Student Housing and Residential Life

Find your place at Cal State Monterey Bay.

With more than 4,000 students living on campus, Cal State Monterey Bay is one of the most residential schools in the CSU system.

Living on campus is not only convenient to classes, clubs and activities — it’s also an excellent way to form friendships, make memories and gain important life skills. 

Otters live among their peers in 25+ residential buildings and communities across our main and east campuses. Whichever location you call home, we’re here to support you throughout your academic journey.

Students chatting in a dorm room

Why Live on Campus?

Residential life is more than having a place to live. Living on campus also contributes to academic success, community building and personal growth.

Benefits of Living on Campus

Residential Life at CSUMB

Housing Options

From first-year residence halls to apartments for upper-level students, Cal State Monterey Bay offers a variety of comfortable housing options.

Student pushing their belongings in a cart

Dining Options

When you live on campus, you’ll also have access to our Dining Commons and a variety of cafes and quick-serve eateries.

Image of the dining area
Students posing on the water edge

Life as an Otter

One mile from the beach and boatloads of clubs and events. There’s always something to do at CSUMB and plenty more to explore beyond campus.

Resident Resources

Manage Your Campus Housing and Dining

Access essential information for navigating campus housing and dining, including policies, processes and tools to support each stage of the residential experience.

Student Dorm Room

Moving-In and Living On Campus

Plan your arrival and make the most of campus living. Find move-in details, packing tips, mail information, safety resources, and community standards to help you transition smoothly into your new home at Cal State Monterey Bay.

CSUMB Otter Welcome Team cheering with bins for Move In day

Community Living and Student Leadership

Lead, serve and belong. Explore leadership opportunities with Student Housing and Residential Life and review the community standards and policies that help create a safe, respectful and inclusive on-campus living experience at Cal State Monterey Bay.

A photo of the CSUMB students reading in the library

Safety and Facilities

Access evacuation plans, fire safety reports and step-by-step work order instructions to help you stay prepared, informed and supported in student housing.

A staff member points at a large wall-mounted campus map while another takes notes. They appear to be discussing safety logistics.
Otter welcome team, welcoming students

Connect with Us

If you have questions about housing, please get in touch with us!

Office hours are weekdays, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. RAs/CAs are on duty in their areas 24 hours a day.