Student Housing in San Francisco

Simplify your search for student housing in San Francisco with uhomes.com, offering a wide range of furnished options near your university, starting at $595/month in the best neighborhoods. Carter to your preferences, whether you want a private studio or a shared flat, we also provide flexible lease term options, either for an extended stay of a full academic year or a short stay for your summer internship.

We offer a diverse range of student apartments for rent in San Francisco, including studios and 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom units. In addition to furnished rooms, our listings include premier amenities such as gyms, swimming pools, lounges, elevators, and laundry facilities. On-site maintenance and 24/7 security ensure a safe living environment with no hassle.

Moreover, our off-campus student housing in San Francisco offers unbeatable locations: the major campuses are within walking distance, and public transit is nearby for easy commuting. For example, The Fillmore Center is ideal for students at the University of San Francisco. Soma Square, Bayside Village, and Mosso provide convenient access for Academy of Art University students in the Downtown and SoMa areas. At the same time, you can stay close to a lively student community, and the local amenities are surrounded.

Choose uhomes.com for a safe, convenient, and high-quality living experience. We offer exclusive discounts and professional support to help you find the perfect home.

San Francisco is a renowned port city in California, within a 30-minute drive from Oakland and Berkley. It is a global hub for top-tier education, innovation, and finance in the United States. As the largest financial centre in the western United States and a pivotal hub for high-tech research and manufacturing, San Francisco attracts academic, high-tech, finance, and business elites worldwide. Living in student housing in San Francisco offers a multicultural, dynamic experience with strong access to opportunities in both study and career in the technology and business sectors.

University Hub

San Francisco's educational system comprises numerous higher education institutions that attract large numbers of students. The city is home to prestigious institutions, including the University of San Francisco (USF), Golden Gate University, San Francisco State University (SFSU), and Academy of Art University. These universities compose a lively student community and contribute significantly to the city's research and academic excellence. The large student population keeps demand for student accommodation in the San Francisco Bay Area high, but choosing the most suitable option is crucial to achieving your goals.

Location and Lifestyle

San Francisco is located at the westernmost edge of California, between San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean. This iconic city is known for its landmarks and mild subtropical Mediterranean climate. It is dubbed the "Most Popular City in America" for boasting a delightful climate and abundant sunshine, living here you will feel warm year-round. Finding the right student accommodation in San Francisco allows you to fully enjoy this walkable city, immersing yourself in its rich multicultural history and stunning natural beauty.

The best neighborhood for student housing in San Francisco is diverse, and students need to strike a balance across multiple factors. Factors such as safety, price, proximity to campus, convenience, and transit are critical to your choice. And the "best" usually means different things to different students. The following are the recommended best places to live in San Francisco by different priorities:

Best for a student on a budget

• Tenderloin: This area's rents are among the lowest in San Francisco, making it a budget-friendly option, with a median price of $1,700-$1,800/month and a year-over-year decline. Still close to universities like USF (within 30 minutes by bus) and easy access to public transport, but you should care more about safety.
• Outer Sunset: One of the cheap neighborhoods for college students in San Francisco. It's far from the city center but quiet and affordable to rent, with public transit nearby, making it suitable for students seeking a peaceful study environment and more private space.

Best for convenience and socializing

• Mission District: One of the most vibrant student neighborhoods in San Francisco, known for its diverse food and nightlife. There are many universities close by. City College of San Francisco's Mission Campus is in the Mission; UCSF Mission Bay and SFSU are within 1-3 miles; USF and UC Berkeley are easily accessible by bus.
• South of Market (SoMa): SoMa offers convenient locations for college students in San Francisco, as it is the center of the high-tech and business sector and is surrounded by numerous cafes, bars/pubs, and venues. Ideal for students who prefer a modern, fast-paced, urban lifestyle.

