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Sacramento's student housing market is centered on Sacramento State, but UC Davis students who want more urban options commute from here too. Sac State sits on the eastern edge of the city in the Tahoe Park neighborhood, and students cluster in the blocks directly around campus as well as in Midtown and East Sacramento for students who prioritize walkability and neighborhood character over campus proximity. Rents are moderate by California standards — Sacramento remains one of the more affordable large California cities — but prices have risen significantly as Bay Area workers have relocated here. Light rail connects the main student neighborhoods to campus and downtown.
The immediate campus area — apartment complexes designed for students, walking distance to class. Fills earlier each year as enrollment grows.
The most walkable and vibrant neighborhood in the city — dense, walkable, and connected by light rail to Sac State. More expensive than the campus zone but with real neighborhood character. Popular with upperclassmen and grad students.
Quieter residential neighborhoods between campus and downtown. A mix of apartments and older house rentals. Good light rail access and more affordable than Midtown.
Here's what you need to know about getting around Sacramento.
Sacramento Regional Transit (SacRT) light rail connects Sac State to downtown Sacramento along the Gold Line. Bus routes cover the broader city. For students near a rail station, the campus commute is straightforward without a car.
Midtown Sacramento is genuinely walkable and one of the better cycling neighborhoods in the city. The American River Bike Trail is one of the best urban bike trails in California, running from downtown to Folsom. Near Sac State, biking is practical for campus trips.
Campus parking is available with a permit and not as competitive as Bay Area schools. Most neighborhoods have easy street parking. Having a car in Sacramento is convenient but not necessary if you are near light rail.
Common questions from students searching for housing.
Sacramento is more affordable than most California cities. Shared units near Sac State run $700-$1,050/mo per person. Midtown pushes higher at $950-$1,300/mo but includes walkable amenities. It is one of the better value markets among California university cities.
Browse student housing near each Sacramento-area university.