2023 Best College Dorms in California

• Rohnert Park, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.5 out of 5  1,514 reviews

Sophomore: My time at Sonoma State has been incredible, it is such a supportive community. One thing that I would really like to see changed is the university prioritizing the well being of students. There are some professors that are not the most supportive but the university can't afford to lose them regardless of their poor teaching methods.... Read 1,514 reviews

• grade C+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $7,055

• SAT range 950-1150

• Riverside, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.12 out of 5  2,820 reviews

Junior: California Baptist University is a school of community! This university does its best to involve every student in the community! There are events every month and many giveaway opportunities. They incorporate local services into their events! For example, CBU hosted a viewing of The Batman (2022) movie and inclusive service at the local Castle Park amusement center. CBU celebrates events at every corner. Students of differing fields of study or demographic may come together at larger events or feel included in smaller, interest-specific events. The size of the campus is perfect for these efforts! The campus is what I would describe as a size medium. It is not too big, where students would reduced to a number. It is not too small, where high-school-like drama spreads easily. California Baptist University is just right! Student life may expect a community-feeling to their time at CBU.... Read 2,820 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $23,494

• SAT range 990-1210

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  5,435 reviews

Sophomore: UCLA is amazing. Large student body but the classes and professors are outstanding. Great Greek system and social environment. Very fun school and the campus is gorgeous. Very academically challenging but with hard work and dedication the course load is manageable. The University is surrounded by beautiful cities. It is only 5 miles away from the Santa Monica Beaches. On numerous occasions groups of friends take breaks and have beach days. UCLA is located very close to Beverly Hills and Century City. The dining and entertainment option are endless. As a student you can be immersed in your studies at a gorgeous school in the day and at night explore the amazing nightlife in Los Angeles. UCLA has a ton of clubs, events and activities that you can participate in. In addition, the student resources are fantastic. However, you must be a self-starter and explore and take advantage of all of the opportunities and resources that UCLA offers. And the food is outstanding.... Read 5,435 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 11%

• Net price $13,393

• SAT range —

• Santa Clara, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  1,446 reviews

Alum: I had an amazing time at SCU and am proud to be a BRONCO! There are tons of job opportunities in the Bay Area because there are thousands of successful companies in the area, classes are small, education is impressive, the campus is beautiful, and people are so friendly. Santa Clara is not only a great university; the statistical information speaks for itself, but it is more than the numbers. Everyone is happy and proud to study here. The numbers are just getting better each year.... Read 1,446 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 54%

• Net price $48,469

• SAT range 1330-1490

• Santa Clarita, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.11 out of 5  495 reviews

Freshman: The Master's University is awesome! The student body is so friendly and inclusive, you can make friends with basically everyone. Everyone knows so much about the Bible and they are always encouraging each other in the Lord. The teachers are very good, they care about each one of the students and teach their subject very well. The school even has some unique majors, like Classical Liberal Arts. The dorms are very comfortable and a great place to study or hang out with friends. We often do dorm hangouts, which helps you connect and make friends within your dorm. Altogether, the school is very safe, the culture is awesome, and has great, high level academics.... Read 495 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 67%

• Net price $30,748

• SAT range 990-1250

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  467 reviews

Sophomore: This is my first on-campus semester, and so far I love it! The student body has a defined sense of creativity and style which is something I never thought to look for in a college. I love the amount of student-run activities happening each day around campus. Honestly, the party scene is perfect for me. There isn't something every single night, but Thursdays and Saturdays are traditionally going out days, and sometimes Fridays as well. For being told that Scripps doesn't have a great party scene, I was pleasantly surprised. I appreciate the substantial gay community, although it doesn't show in particular affinity groups. My friends that are interested in men seem pretty content, as we naturally interact a lot thru classes and events. Not a lot of peer pressure or academic competition among the students, at least for me. Resources like math help & the counseling center aren't bad (!!), but you definetly have to hunt for them. We joke that there's no administration left on campus.... Read 467 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 30%