Best for a student undertaking an internship

• Mountain View: If you will start your internship in Silicon Valley, Mountain View is the best option for student housing in San Francisco, as it is home to big names like Google. Although far from the city center, commuting is easy via public transport, and the rent is more affordable.
• South of Market: A top choice for students undertaking internships in sectors such as high-tech and business, located in the San Francisco CBD and close to many technology and innovation companies.

Best for quiet and safety

• Marian: A peaceful student neighborhood in San Francisco features an array of fashionable shops, upscale restaurants, and lively bars. Public transportation is readily accessible, ensuring a smooth commute to various parts of the city and beyond.
• Russian Hill: This area is known for high-end properties, stunning ocean views, vibrant dining options, and popular attractions such as Francisco Park and the Cable Car Museum. Its prime location near the campuses and cultural hotspots makes it an ideal location for student accommodation in San Francisco.

Best for nature

• Inner Sunset: The best student neighborhoods for nature lovers in San Francisco, with extensive green spaces and footpaths, making it great for walking, jogging, or cycling.
• Outer Sunset: This area offers a nature-filled environment near Golden Gate Park, with sea breezes and green trees providing shade; it is well-suited for relaxation and study.

Would you like to gain a more comprehensive understanding of neighborhoods to live in this city? Check our blogs for the safest neighborhoods in San Francisco, and pick the perfect area for your stay during the study.

uhomes.com offers the best student housing in San Francisco through verified listings based on what matters most: proximity to campus, student-friendly furnishings and amenities, safety, convenience, and affordability. Our listings prioritize the qualified off-campus options that feature everything you need to consider when you're looking for the best student apartments in San Francisco. What we offer is more than just a place to sleep; it will be your next home in this city, designed to support your studies. Below are 10 of our best apartments for rent for students in San Francisco:

Budget-friendly

• Bayside Village: Close to both downtown and the water, with student-friendly rents, offering balanced value for money.
• UpMarket Residences: Located at the heart of San Francisco with an affordable price.
• The Herbert Residences: Offering an unbeatable location next to Union Square for budget-conscious students.

Modern & Luxury Living

• Hanover Soma West: Resort-style amenities, luxury rooftop views, and modern interiors designed for the best living in SoMa.
• Mosso: Modern decor, ideal for students seeking a high quality of life.
• 50 Jones: Offering a stunning rooftop view and high-tech amenities in the city's most connected transportation hub, with a 5.0 student review.
• The George: Featuring designer interiors and a massive rooftop lounge in the heart of the vibrant SoMa district.

Easy Commute

• The Fillmore Center: UCSF and USF within walking distance, shopping, dining, and transit access right at your doorstep.
• Prism: Perfect for students seeking a high-end urban lifestyle near AAU.

Serene Living

• Highlands of Marin: Offering breathtaking nature views and luxury amenities, perfect for those seeking a tranquil retreat outside the city bustle.

San Francisco is known for its high cost of living; however, finding affordable student apartments can be easy with uhomes.com. We offer many cheap apartments for students in San Francisco, with rents starting at $595/month. Whether you are on a tight budget or want to save more, you can find affordable studios or shared 2B/3B apartments in San Francisco for students, splitting costs with your roommates. Moreover, we provide exclusive discounts and the highest cashback offers to ensure you get the best price on the market. The following are our recommended cheap apartments for students in San Francisco:

1. 524 Columbus Residences
2. UpMarket Residences
3. FOUND Study San Francisco
4. 251 9th Street Residences
5. The Bartlett Residences

Prefer complete privacy and independence? Our San Francisco student flats offer private studio and one-bedroom apartments for students who prefer personalized space. Each apartment is entirely private, with a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and living area. You can decorate and manage your space according to your preferences, either focus on your studies or enjoy personal time. Private rooms in our student accommodation in the San Francisco Bay Area offer a quiet, comfortable sanctuary. A flexible lease term is also available.

