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HOUSING RESOURCES

Here are a number of resources you can use to start (or continue) your housing search while attending UC San Diego.

 

 

ALERT: BEWARE OF SCAMS

 

  • Due to the scarcity of affordable housing in San Diego, there is a growing number of scams through popular off-campus housing websites such as Craigslist. Do not provide bank details or credit information via email or send money to an individual unless you are certain it's a legitimate request. If you are using an agent or property management company, you can search for the business using the Better Business Bureau.
  • For more information on scams, check out the section on scams below or visit isafety.ucsd.edu

 


HUGS International Corporation


HUGS is a San Diego based startup founded by former UC San Diego international students. They provide comprehensive international student-focused housing solutions for undergraduate, graduate, and students on OPT without the need for social security or credit score.


* Note that this service is a courtesy suggestion only and is not endorsed by the International Students & Programs Office.



On- and Off-Campus Housing Resources for 2022-2023

Off-Campus Housing Webinar

The following webinar from The Hub Basic Needs Center/Off-Campus Housing, Student Legal Services, and Housing, Dining & Hospitality (HDH) describes first-time renting, housing search platforms and tips, the leasing process and undergraduate/graduate housing off-campus. 

 


Student Housing Facebook Group

This group is run by the Associated Students Office of Food and Housing Resources. Students can connect with other students who need a roommate or who may have a room, apartment or house to rent.

 


Associated Students Local Housing Guide

This guide was created by Associated Students Office of Food and Housing Resources to provide housing recourses to students.

 


Basic Needs Hub Food and Housing Resources

The Basic Needs Center created the Food & Housing Resource Guide to share resources for ensuring that basic needs both on and off campus are being met.

The UC San Diego Housing Booklet provides UC San Diego students with intentional information as it relates to UC San Diego Off-Campus Housing. This booklet will breakdown housing as a larger concept: strategizing the housing search, navigating the application process, leasing information, and community resources available to YOU!

 The Basic Needs Off-Campus Housing Office at UC San Diego created the Educational Campaign 2022 series to break down the basics of the housing search process. You can follow the series on The Hub Basic Needs Center Instagram and TikTok pages (@ucsdbasicneeds) or check out the Educational Campaign page. Students can schedule a housing consultation to review off-campus housing options, receive general first-time lease signing information, as well as move-in and move-out resources. 


House Hunting Tips

Finding the right place can take some effort. Here are a few tips and ideas to help you as you search for off-campus housing.

 


Off-Campus Rental Forms

Click here to access forms that will help you when renting an off-campus property like roommate agreements templates.

 


Landlord, Tenant and Roommate Responsibilities

Click here to learn about your responsibilities as a tenant and the responsibilities of your landlord and any roommate(s).

On-Campus Housing Options

The UC San Diego Housing, Dining and Hospitality Office operates several housing complexes, but on a limited basis. Students are strongly encouraged to apply for on-campus housing as soon as they receive an official admission letter from UC San Diego. Deadlines can be found by clicking on the Housing, Dining and Hospitality website.

 


UNDERGRADUATE HOUSING

  • For more information for incoming first-year and transfer students, click here.
  • For more information for current undergraduate students, click here.

Special housing options:

  • International House (I-House)
    • I-House is an apartment complex of single and double rooms open to single UC San Diego upper-division undergraduate students, graduate students, faculty, and researchers.
    • The purpose of this facility is to provide an environment and programs that foster understanding and friendship among individuals from different nations and cultures.
    • All questions about applying to live in I-House can be directed to the I-House Director’s Office ihouseintern@ucsd.edu .
    • All other questions about I-House notifications, timeline, waitlists, room placements, move in etc. must be directed to ERC Residence Life Office.
    • Please note that successful completion of the application does NOT guarantee your placement to live in I-House.
    • If you are placed on the waitlist and would like to consider living on-campus at UC San Diego then please place yourself on the housing waitlist (see information below).
  • I-House Housing Interest Waitlist
    • All undergraduate students who apply for I-House are also strongly encouraged to place themselves on the Housing Interest List. This allows you to be put on a waiting list for on-campus housing should you not receive a spot in I-House. Students are allowed to place themselves on this list even if they have applied for a space at I-House. The Housing Interest List usually opens about a month before the I-House application does, but check the link above for regular updates and deadlines.
  • The Village
    • The Village at Pepper Canyon is a community of apartments and residence halls designed especially for continuing students. The neighborhood consists of Camp Snoopy Residence Halls, Matthews Apartments, Pepper Canyon Apartments, and the Rita Apartments. This unique community is conveniently located near the new mass-transit trolley that is currently under construction. The Rita Apartments are located within walking distance of shopping and restaurants. 

