Choosing where to live at Cal State LA is an important step in shaping your college experience — whether you’re a first-year student just starting your path toward a bachelor cap and gown, a master’s candidate focused on your thesis, or a doctoral student nearing the day you'll wear your doctoral regalia. Cal State LA offers housing that blends affordability, campus access, and strong community support.
This CAPGOWN guide walks you through the university’s major housing options — including Phase 1, Phase 2, South Village Residential Hall, and Golden Eagle Apartments — with insights, fun facts, Reddit quotes, and reasons students at every level choose these homes.
Phase 1 – Established, Friendly, and Familiar
Address: 5300 Paseo Rancho Castilla, Los Angeles, CA 90032
Phase 1 is one of Cal State LA’s original housing communities, known for its welcoming environment and tightly knit community. With easy access to classrooms, the Student Union, and dining options, it’s a convenient place for students to build friendships and stay connected.
Why CAPGOWN Bachelor & Grad Students Love It:
- Great option for both new and returning students.
- Reliable Wi-Fi and study lounges.
- Comfortable double and single-occupancy options.
Fun Fact: Phase 1 is designed in a series of small residential buildings surrounding grassy courtyards — perfect for study groups and outdoor hangouts.
r/CSULA Says:
“Phase 1 feels old-school but it’s solid. Chill people, close to everything.”
“Good place if you’re looking for more of a community feel.”
Phase 2 – Quiet, Updated, and Convenient
Address: 5300 Paseo Rancho Castilla, Los Angeles, CA 90032
Phase 2 offers a newer take on Cal State LA living, with more modern designs and a slightly quieter atmosphere. This is a popular pick for students who want peace and focus without sacrificing proximity to campus.
Why CAPGOWN Bachelor & Grad Students Love It:
- Newer construction and modern interiors.
- Quieter setting for students who value rest and focus.
- Proximity to the Library North building and lab spaces.
Fun Fact: Phase 2 buildings are named after prominent California landmarks and feature energy-efficient systems and eco-conscious design.
r/CSULA Says:
“Phase 2 is more lowkey — good for getting your work done.”
“I liked that the rooms were a little bigger and newer than Phase 1.”
South Village Residential Hall – Social, Modern, and Student-Focused
Address: 5500 Paseo Rancho Castilla, Los Angeles, CA 90032
South Village is the newest undergraduate residence hall at Cal State LA, built for students who want the full college dorm experience — complete with lounges, communal kitchens, and lots of chances to socialize.
Why CAPGOWN Bachelor Students Love It:
- Fresh, clean facilities with suite-style living.
- Group study spaces and social lounges.
- Strong RA programming and community events.
Fun Fact: South Village includes a makerspace for students in engineering and design programs to work on hands-on projects outside of class.
r/CSULA Says:
“South Village is where it’s at for undergrads. The rooms are nice, and the people are cool.”
“I liked the vibe — felt more like a real college dorm experience than Phase 1 or 2.”
Golden Eagle Apartments – Independent, Spacious & Grad-Friendly
Address: 5151 State University Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90032
Golden Eagle Apartments are ideal for upperclassmen and graduate students who want apartment-style living without leaving campus. These fully furnished units offer privacy, convenience, and a bit more space to stretch out.
Why CAPGOWN Master & PhD Students Love It:
- Private bedrooms and shared living rooms.
- Full kitchens for independent cooking.
- Quiet community that supports academic focus.
Fun Fact: Golden Eagle Apartments are LEED-certified and include rooftop solar panels and water-saving appliances — part of Cal State LA’s campus sustainability initiative.
r/CSULA Says:
“Golden Eagle Apartments are great if you’re in grad school and need your own space.”
“More private than the other dorms and close to everything — it was worth the upgrade.”
Final Thoughts
From energetic undergrad dorms like South Village to private grad apartments like Golden Eagle, Cal State LA offers housing options that align with your academic goals and personal lifestyle. Whether you’re finding friends in a shared suite or finishing your dissertation in peace, there's a place here for every Golden Eagle.
And when you’re ready to celebrate commencement, CAPGOWN is here to make sure you’re dressed for success. We offer premium Cal State LA bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral regalia — designed for comfort, authenticity, and school pride. Wherever you lived on campus, let your graduation reflect your journey.