Studio apartments in San Francisco:

1. Soma Square apartments

2. Hanover Soma West

3. 399 Fremont

4. 5421 at Dublin Station

5. 2000 Post

Popular 1-bedroom apartments to rent in San Francisco:

1. Bayside Village

2. Mosso

3. The Fillmore Center

4. Soma Square apartments

5. L Seven

One significant advantage of choosing off-campus student accommodation in San Francisco is the wide variety of room types available. Whether you prefer to live alone or share, our diverse room types cater to every preference. You can choose from private student studio apartments or spacious 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom apartments that meet your needs.

Studio apartments in San Francisco

Studio apartments are highly suitable for students who prefer independent living and value privacy. These units are compact yet functional, combining a bedroom, living area, and kitchen into a single, well-designed space that meets basic living needs.

1-bedroom flats & apartments to rent in San Francisco

1-bedroom apartments offer more space and privacy compared to studios. This type of unit provides independent living without feeling cramped, typically including a separate bedroom, living area, kitchen, and bathroom.

2-bedroom flats & apartments to rent in San Francisco

2-bedroom student apartments feature separate bedrooms for each roommate and share the living room and kitchen, while providing personal space in each bedroom. This is cost-effective for students or working professionals, as they can split the rent, utility bills, and other expenses.

3+ bedroom housing to rent in San Francisco

This is the most cost-effective option, ideal for student groups who prefer to share living spaces with friends or roommates while maintaining personal privacy. Each bedroom is equipped with a private bathroom, a spacious living room, and a kitchen.

Our student apartments in San Francisco offer flexible lease term options to meet diverse needs. Whether you want to rent long-term or short-term student accommodation in San Francisco, you can make the choice based on your actual needs and budget.

Long-term Lease Options:

Lease terms of 10 months or longer are suitable for people who plan to live or study in San Francisco for an extended period. The rent is usually more affordable than short-term leases.

Short-term Lease Options:

Short-term student housing in San Francisco, with lease terms of 1 to 3 months, offers greater flexibility, allowing adjustments to individual needs. Short-term leases are ideal for short-term business trips, internships, or vacations.

San Francisco hosts numerous prestigious higher education institutions and is a leading global hub for science, education, and the arts. The city attracts thousands of ambitious students worldwide each year to pursue their degrees and advance their careers. To support your academic success, uhomes.com offers premium San Francisco student housing near major campuses across the city, helping you find the option that best fits your preferences.

University of San Francisco

The University of San Francisco is located in the center of San Francisco and is known for its Jesuit tradition and diverse student community. By offering small classes and personalized learning, USF provides students with strong programs in Business, Health Sciences, Social Sciences, and Psychology that offer strong career prospects.

San Francisco State University

San Francisco State University is located in southwestern San Francisco, was established in 1899, and is one of the oldest public universities in the California State University System. SFSU has a strong focus on equity and ethnic studies, offering students unparalleled internship and career opportunities in tech, business, and the arts.

California College of the Arts, San Francisco

California College of the Arts (CCA) is an action-oriented school of art, architecture, design, and writing in the heart of San Francisco's Design District. Connecting to the Bay Area's tech & innovation scene, CCA has a strong reputation for high Return on Investment (ROI), with alumni at top companies such as Pixar, Apple, Google, and Disney.

Golden Gate University

Located in downtown San Francisco's Financial District, Golden Gate University is known for its professional-skills-focused education that supports students' career growth, particularly in taxation and law.

Academy of Art University

The Academy of Art University (AAC) is primarily located in San Francisco's South of Market district. It offers career-focused education, making it the largest private art and design school in the US. AAU has uniquely introduced STEM-powered education, equipped with industry-standard facilities to promote students' creativity in relevant fields.

