Keystone/Mentone Apartments: A Comprehensive Review for UCLA Students

Choosing the right housing is a crucial decision for any student, significantly impacting their academic and social experience. For students attending the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), the options are plentiful, ranging from on-campus dorms to off-campus apartments. Among the off-campus choices, the Keystone/Mentone apartments stand out as a popular option, particularly for graduate students. This article provides a comprehensive review of Keystone/Mentone apartments, considering various aspects such as location, amenities, community, and overall living experience.

Overview of Keystone/Mentone Apartments

Located at 3777 Mentone Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90024, Keystone/Mentone (KM) is part of the University Apartments South (UAS). These apartments offer a blend of convenience, affordability, and community, making them an attractive option for UCLA students. The University Apartments span several neighborhoods, including Midvale, Venice/Barry, and Keystone/Mentone, allowing grad students to experience unique pockets of L.A.

Location and Accessibility

Keystone/Mentone is situated approximately 5.9 miles from the Bruin Bear, a central landmark on the UCLA campus. While this translates to about a 16-minute drive, the apartments offer convenient transportation options, including a shuttle bus service during the academic year. Additionally, the location is ideal because it is within walking distance to downtown Culver City. Culver City has tons of restaurants, gyms, and groceries. There's a bus stop around the corner, but if you can afford a car I'd recommend, all apartments have garage included. The apartment is conveniently located within walking distance of public transportation to campus, groceries, pharmacy, restaurants, shops, and other services such as a bank, gym, post office, and local libraries. If you enjoy the outdoors, the complex is located near hiking and biking trails. University housing also includes access to the campus shuttle.

The R12 bus can take you straight to Ackerman Union at UCLA and back easily.

Apartment Features and Amenities

Keystone/Mentone apartments are unfurnished units, which allows students to personalize their living spaces according to their preferences. All units in UAS come included with internet and select utilities (water and trash). For the unfurnished units (KM, RA & VB) one parking space is included per bed space. The apartments themselves are considered decent in terms of size and appliances for the price. Most units include a dishwasher, and there are shared laundry facilities (2 washers and 2 dryers) on each floor.

Community and Atmosphere

One of the standout features of Keystone/Mentone is its strong sense of community. Many residents have noted the friendly and non-disruptive atmosphere, with a mix of medical students and graduate students from various disciplines. A group chat for residents facilitates communication and support, which is especially helpful for new residents or those who need assistance with lockouts or other issues.

Safety and Maintenance

Residents generally feel safe in the Keystone/Mentone community, thanks in part to the presence of fellow UCLA graduate students and the responsiveness of UCLA maintenance. Maintenance is quick to respond to issues. The staff will periodically host events for residents of the building. Overall very happy with Keystone-Mentone. Location is perfect (walking distance to downtown Culver, close to bus stops), price is excellent, and unit itself is solid. UCLA maintenance is very responsive and efficient.

Potential Drawbacks

While Keystone/Mentone offers many advantages, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider. Some residents have reported issues with pests, such as ants, particularly during rainy seasons. Additionally, parking can be tricky due to tandem parking spots, requiring coordination among roommates. Only issue is the floors might be somewhat thin.

Comparing Keystone/Mentone to Other UCLA Housing Options

To provide a comprehensive perspective, it's helpful to compare Keystone/Mentone to other housing options available to UCLA students, both on-campus and off-campus.

On-Campus Dorms

On-campus dorms like Sproul Hall, Dykstra Hall, Hedrick Hall, and Rieber Hall offer a more immersive campus life experience, particularly for undergraduate students. Sproul Hall is a favorite for students who want to live at the center of campus life. Dykstra was the first co-ed dorm at UCLA and remains one of the most active and historic housing communities. Hedrick Hall offers a more peaceful living experience, ideal for students seeking balance. R/UCLA Says:“Really social, but furthest walk.” “Hedrick: worst classic. Rieber Hall is known for its bustling environment, ideal for students who thrive on social connection. These dorms provide opportunities for social interaction and easy access to campus resources. However, they can be more expensive and offer less privacy compared to off-campus apartments.

Read also: Navigating Tech Breadth at UCLA

Other University Apartments

Besides Keystone/Mentone, UCLA offers other university apartments such as Weyburn Terrace and University Apartments (often called UAs) offer various layouts, locations, and lease terms throughout the Westwood and Sawtelle areas. Weyburn Terrace is one of the most popular choices for single graduate students. Fun Fact: Weyburn Terrace sits just above Westwood Village and is within walking distance of iconic spots like In-N-Out Burger and the Fox Theater - making it a rare blend of academic peace and L.A. These apartments vary in terms of amenities, location, and target demographic. For instance, Weyburn Terrace is known for being a popular choice for single graduate students, offering a mix of economy studios, studios, and two-bedroom apartments.

