Apartments Near Art Center College of Design

Your 2026 guide to finding affordable, student-friendly housing in Pasadena, CA — with real prices, best neighborhoods, and tips to avoid common mistakes.

Average 1BR Rent

$2,700/mo

Best Neighborhoods

Pasadena Heights · East Side

Walk to Campus

5–20 min walk

Housing Near Art Center College of Design: What to Expect

Art Center College of Design enrolls 2,054 students, creating steady demand for off-campus housing in Pasadena, CA. Most students move off-campus after their first or second year either to save money or gain more independence.

Rent near campus ranges from $2,200/mo for a studio to $3,750/mo for a 2-bedroom — with 3 and 4-bedroom shared units often bringing individual rent down to $1550–$2350/person/mo.

The area is one of the more expensive student housing markets in the country. Planning ahead and securing roommates early is key.

Apartment Listings Near Art Center College of Design

Representative listings — prices reflect current market rates for Pasadena, CA.

University Crossing

Best Value

Spacious layouts with in-unit laundry and a resident study lounge — popular with upperclassmen.

$2,066–$2,400/mo

Studio · 1 BA · 0.3 mi from campus

Landmark Station

Most Popular

Older building with character — garden courtyard, lower rents, walkable location.

$2,547–$2,950/mo

1 BR · 1 BA · 0.5 mi from campus

Campus Residences

Well-maintained mid-rise with 24/7 security, a fitness center, and direct bus access to campus.

$3,020–$3,450/mo

2 BR · 1 BA · 0.7 mi from campus

Midtown Heights

Full-service building with co-working spaces, a coffee lounge, and a private shuttle.

$4,261–$4,900/mo

3 BR · 2 BA · 0.9 mi from campus

Grove Crossing

Modern open-plan lofts 2 blocks from the main quad. Pet-friendly, utilities included.

$2,302–$2,650/mo

1 BR · 1 BA · 1.1 mi from campus

Pinnacle Station

New Building

Quiet residential complex with off-street parking, covered bike storage, and a community garden.

$3,561–$4,100/mo

2 BR · 2 BA · 1.4 mi from campus

The Commons

Quiet study-focused community with fiber internet and soundproofed bedrooms.

$4,328–$5,000/mo

4 BR · 2 BA · 1.6 mi from campus

Best Areas to Live Near Art Center College of Design

Pasadena Heights

The closest neighborhood to Art Center College of Design's main entrance. Walk to class in minutes — coffee shops and convenience stores line the main strip.

$2,750–$4,650/moFreshmen

East Side

A lively area with bars, restaurants, and weekend activity. Ideal if you want a social scene steps from your apartment.

$2,600–$4,450/moSocial students

Westgate

Quieter residential streets with single-family homes converted into multi-unit rentals. More space, lower prices, a short bike ride to campus.

$2,000–$3,450/moGraduate students

South Campus

Downtown location with walkable access to the transit hub, employers, and city amenities — best for students with internships or part-time jobs.

$2,500–$4,250/moCommuters

Cost of Living Near Art Center College of Design

Rent (1BR)$2,700/mo (1 BR avg)
Food & Groceries~$500/mo (mix of dining hall + groceries)
Transportation~$120/mo (bus pass or bike)
Utilities~$140/mo (as a separate charge if not included)
Estimated Monthly Total~$3,460/mo estimated

Student Housing Tips

Start Early

The best apartments near campus get leased 6–9 months before move-in. If you want August housing, start searching in January–February.

Read the Lease

Check: who pays utilities, guest policies, subletting rules, and what happens if a roommate leaves. Never sign anything you haven't fully read.

Choose Roommates Carefully

Split a 3–4 bedroom and each person's share drops by 30–40%. Use a roommate agreement to align on noise, guests, cleanliness, and bills.

More About Art Center College of Design

FAQ — Apartments Near Art Center College of Design

What is the cheapest housing near Art Center College of Design?
The most affordable option is typically a studio at around $2,200/mo. Sharing a 3–4 bedroom apartment brings individual costs down to roughly $1550–$2350/person.
What are the best student neighborhoods near Art Center College of Design?
Top areas include Pasadena Heights, East Side, Westgate, South Campus. Each has its own vibe — some are walkable and social, others are quieter and more affordable.
What is the average rent near Art Center College of Design?
Expect $2,200/mo for a studio, $2,700/mo for a 1BR, and $3,750/mo for a 2BR. Prices vary by proximity to campus and building amenities.
Is it safe to live off-campus near Art Center College of Design?
The neighborhoods immediately around campus tend to be well-lit and student-friendly. Always tour in person, check entry security, and read tenant reviews before signing a lease.
How far are apartments from Art Center College of Design's campus?
Most student apartments are 0.3–1.5 miles away — a 5–20 minute walk. Bus routes allow students to live 2–3 miles away without needing a car.