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UC Davis is a major public research university in the University of California system, located in Davis, CA, about 15 miles west of Sacramento. With roughly 32,000 undergraduates, it is one of the largest UC campuses. The university is nationally recognized for programs in agriculture, veterinary medicine, environmental science, and the biological sciences. Davis itself is a compact, walkable college town of about 70,000 people with an exceptionally strong cycling culture. The surrounding Sacramento Valley setting gives students easy access to both urban Sacramento and Northern California outdoor recreation.
UC Davis requires all first-year students to live in university housing for their freshman year. This policy ensures new students have a structured transition into campus life and access to academic and social support resources.
Students who have completed their freshman year are free to seek off-campus housing in Davis or surrounding areas. Because the Davis rental market is extremely tight, most students begin searching well before their sophomore year begins.
Davis landlords typically begin showing and leasing units for the following academic year as early as September and October of the current year. Students who wait until spring or summer often find very limited options at higher price points.
Housing policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with University of California, Davis before signing a lease.
Davis has one of the most competitive college rental markets in California, and serious apartment hunters begin their search in September or October -- a full academic year before their intended move-in date. This is not an exaggeration: popular properties near campus routinely fill by November for the following fall. Starting early dramatically expands your options and negotiating leverage.
The heaviest leasing activity occurs from October through January, when the majority of available Davis units are claimed. Students searching during this window will find the widest selection of unit types and price points. Waiting until February or March means picking from whatever remains after the early movers have already locked in their leases.
Students who find themselves searching in spring or summer are not out of options, but the pickings are slim. Sublets, room replacements, and newly listed units do appear, and university off-campus housing boards can surface last-minute leads. Be prepared to act immediately when something opens up, as units in Davis rarely sit vacant for more than a day or two.
Just north and west of campus, the most popular area with the shortest bike or walking commutes.
Slightly more affordable options with easy bike-path access to campus.
Quieter and more residential, attracting upperclassmen and graduate students who value a calmer setting.
Along G Street, within walking distance of restaurants, cafes, and the farmers market. Most of Davis is reachable by bike thanks to its extensive cycling paths.
Common questions from students searching for housing.
Yes, UC Davis requires all incoming first-year students to live in university residence halls during their freshman year. This policy supports the academic and social transition to college life.