Student Housing in Chico, CA
About Student Housing in Chico
Chico is a classic California college town built around California State University, Chico, and the student housing market runs accordingly. Rents are among the lowest in California for a university town — you can find solid shared units under $700/mo per person — and the market is competitive in the fall but not cutthroat by California standards. The downtown and the neighborhoods north and west of campus are the student zones. The city has a reputation as one of the better quality-of-life college towns in the state: a genuine downtown, Bidwell Park on the doorstep, and a student population that drives a lively bar and restaurant scene.
Best Neighborhoods for Students in Chico
Near Campus (East and North of Chico State)
The primary student zone — apartment complexes and converted houses close to the main entrances of Chico State. Walking distance to class and the downtown strip. Fills fast.
Downtown Chico
Walkable, social, and within biking distance of campus. Popular with upperclassmen who want restaurant and bar access steps away from their apartment. Slightly pricier than the immediate campus zone.
Getting Around Chico as a Student
Here's what you need to know about getting around Chico.
Public Transit
Butte Regional Transit and BCAG buses cover Chico with routes connecting to the campus. Service is functional but not frequent — most students bike rather than bus for campus trips.
Walking and Biking
Chico has extensive bike infrastructure and a strong cycling culture. The flat terrain and mild weather make year-round biking practical. Most students bike from campus to downtown and back without giving it a second thought. Bidwell Park's trail network extends recreational biking options considerably.
Parking
Easy by California standards. Most apartments include parking, and street parking is not as contested as Bay Area or LA markets. Campus parking is available by permit.
Frequently Asked Questions: Student Housing in Chico
Common questions from students searching for housing.
Chico is affordable by California standards. Shared units near Chico State typically run $600-$900/mo per person. Downtown runs slightly higher for the proximity to restaurants and bars. It is one of the better value university markets in the state.
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Lifestyle
See how students rate apartments in Chico, CA on social life, management, and quality before you tour.
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