Photo by Katrin Bolovtsova
It’s important to find the right housing for students, right? It’s more important to make a place where you can live, learn, and feel at home than to just have a roof over your head. Where you live can make or break your time as a student, whether you’re a first-year student getting used to college life or an international student getting used to a new place.
Then where do you even start? Just don’t worry-we’ve got this! As you look for student housing in the US, here are some of the most important things you should think about.
1. Choose an Apartment with a Calm Environment for Studying
There are a lot of distractions in college, let’s face it. Finding time and space to study can seem impossible when there are loud neighbors, roommate turmoil, and social gatherings. For this reason, picking lodging that is peaceful and quiet is essential.
So, how do you locate a quiet area where you can concentrate?
Examine internet reviews first. Former renters frequently complain about the neighborhood’s reputation for student parties, the noise level, and the condition of the walls (thin walls are a problem!).
If possible, visit in person before signing anything. Pay attention to:
- The general noise level
- Proximity to bars or nightlife
- Whether the apartment has a dedicated study space or a quiet corner
Consider the compatibility of your roommates as well. If you’re attempting to study for a test, you don’t want a roommate who starts playing loud music at midnight.
Pro tip: Even if your apartment isn’t perfectly quiet, there are still smart ways to create a peaceful study space. Try using noise-canceling headphones or white noise apps to block out distractions, and set up your desk in a low-traffic area of the apartment, away from doors or shared spaces. It’s also a good idea to have an open chat with your roommates about quiet hours, especially during exam season. And when your workload gets overwhelming, using online writing services can be a lifesaver. One of the trusted and reliable platforms is EduBirdie, where professional writers are available to assist students with any type of written assignment, so you can focus more on studying and less on stressing over deadlines.
2. Decide Between On-Campus and Off-Campus Living
To begin with, will you be living on or off campus? Every option has advantages and disadvantages, and the ideal option for you will rely on your personality, lifestyle, and income.
Most of the time, living on campus in a college or residence hall is easier, especially if you are new to the area. Class, eating halls, and student events will be close by. Also, most rents cover the cost of utilities. It’s an easy way to meet new people and feel like you belong on campus.
On the other hand, living off-campus gives you more freedom and privacy. There will be more apartments, houses, and shared living places for you to choose from. Want to avoid noisy roommates or make your own meals? It might be best to go off-campus.
Tip: If you’re from another country, some colleges will make you live on campus for the first year. Make sure you know the rules!
3. Look at Your Budget (And Stick to It)
To be honest, money does matter. That stylish studio apartment in the city may look great, but if you’re not careful, it could quickly drain your funds. Before you decide on a place to live, you should carefully consider how much you can pay each month. In other words, don’t just think about the rent. You need to think about your food bills, transportation costs (especially if you commute), and any other costs like renters insurance, laundry, or parking. Utilities like electricity, water, and internet are also important.
You can avoid stress over money later on by making a clear budget from the start and sticking to it. You don’t want to spend all of your financial help in the first month and have to eat instant noodles for the rest of the semester, do you?
Also, keep an eye out for costs that aren’t clear at first. In ads, some places look cheap, but there are hidden fees in the small print. Always check to see if utilities are included, if there is a security deposit, and if there are any application or staffing fees. A good way to do things? It’s likely true if something seems too cheap or too good to be true. It’s better to be sure now than to feel bad about it later.
4. Consider Location, Safety, and Transportation
If you want to live with other students, location is very important. You want to live close enough to campus that you don’t have to spend hours every day commuting, but not too close that you can’t enjoy some peace and quiet from all the noise of college life. Think about how you’ll get to class before you choose a place. Will you be able to walk or ride a bike, or will you need a car or public transportation?
Safety should also be very important. You should look at the crime rates in the area, visit the neighborhood at different times of the day, and go with your gut when you’re there. After that, look at what’s close by. It can make a big difference in your daily life to be able to walk to food stores, coffee shops, libraries, or a gym.
Being close to good public transportation is very helpful if you don’t have a car. A lot of college places have bus systems that students can use for free or at a low cost. Some colleges even have their own shuttle services. If you do bring a car, though, make sure the parking at your new place is safe and easy to get to. It gets old quickly looking for a spot every night.
Photo by Vlada Karpovich
5. Think About Lifestyle and Roommate Compatibility
For many students, living with roommates is a rite of passage, but it can be challenging. Consider your lifestyle and the type of place you want to live in before you sign a lease.
Are you a night owl or an early riser? Is a quiet place more your style, or do you enjoy entertaining friends? Are you tidy and well-organized, or do you approach duties more casually?
Contrary to popular belief, compatibility is important. Your ideal abode can become a daily stressor due to misaligned lives.
If you’re using roommate finder apps or online listings, don’t be shy about asking questions:
- What’s your typical weekday schedule like?
- How do you feel about guests and parties?
- How do you usually handle chores?
It might feel awkward, but a five-minute chat can save you months of frustration.
Your Home Away from Home
Selecting the ideal student housing in the United States involves more than just checking boxes; it also entails designing an environment that fosters both your academic and personal development. Make sure it suits your needs, lifestyle, and budget before choosing a dorm, an apartment in the heart of the city, or a comfortable shared home.
Be honest about the type of roommates you would get along with, pick a convenient and safe area, and prioritize a quiet study space. Self-awareness and a little research go a long way!
Ultimately, your room should feel like your home away from home, a place where you can relax, rejuvenate, and achieve your academic objectives.
