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Explore San Francisco
About
San Francisco is one of the most energetic and culturally diverse cities in the US. However, the cost of living is up there with the highest in the country, so finding affordable off-campus housing can be tricky.
Luckily, we’ve compiled a range of options for student housing in San Francisco so you can find rooms for rent at reasonable prices. Not only that, but with our mapping feature it’s easy to find apartments near your chosen university.
The San Francisco area is renowned for its excellent educational standards, with several universities in the Bay Area ranking among the best in the world. Whether you’re looking for a specialty college or a major university, the city has something for every student.
Founded in 1855, the University of San Francisco (USF) is the second oldest university in California and one of the top institutions in the city. This Jesuit university offers a range of programs and has a long and distinguished history in the sciences and liberal arts.
USF is divided into four schools and one college covering five core areas: law, management, education, arts and sciences, and nursing and health professions. There’s a strong focus on graduate programs, with graduate students making up about half of the student body.
The university’s main campus is located in San Francisco’s Inner Richmond neighborhood, just a short train journey from downtown. This puts it within easy reach of some of the best student housing in San Francisco.
Applying to the university? Browse our range of apartments near the University of San Francisco.
Founded in 1868, the University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) is the flagship institution of the ten research universities affiliated with the University of California system. Located in Berkeley, you can get there from downtown San Francisco in about 40 minutes by public transport.
A founding member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), UC Berkeley is home to some world-renowned research institutes, including the Mathematical Sciences Research Institute and the Space Sciences Laboratory.
The university’s alumni, faculty, and researchers include over 50 Nobel laureates, 18 Turing Award winners and 11 Pulitzer Prize winners. It regularly places within the top 10 universities in the world.
Looking to follow in the footsteps of the university’s illustrious alumni? Take the next step by browsing apartments near UC Berkeley.
With a student population of over 25,000, San Francisco State University is the biggest university in San Francisco. It offers a diverse study program, covering everything from law, business and engineering to health studies, social sciences and the arts.
The main campus is situated in San Francisco’s Sunset District, based in the southwest quadrant of the city. Students opting for off-campus housing generally stick to nearby neighborhoods like Parkmerced or Daly City, though some live closer to downtown.
The university is known for its vibrant campus life, which includes over 300 clubs and organizations. Students hail from a range of backgrounds, with the university priding itself on its inclusivity.
Interested in studying at the university? Check out our range of SFSU off-campus housing.
The Academy of Art University is one of the largest and most prestigious art and design schools in the US. This specialist university offers a variety of programs in fields like graphic design, fashion, photography, illustration and the performing arts.
Its urban campus is integrated into the heart of the city, with several buildings dotted in and around downtown San Francisco. Many students choose to live off campus in surrounding areas like SoMa and Lower Nob Hill.
Secured your place at the university? Explore our different options for AAU Housing.
San Francisco doesn’t stop there for colleges and universities! One option well worth considering is the University of California, San Francisco, which is dedicated to health sciences and ranks among the best in the country for several programs in this field.
Golden Gate University is known as a leader in adult education and offers a variety of courses in law, business, technology and economics, while the University of California College of the Law, San Francisco is one of California’s top law schools.
With countless sights, famous attractions, iconic landmarks, and colorful neighborhoods, San Francisco is a haven for photo opportunities and offers countless experiences for students.
San Francisco is located on a peninsula between the Pacific Ocean and the San Francisco Bay on the west coast of the United States. Home to California’s famed tech and innovation hub, Silicon Valley, San Francisco is much more than just a technological center.
One of the country’s most cosmopolitan cities, San Francisco is a place of contrasts – old but new, cutting-edge but laid-back, urban but pastoral.
A city in constant evolution, its bohemian heritage and relaxed beach style blend with more cutting-edge and competitive dynamics. Made famous in the 1960s as the home of ‘flower power’ and the hippie movement, San Francisco is now one of the most progressive and diverse cities in the US.
Students will love its cool and elegant atmosphere, sunny climate, breathtaking views of one of the world’s greatest bays and laid-back coastal lifestyle, which all add to its high quality of life.
