🏡 Housing
Find a place close to your campus
After tuition, housing is your biggest cost. Here's honest guidance on where to search, what to expect to pay, and how to avoid scams — for each of the 15 top student cities in the USA and Canada.
Where to search
Trusted student housing platforms
Kijiji (Canada)
Canada's most popular classifieds for rentals. Meet in person, verify everything.
Open ↗Your university's housing office
Most universities have an off-campus housing office. Use it first — listings are vetted.
Facebook groups
University-specific "housing" groups are excellent for sublets and roommates. Verify identity before paying.
City guide
Rent & housing by city
Housing types
Which option fits you?
- On-campus dormitoryEasiest for first-year international students. Guaranteed at many schools. Cost: $800–$1,800/month, often with meal plan included. Apply as soon as you're admitted.
- Shared apartment off-campusCheapest per person when splitting with roommates. Requires a co-signer or 2–3 months deposit. Cost: $500–$1,500/month per person depending on city.
- Homestay with a local familyGood for cultural immersion and English practice. Often includes meals. Cost: $1,000–$1,800/month. Try Homestay.com or your university's program.
- Student co-living buildingsFurnished rooms, utilities included, flexible leases. Good for uncertain first year. Cost: $1,200–$2,500/month. Common in NYC, Boston, Toronto, Vancouver.