Navigating UCLA Housing Costs: A Comprehensive Guide

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is a leading public university, attracting students from across the globe. As the No. 1 public university in the United States for the 8th year in a row, UCLA offers a wide array of academic programs and extracurricular activities. However, prospective and current students alike must carefully consider the cost of living, with housing being a significant factor. This article provides a comprehensive overview of UCLA housing costs, encompassing on-campus and off-campus options, to aid students in making informed decisions.

On-Campus Housing: University Apartments

UCLA provides various on-campus housing options, primarily categorized into University Apartments North (UAN) and University Apartments South (UAS).

University Apartments North (UAN)

UAN units are furnished and include high-speed internet, utilities (electric, water, gas, and trash). Parking in these buildings is offered based on availability and at an extra charge.

Hilgard (HLG)

Monthly Rate: $1,899.33
Inventory: 82 apartments
Tenants per Apartment: 1 (Studio)

Weyburn Terrace (WT)

Economy Studio: $1,802.33 (33 apartments, 1 tenant per apartment, minimal natural light)
Studio: $1,859.33 (747 apartments, 1 tenant per apartment)
Two Bedroom/Two Bathroom Apartment: $1,648.33 (392 apartments, 2 tenants per apartment)
Two Bedroom/Two Bathroom Townhouse: $1,718.33 (148 apartments, 2 tenants per apartment)

The monthly rate includes a $1.33 Association Fee.

University Apartments South (UAS)

UAS offers a mix of unfurnished (KM, RA & VB) and furnished (TB, CF) units. All units in UAS include internet and select utilities (water and trash). For unfurnished units (KM, RA & VB), one parking space is included per bed space. For The Boulevard, parking is included in the contract but may be shared among roommates.

Read also: Rhode Island Tuition Guide

Hitch & Saxon Suites, Hedrick Summit, Rieber Terrace, Rieber Vista and Sunset Village

Contract rates are per person and include a room portion, meal plan, and social fee. Students can choose from 19-meal, 14-meal, or 11-meal plans.

Full Academic Year Contract Rates:

	19P Meals	14P Meals	11P Meals	19 Meals	14 Meals	11 Meals
Room Portion	$12,460	$12,460	$12,460	$12,460	$12,460	$12,460
Meal Plan	$6,878	$6,534	$5,973	$6,196	$6,026	$5,566
Social Fee	$38.76	$38.76	$38.76	$38.76	$38.76	$38.76
Total Payment	$19,377.72	$19,033.44	$18,472.56	$18,696	$18,525	$18,064.44

All students are placed on a quarterly payment plan. An initial installment of $500 may be due upon accepting the offer, which will be deducted from the September installment, depending on financial aid.

Gayley Heights (GH), Glenrock West (GW), Glenrock (GR), Landfair (LF), Levering Terrace (LT), Westwood Chateau (WC) and Westwood Palm (WP)

Contract rates are per person for the full academic year.

	1/2 UNIT - 1 Bedroom/2 Person (GR, GW, LF, LT, WC, WP)	1/3 UNIT - 1 Bedroom/3 Person (GW, LT, WC, WP)
Room Portion	$13,675.44	$9,300.12
Social Fee	$29.64	$29.64
Total Contract	$13,705.08	$9,329.76
Parking (if assigned)	$1,218.02	$1,218.02

Read also: Emory University Tuition

De Neve Gardenia & Holly, Sproul Cove & Landing and Olympic & Centennial

	19P meals	14p meals	11P Meals	19 meals	14 meals	11 meals
Room Portion	$10,289	$10,289	$10,289	$10,289	$10,289	$10,289
Meal Plan	$6,878	$6,534	$5,973	$6,196	$6,026	$5,566
Social Fee	$38.76	$38.76	$38.76	$38.76	$38.76	$38.76
Total payment	$17,207.16	$16,862.88	$16,302.00	$16,525.44	$16,354.44	$15,893.88

Off-Campus Housing: An Alternative to Dorm Life

Many students and faculty members prefer off-campus housing near UCLA due to the potential for more space and cost savings. Areas like Westwood, West Los Angeles, Brentwood, Palms, Mar Vista, Culver City, and Sawtelle are popular choices.

