment complex in Downtown Berkeley, like Varsity Berkeley or The Dwight. These complexes have common areas like rooftop terraces and activity rooms perfect for resident mingling. On the other hand, renters seeking more private, secluded areas should consider renting in Thousand Oaks or Berkeley Hills. These areas tend to be more residential and are great for focusing on your studies and relaxing.
Find Student Housing in Berkeley with Apartments.com
Looking for the ideal off-campus housing in Berkeley? Let Apartments.com assist you in your search! With our extensive range of renter tools—featuring filters, neighborhood guides, and verified listings—finding the perfect off-campus rental has never been easier.
Start by searching for “Berkeley, CA” in the search bar. Then, use our student filters to customize your search. Click on “Specialty Housing” and select “Student” to access a range of filters related to the university lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for rentals near campus, within a certain price range, or with student-centered amenities like study rooms and fitness centers, you’ll find it all on Apartments.com.
We’ve partnered with the University of California, Berkeley to provide additional off-campus housing resources through the official University of California, Berkeley Off-Campus Housing website! Here, you can use advanced search filters to find your ideal off-campus rental and explore helpful renter resources like Roommate Finder to connect with roommates with similar preferences and lifestyles.
So, what are you waiting for? Start your off-campus search today with Apartments.com and find the perfect rental for your university experience at UC Berkeley. Go Bears!
FAQs
Where is the best off-campus housing at the University of California, Berkeley?
The best off-campus housing options for UC Berkeley students depend on an individual’s budget and lifestyle preferences. However, many students love to rent in the Southside, Elmwood, and Berkeley Hills neighborhoods. These areas provide convenient access to campus and a variety of amenities for student renters.
Is it cheaper to live on or off campus at the University of California, Berkeley?
The cost of living on or off campus at UC Berkeley depends on various factors, including individual budgets, lifestyle preferences, and housing market trends. In many cases, students may find off-campus housing options more affordable, particularly when sharing rental costs with roommates. To make an informed decision, students should thoroughly compare specific housing options, considering all associated costs, to find the most economical choice for their situation.
What is the average rent cost in Berkeley, CA?
As of September 2024, the average cost of rent in Berkeley is $2,250 per month. This is 44% higher than the national average rent price of $1,563 per month. However, specific rental costs can vary based on factors such as location, size, and amenities included in the unit.
Are there any specific requirements for first-year students living off-campus at the University of California, Berkeley?
No, there are no specific requirements for first-year students living off-campus at UC Berkeley. However, most first-year students opt to live on campus to fully immerse themselves in the university experience and build a sense of community.
Are utilities typically included in the rent for off-campus housing?
In most off-campus housing scenarios at UC Berkeley, utilities are not typically included in the rent. Students should be prepared to budget for additional costs such as electricity, gas, water, and internet services, which can range from $100 to $200 per month, depending on usage and the number of roommates sharing these expenses.
