Student Housing Near Santa Monica College
Find verified off-campus housing near Santa Monica College in Santa Monica, CA
About Santa Monica College
Santa Monica College sits at the intersection of academic opportunity and California coastal living, serving over 21,000 students in one of the most vibrant communities in Los Angeles County. As a public institution offering bachelor's degrees, SMC provides an affordable pathway to higher education without sacrificing quality or location. The college is deeply embedded in Santa Monica's thriving cultural landscape, with students gaining access to world-class museums, beaches, entertainment venues, and diverse dining experiences just steps from campus. SMC's commitment to transfer success and career preparation makes it a launching pad for students pursuing degrees in engineering, business, health sciences, and the arts. Living near Santa Monica College means immersing yourself in a dynamic coastal community where learning extends beyond the classroom. The neighborhood offers excellent public transportation, walkable streets lined with shops and cafes, and a welcoming atmosphere that attracts students from around the world. Whether you're studying oceanography with the Pacific Ocean nearby or networking in one of LA's most innovation-driven regions, SMC provides the ideal setting for academic growth and unforgettable college experiences.
Quick Facts
- Institution Type
- Public
- Highest Degree
- Bachelor's
- Setting
- Small City
- Accreditor
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
- Classification
- Tribal College
Cost & Financial Aid
Annual tuition and estimated costs
Santa Monica College's low tuition costs are offset by expensive Southern California housing, making total cost of attendance significantly higher than tuition alone. Students should prioritize affordable housing options and roommate arrangements to manage the high cost of living in the Santa Monica area.
- ✓Consider living with 2-3 roommates in a shared apartment or house to split rent costs, which is common practice among SMC students and can reduce individual housing expenses by 50-75%
- ✓Explore housing in less expensive neighborhoods slightly inland (Palms, Mar Vista, Culver City) with bus/Metro access rather than beachside Santa Monica to save $300-500/month on rent
- ✓Look into SMC's housing resources and partnerships with local landlords who offer student discounts, and check for residence halls or college-affiliated housing programs that may be cheaper than market rates
- ✓Utilize campus resources like housing boards and Facebook groups to find sublets or temporary housing arrangements that can provide flexibility and lower costs compared to year-long leases
Living Near Santa Monica College
# Housing Guide for Santa Monica College Students Santa Monica College sits in a vibrant coastal community known for its beach culture, progressive values, and accessible urban amenities. The surrounding area combines residential neighborhoods with bustling commercial districts, creating a dynamic student environment. Popular student neighborhoods include Ocean Park, with its walkable streets and proximity to campus, and the Westside near Bundy Drive, offering more affordable options. Many students also consider Brentwood and West LA for quieter settings while remaining accessible via public transit. The area is highly bikeable and pedestrian-friendly, with the Big Blue Bus providing comprehensive public transportation throughout Santa Monica and Los Angeles. Most students live within a 10-15 minute commute using these options. The college sits near the famous Third Street Promenade, offering shopping, dining, and entertainment. Nearby restaurants range from casual taquerias to upscale eateries, and Santa Monica Pier provides free beach access and recreation just blocks away. Safety varies by neighborhood, but most student areas maintain active community watches and good police presence. The college itself offers campus safety resources and the overall community has a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere that appeals to diverse student populations.
Other Housing Near Santa Monica College
Catherine Santa Monica Apartments
Catherine Santa Monica Apartments is a 90-unit apartment community located at 1625 Lincoln Blvd, approximately 1.0 mile from Santa Monica College. Built in 2020, the property offers amenities including a fitness center, game room, community lounge, business center, bike storage, and 24/7 maintenance.
Santa Monica College Apartments
Santa Monica College Apartments is a 65-unit student housing community built in 2009, located 0.6 miles from Santa Monica College at 2001 Olympic Blvd. The property features fully equipped kitchens with granite countertops, in-unit appliances, laundry facilities, bike storage, and smart locks. Additional amenities include proximity to campus and public transit, recycling services, and smoke-free policies throughout.
Santa Monica Student Housing
Santa Monica Student Housing is an apartment community located at 1417 5th St Suite 102 in Santa Monica, CA, approximately 1.4 miles from Santa Monica College. The property offers residential accommodations designed for student living in the Santa Monica area.
Santa Monica Furnished Apartments Rental SaMo
Santa Monica Furnished Apartments Rental SaMo is located at 2504 23rd St in Santa Monica, CA, approximately 0.4 miles from Santa Monica College. This apartment community offers furnished units for students and other residents seeking rental housing in the Santa Monica area.
Living at Santa Monica
Living at Santa Monica is an apartment community located at 1519 6th St in Santa Monica, CA, approximately 1.2 miles from Santa Monica College. The property offers student housing options in a central Santa Monica location.
Los Angeles Santa Monica Apartments
Located at 1445 9th St in Santa Monica, this apartment community is situated 1.1 miles from Santa Monica College, offering convenient access to campus. The property provides apartment-style housing in the Santa Monica area.
1430 on 7th Affordable Santa Monica Apartments
1430 on 7th is an apartment community located at 1430 7th Street in Santa Monica, California, approximately 1.3 miles from Santa Monica College. This affordable housing option provides student-accessible accommodation in the Santa Monica area.
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