UCLA Student Housing Near Wilshire Boulevard: A Complete Guide to Off-Campus Living

Introduction

For UCLA students, living near Wilshire Boulevard offers an ideal mix of city convenience, Westwood charm, and access to everything Los Angeles has to offer. From high-rise apartments with modern amenities to cozy shared units in walkable neighborhoods, this area attracts students who want proximity to campus without sacrificing lifestyle.

This guide explores everything you need to know about finding UCLA student housing near Wilshire Boulevard, including where to look, how to budget, and what to expect when renting in this vibrant part of LA.

1. Why Live Near Wilshire Boulevard?

Wilshire Boulevard runs through some of the most desirable neighborhoods in Los Angeles — including Westwood, Brentwood, and Beverly Hills — making it a hotspot for UCLA students seeking a premium location.

Key advantages of living near Wilshire Boulevard:

• Easy bus and bike access to the UCLA campus.

• Proximity to grocery stores, cafés, and fitness centers.

• Safe and well-lit neighborhoods with strong community vibes.

• Access to cultural attractions, like the Hammer Museum and Westwood Village.

While Wilshire tends to be more upscale, nearby streets like Veteran Ave and Kelton Ave offer affordable student-friendly options.

2. Best Apartment Areas for UCLA Students

The Wilshire corridor is known for high-quality housing options that cater to both undergraduate and graduate students.

Top apartment areas near UCLA:

• Westwood Village: Walking distance to campus, filled with student-focused housing and lively nightlife.

• Brentwood: A bit quieter and slightly pricier, ideal for students who prefer peaceful surroundings.

• Santa Monica (east side): Great for beach lovers, with a 20–30 minute bus ride to UCLA.

• Beverly Hills Adjacent: Offers premium amenities for students with higher budgets.

These areas provide varying rent levels and commute times — it’s best to tour several before deciding.

3. UCLA Student Housing Near Wilshire Boulevard: Budgeting and Rent Insights

Rent near Wilshire Boulevard can vary greatly depending on proximity to UCLA and building amenities.

Average monthly rent:

• Shared apartment: $1,200–$1,700 per person

• Studio or 1-bedroom: $2,200–$3,000

• Utilities & Internet: $120–$180

• Groceries & transportation: $350–$500

Budgeting tips:

• Look for rent-controlled buildings to save money long-term.

• Share units with roommates to reduce monthly costs.

• Take advantage of UCLA’s free BruinBus and discounted TAP card for Metro rides.

• Track expenses monthly using apps like Splitwise.

Starting your search early (around March–April for fall move-ins) will help secure better deals and avoid summer competition.

4. Roommates, Leasing, and Legal Awareness

Because LA’s rental market moves fast, students must be proactive when applying for leases.

Roommate & lease tips:

• Align lifestyle habits with potential roommates — sleep, cleanliness, and social life matter.

• Always sign a formal lease; avoid “handshake” agreements.

• Read lease terms carefully — look out for parking, pet, and subletting clauses.

• UCLA’s Off-Campus Housing Office offers free legal guidance for lease reviews.

You can find roommates through UCLA Universe Housing, Facebook housing groups, or UCLA student community boards.

5. Safety and Transportation

Wilshire Boulevard and its surrounding neighborhoods are generally safe, but it’s important to stay vigilant.

Safety tips:

• Choose well-lit streets and buildings with secure entry systems.

• Avoid ground-floor apartments without adequate locks.

• Store bikes securely — theft can occur in busy student areas.

• Consider renters insurance to protect your valuables.

Transportation options:

• BruinBus: Free for UCLA students and connects Westwood with campus.

• Metro Bus Lines 720 & 20: Run along Wilshire and connect to Downtown LA.

• Biking: Bike lanes and short commutes make cycling an easy option.

6. Touring Apartments and Avoiding Scams

With UCLA’s competitive market, always verify listings before signing.

During your tour:

• Test plumbing, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi.

• Ask about average utility bills and building policies.

• Review safety features and nearby amenities.

• Avoid landlords who request payments before showing the unit.

Stick with verified listings through UCLA Universe Housing to avoid scams and overpriced options.

7. Making the Most of Westwood Living

Living near Wilshire Boulevard gives you access to one of LA’s most dynamic student environments.

Local favorites include:

• Grabbing sushi at KazuNori or tacos from Tacos 1986.

• Studying at Espresso Profeta or Alfred Coffee.

• Exploring Hammer Museum or Century City Mall.

• Jogging along the Wilshire Corridor Park Trail.

Balancing UCLA’s demanding academics with the energy of Westwood makes for an unforgettable college experience.

Conclusion

Living off-campus near Wilshire Boulevard combines comfort, convenience, and the vibrant lifestyle UCLA students love. These UCLA student housing near Wilshire Boulevard insights will help you find the right apartment, manage your budget, and enjoy one of the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles.

Visit UCLA Universe Housing as a great resource to meet roommates and find off-campus housing at UCLA Universe Housing