• Net price $44,770

• SAT range 1380-1520

• La Mirada, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  2,266 reviews

Freshman: The biblical studies department is the best of its kind for undergrad in the country. It has amazing professors and the education is phenomenal! I grew so much in my faith there, especially intellectually. However, unless you're naive (homeschooled, private school, sheltered, etc..) or right out of high school, you will most likely have trouble fitting in and most likely get misunderstood. It can be dangerous for transfers and older students living on campus. I've had conversations with Campus Safety and even campus safety notices it, it's called "the biola bubble." I would strongly recommend transfers and older students with more life experience to not live on campus. Other then that, fantastic education!... Read 2,266 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 61%

• Net price $29,123

• SAT range 1080-1310

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  641 reviews

Niche User: I loved this place! I did a domestic exchange program for a semester. Nice dorms, friendly student body, good food in the dining hall, and cool classes. A lot of fun classes on pop culture and media studies. It was a nice break from my sad, east coast liberal arts college. It was a bit easier than I anticipated it to be, more consistent assignments throughout the year rather than huge final projects like I was used to, but classes at Pomona or Scripps will amp up your workload. Still, like any college, it's just about the classes you take. Con: HUGE wealth gap here between students. First gen solidarity is strong here though. Such a pretty campus, and amazing Latinx Student Union which I joined while I was there.... Read 641 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 18%

• Net price $19,153

• SAT range 1300-1450

• Stanford, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  1,254 reviews

Niche User: As a former student of Stanford University, I can say with confidence that it was an incredible experience. The campus is absolutely beautiful, with stunning architecture and sprawling gardens that make for a peaceful and serene environment to study in. The professors were all experts in their fields and incredibly knowledgeable. They pushed us to think critically and creatively, challenging us to go beyond the textbook and truly understand the material. The classes were engaging and interactive, with lots of opportunities for discussion and collaboration. One thing that stood out to me about Stanford was the emphasis on interdisciplinary studies. The university encourages students to explore different fields and take classes outside of their major, which I found to be incredibly valuable. It allowed me to broaden my knowledge and perspectives, and I still use the skills I learned in those classes today. This university is amazing and extremely beneficial to your future career... Read 1,254 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 4%

• Net price $14,402

• SAT range 1470-1570

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  424 reviews

Sophomore: Incredible students. They are all approachable, motivated, and conscientious. The resources presented to the students are off the charts. CMC pays you to take internships. If you need business attire, the school will cover it. If you want to travel to look at Grad Schools, the school will cover the cost. They take you on "Networking Treks" every few months, where you meet with Alumni and talk about your career paths. The food is great (you can eat from all 5 dining halls). If you take advantage of the schools resources and opportunities, you will be extremely successful. Because CMC students are confident, learning is collaborative, not competitive. Student engagement is not only encouraged, but expected. If you yearn to be in an environment of students who prioritize proactivity, CMC is the school that will put you on the path to success.... Read 424 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 11%

• Net price $21,663

• SAT range 1420-1530

• Merced, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  2,188 reviews

Junior: The University is a very diverse community. I was able to adjust quickly and make new friends, not feeling as homesick as I thought I would. I have been lucky to learn from my peers as well as my professors. This campus is growing everyday and I am blessed to be apart of the greatness now and look forward to seeing the future generations attended UCM!... Read 2,188 reviews

• grade B

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 87%

• Net price $11,586

• SAT range 960-1140

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.22 out of 5  416 reviews

Alum: Pomona College was a very transformative space for me. The small class sizes and strong sense of community among professors and students really helped me thrive. I was surrounded by intellectually curious peers and inspiring professors during my four years. Beyond academics, there were an abundance of research and work opportunities to help explore my passions and potential career interests that I would not have been able to do in a larger school. I was able to pursue athletics at the collegiate level, work as a teaching research assistant, and organize community events— the opportunities were endless if you really searched for them. I also cannot forget how beautiful the campus was and how amazing the dining hall food was! Beyond the Pomona College community, you also have access to a consortium of four more top undergraduate colleges (Claremont McKenna, Scripps, Harvey Mudd, and Pitzer) where you can take classes at and connect with a whole new network of students and professors.... Read 416 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 7%