The sprawling gateway to Northern California is home to 48 hills and one of the most iconic bridges in the world. Crossing the famous Golden Gate by bicycle, car, or even on foot, is one of the sightseeing musts of the city.
If you’re artistic, you’ll have opportunities to fill your eyes with public art throughout ‘the Paris of the West’. Seek out San Francisco’s famed street art in the Mission District, the neighborhood with the highest concentration of murals in the city.
See the colorful murals depicting the city’s history by visiting Balmy Alley. “The Language of Birds,” tells the intersection of Broadway and Columbus Avenue’s literary history, while Clarion Alley features mural art on the themes of social and environmental justice.
Lovers of the performing arts will have plenty of opportunities to see shows featuring some of the world’s greatest talents. Visit Davies Symphony Hall where the San Francisco Symphony creates musical magic, or watch the San Francisco Ballet twirl and leap, and the San Francisco Opera superstars reach for the high notes at The Palace of Fine Arts.
Theatre in the Bay Area ranges from avant-garde troupes to distinguished options like the non-profit American Conservatory Theater, with quality productions presented at The Geary Theater. The Greek Theater, an 8,500-seat outdoor amphitheater that overlooks the San Francisco Bay, also draws big names.
When you’re in need of some retail therapy, Union Square is a hotspot for shoppers. Pretty much every top brand in fashion can be found at the 2.6-acre square, a landmark in the heart of the downtown shopping and hotel district.
The square is also a mecca for fine hotels, great meals, and green spaces. San Francisco has more restaurants per capita than any other city in America, and some of the finest are located in the square.
Students can expect to get discounts at stores, restaurants, museums, cinemas, cafes, gyms, and more in the square, as well as other places in the city.
The city’s neighborhoods are known for their distinct dining flair, serving up some of the best, most authentic foods in the country. North Beach is famous for its Italian food, dim sum is everywhere in Chinatown, while no-frills Mexican food can be found in the Mission and Castro districts.
Fancy a taste of the ocean? Treat yourself to some gourmet seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf. Students on a budget can also take advantage of food trucks dotted around the city, while its many cozy cafes make for great hangouts and study spaces.
San Francisco is blessed with so many bars and clubs that you’ll always want to get out and take in the city. From indie music venues in Haight-Ashbury to trendy bars in the Marina District, there’s something for everyone.
With its cheap drinks and fun vibe, The Last Call Bar is one of the most popular bars in the city for students. Temple is a chic, multi-room club with varied music and décor that is considered to be one of the best clubs in the city.
For such a compact and populated city, San Francisco sports several green spaces that offer respite from the hustle and bustle. Golden Gate Park’s 1000-plus acres of land offer stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay. Crissy Field, which also has a splendid view of the Bridge, sits right on the water and is the perfect spot for an afternoon picnic.
Marvel at the beautiful flower gardens of the hillside on Lombard Street. Stroll along Fisherman’s Wharf and enjoy indoor and outdoor dining, unique shopping and attractions, including bay cruises, museums, and outdoor activities.
If you’re a hiker, take a short trip across the Golden Gate Bridge and go hiking in Marin County — one of the most serene and scenic areas in Northern California. Or, get an elevated panoramic view of the city by hopping on one of the iconic cable cars, the world’s last manually operated cable car system.
The uniqueness of San Francisco’s many neighborhoods, and the wide variety of events taking place within them, keep the city bustling with activity and intrigue.
Richmond District is a quiet, very homely neighborhood in the northwest corner of San Francisco. It’s bordered by Golden Gate Park to the south and another park in Presidio to the north, while also being flanked by the Pacific Ocean to the west.
The neighborhood is especially popular for students at the University of San Francisco. It’s also a great option for those looking for more affordable student housing that’s still within reach of the downtown area.
Positioned just blocks away from Golden Gate Park, Panhandle is a small but vibrant neighborhood that sits between Western Addition and Haight-Ashbury in central San Francisco.
The area is mostly made up of housing but also has a large concentration of bars, coffee shops, restaurants and bakeries. It’s one of the most popular areas for University of San Francisco students, being just a few minutes’ walk from the main campus.
Lower Nob Hill is a bustling neighborhood popular with students at the Academy of Art University and other downtown schools. It’s known for its charming local cafes and eclectic eateries where students can sample foods from all over the world.