GRADUATE AND FAMILY HOUSING

  • UC San Diego Graduate and Family Housing consists of seven apartment complexes: Mesa Nueva, Nuevo West and Nuevo East, Coast Apartments, La Jolla Del Sol, Mesa Residential Apartments and One Miramar Street.
  • Students eligible to live in a Graduate and Family Housing community are Full-time Graduate and Professional Students (i.e. enrolled in 12 units or more throughout the lease term), Graduate, Professional, and Undergrad Students with Children and Full-time Undergraduate Student Couples.
  • See more information on the Graduate/Professional Student Housing website.

Off-Campus Housing Options

Living in San Diego, especially in La Jolla, is very expensive and it is important to set a realistic budget before beginning to look for a place to live.

Vacancy rates are very low in San Diego and it may take some time to find an apartment. The l argest number of vacancies come up in June- September.  If you find a suitable location but there is currently no availability, i t is recommended that you join the   apartment complex’s waitlist if they have one.

Be prepared to pay a security deposit equal to one month’s rent (which may be refunded upon leaving) in addition to the first month’s rent.

 


Resources for locating off-campus housing:

  • UC San Diego Off-Campus Housing Directory  is a rental referral and housing information resource center with listings of apartment, house, and condominium rentals, available in a variety of areas around campus and the San Diego community. Roommates and room rentals are listed online. The Off-Campus Housing Directory is an excellent resource for waitlisted students.
    • In order to access the Online Housing database, you will need to input your student information. If you are not a student yet, email  offcampushousing@ucsd.edu  to request a log-in and password.
  • Alternative housing websites - Some of these links will offer “full vacancy” listings. They are empty apartments for rent, which means you have to find your own roommates
  • San Diego Local Property Owners working with UC San Diego, not affiliated with UC San Diego:  
    • See the list of hostels in the San Diego area, which are sometimes helpful for transitions 
    • Airbnb is helpful for a transitional place to stay until an apartment is found 
    • VRBO is helpful for a transitional place to stay until an apartment is found 
    • Room Chazer is helpful for a transitional place to stay until an apartment is found 
  • Print publications
    • The  San Diego Union-Tribune  Classified Section also lists apartments for rent; Sunday’s edition has the largest number of listings.
    • The  Reader  is a free newspaper containing many housing listings. It is published every Thursday, and is a valuable source of information for apartments for rent and roommates wanted.
    • The  La Jolla Light  is a local newspaper which is published every Thursday and contains listings of properties for rent in nearby areas.
  • Note: The above links are suggestions only and are not endorsed by the International Students & Programs Office.

 


Check how accessible your off-campus housing options are:

  • Before securing housing in another neighborhood of San Diego, we recommend that you check how accessible that location is to and from our campus.
  • See the map below for driving directions.
  • Or use this tool provided by the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) to plan a trip using public transportation.


 

Short Term Housing Options / Homestay Programs

Here are some alternatives to short term housing in San Diego. Please note you can also use popular sites such as AirBnB and Vrbo to find short stay rentals. You must contact the home stay provider, hotel, or hostel directly. The UC San Diego International Students & Programs Office does not arrange temporary accommodations, but offers helpful advice and tips about any questions you may have about housing.

 


Home Stay Programs

Live with an American host family. Private and shared rooms available. Apply at least 4-6 weeks before arrival. Homestays are a great way for students to experience American culture and customs! 

Local Homestay Agencies

  • Solana Beach Host Families Program
    • Would you like to be matched with an American family who volunteers to help newly-arriving international students at no cost? The Solana Beach Host Family Program has been making this possible for 16 years. 