• Net price $17,000

• SAT range 1470-1570

• La Verne, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  1,211 reviews

Freshman: Student body could use a bit more love. The participation lacks in several ways, a lot of the participants are usually on campus instead of commuters. Very little talk about events and promoting. Not a lot of people talk about the sports programs.... Read 1,211 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $22,538

• SAT range 930-1150

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  3,944 reviews

Senior: The University of Southern California is full of opportunities and activities for students with a wide range of interests. It caters to multiple students and does a great job at making sure everyone feels at home and welcome. I love the diversity of the clubs that are available to join on campus and I also love how the "Trojan Family" lives on in everyone. One thing that I would like to see change is the transparency that is given to students when it comes to the Undergraduate Student Government, especially in terms of funding for organizations. Sometimes the Student government says they have money and the next minute, they are not offering the funding to organizations in need. I think there should be more transparency in this part.... Read 3,944 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 13%

• Net price $26,021

• SAT range 1410-1540

• San Diego, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  1,012 reviews

Graduate Student: Point Loma Nazarene University excels in both academics and personal connection. Not only with students be able to find like-minded people, they will also have continuous support from professors and faculty throughout their college journey. The small class sizes allow for students to become close with their professors and classmates, which helps in building their network. My professors have helped me drastically in finding jobs, connecting me with others in the field, and by giving me personal advice and guidance in life. From my time at Point Loma Nazarene University, I feel as though I have grown personally, academically, and spiritually. I contribute a great amount of being who I am today because of my experiences at Point Loma Nazarene University. I enjoyed my time so much that I chose to return for my master's degree as well!... Read 1,012 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $34,851

• SAT range 1170-1350

• Loma Linda, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  420 reviews

Junior: Loma Linda University is truly an amazing school with professors that genuinely care for you. The nursing program has an amazing staff including some of the most incredible people you will meet! I love the school and everything they have to offer. I wanted a faith-based education, and that's exactly what I got. I would recommend this university to anyone who appreciates smaller cohorts and more one-on-one interactions.... Read 420 reviews

• grade unavailable

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate —

• Net price —

• SAT range —

• Azusa, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  2,762 reviews

Graduate Student: Azusa Pacific University (APU) Christ-centered institute that helps students of all ethnic, national, cultural, gender, and religious backgrounds to succeed in their academic goals. In fact, my experience has been extremely life-changing to where I found my vocational calling in ministry and my spouse! Although APU welcomes all people, even those international, I would like to see a change in student demographics. In other words, white-caucasian students represent the majority. I would like to see more students of Latin descent, African-American descent, Pacific Islander descent, Asian descent, and others not mentioned. I believe that Azusa Pacific University's reputation would strengthen and increase by advertising ethnic diversity.... Read 2,762 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $27,112

• SAT range 1030-1260

• Rocklin, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  431 reviews

Freshman: I enjoy the community that has been built and is constantly changing! not only is the community constantly changiong and growing for the better but as well as the sports that are being added on which also helps the community grow.... Read 431 reviews

• grade B

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $27,823

• SAT range 950-1210

• Redding, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  422 reviews

Freshman: I love the atmosphere, its very welcoming and everyone is so friendly and eager to hep if needed. Its a beautiful and peaceful campus, I love all the activities they have for students to participate in to get to know each other. I love the chapel time, we get to worship and learn more about God together. They worship team is amazing! All the instructors are very helpful and easy to get a hold of, they don't make you feel like you're just another number, they actually take the time to help you. You can tell that the staff and educators are really interested in who you are and your future goals and want to help you reach them. Anytime I have had questions, which I've had many my counselor has been more than happy to help me and respond within and timely manner. The food is amazing, and relatively cheap, the coffee shop is yummy and serves great food for on the go. One thing I think they can improve on is having housing and possibly daycare for single mothers who are going to school.... Read 422 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 67%