Advantages of Off-Campus Housing

More Affordable Rent: Sharing costs with roommates can significantly reduce expenses.
Flexibility: Students have the freedom to furnish their apartments, choose their meals, and live more independently.
Flexible Leases: Short-term rentals are often available, allowing students to move between neighborhoods.
Close to Amenities: Many apartments are located near restaurants, grocery stores, and other conveniences.
Invite Friends: Unlike dorms, off-campus apartments allow students to invite friends and family over freely.
Live with Pets: Pet-friendly housing options are available.
More Storage Space: Apartments often offer more closet and pantry space.

Popular Off-Campus Housing Locations

Westwood: Adjacent to UCLA, offering apartments within walking distance.
West Los Angeles: A broader district with family housing and single rooms for rent.
Brentwood: A tranquil, suburban living experience east of UCLA.
Santa Monica: A beach city west of UCLA, offering a relaxed, coastal lifestyle.
Bel Air: Known for luxurious estates and high-end amenities.
Pacific Palisades: North of Santa Monica, offering a picturesque and serene environment.
Culver City: Boasts a trendy vibe and newer apartments, accessible via the Expo Line.
Venice: Favored by part-time students, known for its Bohemian beach life.
Silver Lake: A vibrant and artistic area, though the commute can be challenging.
Mid-City: Further from UCLA but offers affordable housing options for students with cars.
Rancho Park: Southwest of UCLA, offering affordable options for students with cars.

Estimated Off-Campus Housing Costs

UCLA off-campus housing: $19,888 to $20,500 /year

Finding Affordable Apartments

Websites like uhomes.com offer a range of affordable apartments near UCLA, with options starting as low as $793/month. These apartments often feature tailored interiors, bespoke finishes, and stylish amenities.

Examples of Affordable Apartments near UCLA:

Wilshire Villa, Los Angeles
940 Gayley Ave
2613 Kansas Ave
NMS Aster
West Edge
3240 Fay Avenue
eight70
10717 WILSHIRE Blvd
1275 Federal Ave
1759 Beloit

Key Considerations for Choosing UCLA Student Housing

Safety: Prioritize safety by choosing housing with 24/7 security, CCTV, and controlled access. Avoid walking alone at night.
Transportation: If you don’t own a car, renting apartments near public transit is necessary.
Utilities: Ask if the rent includes gas, electricity, water, or trash.
Lease Terms: Read the lease carefully, as most contracts last 12 months.
Security Deposit: Landlords often charge one month’s rent as a deposit.
Roommates: Discuss schedules, habits, and house rules early.
Parking Availability: Verify parking options if you bring a car.
Furnishing Options: Decide whether you prefer a furnished or unfurnished apartment.

UCLA Cost of Living: Beyond Housing

The estimated cost of living at UCLA is approximately $43,137 per academic year for California residents living in a UCLA Residence Hall and $44,974 per academic year for those living off-campus. For non-California residents, there is a nonresident supplemental tuition fee of $37,602 per academic year.

Read also: Affording Temple

Estimated Expenses

UCLA Apartments Cost:
- UCLA on-campus apartments: $14,744 to $20,962 /year
- UCLA off-campus housing: $19,888 to $20,500 /year
UCLA University Fee: $15,700 (Nonresident Supplemental Tuition: $37,602)
Food:
- Groceries: $50 - $100 per week
- Dining out: $20 - $50 per meal
Entertainment:
- Movie tickets: $10 - $15 per ticket
- Fitness memberships: $20 - $50 per month
- Other entertainment expenses: $50 - $100 per month
Transportation:
- Public transportation: $857-$1,646 /year
Miscellaneous:
- Books and supplies: $1,680 /year
- Personal expenses: $2,362 /year
- Health Insurance: $3,579 per year

UCLA Transportation Options

UCLA offers several transportation options to help students navigate Los Angeles without relying on a car.

Public Transit

The Bruin U-Pass transit program allows students to commute to campus or travel throughout Los Angeles County for free.

Participating Transit Agencies:

Antelope Valley Transit Authority
Foothill Transit
LADOT
Long Beach Transit
Metro

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