Online Homestay Agencies

 


Temporary Housing Providers

These companies own and manage apartments in the local area and can help place you in their temporary or extended-stay accommodation. Additional costs for these services may apply. See websites for more information.

Anatolia Corporate Housing

Synergy Global Housing 

Saba Housing

 


Hotels and Temporary Housing

There are many hotels with special UCSD-affiliate discounts near UC San Diego. Some are within walking distance of UC San Diego. When calling for reservations, ask for the UCSD rate for a discount.

Inn by the Sea
7830 Fay Avenue
La Jolla, CA 92037
800-526-4545

Courtyard by Marriott - Sorrento Valley/La Jolla
9650 Scranton Road
San Diego, CA 92121
858-558-9600

Holiday Inn Express Sorrento Valley
5925 Lusk Boulevard
San Diego, CA 92121
858-731-0100

Extended Stay America - Sorrento Mesa Hotel
9880 Pacific Heights Boulevard
San Diego, CA 92121
858-623-0100

Hotel La Jolla, Curio Collection by Hilton
 7955 La Jolla Shores Drive
La Jolla, CA  92037
858-551-3600

Hyatt Regency La Jolla
3777 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA 92122
(858) 552-1234
Marriott Residence Inn
8901 Gilman Drive
La Jolla, CA  92037
(858) 587-1770
Sheraton La Jolla Hotel
Special UC San Diego rates offered
3299 Holiday Court
La Jolla, CA  92037
UC San Diego reservation line: (866) 500-0335
Synergy Corporate Housing
Offers furnished accommodations
800-600-1115
Bartell Hotels
Various hotels near Hillcrest and La Jolla campuses, 15% discount
800-345-9995

Estancia La Jolla
9700 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037
(855) 430-7503

Hilton San Diego/Del Mar
15575 Jimmy Durant Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014
(858) 792-5200

 


Youth Hostels

Youth hostels in the San Diego area are far from UC San Diego but offer dormitory-style housing at a lower rate than hotels. Some have kitchen facilities.

Beach Bungalow San Diego
707 Reed Avenue
San Diego, CA 92109
(858) 412-5878

Lucky D's Hostel
615 8th Avenue
San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 595-0000
Samesun Ocean Beach
4961 Newport Ave
San Diego, CA 92107
619-376-6477
USA Hostels San Diego
726 5th Avenue
San Diego, CA 92101
619-232-3100

 


MORE HOUSING INFORMATION

Common Housing Terms

Tenant vs. landlord

A tenant is somebody who rents an apartment or a house
A landlord is somebody who owns an apartment or a house

Utilities

It is the other charges that are not necessarily included in the rent fee.
Example: Water, electricity, phone, internet, trash, etc...

Application

It is the first document that you will have to fill up. You will have to write your personal, professional, and financial information on it. Some landlords require the tenant to pay an application fee as it often guarantees a hold on the room or apartment.

Leasing contract

It is a legal document that both landlord and tenant sign to officially agree on the obligations of both parties during the stated length of stay.

Maintenance person

It usually is a person who comes to fix technical problems such as plumbing issues occurring in the apartment or house.

Credit in the United States

Once you have an American social security number, it means that you have credit. Your credit score will determine your ability to apply for cellular phone, credit cards, loans, etc...

If you don't have credit in the U.S., landlords or companies will require a deposit instead.

Furnished

When a room or an apartment is furnished, it implies that there are enough furniture and/or appliances for you to live without purchasing any extra ones.

Commuting Resources

Tenant Rights

Resources to help you understand your legal rights as a tenant:

Avoid Housing Scams!

Avoid Housing Scams

Be aware of housing scams, particularly on websites like Craigslist!  Signs of a scam targeting renters can include the following:

  • The advertised price of the rental property is much lower than that of similar properties.
  • The person trying to rent you the property claims to be an agent for the property owner who is too busy, out of the country, or otherwise unavailable to handle the rental.
  • The owner or agent requires you to sign the lease before you see the rental property.
  • The owner or agent isn't able to let you enter the home or apartment or charges you a fee to view it. 
  • You're asked to wire money as a deposit or payment of first and last month's rent. Remember wiring money is the same as giving cash. You can't get a refund, even if you find out the offer was a fraud.
  • The owner or agent uses high pressure sales tactics, urging you to rent quickly, before someone else gets the property.
  • The person preparing the lease writes in a higher monthly rent or additional fees that you hadn't agreed upon. 
  • The landlord directs you to a website to get a free credit check. This can be a tactic for harvesting your identity. Only disclose this information on a written application after you have seen the property.

