Accommodation in New York for Students

Are you an international student who is looking for accommodation in New York while studying? Then check out the types of options you have and choose the best possible ones by comparing types, options and costs with key tips. 

One major hassle of studying in USA from India is finding an appropriate accommodation in New York. For those who are sure of their admissions at universities in New York, they will have to get hold of a reasonable but feasible accommodation in New York. Here we have shortlisted some of the types of accommodation in New York available, with cost comparisons and tips to find the best student housing in New York. 

Where Can Students Live in New York?

There are a plethora of student housing options in New York, but before students have to choose between on-campus housing and off-campus housing. The housing options in New York are broadly divided into these two categories, and options are further bifurcated. So those who prefer only on-campus accommodation have a limited set of options, whereas those looking for off-campus possibilities can get a few more options. Let us understand the different types of student accommodation in the next section and discuss them further. 

Types of Accommodation in New York for Students

Here are different types of accommodation in New York for students that can be considered based on the broader categorisation - on-campus or off-campus. Check them out below:

1. Residential Halls at NY Universities

As per the rule, many US universities encourage first-year students or freshmen to stay on campus in their first year of admission. However, universities in New York are an exception to this rule and do not require students to opt for on-campus housing mandatorily. However, those who do and are also shortlisted to get a place may have to pay less than usual in comparison to other accommodation types in NYC. To name a few, the following universities allow on-campus accommodation for international students:

• New York University (NYU)
• Columbia University
• Cornell University
• University of Rochester
• Stony Brook University

These are some of the popular universities in New York which offer on-campus accommodation for students. Here, there is everything - catered halls, cleanliness support, and other necessary amenities, and it can cost around USD 15,000 to USD 18,000 a year. 

2. University-Based Shared Apartments in NYC

Apart from the typical university residence halls for on-campus accommodations, there is one more type of student housing - university-backed shared apartments. This particular option is typically available and also reserved for those pursuing postgraduate courses, such as master's or doctoral programs. In some cases, postgrads have both options - university halls or shared apartments on campus, and they can decide based on their requirements. The rooms here are inclusive of:

• Attached washrooms - depend on a sharing basis or individual use.
• WiFi and gaming zones
• Common areas with TV and cable
• Dedicated study spaces
• Some even include a gym in the complex.

These types of accommodations may or may not be catered by the university. Thus, meals have to be taken care of, and all other expenses are included, and overall it costs students USD 15,500 annually on average. 

3. Hostels in New York

The next type of accommodation, which is off-campus, is the hostels in New York for students. These are available on third-party travel planning websites. Hostels in New York are available for temporary short stays or even longer duration stays. For longer durations, hostel landlords may require applicants to sign contracts for that duration. These contracts may or may not be extendable. Why students can consider staying in hostels of New York is because:

• They are safe and secure for students.
• Located close to the main campuses of different universities in NYC.
• Regular commute is easy since most of them are located near public transportation. 
• Various amenities like WiFi, two-time meals, snacks vending machines, shared or unshared rooms, support staff for cleaning and in some cases parking for bicycles is also available 24/7. 

Students can choose their ideal hostels in New York based on the amenities and room types, which is why this is another preferred type of accommodation. Here, the costs can range from USD 2,000 to USD 12,000 per night. 

4. Privately Rented Accommodation for New York

Privately renting in New York can be expensive, but it can be another student housing option. However, if a group of students come together, the costs of privately rented accommodations in New York may get cheaper per person. These housing options can be found on real estate and official brokerage websites in New York City. Privately held apartments may or may not be fully furnished, and they may require students to set up Wi-Fi and arrange for their meals as well. Since these are private, they cost more and can, on average, range from USD 24,000 to USD 42,000 per year. 

5. Homestays in NYC for Students

While this is not a very popular option, students with contacts who believe that homestays are a feasible option can consider it. International students can consider homestays in New York by searching through the homestays.com website. Homestays are cosier, more comfortable, and provide a more homely environment compared to other options, as one lives with an actual family. Homestays are still cheaper than hostels and can cost anywhere from USD 1,765 to USD 10,600+ per night.  

Cheapest Accommodation in New York

Students looking for the cheapest accommodation in New York while studying can consider the on-campus accommodation options. However, due to limited availability, there might be other options that can come into play. So we have put all the costs in a table to help students compare their best possible, cheapest accommodation in New York:

Cheapest housing options in New York are definitely the on-campus options, followed by hostels and homestays. The most expensive housing options are privately rented accommodations. To calculate cost of living in New York, students must compare these options first and make a budget. 

Nearby Neighbourhoods to Live in New York 

In case international students are unable to find an on-campus accommodation in New York, they can look for accommodation in these nearby neighbourhoods as well:

• If going to take admission at Columbia University, then the Manhattan and Uptown options will be better for students' housing.
• Those taking admission at NYU can consider the East Village, Williamsburg and Downtown Manhattan neighbourhoods for housing.
• Fordham University applicants can look for options in Bronx & Lincoln Center, Manhattan (Upper West) and Belmont for cheaper student housing options. 
• Universities in NYC, such as Pace University, located in Downtown Brooklyn, can choose between the Downtown Brooklyn or Long Island neighbourhoods for accommodation.

This way, students can Google nearby areas and neighbourhoods in New York City to find suitable accommodation options.  

Tips to Find Ideal Student Accommodation in New York

Once international students have their I-20 forms in hand from any of the NYC universities, along with the F1 student visa process, the student accommodation hunt should also begin. Here are a few tips which can ease the temporary accommodation hunt in New York:

• Start as early as possible to find a suitable housing option, irrespective of the application process - Fall intake in USA or the Spring intake in USA.
• If there is an option for on-campus accommodation, do not let go of it; apply for it!
• Even if you have applied for on-campus housing in New York, consider other accommodation options also.
• Keep your options open for off-campus housing in case last-minute on-campus accommodation is rejected.
• Look for off-campus accommodations that are nearby, have access to public transportation and also grocery stores. 
• Do compare all costs, and then choose which is the most suitable housing option, because it will be difficult to change homes time and again. 
• Consult seniors and request information for suitable accommodation for New York as an international student.
• Read all contracts carefully before signing and submitting an advance. Understand terms and conditions and also check if contracts are extendable.
• Finally, I have known guarantors in New York through common contacts who can help out if new housing contracts need to be found. 

Ensuring these will enable international students to be safe, alert, and not fall victim to misinformation. These must also be followed to find and sustain housing contracts in New York.

This was everything about accommodation in New York for students. There are plenty of options, but choosing wisely is key to sustaining in a long-term study program at universities of New York without much ado!