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Search Resources | Educated Renter's Certificate Program | Community Resources 
The Off-Campus Housing Program was established to provide students and community stakeholders with connections and resources to improve student success as they live in the San Luis Obispo community. It is our goal to help students make an easy transition from on-campus to off-campus living while encouraging them to become engaged, positive members of the community.
Stay Connected
Instagram: calpoly_offcampushousing
Email: offcampushousing@calpoly.edu
Spring Quarter Zoom Drop-in Hours
Have questions or need quick assistance? Our Zoom Drop-In Hours are here to help! Connect with our team for guidance on your Off-Campus Housing Search. No appointment needed — drop in at your convenience during the days and times listed below. We look forward to seeing you!
Note: Zoom drop-in hours will run weekly when campus is open, unless otherwise noted. If you have questions and cannot make the listed days and times please reach out to us at offcampushousing@calpoly.edu.
- 12:00pm - 2:00pm (canceled 5/26 - campus closed)
- 12:00pm - 2:00pm
- 6:00pm - 7:00pm
- 1:00pm - 2:00pm
- 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Student Presentations
The Off-Campus Adventure Begins: Unlocking Your Housing Path
Unlock the keys to successful off-campus living! Join the Off-Campus Housing Program for valuable insights on the rental search process, understanding your tenant rights and responsibilities, and becoming a competitive applicant!
- Log-in to your Cal Poly Now account to access upcoming workshops.
Tenant Rights 101 Workshop
Discover your rights, no matter what your rental agreement says! Join Cal Poly's Off-Campus Housing Coordinator to delve into Tenant Rights and Responsibilities. Learn about your fundamental tenant rights and explore valuable, free community resources that are here to support you.
- Log-in to your Cal Poly Now account to access upcoming workshops.
Parent & Supporter Presentation
Off-Campus Housing in San Luis Obispo County - for Parents & Supporters
- View the recording here: https://parent.calpoly.edu/stay-informed#mfi
Educated Renters Certificate Program
Interested in learning about your rights and responsibilities as a tenant? In this short, asynchronous online course, you can learn more about your rights and responsibilities as a renter— and earn a certificate to show prospective landlords. To enroll in the Educated Renters Certificate Program, click here.
Note: If you do not have a Cal Poly login, you'll need to create a free Canvas Commons account, then search for the course.
Embrace Community Living: Key Tips for a Successful Transition
Know Your Budget
Your budget is the most important consideration in your housing hunt. Housing options vary in price widely, depending on amenities, location, configuration, and transportation costs (ex. gas & a parking permit vs riding your bike or taking the bus). And don't forget utilities. When you're seeing properties, be sure to ask what, if any, utilities are included in the cost of rent. You may be responsible for trash, internet, water, electricity, cable/television/streaming services. If living with roommates make sure to communicate your budget with each other so you are searching for the properties that suit both your needs. Use this Budgeting Worksheet to help get started.
Start Your Search Early
Living in San Luis Obispo dials you into the small-town atmosphere, great food and, community amenities, all within walking distance - or a short bike or bus ride - to campus. Be sure to plan ahead if you want to find a place close to campus. Most students start hunting for fall housing as early as winter or spring quarter and some property managers may open applications as early as the end of fall quarter.
If you are searching during the spring quarter it is recommended to outreach directly to property managers to determine if there have been recent cancelations or anticipate any units opening up.
Find Compatible Roommates
Finding a compatible roommate can be just as challenging as finding a place to live. Review this short video on how to find a compatible roommate. You can also utilize this Roommate Agreement to set expectations with your new roommate(s).
Know Your Rights & Responsibilities as a Tenant
We've created the Educated Renter's Certificate Program to help you understand the search process, your rights and, responsibilities as a tenant, and to help you be a more competitive applicant. Enroll in the course here and earn your certificate today!
A quick six-page guide can be found here and a comprehensive document, per the state of California, on your legal rights and responsibilities can be found here. Learn about what protections are currently available for renters in the City of San Luis Obispo here: SLO Renter Protections.
Register your party here: SLO Party Registration
Know Your Neighbors
Good communication and mutual respect between residents can improve the quality of life for you and your neighbors. Building relationships right away can help avoid problems from occurring in the future. Offer to exchange cell phone numbers with your neighbors to avoid the escalation of any potential issues that may arise. Check out this helpful brochure from the City of SLO for more ways to promote neighborhood wellness.
Register your party here: SLO Party Registration
Find Out More
Transfer Students
Finding off-campus housing in San Luis Obispo can be difficult. In this video, you will find some tips and tricks to making this part of the transition to Cal Poly easier.
Join the Transfer Center Discord to connect with other transfer students and potential roommates.
Parents and Supporters
If you are new to the rental market in San Luis Obispo (SLO) County please view the Parent and Family Program's Lunch and Learn presentation to review tips and resources as you and your student start the process of searching for housing in the community. Access the recording here: https://parent.calpoly.edu/stay-informed#mfi
Landlords and Property Managers
Maximize traffic to available rentals, local site with local students, educated renters, security deposit alternative program, EDUrain partners closely with Cal Poly's Off-Campus Housing Program. If you have any questions please reach out to info@edurain.org or offcampushousing@calpoly.edu.
List with us today! Follow the link to access the marketplace: https://findoffcampushousing.calpoly.edu/
Questions? Contact offcampushousing@calpoly.edu
