Location of Available Housing

The location of the UCSB campus is such that there is very little housing available that is within walking distance of campus. There is housing, however, that is accessible by bike and/or bus. Within bicycling distance (3 - 4 miles) there is an assortment of rooms in private homes that have been used by many UCSB visitors coming alone. Most offer use of the kitchen and laundry, sometimes a private bathroom and sometimes use of a bicycle. Occasionally, there is a room available in Isla Vista. Other housing inventory consists of privately-owned houses, condominiums, and "guest" apartments, and also hotels or motels, scattered 4 - 12 miles from campus. The rentals are usually fully furnished. Some houses and condominiums (or apartments) are offered regularly to UCSB visitors, usually those staying 1 to 6 months. Others are offered by people going on sabbatical or vacation for periods of 2 to 12 months. It is not always possible to find such a rental for the exact time period of a UCSB visitor's term. "Guest" apartments and cottages are often available for visits as short as one month, but many offer only limited cooking facilities, and they do not always have private phones. Another housing option is a motel or hotel, although few are within reasonable walking distance. Some do offer kitchenettes. Here are websites which may be helpful when looking for housing:

Community Housing Office:	http://www.housing.ucsb.edu/hchoices/cho-general-info.htm
Santa Barbara News-Press:	http://class.newspress.com/sect/rentals/3010

 

Rental Deposits

Many rentals in this area require a deposit of money to hold the reservation, and the standard practice is for rent to be paid in advance. Normally you will be required to pay the first month's rent and a cleaning/security/telephone deposit before you move in. Keep in mind that private rental providers are not equipped to accept credit cards. Rent monies must be in U.S. funds: international money orders or cashier's or traveler's checks drawn on a U.S. bank or one of its overseas affiliates. Please plan to bring funds for rent and living expenses. It is not acceptable to arrive at a rental and tell the provider that you cannot pay the initial rent and/or deposit until later! Please note that, even if you leave your rental in very good condition, the owner or manager may retain part of the deposit for carpet cleaning or other cleaning services. Be sure to discuss with the owner or manager their policy for deposit refund in advance.