University District (also referred to as University Square)

San Bernardino, CA

Neighborhood Market Analysis

Q3 2025 Report
$510,000 (San Bernardino citywide, June 2025); University District homes typically range from $285,000 to $679,000, with a median closer to $495,000.
Median Home Price
55–65 (moderate; higher near campus and shopping centers)
Walkability Score
Mixed; elementary and middle schools are average, some high schools above average. CSUSB is a major higher education anchor.
School Rating

Location Overview

Neighborhood Boundaries

Generally defined by the area surrounding California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB), north of Kendall Drive, east of Northpark Blvd, and west of Little Mountain Drive.

Zip Codes

92407

Market Data Summary

Price Range$285,000 - $679,000 (University District, 2025)
Price per Sq Ft$352 (citywide median, June 2025)
Inventory LevelsModerate but tightening; 24 homes for sale in University District as of July 2025.

Property Characteristics

Home Types & Architecture

Home Types

Single-family homesTownhomesCondosStudent-oriented apartments

Architectural Styles

ContemporaryRanchSpanish RevivalMid-century modern

Property Details

Typical Lot Sizes4,000–7,500 sq ft for single-family homes; smaller for condos/townhomes.
Home Age Range1970s–2000s, with some newer infill and student housing.
Construction QualityGenerally good; newer builds and renovated homes near CSUSB are higher quality.

Community Profile

Demographics & Lifestyle

Demographics

Diverse, with a large student and young professional population due to CSUSB; families and long-term residents also present.

Community Vibe

Active, youthful, and diverse; college-town energy with a mix of quiet residential streets and lively student areas.

Typical Residents

  • Students
  • Young professionals
  • Faculty/staff
  • Families

Family Friendly

Moderately family-friendly, with parks and schools nearby but a significant student presence.

Amenities & Lifestyle

Parks & Recreation

  • Blair Park
  • Little Mountain Park
  • CSUSB Recreation Center

Dining Options

  • Casual eateries
  • Fast food
  • Ethnic restaurants
  • Campus dining

Shopping Centers

  • University Village Center
  • Shandin Hills Shopping Center

Local Businesses

  • Coffee shops
  • Bookstores
  • Fitness centers
  • Student services

Education & Schools

Mixed; elementary and middle schools are average, some high schools above average. CSUSB is a major higher education anchor.
Overall School Rating

Elementary Schools

  • Kendall Elementary
  • North Park Elementary

Middle Schools

  • Shandin Hills Middle School

High Schools

  • San Bernardino High School
  • Cajon High School

Private Schools

  • Aquinas High School
  • Holy Rosary Academy

Transportation & Accessibility

Transit & Roads

Public Transit

  • Omnitrans bus routes (serving CSUSB and major corridors)

Major Roads

  • Kendall Drive
  • Northpark Blvd
  • University Parkway

Commute & Walkability

Commute Times15–25 minutes to downtown San Bernardino; 10–15 minutes to I-215 and I-210 freeways.
WalkabilityModerate; walkable near campus, less so in outer residential areas.
ParkingGenerally good; some congestion near campus during peak hours.

Marketing Intelligence

Target Buyer Types

  • Parents of students
  • Investors
  • First-time buyers
  • Faculty/staff
  • Young professionals

Key Selling Points

  • Walk to CSUSB
  • Strong rental demand
  • Affordable pricing compared to Inland Empire
  • Access to parks and recreation

Pricing Considerations

Price competitively for quick sales; updated homes command premium, especially those move-in ready for students or faculty.

Common Objections & Response Strategies

Objection: Concerns about student noise and turnover.

Response Strategy:

Highlight quieter residential streets, HOA-managed complexes, and soundproofing upgrades.

Objection: Safety and crime rates.

Response Strategy:

Provide recent crime statistics, emphasize campus security, and spotlight neighborhood watch programs.

Objection: Parking congestion near campus.

Response Strategy:

Showcase properties with garages/driveways and proximity to public transit.

Investment Insights

Investment Potential

Appreciation Potential

Strong, driven by CSUSB growth and ongoing city revitalization.

Rental Demand

Very high, especially for student housing and faculty rentals.

Buyer Competition

Moderate to high; multiple offers common for well-priced homes.

Best For

  • Investors (student rentals)
  • First-time buyers
  • Faculty/staff
  • Families seeking affordable homes

Potential Concerns

  • Seasonal rental turnover
  • Student-related noise
  • Parking congestion near campus

Professional Recommendations

1

Emphasize proximity to CSUSB and rental demand in all marketing.

2

Network with university staff and student organizations for buyer/renter leads.

3

Stage homes to appeal to both families and student renters.

4

Stay informed on city rental regulations and campus expansion plans.

5

Highlight recent renovations and move-in readiness.

6

Use data-driven pricing to stay competitive in a fast-moving market.

Competitive Analysis

Comparable Markets

  • Del Rosa
  • Arrowhead
  • Kendall Hills

Market Positioning

Ideal for investors and buyers seeking affordable, high-demand properties with strong rental potential.

Competitive Advantages

  • Proximity to CSUSB
  • Higher rental yields
  • Younger demographic

Price Comparison

Slightly higher than Del Rosa, lower than Arrowhead; competitive with Kendall Hills.

Investment Metrics

5.5–6.5% (student rentals)
Cap Rates
6–7% gross yields typical for updated properties
Rental Yields
15–17 (favorable for investors)
Price-to-Rent
Positive cash flow likely with proper management and high occupancy
Cash Flow
4–6% annual appreciation expected through 2026
Appreciation

Buyer Journey Insights

First-Time Buyers

Affordable entry point, access to community amenities, and potential for future rental income.

Move-Up Buyers

Opportunity to purchase larger homes or invest in multi-unit properties for income.

Downsizers

Limited options, but some condos/townhomes offer low-maintenance living.

Investors

Strong rental demand, especially for student housing; value-add and furnished rental opportunities.

Relocators

Attractive for CSUSB faculty/staff and those seeking affordable Inland Empire living.

This neighborhood analysis was generated using hyperlocal data and AI intelligence.

Neighborhood conditions change - consult with local real estate professionals for the most current information.

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