UCLA affordable housing guide for students

Introduction

Finding affordable student housing near UCLA is one of the biggest challenges Bruins face each year. Westwood and the Greater Los Angeles area are known for high rental prices, competitive markets, and overwhelming demand for units near campus. For new students, navigating these costs can feel intimidating, and returning students often find themselves searching for more budget-friendly alternatives outside of central Westwood. The good news is that several nearby neighborhoods offer excellent value, reasonable rents, and easy access to campus. By exploring a wider range of communities, students can discover hidden gems that offer comfort, convenience, and a strong sense of community without stretching their budgets. This guide breaks down the top areas for UCLA affordable housing, helping Bruins choose a location that supports both their academic and financial success.

1) Westwood: Central, Student-Friendly, and Full of Housing Options

Westwood is the first neighborhood every UCLA student considers due to its unbeatable proximity to campus. The walkability, bustling commercial village, and strong student presence make it ideal for Bruins who want convenience above all else. While Westwood is typically more expensive than other nearby areas, students can still find affordable arrangements by sharing rooms, seeking older buildings, or looking specifically for student-oriented properties that offer flexible leasing options.

Despite its higher average rents, Westwood remains attractive because commuting is virtually eliminated. Students can walk to class, grab food between lectures, and enjoy dozens of cafés, restaurants, grocery stores, and study-friendly hangout spots. With the right approach and early searching, it’s possible to find reasonably priced units that fit a student budget.

Tips for affordable living in Westwood:

• Look for older buildings—they often have much lower rent.

• Shared bedrooms drastically reduce monthly costs.

• Start searching early in spring to secure the best deals.

Westwood is perfect for Bruins who want to be close to campus and immersed in the student lifestyle.

2) Sawtelle: Affordable, Trendy, and Student-Friendly

Just west of Westwood, Sawtelle is a thriving cultural hub with a strong student population. Known for its incredible food scene, nighttime hangouts, and welcoming atmosphere, it offers more affordable rent compared to central Westwood while still keeping students within a short commute. Many older apartment complexes in Sawtelle offer competitive pricing, especially for shared apartments.

Students love Sawtelle for its convenience, fun energy, and easy access to buses and bike-friendly routes. With Japanese restaurants, cafés, boba shops, and grocery stores within walking distance, it feels vibrant without being overwhelming. Sawtelle blends comfort and affordability, making it a prime choice for students who want to maintain a lively social life.

Why Sawtelle is great for students:

• Trendy food and entertainment

• Reliable public transit

• Affordable mid-range rental prices

Bruins looking for affordability with a fun atmosphere often gravitate to Sawtelle.

3) Best Neighborhoods in Sawtelle for UCLA affordable housing

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Sawtelle features several pockets that offer exceptional value for students seeking UCLA affordable housing without compromising convenience. Streets lined with mid-century apartment buildings provide some of the area’s most budget-friendly rental options, especially for students willing to share rooms. These units often include larger living spaces, natural light, and amenities like on-site laundry that are essential for daily comfort.

Another advantage of this part of Sawtelle is the easy access to essentials. Students can walk to markets, grab quick meals between classes, and take advantage of multiple bus stops that create a smooth commute to UCLA. Even better, this area remains quieter than central Westwood, making it ideal for students who want a peaceful environment for studying.

What students appreciate in this section of Sawtelle:

• Good selection of older, affordable apartments

• Convenient access to transit, groceries, and cafés

• A strong student population for networking and socializing

This area is one of the best-kept secrets for Bruins balancing comfort and budget.

4) Brentwood: Safe, Quiet, and Surprisingly Affordable for Students

Brentwood is often perceived as an upscale neighborhood, but it actually contains several affordable housing pockets suitable for students who want peace, safety, and beautiful surroundings. Many older apartment buildings in Brentwood offer lower rents than newer complexes, especially when students share a one- or two-bedroom unit.

The tree-lined streets, quiet environment, and abundance of parks make Brentwood appealing to students who prefer a more residential lifestyle. While the commute to UCLA is longer compared to Westwood or Sawtelle, it remains manageable through direct bus routes, biking, or rideshare options. Brentwood offers excellent value considering its safety and comfort.

Why Bruins choose Brentwood:

• Clean, quiet, upscale atmosphere

• Lower prices in older buildings

• Safe, walkable, and full of amenities

For students who value tranquility and stability, Brentwood is an ideal neighborhood.