The neighborhood is considered one of the more affordable areas for student housing in central San Francisco, though rental costs can still be high. Strong transport links make it easy for journeys deeper into the heart of the city or out towards the suburbs.
It’s no secret that the cost of living in San Francisco is high, with rental costs on student housing ranging from $1,500–$3,000 per month. Shared apartments in neighborhoods away from the center, such as Richmond District, are often the most budget-friendly options.
Living costs such as groceries, utilities and transport also tend to be higher than other US cities. However, the city has lots of free activities and various student discounts which can help keep costs down.
Students can learn a lot about the city simply by exploring its most vibrant neighborhoods and iconic landmarks on foot. Golden Gate Bridge and Lombard Street are two obvious picks, but you can also stroll around Fisherman’s Wharf and enjoy the piers.
There are also a few attractions worth visiting that don’t charge an entry free, such as the San Francisco Cable Car Museum in Nob Hill and the Palace of Fine Arts in the Marina District.
Most colleges and universities in San Francisco partner with the San Francisco Municipal Transport Agency to offer discounts on train and bus tickets. Once you have your student ID, you should be able to purchase a special semester to unlock unlimited travel.
Along with discounts on public transport, most museums as well as some shops and restaurants will offer discounts to students – so it’s always best to keep your student ID on you to take advantage of these offers.
San Francisco has an excellent public transport system comprising buses and trains, as well as historic streetcars, making it easy to travel from your student home and university campus to other spots in the city.
Within the city’s central areas, the San Francisco Municipal Railway (Muni) operates a metro system with six lines covering all the key areas. When venturing out into the Bay Area for longer-distance travel, you’ll need to use the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system.
The Muni network also includes over 50 bus routes to connect areas not directly served by the metro. Night bus services are also available on select routes for when you need to get back home after a late night.
San Francisco’s streetcars run along the F-Market & Wharves line, connecting Market Street to Fisherman’s Wharf. While more of a fun and unique experience than a commuter tool, they remain a charming and functional part of the public transit system.
Found your dream student home in San Francisco? Applying for the lease with Student.com is simple:
Choose your room – browse our properties and find a place that suits your needs. Our team of experts are on hand if you need some help.
Request to book – let us know which property you are interested in & our booking consultants will guide you through the next steps.
Sign your contract – once your contract is signed you will pay your rent. Student.com does not charge you anything for our booking service: you’ll only need to pay the rent to your chosen landlord.
Learn more about how the booking process works here.
Owing to high demand and living costs in the city, student housing in San Francisco tends to be more expensive than in other US cities. Apartments typically range from $1,500–$3,000 per month, though you may be able to find cheaper options in the city’s outer areas and by opting for a shared space.
The student apartments we list in San Francisco are grouped into one of three room types:
Shared room – two or more people sleeping in separate beds in the same room. The living room, kitchen, and bathroom are all shared with other rooms.
Private room – additional facilities are also shared with other rooms but you’ll have a private bedroom. In some properties, you can also have private rooms with a private bathroom.
Entire place – this is a fully self-contained property. This means you don’t have to share with anyone. Your bedroom, as well as living, cooking and bathing facilities, are exclusively for you.
In most of the properties we list in San Francisco, bills are included. Many properties also offer free Wi-Fi. However, check the property page to see what is included in the property you’re interested in, as different landlords have different policies.
As with the bills, most apartments we list are rented fully furnished, but make sure to check on the property page if this is the case with the property you’re thinking of booking, as some housing we list in San Francisco is rented unfurnished.
San Franciso has some excellent student areas that are relatively affordable by the city’s standards but still close to the action. Lower Nob Hill and Panhandle are two welcoming neighborhoods near the center, while the Richmond District is great for students at the University of San Francisco as well as those in search of cheaper accommodation.
If you want to study in the US as a non-US citizen, you’ll need to obtain a student visa from a US embassy or consulate in your home country. For university or college study, you’ll need an F visa. Read more on the requirements and your eligibility here.
If you didn’t find what you were looking for, you can check our FAQ page or contact one of our booking consultants. They’re always happy to help!
