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La Mesa is a San Diego suburb east of Mission Valley, primarily a residential community that functions as affordable overflow housing for SDSU students and San Diego-area commuters. The trolley Green Line runs through La Mesa with the Grossmont station, providing a direct connection to SDSU and downtown San Diego without a car. Rents are lower than SDSU's College Area and significantly cheaper than Mission Valley, making it worth considering for budget-conscious students who do not mind a slightly longer commute to campus.
The most practical location — walking distance to the trolley and local buses. The Grossmont shopping center provides daily errands without a car.
La Mesa's small walkable downtown is charming and has some apartment options. A short trolley ride from SDSU.
Here's what you need to know about getting around La Mesa.
The Green Line trolley connects Grossmont station in La Mesa to SDSU and downtown San Diego. MTS buses cover local La Mesa routes. Near the Grossmont station, going car-free is genuinely viable for SDSU students.
Near Grossmont transit center and downtown La Mesa, the area is walkable for errands. The rest of La Mesa is hilly and suburban — biking requires route planning.
Easy in most residential areas. Near Grossmont, more limited during peak hours.
Common questions from students searching for housing.
La Mesa typically runs $800-$1,100/mo per person — cheaper than SDSU's College Area and Mission Valley. Good value for students willing to take the trolley to campus.