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. 

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.

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 this quick Getting Started video shares a few tips as you and your student start the process of searching for housing in the community.

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/