Student Accommodation in the USA – A Complete Guide

University dormitories

Larger American universities often offer student dormitories. This is especially true for universities who also welcome a huge cohort of undergraduate students. Some of the accommodation will be available for postgraduate international students to make finding a living arrangement easy for them.

It is not uncommon for students in university dormitories to share rooms and have a communal bathroom, kitchen and living area. If you’re looking for more personal space, individual rooms might be available, but they are likely to be more expensive. You can visit your university website to find out what is on offer.

Sometimes university dorms are catered, and students can purchase meals from the university canteen.

How much do university dormitories cost?

The cost of university dormitories varies hugely depending on institution, location and additional services provided. Shared dormitories are usually cheaper than individual accommodation. Costs go up with any added facilities like catering. You can find the exact prices on your university’s website.

Advantages of university dormitories

• Even though rent may seem on the higher side, dorms are more affordable than privately rented accommodation.
• It is a good option for out-of-state and international students to ensure a convenient living arrangement that is close to the university.
• There are no additional costs since utility bills are included in the rent.
• It is a good way to meet new people, make friends and get acquainted with other students

Disadvantages of university dormitories

• University dorms tend to get loud and busy. Sometimes universities will place postgraduates together in a quieter block and you can check with your university whether this is an option for you.
• There is little privacy since you’ll be sharing a bathroom, kitchen, living space and maybe even a bedroom.
• Securing a university dorm is highly competitive, so we recommend you get your application in as soon as possible.

How can I secure accommodation in a university dormitory?

You can find information about available student dorms, rent and the application process directly from your university. Usually, you’ll need to make an application (separate from your course application) to your university online portal to secure a dorm.

If you’re an international student, your university’s International Office will be able to provide support specific to you.

Private accommodation

If you’re unable to secure a university dorm, the other alternative is to rent privately. Depending on your budget and what you’re looking for in your living arrangements, you can either rent a room in a shared house or an entire apartment. Renting a room will be cheaper than renting an entire place for yourself, but a group of you can come together to rent an apartment to bring costs down.

How much does private accommodation cost?

USA is a big country and cost of renting privately vary hugely depending on the city and if you’re located close to the centre. You can expect prices on the East and West coasts to be considerably higher than the South and Midwest in the US. According to crowdsourced data, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in a city centre is $1,741 per month.

There are some caveats to this amount. Since this is just the average, depending on the city you live in, you could be paying more or less. Living outside the city centre or sharing your place with other people will also go a long way in bringing costs down.

Advantages of private accommodation

• There is more personal space and independence if you have the entire apartment to yourself. Even if you are sharing, you can choose how you want to live with.
• You have more choice in the area you want to live in and your standard of living.
• It is not as competitive as university dormitories, and you have more options to choose from.

Disadvantages of private accommodation

• It is more expensive than university dorms.
• Socialising and meeting new people will take conscious effort, especially if you’re living on your own.
• You might not necessarily be close to your university, and you’ll have to account for the time and money spent commuting.

How can I secure a private accommodation?

Most universities offer support to students who wish to live in private accommodation. You can find a list of trusted landlords and letting agencies on the university website. You can also get help with knowing if the neighbourhood you’re looking at is safe or with paperwork.

Another easy way to look for private accommodation is online on websites like Uniplaces or Nestpick.

Homestays

Another popular option for international students is homestays. This is where you stay with an American family in their home. You’ll be given your own room, but you may be sharing the kitchen, bathroom and living space with. Homestays usually cover meals and other utilities.

How much do homestays cost?

The costs of homestays are somewhat comparable to renting a room in a shared house and can vary between $300 and $500 a month. They are still highly dependent on the city you live in, and the facilities offered in the homestay.

Advantages of a homestay

• Living with a local family is a great way to get settled in the community. They can show you around and introduce you to the local culture and area.
• You won’t have to worry about utility bills as these will usually be covered by your hosts.

Disadvantages of a homestay

• You’ll miss out on the opportunity to live with other students. This might be isolating if you’re keen to get involved in the student community.
• Since you’ll be living in another person’s house, it’s important that you respect their rules and boundaries. Make sure you check if they have listed any rules and that you’re comfortable with them.

How can I secure accommodation at a homestay?

Often homestays are organised by universities. If your university has a homestay service, they’ll list the details on their website. Going through your university gives you the peace of mind that the families can be trusted and have previous experience hosting students.

There are also independent online portals like USA Homestays who list available homestays across the country.

Top tips for finding accommodation in the USA

Now that you know what’s available, here are our top tips for securing your ideal accommodation:

• Start early: Accommodation in the USA is competitive, and you’ll increase your chances of finding a place the earlier you start. We recommend that you get your applications in as soon as you have confirmation from your university.
• Your university has a lot of the answers: Whether you’re renting a university dorm or on the private market, your university can help you with finding the right place, making sure you’re choosing the right neighbourhood and sometimes even with the paperwork.
• Budget carefully: It is important that you know exactly what your accommodation will cost you. Price listed for university dorms usually includes the cost of utilities but if you’re renting privately, you’ll have to account for bills separately.

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