Explore San Francisco
Universities
Explore San Francisco
San Francisco is one of the most energetic and culturally diverse cities in the US. However, the cost of living is up there with the highest in the country, so finding affordable off-campus housing can be tricky.
Luckily, we’ve compiled a range of options for student housing in San Francisco so you can find rooms for rent at reasonable prices. Not only that, but with our mapping feature it’s easy to find apartments near your chosen university.
The San Francisco area is renowned for its excellent educational standards, with several universities in the Bay Area ranking among the best in the world. Whether you’re looking for a specialty college or a major university, the city has something for every student.
Founded in 1855, the University of San Francisco (USF) is the second oldest university in California and one of the top institutions in the city. This Jesuit university offers a range of programs and has a long and distinguished history in the sciences and liberal arts.
USF is divided into four schools and one college covering five core areas: law, management, education, arts and sciences, and nursing and health professions. There’s a strong focus on graduate programs, with graduate students making up about half of the student body.
The university’s main campus is located in San Francisco’s Inner Richmond neighborhood, just a short train journey from downtown. This puts it within easy reach of some of the best student housing in San Francisco.
Applying to the university? Browse our range of apartments near the University of San Francisco.
Founded in 1868, the University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) is the flagship institution of the ten research universities affiliated with the University of California system. Located in Berkeley, you can get there from downtown San Francisco in about 40 minutes by public transport.
A founding member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), UC Berkeley is home to some world-renowned research institutes, including the Mathematical Sciences Research Institute and the Space Sciences Laboratory.
The university’s alumni, faculty, and researchers include over 50 Nobel laureates, 18 Turing Award winners and 11 Pulitzer Prize winners. It regularly places within the top 10 universities in the world.
Looking to follow in the footsteps of the university’s illustrious alumni? Take the next step by browsing apartments near UC Berkeley.
With a student population of over 25,000, San Francisco State University is the biggest university in San Francisco. It offers a diverse study program, covering everything from law, business and engineering to health studies, social sciences and the arts.
The main campus is situated in San Francisco’s Sunset District, based in the southwest quadrant of the city. Students opting for off-campus housing generally stick to nearby neighborhoods like Parkmerced or Daly City, though some live closer to downtown.
The university is known for its vibrant campus life, which includes over 300 clubs and organizations. Students hail from a range of backgrounds, with the university priding itself on its inclusivity.
Interested in studying at the university? Check out our range of SFSU off-campus housing.
The Academy of Art University is one of the largest and most prestigious art and design schools in the US. This specialist university offers a variety of programs in fields like graphic design, fashion, photography, illustration and the performing arts.
Its urban campus is integrated into the heart of the city, with several buildings dotted in and around downtown San Francisco. Many students choose to live off campus in surrounding areas like SoMa and Lower Nob Hill.
Secured your place at the university? Explore our different options for AAU Housing.
San Francisco doesn’t stop there for colleges and universities! One option well worth considering is the University of California, San Francisco, which is dedicated to health sciences and ranks among the best in the country for several programs in this field.
Golden Gate University is known as a leader in adult education and offers a variety of courses in law, business, technology and economics, while the University of California College of the Law, San Francisco is one of California’s top law schools.
With countless sights, famous attractions, iconic landmarks, and colorful neighborhoods, San Francisco is a haven for photo opportunities and offers countless experiences for students.
San Francisco is located on a peninsula between the Pacific Ocean and the San Francisco Bay on the west coast of the United States. Home to California’s famed tech and innovation hub, Silicon Valley, San Francisco is much more than just a technological center.
One of the country’s most cosmopolitan cities, San Francisco is a place of contrasts – old but new, cutting-edge but laid-back, urban but pastoral.
A city in constant evolution, its bohemian heritage and relaxed beach style blend with more cutting-edge and competitive dynamics. Made famous in the 1960s as the home of ‘flower power’ and the hippie movement, San Francisco is now one of the most progressive and diverse cities in the US.
Students will love its cool and elegant atmosphere, sunny climate, breathtaking views of one of the world’s greatest bays and laid-back coastal lifestyle, which all add to its high quality of life.