San Francisco has an extensive transportation network that links the entire city, offering diverse transit options for daily commuting and getting around. The public transportation network includes Muni for city travel, BART and Caltrain for regional travel, and Bay Area Ferries, cable cars, walking, biking, and taxis for more sustainable travel. Importantly, you can easily access public transportation by choosing student housing on bus/train routes in San Francisco, ensuring seamless access to schools, city centres, essential amenities, and nearby cities. The table below shows the main public transportation options:

San Francisco Transportation Student Guide

Saving tips for students:

• Apps: Get Google Maps for live arrivals and the Clipper App to manage your funds.
• Clipper START: If your school doesn't provide a free pass, apply for the "Clipper START" program online to get 50% off most fares.
• Transfers: Tagging your Clipper card a second time within 2 hours on Muni will incur a $0 charge.

The cost of living in San Francisco is relatively higher than in most cities in the US. The monthly expenses of a university student typically range between $2,500 $3,000. In comparison, the amount varies depending on personal lifestyle and budget. Student housing in San Francisco, in particular, is significantly more expensive than the national average. For example, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in San Francisco's City Center is $3,211, while the average rent in the less central areas is $2,725. However, you can find cheap student accommodation in the San Francisco Bay Area on uhomes.com, which provides rooms at half the average price with high-quality amenities and services. The following is the breakdown of the monthly costs of living for students in San Francisco:

• Off-Campus Housing: $1,500-$2,500
• Utilities: $150-$250
• Food & Groceries: $300-$500
• Transportation: Muni monthly ticket costs $50-$60, $20-$50 more if taking BART
• Entertainment: $100+
• Tuition: usually $20,000-$50,000 per academic year, depending on the subject and whether or not the student is in-state
  residence
• Books and supplies: $200-$400
• Health Insurance: $125-$210 (may be included in tuition)

San Francisco thrives as a vibrant cultural melting pot that draws students from all over the world and enhances student life with its exceptional education system, mild climate, and diverse community. Our student housing in San Francisco gives students opportunities and freedom to experience the city's unique lifestyle from multiple perspectives.

Enjoy the Coastal Breezes

San Francisco is surrounded on three sides by the ocean and enjoys a pleasant climate. With mild winters and cool summers, the city's weather contributes to its reputation as one of the most desirable places to live in the United States. Imagine walking around your San Francisco student apartments with stunning coastal views and year-round comfort.

Vibrant Neighborhoods & Nature

San Francisco offers diverse neighborhoods with high-quality living environments perfect for every personality. From the art-infused Mission District and the foggy vibes of the Sunset District to the serene and beautiful Forest Knolls, the city caters to diverse lifestyles and preferences. For outdoor enthusiasts, Mount Sutro Open Space Reserve and Golden Gate Park offer a variety of activities and natural beauty for relaxation. Whatever lifestyle you want, you can find apartments for rent in San Francisco for students conveniently located near these parks, shops, and trendy dining/drinking options.

Explore the Foodie Paradise

San Francisco is a haven for food lovers; the city boasts many exceptional restaurants that cater to all tastes and budgets, from world-famous burritos in the Mission to authentic dim sum in Chinatown and fresh seafood at the Wharf. You can savor a variety of global cuisines just steps away from your student accommodation in San Francisco, CA.

San Francisco offers many tourist attractions you can explore at your leisure. Step out of your student housing in San Francisco, explore the city's landmarks, hot spots, and hidden gems. There are plenty of things to do in San Francisco that you don't want to miss, from enjoying the vibrant nightlife in Rickshaw Stop or the Midway to visiting the serene landscapes of Wood Line or Tank Hill. Take a break from the study stress, start by visiting the following 10 top tourist attractions in San Francisco:

1. Golden Gate Bridge: The iconic symbol of the city.
2. Alcatraz Island: Historic prison tour in the bay.
3. Fisherman's Wharf: Fresh seafood and waterfront fun.
4. Chinatown: The oldest Chinatown in North America.
5. Lombard Street: The famous "crookedest" street.
6. Pier 39: Home to the famous sea lions.
7. SFMOMA: World-class modern art museum.
8. The Painted Ladies: Historic Victorian row houses.
9. Union Square: The central hub for shopping.
10. Coit Tower: Panoramic views of the city skyline.