The Safest Housing Near USC: Tips for Secure Living Off-Campus

Finding the right place to live near the University of Southern California (USC) is about more than just affordability and proximity to campus—it’s about safety. With Los Angeles’ diverse neighborhoods, students often worry about crime rates, security measures, and how to ensure a safe and comfortable living environment.

Whether you’re looking for USC student housing, off-campus apartments, or just trying to determine the safest neighborhoods near USC, this guide will walk you through:

✅ Understanding USC’s DPS Zone and safety measures

✅ The safest neighborhoods near USC

✅ Housing options with enhanced security

✅ Practical safety tips for off-campus living

Understanding USC’s DPS Zone and Its Benefits

What Is the DPS Zone?

USC’s Department of Public Safety (DPS) actively patrols designated areas around campus to provide extra security. This DPS Zone is where you’ll find:

✔ 24/7 patrols by USC officers.

✔ Free USC Lyft Safe Rides from 6 PM to 2 AM.

✔ More emergency call stations and well-lit streets.

✔ Close proximity to campus resources and student-friendly amenities.

Why Live Within the DPS Zone?

Living inside the DPS Zone significantly reduces the risk of crime compared to areas farther from campus. It also means quicker response times from DPS and LAPD officers in case of emergencies.

✔ Lower crime rates compared to surrounding neighborhoods.

✔ Faster emergency assistance when needed.

✔ More USC-supported transportation options.

Safest Neighborhoods Near USC for Students

While no area is completely crime-free, these neighborhoods are considered among the safest and most student-friendly near USC.

1. North University Park (Inside DPS Zone) - Best for USC Proximity

🏡 Why Live Here?

• Just blocks away from USC, DPS heavily patrols this area.
• Populated mostly with student apartments making for an overall safer community environment.
• Near the Village at USC, which features restaurants, Target, and Trader Joe's.

🚶 Commute to USC: Walk to campus takes 5-10 minutes!

2. West Adams: Student-Friendly and Cost-Effective

🏡 Why Live Here?

• Situated just west of USC, this area has recently undergone revitalization and safety enhancements.
• Offers historic homes, modern apartments, and co-living spaces.
• More affordable than living directly next to campus.

🚶 Commute to USC: 5-10 minutes by car or bicycle.

3. Jefferson Park - Quiet and Family-Oriented Community

🏡 Why Live Here?

• A quieter area featuring gated apartments and renovated townhomes.
• Safer and quieter for a mix of families as well as students.
• Less late-night noise compared to areas nearer campus.

🚶 Commute to USC: 10-15 minutes of driving.

4. Downtown LA (DTLA) - Luxury & Security

🏡 Why Live Here?

• High-end DTLA apartments feature 24/7 security, keycard access, and gated parking.
• Many luxury buildings feature rooftop pools, gyms, and study lounges as well.
• Commuting between metro stations is made easy.

🚶 Commute to USC: 15 minutes by metro or car.

📌 Ideal for students searching for safety, luxury, and city living.

5. Koreatown - Vibrant, Social, & Secure Living

🏡 Why Live Here?

• Koreatown apartments feature modern amenities with gated access and concierge security
• Great food, nightlife, and a strong sense of community spirit.
• Well-lit streets and 24-hour businesses give this neighborhood a safer feel at night

🚶 Commute to USC: 15-20 minutes by metro or car.

📌 Ideal for students seeking urban life while providing safe housing options.

Areas to Be Wary Of

Although certain locations offer lower rent costs, students should use caution if considering living there:

❌ South Central LA

• High crime rates especially at night.
• Offers limited student housing options with few safety resources.

❌ Vermont Square and Exposition Park (south of USC)

• Some parts may be safe, but other sections have seen theft and break-ins.
• Students should prioritize apartments that feature gated access and strong security measures to maximize protection.

🚨 Safety Tips When Living Here:

✔ Always utilize DPS Safe Rides or Uber when traveling at night.

✔ Invest in smart locks, security cameras, or alarms for your apartment complex.

✔ Do not walk alone after dark, and stay in well-lit, populated areas.

Safety-First Housing Options Available

These housing options near USC are safe and secure.

🏠 1. Co-Living Apartments (e.g. Tripalink)

✔ Secure entry, gated access, and fully furnished are hallmarks of excellence.

✔ Perfect for students seeking a safer living environment.

🏢 2. Luxury DTLA apartments

✔ feature 24/7 security, doormen, and controlled access.

✔ Rents may be higher, but the peace of mind gained is worth every penny.

🏡 3. Student Housing Complexes

✔ Built specifically to accommodate students and equipped with RA safety programs.

✔ Locate in the DPS Zone.

Safety Tips for Off-Campus Students

✔ Maintain a secure home environment by always locking windows and doors securely.

✔ Make use of USC Safe Rides rather than wandering alone after dark.

✔ Choose an apartment with gated access and security cameras.

✔ Protect your belongings with renter's coverage.

🚨 Use of Key Safety Resources

📌 USC DPS Emergency: 213-640-4343

📌 LAPD Non-Emergency: 877-275-5273

📌 USC Safe Ride Services offers free Lyft rides between 6 pm and 2 am.

Discover Safe Housing Near USC

🔍 Step-by-Step Process:

1️⃣ Make use of USC's off-campus housing resources.

2️⃣ Conduct a DPS zone search of the apartment you want to rent.

3️⃣ Discover crime statistics using the LAPD Crime Map.

4️⃣ Read up on student reviews on housing platforms.

5️⃣ Visit both daytime and nighttime views of your intended area before signing a lease agreement.

📌 Best Websites to Assist with Finding Safe Housing:

• Tripalink: Provides safe, student-friendly living environments.
• Zillow or Apartments: Listings with users' safety ratings.
• USC Housing Forum.

Final Remarks: Safety Should Always Come First

Living in North University Park, West Adams, DTLA apartments or Koreatown apartments may offer increased protection, better amenities, and peace of mind.

✔ Prioritize DPS Zone apartments to ensure maximum protection.

✔ Research crime rates and read student reviews before making your choice.

✔ Choose a building with gated access and security features for optimal safety.

By making safety-minded choices, you can experience all that USC's off-campus living experience has to offer while remaining secure.

🚀 Need somewhere secure near USC to live? Visit Tripalink for student housing options - even near campus!