What you can do to protect yourself:

  • If you’re not able to see the unit in person, have a friend or family member check it out for you. If this isn’t possible, hire a local real estate agent.
  • Check for the home’s address online using Google Maps to see if it matches what is being advertised online.
  • Use UCSD’s Off-Campus Housing website to search for a property: https://offcampushousing.ucsd.edu/. However, it is still important that you follow the tips listed above when checking out these properties!
  • Consult with UCSD Student Legal Services if you have any questions or concerns about a property you are renting/would like to rent: https://students.ucsd.edu/sponsor/student-legal/.
  • Report any scams to the San Diego Police Department: https://www.sandiego.gov/police/services/nonemergencies

 

*Source: USA.gov Housing Scams Website https://www.usa.gov/housing-scams#item-211837

Leases

A lease is a written legal contract in which the renter agrees to make rental payments for a specified period of time. The advantage is that a six-month or one-year lease guarantees that the price of rent will not be raised during that time period. In contrast, renting month-to-month allows the flexibility to move out with 30 days notice. If planning to stay in the apartment for six months or more, a lease is a good idea. A person who signs a lease and moves out before the lease ends will probably be liable to pay a penalty, possibly all rental payments for the remainder of the lease time.

A lease also details the rights and responsibilities of both the renter and the landlord. It is important you read your lease carefully before signing it to better understand your rights and responsibilities. Examples of some of the items contained in the lease are:

  • the date rent is due and which methods of payment are acceptable
  • restrictions on painting and other alterations to the property
  • the guarantees the landlord makes to the renter to ensure safety and well-being

If either party violates the lease, there are usually penalties. For the renter, penalties can range from a warning, to a fine, to an eviction. For a landlord, violating the lease can sometimes mean the renter can leave without penalty. Rental law in California can be very complex and ambiguous.

Need Legal Advice?

  • Student Legal Services (“SLS”) provides free, confidential counseling, education, and referrals to all currently registered UC San Diego Students. Some common issues that students seek assistance at SLS for include lease reviews, recovery of security deposits, and how to avoid housing and other scams. Call them at (858)534-4374 or email sls@ucsd.edu to schedule a time to speak with an attorney.
  • Speak with an attorney who represents tenants.  If there is a large amount of potential liability involved, it is a good idea to consult with a couple of attorneys. The San Diego County Bar Association has a referral service in which the initial consultation is without charge.
  • Use the UCSD Legal service for staff, if you registered for this additional benefit at your employee orientation (it was an additional fee for this service).
  • See the legal resources for California listed on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) website.

Renter's Insurance

It is important to consider purchasing renter’s insurance while in the United States. Generally, except under very special circumstances, a landlord is not legally responsible for loss or damage to a renter’s personal property. Also, if a renter causes damage to the landlord’s property, even unintentionally, the landlord may have the right to hold the renter financially responsible. In both of these situations, renter’s insurance would protect the renter from having to pay sometimes very large amounts of money.

For more information on renter’s insurance, the following insurance is designed specifically for UC San Diego renters: https://gradguard.com/school-search?school=6965 

Utilities

For most (but not all) apartments, the landlord pays the water, sewer, and trash removal bill. The renter pays for utilities such as gas and electricity, telephone, and cable television service. San Diego Gas & Electric Company (SDG&E) supplies San Diego County with gas and electricity service. To begin service, a deposit, plus a fee for reading the meters, must be paid. To establish service call (800) 411-7343 and service will begin within a few working days. For more information: https://www.sdge.com

For assistance finding providers for utility plans, internet, and cable visit: https://www.inmyarea.com

Cell Phones

Cell Phone Service

In order to activate cell phone service in the United States, it is helpful for customers to have a valid social security number and an established credit history. Customers without these things can still activate service but may be subject to a security deposit at the time of application. The security deposit ranges from $150 to $500, depending on the service provider. This security deposit will be returned customers as stipulated in the cell phone contract.

