Cupertino apartments to become affordable student housing, displacing existing renters

The Foothill-De Anza Community College District purchased McClellan Terrace Apartments for $65. 6 million to convert the units into approximately 332 affordable beds for students, displacing current residents by June 2026. The district will provide $3. 2 million in relocation assistance to help tenants find nearby housing with rents between $2,537 and $4,245 a month. Chancellor Lee Lambert noted that nearly 44% of students reported housing insecurity last year, highlighting the urgent need for affordable student housing.

Some residents voiced concerns about rising rental prices and the availability of comparable housing options. If tenants cannot find suitable replacements, the district will authorize funds for last-resort housing solutions. Cupertino Mayor Liang Chao expressed worries about losing 94 affordable homes due to the sale. The college district aims to alleviate students' financial burdens, allowing them to focus on their education. Students will begin moving into already vacant apartments this year.