Top 5 U.S. Cities with Student-Friendly Housing Options

Finding affordable housing as an international student in the U.S. can feel like a daunting task. The good news is, there are plenty of cities that offer budget-friendly housing options for students, from shared apartments to university dorms. Whether you’re looking for proximity to your campus or the convenience of public transport, some cities stand out for being particularly student-friendly.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the top 5 U.S. cities where international students can find affordable housing options, and how platforms like RentYard can help you secure a rental property in the U.S. with ease.

1. Austin, Texas

Austin has rapidly become one of the most popular cities for students in the U.S. thanks to its vibrant culture, thriving tech industry, and affordable living costs compared to cities like San Francisco or New York. Home to the University of Texas at Austin, the city boasts a variety of affordable student housing options, from apartments to houses with multiple roommates.

Why Austin is Great for International Students:

• Affordable Rent: Compared to other major cities, Austin’s rent prices remain reasonable, particularly in neighborhoods like North Loop and South Austin.
• Student-Friendly Communities: The city offers an array of student-focused accommodations that are close to campus and public transport.
• Thriving Job Market: Austin’s growing tech industry and startup scene make it easy for students to find internships or part-time jobs.

How RentYard Helps:

RentYard features listings for affordable housing near the University of Texas and other campuses in Austin. You can find shared apartments or rental homes within your budget, and RentYard’s platform allows you to connect with trusted landlords directly.

2. Madison, Wisconsin

Madison, home to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, is a mid-sized city with a strong student presence. Its affordable rent, charming neighborhoods, and safe environment make it an ideal location for international students.

Why Madison is Great for International Students:

• Low-Cost Living: Madison offers some of the lowest rental prices for students in the U.S., especially compared to cities like Chicago or Los Angeles.
• Proximity to Campus: Many rental properties are within walking or biking distance of the university, saving you money on transportation.
• Community Support: Madison is known for its student-oriented community and many resources specifically for international students.

How RentYard Helps:

RentYard provides easy access to affordable rental listings in Madison, including options near the University of Wisconsin. Whether you prefer a dormitory-style setting or a shared apartment, RentYard’s search filters will help you find housing that matches your budget and lifestyle.

3. Columbus, Ohio

Columbus is an affordable city with a strong student population, thanks in part to The Ohio State University, one of the largest universities in the U.S. The city is a great blend of urban living with lower living costs, making it a perfect option for international students.

Why Columbus is Great for International Students:

• Affordable Housing Options: Rent in Columbus is significantly lower than in many major U.S. cities, with a wide variety of rental properties available for students.
• Proximity to Campus: With Ohio State’s central location, students can easily find off-campus housing that’s within walking distance of campus.
• Diverse Student Population: Columbus offers a welcoming environment for students from around the world, and it’s a city that’s known for being inclusive and diverse.

How RentYard Helps:

RentYard features listings specifically tailored to students attending Ohio State University, including both private apartments and shared living options. You can search for properties in student-friendly neighborhoods and filter by price to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

4. Denver, Colorado

Denver is one of the most rapidly growing cities in the U.S., known for its great quality of life, outdoor activities, and relatively affordable housing options. The University of Denver and Metropolitan State University of Denver attract a large number of international students each year.

Why Denver is Great for International Students:

• Affordable Rent for Major City: While cities like New York and San Francisco are notoriously expensive, Denver offers more affordable living costs, especially in neighborhoods like Aurora and Capitol Hill.
• Young and Vibrant City: Denver is a youthful city with many cultural and social activities, making it ideal for students who want to explore while keeping costs low.
• Access to Nature: Students in Denver enjoy easy access to outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and biking, all while attending school in an affordable urban setting.

How RentYard Helps:

RentYard provides listings for both on-campus and off-campus housing in Denver, and their database includes a wide variety of rental options, from budget apartments to shared homes. RentYard’s platform simplifies your search process and ensures that you can find rental properties that are affordable and close to the university.

5. Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta is another top city for students due to its rich cultural scene, diverse population, and affordability. The city is home to several universities, including Georgia State University, Emory University, and Georgia Tech, making it a bustling hub for international students.

Why Atlanta is Great for International Students:

• Low Cost of Living: Atlanta remains one of the more affordable major cities in the U.S., with a wide range of housing options for students on a budget.
• Public Transport Accessibility: Atlanta has a well-developed public transit system, which makes commuting from student housing in outer neighborhoods easy and affordable.
• Vibrant Student Life: The city’s diverse student body offers international students plenty of opportunities to connect, both socially and professionally.

How RentYard Helps:

RentYard’s platform provides rental listings across all of Atlanta’s student neighborhoods, including those near Georgia State and Emory. With RentYard, you can find affordable apartments, shared housing, and even rooms for rent close to campus.

How RentYard Can Help You Find Affordable Housing

When it comes to finding student-friendly housing in these cities, RentYard is your ultimate ally. RentYard specializes in connecting students with affordable rental properties throughout the U.S. The platform offers easy-to-use filters that allow you to search by budget, location, property type, and even amenities, ensuring that you find a place that suits your needs.

By using RentYard, you can avoid the headache of navigating complex rental markets and connect directly with verified landlords who understand the needs of international students. Whether you’re looking for a short-term rental, a shared apartment, or a private studio, RentYard is the perfect tool to help you secure your ideal living space.

Final Thoughts

Finding affordable housing as an international student can be challenging, but these top 5 cities—Austin, Madison, Columbus, Denver, and Atlanta—are great places to start your search. Thanks to their student-friendly housing options and affordable living costs, you’ll have no problem settling into your new home in the U.S.

Using platforms like RentYard makes the process even easier, offering you access to a wide variety of rental properties and helping you avoid the common pitfalls of the housing search. By starting your search early and using the right resources, you can focus on your studies and enjoy your time in the U.S. without the stress of unaffordable housing. Happy house hunting!