Apartments Near San Francisco State University
Your 2026 guide to finding affordable, student-friendly housing in San Francisco, CA — with real prices, best neighborhoods, and tips to avoid common mistakes.
Average 1BR Rent
$2,700/mo
Best Neighborhoods
San Francisco Heights · Midtown
Walk to Campus
5–20 min walk
Housing Near San Francisco State University: What to Expect
San Francisco State University enrolls 20,033 students, creating high demand for off-campus housing in San Francisco, 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 San Francisco State University
Representative listings — prices reflect current market rates for San Francisco, CA.
Collegiate Flats
Best ValueQuiet residential complex with off-street parking, covered bike storage, and a community garden.
$1,829–$2,100/mo
Studio · 1 BA · 0.3 mi from campus
Grove Residences
Most PopularModern open-plan lofts 2 blocks from the main quad. Pet-friendly, utilities included.
$2,342–$2,700/mo
1 BR · 1 BA · 0.5 mi from campus
Park Place
High-rise living with panoramic views, rooftop pool, and concierge service.
$3,547–$4,100/mo
2 BR · 1 BA · 0.7 mi from campus
Campus Square
Newly built riverfront complex with floor-to-ceiling windows and kayak storage.
$4,160–$4,800/mo
3 BR · 2 BA · 0.9 mi from campus
Landmark Lofts
Full-service building with co-working spaces, a coffee lounge, and a private shuttle.
$2,591–$3,000/mo
1 BR · 1 BA · 1.1 mi from campus
Scholar Park
New BuildingGated community with resort-style amenities — pool, gym, and on-site maintenance.
$3,462–$4,000/mo
2 BR · 2 BA · 1.4 mi from campus
Midtown Court
Full-service building with co-working spaces, a coffee lounge, and a private shuttle.
$4,431–$5,100/mo
4 BR · 2 BA · 1.6 mi from campus
Best Areas to Live Near San Francisco State University
San Francisco Heights
The closest neighborhood to San Francisco State University's main entrance. Walk to class in minutes — coffee shops and convenience stores line the main strip.
Midtown
A lively area with bars, restaurants, and weekend activity. Ideal if you want a social scene steps from your apartment.
Downtown
Quieter residential streets with single-family homes converted into multi-unit rentals. More space, lower prices, a short bike ride to campus.
College Hill
Downtown location with walkable access to the transit hub, employers, and city amenities — best for students with internships or part-time jobs.
Cost of Living Near San Francisco State University
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.