University Accommodation Options in the US
Find the best university accommodation option for you
One of the first big questions before starting university is: “Where will I live?”
This is especially important if you’re an international student moving to the US for the first time. Understanding the different types of university accommodation can make the decision much easier.
In the US, students can choose from a variety of accommodation options, each offering different levels of independence, comfort, and cost. Some universities may also have specific housing policies, such as requiring first-year students to live on campus.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the four most common types of university accommodation available to students:
- University halls of residence
- Student apartments
- Off-campus housing
- Homestay
We’ll break down what each option is really like – including the advantages and disadvantages – so you can choose the type of university accommodation that best fits your needs and lifestyle.
1. University Halls of Residence or College Dorms (On-Campus Housing)
University halls, also known as college dorms, are living spaces located on campus. Universities offer different types of halls such as shared rooms, suites, or apartment-style units.
Most first-year students choose halls because they’re close to classrooms, gyms, dining halls, and sports facilities. Halls are especially convenient for student-athletes with busy schedules, offering quick access to training facilities and campus resources.
Students typically share a room with one or two flatmates. Bathrooms are often shared with others on the same floor, though some halls offer private or semi-private options. Most also include common areas such as lounges and study rooms, perfect for relaxing, doing coursework, or meeting new people.
Meals are often included in a meal plan, meaning you can eat at the campus dining hall as much as you want, saving you time and effort on cooking.
University halls also have Resident Assistants (RAs)—students who live there to help you adjust, organise events, and ensure everyone is safe. This creates a strong sense of community, which is especially helpful when you’re new to the US.
Angelos Avgeris, tennis player at Tusculum University, shared:
“Living on campus and being part of a community taught me how to connect with people from different backgrounds. Campus life made university feel like more than just academics and athletics—it made it feel like home.”
Pros and Cons of University Halls
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great way to meet people and make friends | Limited privacy |
| Meals often included in a campus meal plan | Shared spaces can be noisy or crowded |
| Convenient location close to all campus facilities | Typically the most expensive accommodation |
| On-site security and staff for added safety | Must follow university rules and regulations |
2. Student Apartments Near Campus
After their first year, many students choose to move into apartments, often sharing with other students or teammates.
Student apartments are similar to off-campus flats but are designed specifically for students. They’re built near the university and often have special amenities like a gym, study rooms, a pool, or a social lounge.
Unlike regular flats, these are often furnished, so you don’t need to buy a bed, desk, or sofa. Many student apartments also have individual tenancy agreements, which means you only pay for your room. If one of your flatmates moves out, you’re not responsible for their rent.
These apartments are a good middle ground: you get more independence than halls but still live in a student environment. They often organise social events to help students meet one another.
Pros and Cons of Student Apartments
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Modern, comfortable, and often fully furnished | Can be more expensive than standard rental flats |
| Wi-Fi is often included | May be located farther from campus than halls |
| Good balance of independence and student community | You’re responsible for your own meals and cleaning |
| Includes student-friendly amenities (e.g. gym, lounge) | Limited availability in some areas |
3. Off-Campus Apartments
Off-campus flats give you more independence. You can choose where you want to live, set your own rules, and have more privacy.
However, living off campus also means more responsibility. You need to pay rent every month and cover bills like electricity, water, and internet. You’re also in charge of cleaning, cooking, and ensuring the flat is furnished—some in the US come empty, so you might need to buy furniture.
Transport is another factor to consider. If your flat is far from campus, you might need a car, bike, or to use public transport. Some universities offer free shuttle buses to nearby student areas, which can make things easier.
Pros and Cons of Off-Campus Apartments
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Greater independence and privacy | Responsible for paying rent and utility bills (electricity, internet, etc.) |
| Often a more affordable option | May need to organise transport if living far from campus |
| Quieter and more personal living environment | Might need to purchase furniture and household supplies |
| Freedom to choose your own flatmates | Less connected to campus life and student community |
4. Homestay (Living with a Host Family)
Some international students choose to live with an American host family, an option known as a homestay. While this is less common for student-athletes and is typically offered by smaller universities, it can be a great cultural experience. If you’re interested, check with your university to see if they have a homestay programme available.
When you stay with a host family, you usually have your own bedroom and share other spaces like the kitchen and living room. Meals are often included, and you’ll be treated like part of the family.
This option is great for students who want to experience American culture firsthand, improve their English, and have extra support as they settle in. It can also be comforting for families to know their student is in a home environment instead of a hall or flat.
The downside is that you won’t have as much independence, and you may live farther from campus or your teammates. Social life can also be different because you won’t be surrounded by other students in the same way as in halls or flats.
Pros and Cons of Homestay
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Immersive way to experience American culture | Less personal freedom and independence |
| Supportive, family-like environment | May be located far from campus and teammates |
| Meals and laundry are usually included | Fewer opportunities to engage in typical student social life |
| Great for improving English and adjusting to life in the US | Not offered by all universities |
How Keystone Sports Can Help You Find the Perfect Accommodation
At Keystone Sports, we’ve helped over 15,000 student-athletes move to the US and start their university journey thanks to sports scholarships. Sports scholarships give you the chance to compete in your sport while earning a degree at a US university.
We understand how important it is to feel comfortable and safe in your new home. That’s why we provide guidance on finding suitable housing for university students, connect you with other athletes who’ve gone through the same experience, and share practical tips on what to pack and what to expect.
Ready to start your university journey in the US? Complete our free evaluation form and our team will get in touch with you.
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About the author
Lorena Montañés
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