The sprawling gateway to Northern California is home to 48 hills and one of the most iconic bridges in the world. Crossing the famous Golden Gate by bicycle, car, or even on foot, is one of the sightseeing musts of the city.
If you’re artistic, you’ll have opportunities to fill your eyes with public art throughout ‘the Paris of the West’. Seek out San Francisco’s famed street art in the Mission District, the neighborhood with the highest concentration of murals in the city.
See the colorful murals depicting the city’s history by visiting Balmy Alley. “The Language of Birds,” tells the intersection of Broadway and Columbus Avenue’s literary history, while Clarion Alley features mural art on the themes of social and environmental justice.
Lovers of the performing arts will have plenty of opportunities to see shows featuring some of the world’s greatest talents. Visit Davies Symphony Hall where the San Francisco Symphony creates musical magic, or watch the San Francisco Ballet twirl and leap, and the San Francisco Opera superstars reach for the high notes at The Palace of Fine Arts.
Theatre in the Bay Area ranges from avant-garde troupes to distinguished options like the non-profit American Conservatory Theater, with quality productions presented at The Geary Theater. The Greek Theater, an 8,500-seat outdoor amphitheater that overlooks the San Francisco Bay, also draws big names.
When you’re in need of some retail therapy, Union Square is a hotspot for shoppers. Pretty much every top brand in fashion can be found at the 2.6-acre square, a landmark in the heart of the downtown shopping and hotel district.
The square is also a mecca for fine hotels, great meals, and green spaces. San Francisco has more restaurants per capita than any other city in America, and some of the finest are located in the square.
Students can expect to get discounts at stores, restaurants, museums, cinemas, cafes, gyms, and more in the square, as well as other places in the city.
The city’s neighborhoods are known for their distinct dining flair, serving up some of the best, most authentic foods in the country. North Beach is famous for its Italian food, dim sum is everywhere in Chinatown, while no-frills Mexican food can be found in the Mission and Castro districts.
Fancy a taste of the ocean? Treat yourself to some gourmet seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf. Students on a budget can also take advantage of food trucks dotted around the city, while its many cozy cafes make for great hangouts and study spaces.
San Francisco is blessed with so many bars and clubs that you’ll always want to get out and take in the city. From indie music venues in Haight-Ashbury to trendy bars in the Marina District, there’s something for everyone.
With its cheap drinks and fun vibe, The Last Call Bar is one of the most popular bars in the city for students. Temple is a chic, multi-room club with varied music and décor that is considered to be one of the best clubs in the city.
For such a compact and populated city, San Francisco sports several green spaces that offer respite from the hustle and bustle. Golden Gate Park’s 1000-plus acres of land offer stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay. Crissy Field, which also has a splendid view of the Bridge, sits right on the water and is the perfect spot for an afternoon picnic.
Marvel at the beautiful flower gardens of the hillside on Lombard Street. Stroll along Fisherman’s Wharf and enjoy indoor and outdoor dining, unique shopping and attractions, including bay cruises, museums, and outdoor activities.
If you’re a hiker, take a short trip across the Golden Gate Bridge and go hiking in Marin County — one of the most serene and scenic areas in Northern California. Or, get an elevated panoramic view of the city by hopping on one of the iconic cable cars, the world’s last manually operated cable car system.
The uniqueness of San Francisco’s many neighborhoods, and the wide variety of events taking place within them, keep the city bustling with activity and intrigue.
Richmond District is a quiet, very homely neighborhood in the northwest corner of San Francisco. It’s bordered by Golden Gate Park to the south and another park in Presidio to the north, while also being flanked by the Pacific Ocean to the west.
The neighborhood is especially popular for students at the University of San Francisco. It’s also a great option for those looking for more affordable student housing that’s still within reach of the downtown area.
Positioned just blocks away from Golden Gate Park, Panhandle is a small but vibrant neighborhood that sits between Western Addition and Haight-Ashbury in central San Francisco.
The area is mostly made up of housing but also has a large concentration of bars, coffee shops, restaurants and bakeries. It’s one of the most popular areas for University of San Francisco students, being just a few minutes’ walk from the main campus.
Lower Nob Hill is a bustling neighborhood popular with students at the Academy of Art University and other downtown schools. It’s known for its charming local cafes and eclectic eateries where students can sample foods from all over the world.