Private Off-Campus Apartments

Private off-campus apartments, like Venice Barry, 457-459 Kelton, The Plaza, 1650 Federal, 3533 Keystone, and Lido Apartments, offer more flexibility and independence but may also come with higher costs and more responsibilities. Venice BarryAddress: 11811 Venice Boulevard, Los Angeles 90024Distance: 18 minute drive to Bruin BearDiscover the exceptional Venice Barry apartment, located just 6.7 miles from Bruin Bear. This inviting living space is perfect for students who want to experience both campus life and off-campus comfort. With a quick 18-minute drive and accessible public transport options, this apartment boasts a spacious living area and provides modern amenities, making it an ideal choice for commuting students seeking accessibility paired with comfort.457-459 KeltonAddress: 457-459 Kelton Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90024Distance: 13 minute walk to Bruin BearLooking for a fantastic apartment just a short distance from UCLA? The 457-459 Kelton apartment offers an ideal solution for students wanting to stay close to campus. Conveniently located at only a quick 6-minute bike ride or 13-minute walk, this off-campus housing option features spacious interiors and all the essential modern amenities. Don’t miss this opportunity to secure a prime apartment, perfectly suited for students.The PlazaAddress: 10983 Wellworth Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90024Distance: 10 minute bike to Bruin BearIf luxury living is what you’re after, The Plaza might be just what you’re looking for. Located just 1.5 miles from UCLA, this stunning apartment for rent offers a quick bike ride to campus in only 10 minutes. Featuring modern amenities and a vibrant community atmosphere, it perfectly complements the university experience. This property is not to be missed if you desire a blend of style, comfort, and accessibility!1650 FederalAddress: 1650 Federal Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90024Distance: 12 minute drive to Bruin BearThis stunning apartment, located only 2.8 miles from UCLA, is perfect for students seeking both convenience and comfort. The spacious interiors and modern amenities make it a fantastic housing option for anyone wanting to minimize their commute time-whether biking in just 18 minutes or driving in as little as 12 minutes. Don't miss out on this golden opportunity to secure your dream off-campus apartment!3533 KeystoneAddress: 3533 Keystone Ave, Los Angeles CA 90034Distance: 14 minute drive to Bruin BearSituated in the vibrant Palms neighborhood, 3533 Keystone mixes comfort and convenience seamlessly. This sunny studio apartment is only a 10-minute drive from UCLA via the 405, making it perfect for students wanting to balance their academic and social lives. Features include brand new stainless steel appliances, spacious courtyards, and pet-friendly policies. This off-campus apartment is a great choice for students looking to call this dynamic area home!Lido Apartments - 2311 Bentley AveAddress: 2311 S Bentley Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90064Distance: 11 minute drive to Bruin BearFor those seeking style and security, the Lido Apartments offer a modern and spacious two-story community with a gated entry. Located just a short drive from UCLA, this upgraded apartment boasts fantastic amenities such as remodeled kitchens, air conditioning, fresh laminate flooring, and a beautiful courtyard. With assigned parking and a welcoming atmosphere, it's a smart choice for students aiming for a hassle-free lifestyle.

Student Perspectives and Reviews

Real-world experiences from current and former residents offer valuable insights into the living conditions at Keystone/Mentone. Here are some recurring themes from student reviews:

Positive Location: The proximity to Culver City, with its array of restaurants, gyms, and grocery stores, is consistently praised. The convenience of having a bus stop nearby and the inclusion of garage parking are also significant advantages.
Responsive Maintenance: Residents appreciate the quick and efficient response from UCLA maintenance for any issues that arise.
Community Feel: The friendly and respectful community, comprising mostly graduate students, contributes to a positive living environment. The existence of a group chat further enhances communication and support among residents.
Affordability: Compared to other housing options in the Westwood area, Keystone/Mentone is considered an excellent value for the price.
Cleanliness and Safety: The apartments are generally regarded as clean and safe, contributing to a comfortable living experience.

Tips for Prospective Residents

If you're considering Keystone/Mentone as your next home during your studies at UCLA, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Apply Early: University apartments are in high demand, so it's crucial to apply early to increase your chances of securing a spot.
Visit the Property: If possible, schedule a visit to the property to get a firsthand look at the apartments and the surrounding neighborhood.
Connect with Current Residents: Reach out to current residents through online forums or social media groups to gather more information and insights about living at Keystone/Mentone.
Prepare for Unfurnished Living: Since the apartments are unfurnished, be prepared to bring your own furniture and household items.
Consider Transportation Options: While the shuttle bus and public transportation are convenient, consider whether having a car would better suit your needs, especially for exploring other parts of Los Angeles.
Engage with the Community: Take advantage of the community events and the resident group chat to connect with your neighbors and build a support network.

Read also: Understanding UCLA Counselors

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