• Net price $25,311

• SAT range 960-1160

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  1,155 reviews

Freshman: It’s a beautiful campus with really pretty views of the sunset and the Santa Monica ocean! I love how staff is attentive and caring for/with students, it’s nice to know someone is supporting you along the way while achieving your academic future. There’s many majors and minors to choose from and many activities throughout the semester to help your stressful mind be at ease.... Read 1,155 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 90%

• Net price $24,508

• SAT range 900-1110

• Davis, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  4,978 reviews

Alum: I studied animal science here and I'm so grateful for it. I took full advantage of all the hands-on classes and internships I could within my four years which has given me niche skills that I've found useful in every job since graduating and also prepared me for grad school! The professors, at least in my field, were so reachable and invested in seeing their students succeed, and the classes were always engaging because of their passion for the subject matter. My advisor was always happy to help alter my four year plan and helped me pick classes for my personalized specialization (sustainable agriculture). I am now pursuing a masters in sustainable ag, thanks to the flexibility of the UC Davis program allowing me to explore this interest when I started to stray from vet med. It really is what you make of it. If you get involved and keep busy you'll open so many doors for yourself! Plus: beautiful campus and arb, farmers markets, food bank, nice gym, bike friendly, accessible buses!... Read 4,978 reviews

• grade A

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 49%

• Net price $16,640

• SAT range 1160-1400

• Orange, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  2,236 reviews

Graduate Student: Chapman was the first time I ever had a truly positive educational experience. One of the things I enjoyed about the school was how the student body is incredibly friendly, open to new experience, and almost always will lend a helping hand. For the most part, classes are smaller and professors are engaging. Almost all professors I had were really passionate about the subjects they taught and were more than willing to assist any students with questions. If you are a student with a disability, this school office of disability services is one of the best I have ever dealt with. The school's disability services goes above and beyond to make sure students feel accommodated. Aslo, Chapman is the first school that I ever had positive interactions with admin. They always wanted to see me succeed and almost always had to time to interact if you just dropped in. Overall, everyone is very kind and really just wants to see you succeed! I liked the school so much I stayed on for Grad School!... Read 2,236 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $40,451

• SAT range 1210-1410

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  145 reviews

Alum: My relationship with Harvey Mudd is quite messy and convoluted. No single experience will suffice to describe in its entirety; however, hopefully there is something helpful to you in my description! Let's begin. One thing I will say, Harvey Mudd is very difficult. I assume you already know this if you are looking into it, but I want to stress that you will most definitely be challenged. There are many classes to get through, and they are very rigorous. There were a lot sleepless nights, several of which spent in the engineering basement. The constant flow of problem sets, quizzes, midterms and projects will keep you busy to say the least! That being said, there is a wonderful support system at Mudd. Being in graduate school now, I really miss the accessibility to professors and student tutors. Mudd does a really amazing job of fostering collaboration with fellow peers and you guys will grow very close from all the shared struggle. I miss spending every night with them studying!... Read 145 reviews

• grade A+

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 10%

• Net price $33,838

• SAT range 1480-1560

• Thousand Oaks, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  1,156 reviews

Sophomore: California Lutheran University is a private institution that has much to offer students of all types! I love that the community is small, just as the class sizes are. Its the perfect opportunity to make friends and make good close connections with amazing professors. Office hours are always easy to come by and there is always help at CLU for those who ask for it. And although this institution is affiliated with the Lutheran faith, CLU is accepting of all religions and backgrounds. I myself am Catholic, and nevertheless CLU has always felt like home. In addition, although tuition is very expensive, I have funded my entire education through the many scholarships they have. In this way, I view this institution as promising, and exciting no matter if your parents can fund your education or not, anything is possible. Right now for instance, I am only 8,000 in debt and I promised my parents I would fund my own education. All I can say is, come to CLU and meet the amazing community!... Read 1,156 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $24,065

• SAT range 1090-1290

• San Diego, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  1,921 reviews

Sophomore: Beautiful campus, amazing staff, small class sizes help to create connects between teachers and students.... Read 1,921 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 53%

• Net price $34,155

• SAT range 1190-1370