Best Places to Live in California for Students

If you're a student and wish to move to or in and around the state, the first thing that will matter is which university you're planning to apply. For students, this is one of the major factors for moving after high school. Of course, California offers many fine community colleges and universities where students can avail the opportunities to move further in life.

San Francisco

The top universities in San Francisco are Stanford University, University of San Francisco, and San Francisco State University. The college tuition differs from one university to another. As far as traveling is concerned, you can take the bus, the tube, the cable cars, or drive your own vehicle. Again, remember, the total cost will vary here as well. It's always a good idea to apply for financial aid as the cost of living can alter depending on the location you live in the city. If the university you have applied to has a dorm room, the total expense will be a bit lower than someone who has to rent a place. Also, you have to factor in the cost of food, utilities, books, and miscellaneous expenses. All in all, the cost can be close to US $1,000 per month, depending on your expenditure.

Santa Barbara

One of the major reasons students would like to move to the city is University of California, Santa Barbara. Situated on the west of the city, the university attracts diverse groups of students. There are many housing prospects around the university that will help you reduce the need for transportation. However, if you do have to live away from the university, expect the cost to be anywhere between US $300 to US $1,000 on sharing and non-sharing basis, respectively.

Los Angeles

The city of Los Angeles probably has one of the most diverse student body ever. Many students from all over the country and across the world wish to live in Los Angeles for its glitz, glamor, and charm. Plus, the city is huge so you really have to do your research on exactly which location you wish to live. You can find lofts in downtown Los Angeles and the Metro Trains and buses give you excellent transportation options. For nightlife, shopping, and restaurants, West Hollywood and Hollywood are the places to be. Finally, the beach areas; choose from the South Bay can be a great place to live in with friends as the cost of living can be anywhere between US $700 to US $1,000 for a good home.

San Diego

It can be tempting to live near the beach, but try to fight it because of high rent, unwanted sand everywhere, tourist traffic, etc. Staying close to downtown can give you a good price on housing as Hillcrest, University Heights, South Park, North Park, and Mission Hills have good neighborhoods, restaurants, shopping, and young demographics. San Diego is a great place for students to live in due to the presence of renowned educational institutes. In simple words, the quality of life and satisfaction which you get in this place is much more than what you get in different parts of the world.

Source: Buzzle.com