Loading listings
Off-Campus Housing Near San José State University
$1,039+/unit
Fees may applyThe Grad San Jose
$1,650+/unit
Fees may applyPolaris Apartments
$3,855+/unit
Fees may applyThe Fay
$1,009+/unit
Fees may applyThe Grad
About Off-Campus Housing Near San José State University
San Jose State University (SJSU) is a public university in the California State University system, located in downtown San Jose with an enrollment of approximately 30,000 to 35,000 students. Founded in 1857, SJSU is the oldest public institution of higher education on the West Coast. Its urban campus sits at the heart of Silicon Valley, surrounded by major tech employers and startups. The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs in business, engineering, arts, and science. Students who cannot secure on-campus housing face one of the tightest and most expensive rental markets in the country, with apartments near downtown San Jose commanding significant premiums.
San José State University Housing Requirements
Freshman Live-On Requirement
SJSU does not have a universal freshman live-on requirement, though incoming students are strongly encouraged to apply for on-campus housing. Campus housing options include traditional residence halls and apartment-style facilities, but demand far exceeds supply. Many freshmen do not receive a campus housing placement and must search for off-campus rentals before the fall semester begins.
Off-Campus Eligibility
All students - freshmen through graduate - are eligible to live off campus. Given that on-campus housing serves only a fraction of SJSU's large enrollment, the majority of students rent privately in surrounding San Jose neighborhoods. Students who are not offered on-campus housing should begin their off-campus search immediately after submitting their housing application to avoid being caught without a lease when fall semester arrives.
Lease Timing
SJSU students in the Silicon Valley rental market face intense competition from both students and working professionals. Most experienced students begin searching in October or November for the following fall semester - more than nine months in advance. For students who miss the early window, January through March is a second opportunity before the market peaks. Waiting until May or later means significantly fewer choices and higher prices.