5) Palms: A Budget-Friendly Goldmine for Students

Palms is one of the most affordable neighborhoods on the Westside and a top choice for students who need to stretch their housing budget further. Known for its diverse community and excellent rent prices, Palms balances affordability with accessibility. It’s also packed with older apartments—many with spacious layouts and much lower rents than those closer to UCLA.

The lively environment, filled with international markets, restaurants, and coffee shops, appeals to students looking for a dynamic neighborhood without overly high prices. Bus routes are direct and reliable, making the commute straightforward.

Advantages of living in Palms:

• Excellent rent prices

• Access to affordable groceries and dining

• Strong community feel with lots of student renters

Palms is ideal for Bruins looking for high affordability and solid convenience.

6) Culver City: A Modern, Walkable, and Budget-Conscious Option

Culver City has grown into a major hotspot thanks to its modernized downtown area, new developments, and vibrant cultural scene. Surprisingly, it also offers affordability—particularly in older buildings located outside the central business district. Students often appreciate the safety, walkability, and community-focused feel of the area.

While private studios and newer apartments may be expensive, shared units and older buildings can offer excellent value. The Metro E Line provides a reliable route to UCLA connections, making Culver City a practical choice for commuting students.

Why students consider Culver City:

• Safe, modern environment

• Excellent food and entertainment options

• Reasonable rent in older buildings

This neighborhood blends energy and affordability in a polished, student-friendly way.

7) Mar Vista: Calm, Residential, and Perfect for Studying

Mar Vista is an underrated gem for UCLA students who want a peaceful environment suitable for studying and relaxation. It offers a mix of mid-century apartments, smaller complexes, and shared houses at reasonable prices. Students appreciate the balance of affordability, quiet streets, and easy access to parks and bike routes.

The community-oriented atmosphere and slower pace make Mar Vista appealing for graduate students or undergrads who want more serenity. Commuting is manageable through bus routes or biking, and the neighborhood’s proximity to Venice adds an extra layer of convenience.

What Bruins love about Mar Vista:

• Lower rent for the Westside

• Excellent for students who prioritize focus and comfort

• Balanced access to beaches and entertainment

Mar Vista’s peaceful environment makes it ideal for academically focused students.

8) Santa Monica: Higher Prices, But Affordable Pockets Do Exist

Santa Monica is known for beautiful beaches, great dining, and premium housing—but that doesn’t mean students can’t find affordability here. Older rent-controlled buildings, shared apartments, and select student-oriented units offer opportunities for reasonable living costs. While Santa Monica is farther from UCLA, many students enjoy the lifestyle it provides and are willing to commute.

The Big Blue Bus system is highly reliable, connecting Santa Monica directly to UCLA. Students who value outdoor living, beach access, and entertainment options often find this area worth the trade-off.

Reasons students choose Santa Monica:

• High walkability

• Beach access and outdoor recreation

• Reliable bus routes to UCLA

Students who want a balanced lifestyle with nature and urban amenities often select Santa Monica despite the commute.

9) West LA: A Convenient Middle-Ground for Price and Location

West LA sits between Westwood, Sawtelle, Palms, and Brentwood, making it a central and practical choice for UCLA students seeking both affordability and convenience. The area includes numerous older apartment buildings that offer excellent rent deals for students willing to share units. Its proximity to bike lanes, grocery stores, restaurants, and major bus routes makes it incredibly functional.

West LA is quieter than Sawtelle but more affordable than Westwood, giving students the best of both worlds. With careful searching, students can find great rental opportunities while staying close to campus.

What students appreciate about West LA:

• Central location

• Balanced pricing

• Easy commute routes

West LA remains one of the most consistent and dependable choices for budget-conscious Bruins.

Conclusion

Finding affordable housing near UCLA requires careful budgeting, early searching, and a willingness to explore neighborhoods beyond Westwood. Thankfully, Bruins have numerous options ranging from Sawtelle’s energetic food scene to Brentwood’s quiet comfort and Palms’ unbeatable rental prices. Whether you prefer lively communities, peaceful residential environments, or trendy cultural hotspots, several neighborhoods offer opportunities for UCLA affordable housing without sacrificing lifestyle or convenience. With thoughtful planning and knowledge of the best student-friendly areas, you can secure comfortable housing that supports both your academic success and financial well-being throughout your UCLA journey.

Visit UCLA Universe Housing as a great resource to meet roommates and find off-campus housing at:👉 https://ucla.offcampus-universe.com/housing-near-ucla