San Diego, January 14, 2026
The San Diego Community College District has begun construction on its first affordable student housing community at San Diego City College. This seven-story building will include 283 apartment-style units and is scheduled to open in fall 2028. The initiative addresses the housing challenges faced by nearly 23% of City College students, providing vital amenities like study lounges and a wellness center. Funded by Measure HH, this project aims to transform the local landscape for student living in downtown San Diego.
San Diego Community College District Unveils Affordable Student Housing
San Diego, CA – The San Diego Community College District (SDCCD) has commenced construction on its first-ever affordable student housing community at San Diego City College. This seven-story, all-electric building at 1601 B Street will provide 283 apartment-style units, accommodating nearly 800 students. The development is scheduled to open in fall 2028, offering one of the most affordable student living options in downtown San Diego.
Project Details
The housing community, developed in partnership with The Michaels Organization and designed by TCA Architects, will feature:
- Study lounges
- Tutoring spaces
- A mental health and wellness center
- Outdoor courtyards
- Community kitchens
- A basic needs food pantry
- A rooftop lounge with downtown views
This initiative aims to address the critical need for stable and affordable housing among students, with nearly 23% of City College students currently facing housing challenges.
Funding and Community Support
The project is funded by Measure HH, a $3.5 billion bond approved by voters in November 2024. This measure is intended to modernize and transform SDCCD campuses, including the construction of affordable student housing. The housing community is expected to open in fall 2028, providing one of the most affordable student living options in downtown San Diego.
Background Context
In recent years, San Diego’s community colleges have been actively addressing student housing insecurity. A survey revealed that over two-thirds of students attending SDCCD institutions struggle with food and/or housing insecurity. In response, the district has implemented various resources, including food pantries, emergency grants, and now, affordable housing projects like this one, to support student success and well-being.
Key Features of the Affordable Student Housing Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | 1601 B Street, downtown San Diego |
| Building Type | Seven-story, all-electric building |
| Number of Units | 283 apartment-style units |
| Student Capacity | Nearly 800 students |
| Amenities | Study lounges, tutoring spaces, mental health and wellness center, outdoor courtyards, community kitchens, basic needs food pantry, rooftop lounge with downtown views |
| Funding Source | Measure HH, a $3.5 billion bond approved by voters in November 2024 |
| Expected Opening | Fall 2028 |
| Target Population | Students facing housing challenges, with nearly 23% of City College students currently affected |
FAQ
What is the San Diego Community College District’s new affordable student housing project?
The SDCCD has begun construction on its first affordable student housing community at San Diego City College. This seven-story, all-electric building will provide 283 apartment-style units, accommodating nearly 800 students. The development is scheduled to open in fall 2028, offering affordable student living options in downtown San Diego.
What amenities will the new housing community offer?
The housing community will feature study lounges, tutoring spaces, a mental health and wellness center, outdoor courtyards, community kitchens, a basic needs food pantry, and a rooftop lounge with downtown views.
How is the project funded?
The project is funded by Measure HH, a $3.5 billion bond approved by voters in November 2024, intended to modernize and transform SDCCD campuses, including the construction of affordable student housing.
When is the housing community expected to open?
The housing community is scheduled to open in fall 2028, providing affordable student living options in downtown San Diego.
What percentage of City College students face housing challenges?
Nearly 23% of City College students currently face housing challenges, highlighting the need for affordable housing solutions.
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