If you become an RA I think you can stay in the dorms for free or at least a significant discount.
http://www.hercampus.com/life/campus-living/should-you-be-ra-perks-pitfalls-life-resident-assistant
http://raselectionucsb.■■■■■■■■■■/ra-applicant-faqs.html
http://www.housing.ucsb.edu/residence-halls/becoming-resident-assistant