A co-op representative talks to a new student about living in the campus co-ops.
Living in an apartment off-campus has plenty of benefits, just be sure to watch out for becoming anti-social—it's a very easy trap to fall into without the massive group living situation found in the residence halls.
—Dustin
Astrophysics
Jumping straight into the co-ops my freshman year was the most challenging and rewarding experience. The diversity of my housemates opened my eyes to so many new and diverse fields.
—Claire
Intended Peace and Conflict Studies
Statistics on Housing
- 46.5% of undergraduates lived less than 0.5 miles from campus
- 21% lived within 1 mile of campus
- 15% lived within 2 miles of campus
- 2.5% commuted 30 or more miles to get to campus
- Of students who lived off campus in Fall 2005, the largest number lived in private rental apartments.
- Others lived in private rental houses, with parents or relatives, in Greek houses, in cooperatives, or rented rooms within private homes.
Housing
Looking for housing is a balancing act involving one's basic needs, finances, your personal preferences, and of course, location. Most students new to the area opt for organized group living environments for the special services, programs, and facilities offered in student communities. But don't worry if that's not for you—all types of housing in and around Berkeley are available. If you have not yet found somewhere to call your home near to campus, you've come to the right place. To start your search, read through the Resource Guide online for the most common ways Cal students find places to live: http://resource.berkeley.edu/r_html/301housing.html
If you have more questions, click on these links below to find some answers.
Rental listings (Berkeley/East Bay area)
Cal Rentals
https://calrentals.housing.berkeley.edu
Craigslist
http://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/hhh
Personal assistance finding housing (Cal Rentals)
https://calrentals.housing.berkeley.edu/
student_services.asp
General tips (Cal Rentals)
https://calrentals.housing.berkeley.edu/flyers/
Top_10_tips.pdf
Neighborhoods (Cal Rentals)
https://calrentals.housing.berkeley.edu/flyers/Berkeley_
Neighborhoods.pdf
Rent ranges (Cal Rentals)
https://calrentals.housing.berkeley.edu/flyers/
Typical_Rent.asp
When to look (Cal Rentals)
https://calrentals.housing.berkeley.edu/flyers/
When_to_Look.pdf
After you've found a place (Cal Rentals)
https://calrentals.housing.berkeley.edu/
student_services_a.asp
Co-ops
University Students' Cooperative Association
http://bsc.coop/home/our-co-ops
Extension students, Fall Program for Freshmen
Cal Rentals
https://calrentals.housing.berkeley.edu/student_
services_d.asp