Apartments Near University of California-Merced
Your 2026 guide to finding affordable, student-friendly housing in Merced, CA — with real prices, best neighborhoods, and tips to avoid common mistakes.
Average 1BR Rent
$2,700/mo
Best Neighborhoods
Merced Heights · The Loop
Walk to Campus
5–20 min walk
Housing Near University of California-Merced: What to Expect
University of California-Merced enrolls 8,372 students, creating steady demand for off-campus housing in Merced, 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-Merced
Representative listings — prices reflect current market rates for Merced, CA.
The Crossing
Best ValueWell-maintained mid-rise with 24/7 security, a fitness center, and direct bus access to campus.
$2,012–$2,300/mo
Studio · 1 BA · 0.3 mi from campus
College Place
Most PopularAffordable and social — a favorite for first-year off-campus students with a rooftop common area.
$2,291–$2,650/mo
1 BR · 1 BA · 0.5 mi from campus
Summit Square
Newly built riverfront complex with floor-to-ceiling windows and kayak storage.
$3,534–$4,050/mo
2 BR · 1 BA · 0.7 mi from campus
Scholar Place
Affordable and social — a favorite for first-year off-campus students with a rooftop common area.
$3,885–$4,450/mo
3 BR · 2 BA · 0.9 mi from campus
Riverside Crossing
Low-rise townhomes arranged around a central green — perfect for small groups.
$2,488–$2,850/mo
1 BR · 1 BA · 1.1 mi from campus
Collegiate Heights
New BuildingOlder building with character — garden courtyard, lower rents, walkable location.
$3,025–$3,500/mo
2 BR · 2 BA · 1.4 mi from campus
Riverside Square
Well-maintained mid-rise with 24/7 security, a fitness center, and direct bus access to campus.
$4,362–$5,000/mo
4 BR · 2 BA · 1.6 mi from campus
Best Areas to Live Near University of California-Merced
Merced Heights
The closest neighborhood to University of California-Merced's main entrance. Walk to class in minutes — coffee shops and convenience stores line the main strip.
The Loop
A lively area with bars, restaurants, and weekend activity. Ideal if you want a social scene steps from your apartment.
Near North
Quieter residential streets with single-family homes converted into multi-unit rentals. More space, lower prices, a short bike ride to campus.
East Side
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 University of California-Merced
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.