Situated  in Westwood, Los Angeles , UCLA is one of the most applied-to universities in the world, with top programs in film, business, psychology, and health sciences. The campus is bustling with energy, and students often describe it as having a balanced mix of academics and social life. Housing is competitive but better than Berkeley’s, with guaranteed housing for three years, though off-campus rent in Westwood is pricey. 

Socially, UCLA has a mix of Greek life, sports culture, and a strong arts scene, making it an exciting place to live. Dining hall food at UCLA is ranked among the best in the nation, with options that include fresh sushi, custom pasta bars, and themed nights featuring international cuisine.

Situated near the Pacific Ocean in La Jolla, UCSD is best known for its strengths in STEM, particularly in engineering, biology, and computer science. The campus is structured into seven residential colleges, each with its own housing and general education requirements, creating a unique student experience. Housing is expensive, and many students live in off-campus apartments in La Jolla, where rent is high. 

UCSD has a reputation for being academically intense but quieter socially, though this has changed in recent years with growing student engagement. The dining halls are decent but not exceptional, and many students opt for off-campus food or cook their own meals. The campus is close to beautiful beaches, making it a popular choice for students who love the ocean.

Situated in Orange County, Irvine, California, UCI is often seen as a quieter, commuter-friendly campus, but it has strong programs in biological sciences, business, and computer science. The campus itself is modern and well-maintained, but some students feel it lacks a vibrant social life compared to other UCs. Housing is more available than at Berkeley or UCLA, though Orange County’s cost of living can be high. 

The student culture is academically focused, though organizations and Greek life provide some social opportunities. The dining halls are decent but not widely praised, and students often prefer off-campus food options. Public transportation isn’t great, so many students choose to have a car, though parking can be expensive.

Situated in Riverside, California, UCR is one of the most diverse UCs, known for its commitment to first-generation college students and growing research programs. It offers strong majors in STEM, social sciences, and business, and it’s an affordable option compared to UCs in coastal cities. Housing is more available and cheaper than in LA or Berkeley, making it easier for students to find places to live. 

The social scene is more low-key, but there are many student organizations and events that foster community. Dining hall food is average, though students appreciate the variety of cultural food options available in Riverside. UCR is an up-and-coming UC, gaining more recognition in research and innovation.

Situated in Central Coast of Santa Barbara, California,  UCSB is famous for its coastal location and vibrant student culture, with strong programs in engineering, physics, and social sciences. While academics are rigorous, the beachside lifestyle and active social scene make UCSB one of the most fun campuses to attend. 

Housing is incredibly tight, with many students living in Isla Vista (IV), the student neighborhood next to campus, which is known for its party culture and tight-knit community. Greek life and outdoor activities like surfing and biking are popular among students. Dining halls at UCSB are above average, with fresh options and themed meals. The mix of academic prestige and laid-back atmosphere makes UCSB unique among UCs.

Situated in Central Valley of Merced, California, as the newest UC campus, UC Merced is growing rapidly, with strengths in engineering, health sciences, and sustainability research. It has a smaller, more intimate campus environment, allowing students to receive more personalized support from professors and advisors. 

Housing is more affordable than in most other UC cities, and the school is expanding on-campus living options. The social scene is quieter than other UCs, but it’s developing as the student population grows. Dining hall food is decent, but students often cook or eat off campus. UC Merced is a great option for students looking for a UC education in a smaller, more affordable setting.

Situated in a predominantly college town in Davis, California UC Davis is known for its strong programs in agriculture, veterinary medicine, and environmental sciences.  It is the furthest northern California campus. The campus has a laid-back, friendly vibe, with students often biking everywhere (Davis is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the U.S.). Housing is more affordable than in other UC cities, and on-campus dorms are generally available, making it a great option for students concerned about cost. 

The student culture is more relaxed, with an emphasis on sustainability, outdoor activities, and small-town charm. Dining halls are average, but the local food scene is great, with farmers’ markets and fresh produce options. Davis offers a tight-knit college town feel, unlike the urban environments of other UCs.

Situated in the northen coastal town of Santa Cruz nestled in the redwood forest, California  UCSC is known for its progressive values, environmental science programs, and strong STEM fields like computer science and marine biology. The campus feels secluded and peaceful, which some students love, but others find isolating. Housing is expensive, and there’s a shortage of affordable apartments in Santa Cruz, so many students struggle with rent. 

The social scene is laid-back and alternative, with an emphasis on outdoor activities, activism, and music festivals rather than traditional Greek life. Dining hall food is decent, though students tend to prefer cooking their own meals or eating off campus. The natural surroundings make UCSC one of the most beautiful UC campuses.

Situated in the east bay of Berkeley, California, it serves as the flagship UC campus as it is the first and oldest UC campus. Berkeley is known for its rigorous academics, especially in STEM, social sciences, business, and humanities. The environment is highly competitive and fast-paced, attracting ambitious students who thrive in a challenging setting. Housing can be a significant challenge, as the Bay Area is one of the most expensive places to live, and on-campus housing is limited.

 Many students live in co-ops, apartments, or further from campus in cities like Oakland or El Cerrito to find more affordable options. Berkeley has an activist and politically engaged culture, with a history of student protests and advocacy. The food scene is strong, both on and off campus—while the dining halls are average, students enjoy exploring Berkeley’s diverse local restaurants.