Securing Student Accommodation in USA
A practical guide to exploring, choosing, and securing suitable student housing in the USA before arrival - from university dormitories and shared flats to private apartments and homestays.
Accommodation Options
International students in the USA have several housing options to choose from, each with distinct advantages and considerations. Your choice will significantly impact your budget, social experience, and academic lifestyle. Understanding each option's characteristics will help you make a more informed decision about where to live during your studies.
| Accommodation Type | Average Cost | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
University Dormitories On-campus residence halls managed by the university | $800-1,500/month Often includes utilities and meal plans |
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Shared Apartments Off-campus apartments shared with roommates | $600-1,200/month Plus utilities (~$100-200/month) |
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Private Apartments Studio or 1-bedroom apartment for yourself | $1,200-3,000/month Plus utilities (~$150-250/month) |
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Homestay Living with a local host family | $800-1,500/month Often includes meals and utilities |
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Important Note About USA Dorms
Finding & Securing Housing
6-8 Months Before Arrival
- Apply for on-campus housing as soon as acceptance letter arrives (if desired)
- Research housing options and typical costs in your university's area
- Join university housing Facebook groups and forums
3-4 Months Before Arrival
- Start actively searching for off-campus options if on-campus housing is not available
- Connect with potential roommates through university networks
- Prepare required documents (proof of income, reference letters, etc.)
1-2 Months Before Arrival
- Finalize arrangements for on-campus housing (confirm move-in date)
- Book temporary accommodation for the first 1-2 weeks if permanent housing isn't secured
- Arrange virtual viewings with off-campus landlords if possible
Upon Arrival
- Check in to on-campus housing or temporary accommodation
- Visit potential off-campus properties in person
- Review and sign lease agreement (have it checked by university housing services if possible)
Reliable Platforms
University Housing Portal
Your university's official housing website is the most reliable source for on-campus options and often has vetted off-campus listings.
Apartments.com
Large database of apartments with verified listings, photos, and virtual tours.
Zillow
Good for apartments, houses, and condos with detailed neighborhood information.
Facebook Housing Groups
Search for "[University Name] Housing" to find groups where students post roommate requests and sublets.
International Student Services
Many universities have dedicated staff to help international students find suitable housing.
Required Documents
For off-campus housing in the USA, you'll typically need to provide the following documents:
- 1Identification Documents
Passport, visa documentation, and I-20/DS-2019 form
- 2Proof of Income/Financial Support
Bank statements, scholarship letters, or sponsorship documentation
- 3Proof of Student Status
Acceptance letter or enrollment verification from your university
- 4Credit History/References
As an international student, you may not have US credit history, so landlords often accept reference letters
- 5Guarantor/Co-signer
Many landlords require a US-based guarantor or higher security deposit from international students
Avoiding Scams
The US rental market has its share of scams targeting international students. To protect yourself:
- Never wire money or send cash before seeing the property and signing a legitimate lease
- Be suspicious of rates significantly below market value
- Verify the legitimacy of the landlord by checking property records or working through verified platforms
- Ask for a video tour if you can't visit in person
- Use your university's housing office to review contracts before signing
- Trust your instincts - if something feels wrong, it probably is
Costs & Key Considerations
Housing costs in the USA vary drastically based on location, with major cities and coastal areas generally being much more expensive than rural or midwest locations. As an international student, it's crucial to understand these geographical differences when budgeting for your studies.
Regional Cost Comparison
Higher Cost Regions
- Northeast (NYC, Boston)
Average studio: $2,000-3,500/month
Shared apartment: $1,000-1,800/person
- West Coast (LA, San Francisco)
Average studio: $1,800-3,200/month
Shared apartment: $900-1,600/person
- Major Cities (Chicago, Miami)
Average studio: $1,400-2,200/month
Shared apartment: $700-1,200/person
Lower Cost Regions
- Midwest (St. Louis, Cincinnati)
Average studio: $700-1,100/month
Shared apartment: $400-700/person
- South (Texas, Georgia)
Average studio: $800-1,300/month
Shared apartment: $500-800/person
- College Towns
Average studio: $600-1,000/month
Shared apartment: $400-700/person
Additional Costs to Consider
Utilities & Internet
$100-250/month depending on apartment size and region. Includes electricity, water, gas, and internet. Often included in on-campus housing.
Security Deposit
Typically 1-2 months' rent. Refundable at the end of lease if there's no damage. International students may be asked for a larger deposit.
Furniture & Supplies
$500-2,000 one-time expense if renting unfurnished accommodation. Consider second-hand options from graduating students.
Location Considerations
Transportation
Consider proximity to campus and public transportation options. Car ownership adds $300-700/month in expenses (insurance, parking, gas).
Social Environment
Consider the availability of student communities, cultural amenities, and social life. Some areas may offer better integration opportunities.
Safety Considerations
Research neighborhood safety statistics and talk to current students about their experiences in different areas.
Important Tip
Securing Housing Tips
Start your housing search at least 3-4 months before your planned arrival, especially for university housing which fills quickly.
Research the neighborhood thoroughly—consider safety, proximity to campus, public transportation options, and access to grocery stores and amenities.
Create a realistic housing budget that includes rent, utilities, internet, and renter's insurance. Typically, housing should not exceed 30% of your monthly budget.
For off-campus housing, be prepared to provide proof of income or financial support, identification, and sometimes a US guarantor or additional security deposit.
Always inspect the property in person if possible, or via video chat if renting remotely. Take photos of any existing damage during move-in to protect your security deposit.
Read the lease agreement carefully, paying special attention to policies on subletting, early termination, maintenance responsibilities, and visitor restrictions.
Consider joining university housing groups on social media platforms like Facebook to find roommates and housing opportunities recommended by other students.
Be aware of rental scams—never wire money or pay cash deposits without seeing the property and verifying the landlord's ownership through official records.
Accommodation FAQs
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