Making the move from high school to college is a huge step. And where you choose to live has a huge impact on how you settle in. Whether you choose UCSB dorms or off-campus housing, one thing is certain: you need a comfortable (and fully supportive) place to call home.
In this guide, we give you the lowdown on all your dorm options as well as a few off-campus housing perks to consider. By comparing on- and off-campus student housing at UC Santa Barbara, you can make the informed decision that’s perfect for you.
Key Takeaways
- Dorms can be convenient for freshmen seeking immediate campus integration.
- The Cove offers modern amenities and a community atmosphere near UCSB.
- Living off-campus can provide you more space and independence.
- Always compare costs of living in UCSB dorms vs. off-campus apartments.
- Consider your personal lifestyle preferences when choosing student housing.
Types of UCSB Dorms on Campus
Residence halls at UCSB cover a range of on-campus conveniences. Let’s break down the options.
Freshman Dorms
UCSB on-campus housing includes eight residence halls available to first- and second-year undergrads:
- Anacapa: With ocean and mountain views near the library, this dorm also has the dorm-style bathroom, but each floor has its own study lounge and kitchenette
- Manzanita Village: This ‘family style’ living has 17 total buildings each with a lobby and lounge, laundry/vending room, study room, and some kitchenettes
- San Miguel: This super social hall has gendered floors each with elevator access, a dorm-style bathroom, and a study lounge and kitchenetteÂ
- San Nicolas: This high-rise has co-ed floors with gendered wings, dorm-style bathrooms, and a study lounge and kitchenette on each floor.
- San Rafael: This co-ed building offers suite-style living with a bathroom and living room per suite as well as doubles and singles that share semi-private bathrooms.
- Santa Catalina: A sort of chill zone away from the main buzz, this UCSB dorm has a pool, surf racks, basketball and volleyball courts, and double-room suites that are connected by a common bathroom
- Santa Cruz: In the middle of it all and super social, this hall has dorm-style, single-gender bathrooms on each wing of its two-story building but no elevator access
- Santa Rosa: This on-campus option gets the same highlights as Santa Cruz (including the views) but houses different Living Learning Communities
UCSB also offers Living-Learning Communities in its on-campus housing, fostering a sense of belonging among students with shared interests or identities. If there’s a community that reflects your experience, they can provide you with built-in academic and social support.Â
While the university doesn’t have an all-girls dorm, all rooms and bathrooms are gendered, with some residence halls offering designated wings or floors for men and women.
If you’ve heard about dorm controversy, don’t worry, Munger Hall is only a proposed project right now. But it has caused a lot of buzz to its design, which features windowless bedrooms for most residents. Critics argue the design could negatively impact mental and physical health, while proponents emphasize its potential to address the university’s housing shortage.
Upperclassman Dorms
UCSB has five undergraduate apartment communities available to third and fourth year students. These are located off campus and each one has its own unique features, including some that are home to more Living-Learning Communities, like Black Scholars, Chicanx/Latinx Scholars, and Lavender Living for LGBTQIA+ housing.
UCSB Dorm CostÂ
UCSB on-campus housing costs vary depending on your dorm, room type, and meal plan. Generally, expect a significant portion of your student expenses to go towards housing. For specific and up-to-date pricing, head to UCSB Housing, Dining & Auxiliary Enterprises.
Top Benefits of Living in UCSB Dorms
Living in on-campus residence halls offers several clear pros, especially for first-year students.
Convenient Proximity
Living right on campus provides unparalleled convenience. You’ll have easy access to classes, libraries, dining halls, and other essential resources. This proximity can save you time and reduce the stress of commuting.
Social Integration
Dorm life offers built-in opportunities for social interaction and community building because that community is already on your shared campus. You can meet fellow students from diverse backgrounds and form lasting friendships literally outside your door.
Financial Aid & Costs
Dorm costs can often be included in a financial aid package, which can simplify the payment process. This sometimes makes on-campus housing a more financially manageable option.
Reasons to Consider UCSB Off-Campus Housing
If we had to name two things we know best, that would be Santa Barbara students and our very own off-campus apartment community, The Cove. We’re going to use that expertise here to highlight some of our favorite qualities of UCSB student housing off-campus.
More Privacy & Space
UCSB off-campus housing at The Cove offers more personal space and privacy compared to dorms. You get a whole, furnished house with private bedrooms, your own bathroom, and a half bath for guests. That’s a level of privacy you can’t get in on-campus housing. Plus, with private backyards and patios, you get a serene environment that feels way more like home.Â
Pet-Friendly Living
One of the largest cons to on-campus living is you have to do it without pets. At The Cove, every house is pet-friendly, so your cat or dog is welcome to call Santa Barbara home, too.
Independent Living
Living off-campus allows you to develop essential independent living skills, like college budgeting, cooking for yourself, and managing household responsibilities with roommates. At The Cove, every house has two sets of washers and dryers, two dishwashers, two refrigerators, and a stove, too, so you get to practice managing your household chores together without feeling overcrowded.Â
Isla Vista Access
The Cove is situated just minutes from your UCSB campus in an ideal location to soak up the IV lifestyle. Enjoy the convenience of being close to campus, local shops, dining, and entertainment while also enjoying a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle.
Transportation
The Cove offers convenient bus access to UCSB, making it easy to commute to campus. And, with on-site bike storage, you can enjoy UCSB’s Platinum Bike-Friendly University status for more seamless commutes and less parking hassle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Here are our top FAQs about UCSB dorms and off-campus housing.
Does UCSB have single dorms?
UCSB does offer some single dorm rooms, but they are limited and often in high demand. Availability varies, so it’s best to check with the housing department for the latest information.
Where do most freshmen live at UCSB?
Santa Catalina, Santa Cruz, and San Miguel are often called the most popular freshman dorms due to their social environments and convenient locations. But the university doesn’t require freshmen to live on campus, so you have all on- and off-campus housing options available to you.
What is the controversial dorm at UCSB?
Munger Hall stirred up some controversy due to its design. And by that we mean mostly windowless bedrooms, which raises reasonable concerns about student wellbeing.
Is UCSB housing expensive?
Both UCSB dorms and off-campus housing can be expensive, depending on the options you choose. Comparing costs and considering your budget is essential.
How do I apply for housing at The Cove?
If you like what you see in our furnished 5-bedroom homes right off campus, please get in touch with our team. And you can get more Cove-specific answers on our community FAQ.Â
Choose the Best UCSB Student Housing for You
Ultimately, deciding between UCSB dorms and off-campus housing is your personal choice. Dorms can offer location convenience and social integration, while off-campus options like The Cove provide way more space, independence, and in-home perks.Â
If you’re interested in exploring The Cove as your off-campus option, we’re ready for you. View floor plans, amenities, and more on our website, and schedule your tour today.