The neighborhood is considered one of the more affordable areas for student housing in central San Francisco, though rental costs can still be high. Strong transport links make it easy for journeys deeper into the heart of the city or out towards the suburbs.
It’s no secret that the cost of living in San Francisco is high, with rental costs on student housing ranging from $1,500–$3,000 per month. Shared apartments in neighborhoods away from the center, such as Richmond District, are often the most budget-friendly options.
Living costs such as groceries, utilities and transport also tend to be higher than other US cities. However, the city has lots of free activities and various student discounts which can help keep costs down.
Students can learn a lot about the city simply by exploring its most vibrant neighborhoods and iconic landmarks on foot. Golden Gate Bridge and Lombard Street are two obvious picks, but you can also stroll around Fisherman’s Wharf and enjoy the piers.
There are also a few attractions worth visiting that don’t charge an entry free, such as the San Francisco Cable Car Museum in Nob Hill and the Palace of Fine Arts in the Marina District.
Most colleges and universities in San Francisco partner with the San Francisco Municipal Transport Agency to offer discounts on train and bus tickets. Once you have your student ID, you should be able to purchase a special semester to unlock unlimited travel.
Along with discounts on public transport, most museums as well as some shops and restaurants will offer discounts to students – so it’s always best to keep your student ID on you to take advantage of these offers.
San Francisco has an excellent public transport system comprising buses and trains, as well as historic streetcars, making it easy to travel from your student home and university campus to other spots in the city.
Within the city’s central areas, the San Francisco Municipal Railway (Muni) operates a metro system with six lines covering all the key areas. When venturing out into the Bay Area for longer-distance travel, you’ll need to use the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system.
The Muni network also includes over 50 bus routes to connect areas not directly served by the metro. Night bus services are also available on select routes for when you need to get back home after a late night.
San Francisco’s streetcars run along the F-Market & Wharves line, connecting Market Street to Fisherman’s Wharf. While more of a fun and unique experience than a commuter tool, they remain a charming and functional part of the public transit system.
Found your dream student home in San Francisco? Applying for the lease with Student.com is simple:
Choose your room – browse our properties and find a place that suits your needs. Our team of experts are on hand if you need some help.
Request to book – let us know which property you are interested in & our booking consultants will guide you through the next steps.
Sign your contract – once your contract is signed you will pay your rent. Student.com does not charge you anything for our booking service: you’ll only need to pay the rent to your chosen landlord.
Learn more about how the booking process works here.
Owing to high demand and living costs in the city, student housing in San Francisco tends to be more expensive than in other US cities. Apartments typically range from $1,500–$3,000 per month, though you may be able to find cheaper options in the city’s outer areas and by opting for a shared space.
The student apartments we list in San Francisco are grouped into one of three room types:
Shared room – two or more people sleeping in separate beds in the same room. The living room, kitchen, and bathroom are all shared with other rooms.
Private room – additional facilities are also shared with other rooms but you’ll have a private bedroom. In some properties, you can also have private rooms with a private bathroom.
Entire place – this is a fully self-contained property. This means you don’t have to share with anyone. Your bedroom, as well as living, cooking and bathing facilities, are exclusively for you.
In most of the properties we list in San Francisco, bills are included. Many properties also offer free Wi-Fi. However, check the property page to see what is included in the property you’re interested in, as different landlords have different policies.
As with the bills, most apartments we list are rented fully furnished, but make sure to check on the property page if this is the case with the property you’re thinking of booking, as some housing we list in San Francisco is rented unfurnished.
San Franciso has some excellent student areas that are relatively affordable by the city’s standards but still close to the action. Lower Nob Hill and Panhandle are two welcoming neighborhoods near the center, while the Richmond District is great for students at the University of San Francisco as well as those in search of cheaper accommodation.
If you want to study in the US as a non-US citizen, you’ll need to obtain a student visa from a US embassy or consulate in your home country. For university or college study, you’ll need an F visa. Read more on the requirements and your eligibility here.
If you didn’t find what you were looking for, you can check our FAQ page or contact one of our booking consultants. They’re always happy to help!