San Diego State University (SDSU) is a public research university in San Diego, California.

At SDSU students are required to dorm for the first 2 years, unless residing within the allotted radius determined by the school. There are seven housing buildings that first-year students will be assigned, that are like a typical dorm. Most commonly, second-year students enter a lottery where they are given a date to choose their second-year housing. Most of these are apartment style along with a few suite-style options.

Olmeca dorm offers a mixed experience according to student reviews. Situated in a prime location on campus, it boasts amenities like a basketball court and pool nearby. However, the rooms, intended for two, are often cramped with three students, leading to a lack of personal space. The shared bathrooms are a common point of contention, with cleanliness varying depending on the residents of each floor. The lack of study rooms on the first floor is a missed opportunity for students seeking a quiet place to work. While the community within the dorm can make the experience enjoyable, issues like mold growth, unclean common areas, and small, outdated kitchen facilities detract from the overall appeal. Despite being freshly renovated, some students feel that Olmeca's aesthetics resemble a hospital rather than a welcoming dormitory. Additionally, the limited enforcement of quiet hours and poorly maintained laundry facilities can be frustrating for residents. Overall, Olmeca presents a convenient location and some recreational perks, but students may need to adapt to its limitations and rely on the camaraderie of their fellow residents to make the most of their stay.

South Campus Plaza is widely regarded as one of the best freshman dorms on the SDSU campus, known for its modern design and strategic location. The dorm features spacious rooms with high ceilings and ample natural light, making them feel larger and more inviting than many other campus options. Each room accommodates three students and includes a personal bathroom, eliminating the need for communal facilities and providing a more private living experience, though students must manage the cleaning themselves. Located directly above a Trader Joe's and several dining options, residents enjoy convenient access to food and resources, though some express a desire for nearby amenities like a pool. While some reviews mention a lack of communal spaces, the dorm remains a social hub especially amongst freshmen. The central campus location facilitates easy access to the student union and trolley station, despite the occasional presence of homeless individuals near the building entrance. Overall, South Campus Plaza offers a modern, clean, and independent living experience, making it a top choice for incoming students.

Chapultepec dorm, often referred to by students as "Chappy," is a challenging living space due to several ongoing issues. The dormitory is plagued by frequent fire alarms and insufficient air conditioning, leaving rooms uncomfortably warm throughout most of the year. With AC turned off often, the temperature inside can be stifling, and the limited window openings do little to relieve the heat. Rooms are exceptionally small and overcrowded, as what were initially designed for doubles now house triples due to over-enrollment. The facilities are outdated, and mold, severe dust, and unpleasant odors in the halls are persistent problems. While the dorms provide a lively and social atmosphere, the bathrooms, which consist of curtained showers with low privacy and limited maintenance, are often dirty and contain contaminated water. On the positive side, Chapultepec is conveniently located near the gym and great food options with food trucks and a nearby market and café, offering some reprieve from its remote location on campus.

Huāxyacac is a modern college dorm known for its sleek design and impressive amenities. Despite its newness, cleanliness remains a daily challenge, particularly in the communal bathrooms, which often require frequent maintenance due to messiness. However, the facility boasts superior bathroom privacy with full door stalls, a rarity among dorms. The dorm is located at a considerable distance from the main campus eateries, posing a challenge for students, though food trucks often bridge this gap with diverse but eventually repetitive food options. The dorm's proximity to the ARC, a central hub for fitness and leisure, is a significant perk. Room sizes are generally cramped, especially the triples, which can be uncomfortable for multiple occupants and leave little personal space. However, high ceilings, a welcoming courtyard, rooftop access, and engaged resident advisors cultivate a strong, social community atmosphere. Security measures are commendable, ensuring residents feel safe within the facility. Overall, Huāxyacac offers a mixed but predominantly positive residential experience.

Zura Hall is a modern and vibrant dormitory renowned for its lively social atmosphere and convenient amenities. While the rooms tend to be on the smaller side, with many designed as triples in spaces intended for doubles, they are notably clean. Some residents might find the window placement a bit tricky, limiting natural light. Zura Hall caters well to students who appreciate an active social life, offering plenty of opportunities to meet new people and form connections, given its proximity to three other dorm buildings. Though community bathrooms can sometimes be challenging and less than pristine, the overall cleanliness of Zura is commendable. The dorm's outdoor facilities, including a pool and welcoming communal areas, enhance the living experience, providing students with a refreshing retreat within a bustling campus environment. However, residents should be prepared for occasional inconveniences, such as broken elevators and limited laundry access. Despite these minor drawbacks, Zura offers a dynamic living experience that is particularly appealing to those who enjoy a party-centric lifestyle.

Tenochca is a well-regarded dorm at SDSU, offering a mix of advantages and drawbacks based on student feedback. The dorm is notably modern and refurbished, providing a spacious environment suitable for triple occupancy, though the rooms are smaller compared to other dorms. Some reviews highlight the strict check-in process at the front desk and a past mold issue, though these concerns seem manageable. Tenochca's bathrooms are dependent on both the diligence of the janitorial staff and the cleanliness habits of residents, which can vary. A significant benefit of living at Tenochca is the ease of making friends, thanks to its communal living style and shared spaces such as the lobby with a full kitchen. Its proximity to other dorms, dining options, and a nearby market are frequently praised, although its distance from certain campus facilities like the Arc is noted. While a significant walk from the center of campus, Tenochca enables residents to foster connections within learning communities and form lasting friendships.

Viva Reviews

San Diego State University

Browse dorms on campus

Olmeca

South Campus Plaza

Chapultepec

Huāxyacac

Zura