A Landlord’s Guide to Renting to CSULB Students

By Owen Conrad | Adapted for CSULB Universe

Renting property near Cal State Long Beach (CSULB) is a solid investment opportunity. With over 37,000 students enrolled, there’s no shortage of renters searching for housing close to campus. But student rentals come with a unique set of circumstances — high turnover, varying levels of rental experience, and the occasional late-night noise complaint.

At CSULB Universe, we help landlords effectively connect with Long Beach State students looking for off-campus housing. If you're renting in the area, here's how to make the process easier, more efficient, and student-friendly.

Understanding Today’s CSULB Students

The idea of a “typical college student” — fresh out of high school, moving into a dorm — isn’t the whole picture anymore. Many students at CSULB are what’s considered non-traditional, meaning they might:

• Be financially independent

• Attend part-time

• Have returned to college after a break

• Be over the age of 30

• Be raising children

This means that student renters can often be more mature and financially stable than expected. That said, many CSULB students are still navigating their first experience living away from home, so it’s important to communicate expectations early and clearly.

As experienced landlord Carol Walbye puts it:

“Teach students how to live in your space. Be clear about what’s allowed and what isn’t. Explain everything from quiet hours to how to use the garbage disposal. Stay involved and check in — it helps build trust and keeps your property in good shape.”

5 Tips for Renting to CSULB Students

Once you've ensured your property meets Long Beach city rental requirements and is in compliance with CSULB off-campus housing guidelines, follow these tips to make the process smoother on both sides.

1. List Where CSULB Students Are Searching

Students are online for everything — and housing is no exception. While Craigslist, Zillow, and Facebook Marketplace still see traffic, they’re crowded and not student-specific.

That’s where CSULB Universe comes in. Our platform is designed just for students at Long Beach State looking for housing in neighborhoods like East Side, Traffic Circle, Los Altos, and beyond.

To attract attention:

• Use clean, well-lit photos

• Highlight proximity to CSULB, transit routes, and shopping centers

• Be clear about rent, utilities, lease terms, and pet or roommate policies

2. Set Up a Tenant Screening Process

A reliable screening process helps you make informed decisions and protect your property. For student renters, screen for:

• Credit history (if applicable)

• Proof of income or financial backing

• Rental history (if any)

• Criminal and eviction background

Some CSULB students may not have a strong rental or financial record yet — which is why step 4 (co-signers) can be a helpful backup.

Long-time rental owner Rachel Tolmachoff emphasizes:

“I handle all screening myself. A bad tenant can cost you more than lost rent. Don’t outsource this part.”

3. Charge a Security Deposit or Move-In Fee

Students don’t always mean to cause damage — but between roommates, parties, and frequent move-ins, the risk is higher. Charging a security deposit or non-refundable move-in fee offers protection and peace of mind.

What works best?

• Use security deposits for long-term leases or more expensive units

• Use move-in fees for short-term or flexible rentals

• Some landlords use both, especially in areas with frequent turnover

Just make sure your lease clearly outlines the conditions for refunds or deductions.

4. Require a Co-Signer When Appropriate

Not every CSULB student will meet your screening criteria. If they don’t have a steady income or long rental history, a co-signer (often a parent) can guarantee the lease financially.

“If they don’t have five years of references, I require a co-signer,” says Tolmachoff. “It ensures accountability and gives me peace of mind.”

Include a co-signer clause in your lease and make sure they sign the agreement. Still, make it clear that communication should stay between you and the student renter.

5. Make Expectations Crystal Clear in the Lease

Many CSULB students are renting for the first time — don’t assume they know how it all works. Your lease should clearly spell out:

• No smoking or candles

• Quiet hours and guest policies

• Who pays for utilities

• Required renter’s insurance

• Maintenance responsibilities (changing lightbulbs, taking out trash)

• How to report issues (and when it’s urgent)

Being specific upfront saves time, prevents conflicts, and protects your property.

List Your Rental with CSULB Universe

With the right preparation, renting to CSULB students can be a great experience. Whether you manage one apartment or several houses near campus, CSULB Universe gives you direct access to Long Beach State students actively looking for off-campus housing.

Ready to fill your vacancy? Post your listing on CSULB Universe and start connecting with qualified student renters today.