I've lived off campus since 2nd year.. here are some apartments and options that I have experienced (or my friends have)
House off of governor dr. - Since it was further from campus, it was cheaper. We also actually got a house so it was nice having a backyard and plenty of parking. Also good for parties but that is a different story.. Transportation was not so great though... there was only one bus that came near the house so if you miss it by a few seconds, you have to wait 20-30 minutes for the next.
Valentia Apartments (Renaissance area) - really nice apartments and area but further from campus. Plenty of parking. Probably my favorite place but it was still a 15min walk to UTC to bus to campus. Also has their own laundry machines in each apartment. There are some families in this area.
International Gardens - very common apartment complex for UCSD students since it is so close. A LOT of bus options to take but the lines can get long during peak hours. Not much parking. Laundry machines are similar to campus style where everyone shares and you need to pay for it.
Costa Verde - probably the most common off campus option since this complex takes up a whole block and theres many buildings. walls are thin, and mostly students living here even though there are a few families. each apartment has their own laundry machines. parking is horrible here. Many bus options.
Overall, I think it is mostly depending on your preferences and budget. If you want a very similar to dorm experience -- maybe pick costa verde or one of those big apartment complexes. If you don't mind being more secluded, I would probably go for a town house or smaller apartment complex. Everyone in my apartment had cars so parking was a big deal. Sorry if my message was kinda messy.. let me know if you have any questions!