Hello Bert/Other/Just Looking Baton rouge, LA:

How are you! I would like to suggest yu also go on online to preview the City of Arcata web site. http://www.cityofaracata.org for general information; and For housing: community call 707.822-5955; In Eureka where Arcata is only about 12 miles and only a few minutes drive north on Highway 101, the Average Rental Prices for a 2 bedroom apartment, or duplex is approx. $750, a single family houose 3 bedrooms is approx $1,000-$1,200. I have seen 1 bedroom and studio cottages for $500-$600 approximately.
Humboldt State University: http://www.humboldt.edu; 707.826-3011
You might also try searcing now and then in: http://www.humgujide.com
http://www.northcoastjournal.com
http://www.arcataeye.com
http://www.times-standard.com
http://www.tricityweekly.com
You can search for shared housing, and also other rental property that you feel you can afford, and will see too, what other options you may notice in the classifieds.
Good Luck...I would love to hear from you when you get ready to purchase real estate either for your personal use or investment purposes! Do you have any referrals of someone you may know in your sphere of influence that could use my real estate services?
When you are more established and if you have the funds, and credit worthiness, and some downpayment, consider purchasing a 1-4 units single family-or multiple family type property with a partner to help with the qualifying and costs. Rent some of your units or rooms out to help additionally with mortgage! That way you are not renting by enjoying pride of homeownership, and when you graduate, you and your partner could consider selling the property and each will have a little nest egg to help you in your next adventure! You can then reinvest in property for your own residential property or multifamily income property, and maybe keep the first investment and just add to your inventory with a little bit of the equity your investment will grow over a period of time with increased property values over time....Just thoughts! Thank you again!
I hope to hear from you if I can be of further service. Sincerely, Saundra Allman

As the Rental Market tightens, rental prices will move up, so it will be in your best interest to find something as soon as possible!
Try craigslist for possible sub-lets, or you can trade labor, i.e. Live in help for someone who needs it. Also try the community boards at the CO-OP in Arcata for a good deal on a room. In any event, look right away!
Good Luck and have a Happy New Year!