Service contracts may last for one or two years and early termination fees may apply. Prepaid and no-contract plans are also available. Purchase cell phones or sign up for cell phone services at shopping malls or provider branches. If you would like to utilize a free resource to check availability of internet, cable, and telephone providers in their area and compare prices, visit https://www.inmyarea.com.

Below is a list of major US cell phone service providers

 


Phone SIM Cards

There are many options available to you in regards to selecting a mobile phone service in the United States. One such option is Campus SIMS. Campus SIMs is offering free SIM cards to students to help connect you with mobile phone service in the U.S. Plans start at $15/month and you can get your U.S phone number before you leave your home country. Click here to get your free SIM card mailed to you, so can use your phone as soon as you arrive in the U.S. For more information, visit campussims.com.

Appliance Rentals

Most apartments provide major appliances like refrigerators and stoves with no additional charge. If these appliances are not provided, look in the yellow pages under “Appliance Rentals” When asking about the price, be sure to ask about delivery and pick-up charges, or other fees. For students and scholars staying in the U.S. for a year or more, it may be cheaper to buy used appliances instead of renting.

The Kitchen and Exchange Rental Service is a service provided by Oceanids, a UC San Diego support organization. International post-doctoral fellows, visiting scholars, and faculty who are staying at UC San Diego for one year or less are eligible for this service. Kitchen equipment and baby furniture are available for a very small rental fee depending upon the condition and number of items. A deposit is also charged which is refunded upon return of articles in reasonable condition. For more information regarding the Kitchen Exchange visit https://ifso.ucsd.edu/living-in-sd/kitchen-exchange.html

Furnishing and Supplies

There are many ways to find inexpensive furniture and household items. “Discount” furniture is sold at a reduced price due to out-dated style, minor damages, etc. “Used” furniture is usually less expensive than “discounted” furniture and can be found at garage sales or second-hand stores. Furniture stores that sell new furniture usually provide delivery services.


Thrift Stores


Discount Stores

 


Furniture Rental Companies

CORT Furniture Rental for Students
1-888-360-2678
Most apartments in the U.S. are not furnished. CORT provides furniture rental packages and housing information for students living off-campus.

AFR Furniture Rental 
7825 Trade Street Suites 104/105
San Diego, CA 92121
619-819-9680

 


Other Resources

Used household items are listed for sale in the classified-ads section of local newspapers under “Household Furnishings,” “Miscellaneous,” and “Garage Sales.” Garage and yard sales, usually held on weekends, offer low prices on used household items. Although prices are marked, some bargaining may be possible.

The Kitchen and Exchange Rental Service is a service provided by Oceanids, a UC San Diego support organization. International post-doctoral fellows, visiting scholars, and faculty who are staying at UC San Diego for one year or less are eligible for this service.

Weekly papers such as The San Diego Reader and Pennysaver are also good places to look for advertisements for garage sales, used furniture items, and other items for sale.

https://www.sdreader.com
https://sandiego.craigslist.org
https://www.pennysaverusa.com

Off-Campus Renting Questions for Landlords

Questions to ask a landlord when
renting a room, an apartment or house

  • How much is the rent?
  • When is the earliest move-in date?
  • Are utilities included? If not, how much per month?
  • What is the length of the lease? Is it month-to-month, 6 months, school year?
  • Do you allow co-signers?
  • Is there an application fee?
  • If I have no credit in the United States, what can be done?
  • Is there a waitlist?
  • How much is the deposit? Is it refundable?
  • How many parking spots? Any visitor parking?
  • Do you allow subletting?
  • Do you allow pets?
  • How are maintenance issues handled especially in case of emergency?
  • How far is it from campus?
  • Is there a bus stop nearby?
  • When can I visit the apartment/house?
  • Is it furnished?

Storage

We understand that many international students may need storage options during the summer, so here are a few resources for you to check out: