Apartments Near University of California-Irvine

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

Average 1BR Rent

$2,700/mo

Best Neighborhoods

Irvine Heights · College Hill

Walk to Campus

5–20 min walk

Housing Near University of California-Irvine: What to Expect

University of California-Irvine enrolls 29,494 students, creating high demand for off-campus housing in Irvine, 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 University of California-Irvine

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

Midtown Heights

Best Value

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

$2,093–$2,400/mo

Studio · 1 BA · 0.3 mi from campus

Campus Crossing

Most Popular

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

$2,428–$2,800/mo

1 BR · 1 BA · 0.5 mi from campus

Landmark Heights

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

$3,281–$3,750/mo

2 BR · 1 BA · 0.7 mi from campus

Summit Park

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

$4,098–$4,700/mo

3 BR · 2 BA · 0.9 mi from campus

Landmark Lofts

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

$2,215–$2,550/mo

1 BR · 1 BA · 1.1 mi from campus

Riverside Residences

New Building

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

$3,344–$3,850/mo

2 BR · 2 BA · 1.4 mi from campus

Heritage Flats

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

$4,227–$4,850/mo

4 BR · 2 BA · 1.6 mi from campus

Best Areas to Live Near University of California-Irvine

Irvine Heights

The closest neighborhood to University of California-Irvine's main entrance. Walk to class in minutes — coffee shops and convenience stores line the main strip.

$2,750–$4,650/moFreshmen

College Hill

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

The Loop

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

Near North

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 University of California-Irvine

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 University of California-Irvine

FAQ — Apartments Near University of California-Irvine

What is the cheapest housing near University of California-Irvine?
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 University of California-Irvine?
Top areas include Irvine Heights, College Hill, The Loop, Near North. Each has its own vibe — some are walkable and social, others are quieter and more affordable.
What is the average rent near University of California-Irvine?
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 University of California-Irvine?
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 University of California-Irvine'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.