Most Affordable Neighborhoods Near CSULB for Students

Finding affordable off-campus housing near California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) can be challenging, especially in a competitive Southern California rental market. Whether you’re a freshman ready to leave the dorms or a grad student looking to save on rent, choosing the right neighborhood is key to balancing budget, safety, and commute.

This guide highlights the most affordable neighborhoods near CSULB, based on average rent, location, and student lifestyle. We also include tips to help you save money and find the perfect apartment.

1. Zaferia

Distance to CSULB: ~2 miles

Average Rent: $1,100–$1,400 per room

• Why Students Love It:

  • Known for affordable apartments and duplexes

  • Bike-friendly distance to campus

  • Access to cool local spots like Retro Row, Portfolio Coffeehouse, and bars

• Things to Consider:

  • Some older buildings may not have modern updates

  • Limited parking in certain areas

2. Circle Area / Traffic Circle

Distance to CSULB: 1–1.5 miles

Average Rent: $1,150–$1,500 per room

• Why Students Love It:

  • Walking or biking distance to campus

  • Lots of apartment complexes with student-friendly pricing

  • Nearby shopping (Target, Trader Joe’s, restaurants)

• Things to Consider:

  • Can get congested around rush hour

  • Some complexes can have stricter rental requirements

3. Los Altos

Distance to CSULB: Adjacent (~0.5–1 mile)

Average Rent: $1,200–$1,600 per room

• Why Students Love It:

  • Quiet, residential, and very close to campus

  • Popular with grad students and upperclassmen

  • Nearby grocery stores, parks, and libraries

• Things to Consider:

  • Slightly higher rent than other neighborhoods

  • Fewer short-term rental options

4. Eastside Long Beach

Distance to CSULB: 2–3 miles

Average Rent: $950–$1,300 per room

• Why Students Love It:

  • Lower rents, especially in shared houses or older apartments

  • Diverse community with good food options and easy access to public transit

  • Short commute via bike or bus

• Things to Consider:

  • Neighborhood feel varies block-by-block

  • Parking can be limited on busy streets

5. Cambodia Town / Central Long Beach

Distance to CSULB: ~3 miles

Average Rent: $850–$1,200 per room

• Why Students Love It:

  • One of the most budget-friendly areas near CSULB

  • Rich cultural food scene (Khmer, Thai, Mexican)

  • Great option for students with cars or using Long Beach Transit

• Things to Consider:

  • Further from campus

  • May require more due diligence on safety by street

Student Housing Tips Near CSULB

• Start searching early (February–April) for August/September move-ins.

• Use platforms like csulb.offcampus-universe.com or social pages like @csulbuniverse_housing to find listings, roommates, and deals.

• Roommate Finding to lower monthly costs—shared housing can save you hundreds.

• Ask about utilities—some landlords include water, trash, or internet in the rent.

• Tour before you sign or request video walkthroughs to avoid scams.

Living off-campus doesn’t mean you have to overpay. Neighborhoods like Zaferia, Eastside, and Central Long Beach offer a balance of affordability and student convenience, especially if you’re willing to share housing or commute a few extra minutes.

Before locking in your next lease, weigh the cost of rent, transit options, and your personal lifestyle needs. With the right approach, you can find a great place near CSULB without breaking your budget. Looking for roommates or a new place? Follow @csulbuniverse_housing on Instagram for weekly listings, student housing tips, and move-in deals!