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Where USC Students Live: Off-Campus Housing Near USC

USCLos AngelesStudent Housing
Moo Housing Team2026-01-22
Where USC Students Live: Off-Campus Housing Near USC
"Finding the right place to live is one of the most important decisions for USC students. Whether you’re a freshman moving off campus for the first time or a returning student looking for a better setup, understanding where USC students live can make your housing search faster, safer, and more affordable. In this guide, we’ll break down the most popular neighborhoods for USC off-campus housing, what makes each area unique, and how to choose the best option for your lifestyle."

University Park: The Most Popular USC Student Housing Area

University Park is the #1 choice for USC students — and for good reason.

Why students love University Park:

  • Walking distance to USC campus
  • High concentration of USC student housing
  • Short commute (many properties are 5–10 minutes away)
  • Easy access to campus security patrol areas

Most USC off campus housing options in University Park are designed specifically for students, offering:

  • Furnished apartments
  • Co-living layouts
  • Flexible lease terms
  • Roommate matching

👉 If your priority is convenience and proximity, University Park is hard to beat.

Exposition Park: More Space, Still Close to Campus

Exposition Park is another popular neighborhood for USC student housing, especially for students who want slightly more space or a quieter environment.

Highlights:

  • Close to USC (short bike ride or transit)
  • Home to museums and green spaces
  • Often newer or larger units
  • Slightly better value compared to University Park

This area is ideal for students who:

  • Want off-campus housing near USC
  • Prefer a balance between campus life and personal space

Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA): Urban Living for Upperclassmen

Many graduate students and upperclassmen choose Downtown LA apartments for its lifestyle perks.

Why DTLA works for some USC students:

  • Modern apartments and high-rise living
  • Access to restaurants, nightlife, and transit
  • Direct Metro lines to USC

However, DTLA typically means:

  • Higher rent
  • Longer commute
  • Less student-focused housing

Best suited for students who prioritize city living over walking distance.

West Adams & Jefferson Park: Budget-Friendly Alternatives

For students looking for more affordable USC off campus housing, West Adams and Jefferson Park can be good options.

Pros:

  • Lower rental prices
  • Larger units
  • Growing student population

Things to consider:

  • Commute time
  • Transportation access
  • Property management quality

Always prioritize safety, proximity, and building condition when exploring these areas.

How to Choose the Best Neighborhood Near USC

When deciding where to live, ask yourself:

  1. How close do I want to be to campus?
  2. Is walking distance important?
  3. What’s my monthly budget?
  4. Do I want a furnished unit?
  5. Will I live alone or with roommates?

Many students find that purpose-built USC student housing near campus offers the best balance of safety, convenience, and value.

Final Thoughts: Finding the Right USC Off-Campus Housing

Every USC student’s situation is different — but the best housing choice is one that fits your academic, social, and financial needs.

If you’re looking for USC student housing that’s close to campus, move-in ready, and designed for student life, Moo Housing will be your best choice to browse thousands of student housing properties, explore Moo Housing USC off-campus options early to secure the best availability.