When to begin searching?

Already Here?

If you're already attending UCSD, we generally recommend beginning your search four to six weeks prior to your intended move-in date. More rentals become available in the La Jolla/UTC/University City areas between June and September, but keep in mind that more people are also looking during this time and thus the market may be more competitive. If you're interested in moving in after Spring Quarter, you will want to start looking in April and May. And if your primary objective is to secure a place before leaving for the summer break, you will want to start looking during this time too, but be prepared to pay rent over the summer even if you are not here. However, if you want to move-in in September, you will probably want to start looking in July.

Are you interested in obtaining an apartment at one of the large apartment complexes in the UTC area? Start looking even earlier. Many of these complexes often have waiting lists. For example, if you are looking to move into a large apartment complex in June, you may want to visit their leasing office in February or March.

Arriving in two to ten weeks?

We generally recommend beginning your search four to six weeks before you plan to move in, so if you're arriving in two weeks, start searching immediately. If you are arriving in ten weeks, begin searching casually and acquainting yourself with the San Diego area with our local community guide  and the San Diego Union-Tribune's neighborhood guides.
Once you're about six weeks away from your desired move-in date, you’ll want to begin searching more seriously.

Looking to move between June and September?
While more rentals become available during this time frame, please keep in mind that this is also the time when most people are looking to move so start early, perhaps late April early May. Also if you want to live in one of the large apartment complexes in the UTC area, you may want to contact their leasing offices more than six weeks in advance since they often have waiting lists.

Arriving in more than ten weeks?