Types of Accommodation in USA with cost estimates
Do you ever think of finding the right accommodation as a challenge? Choosing the right accommodation is very crucial and often overlooked; as the place you choose will be your home for a while and will have a direct relation on your state of mind. So, read on below to understand the different types of accommodation options offered.
Types of Accommodation:
On Campus:
On Campus accommodation has several perks. Being located on the campus area itself it is close to the university buildings that you will need to access frequently during your stay such as the library, study areas, the gym, classes and any social events being held in the campus. And even though there might be on campus accommodation that is a little away from the university’s main buildings, there is usually a shuttle service available in the campus area for students. On Campus accommodation is considered safer and there is a head person for every on-campus building who will help you with any concerns you might have.
There are various types of on campus accommodation that you will find-
Dormitory
Also referred to as dorm; these are most common amongst first year students. You can choose between a single dorm with one bed or a double dorm with two beds depending on the availability. Dorms are usually pre equipped with a bed, mattress, desk, chair, and a closet. The kitchen, lounge area and washrooms are shared. Dorms usually have meal plans for students that you can choose from.
Apartments/ Suites/ Townhomes
These give you the option to either have the bedroom to yourself or to share it with roommates. You can have a single bedroom or up to four bedrooms unit with shared kitchen and living space. These can be with or without furniture depending on the facility provided and the rental cost.
Cost for on campus accommodation varies from $250 to $800 per month depending on whether you share the room or not. It is higher in large cities like New York and California.
Off Campus
Off campus accommodation can be a little tricky to find but it is not that hard if you have the right connections and search through proper sites. It offers students more freedom with less restrictions imposed. Types of off campus accommodation include rent or sublet.
Rent or sublet:
This is similar to an apartment where you can either live by yourself or share it with roommates. You can either rent a new lease which is usually six to twelve months or if you are coming to the States for a shorter period you can search for sublets which is basically subleasing from another person. Sublets can have lease for a few months up to a year. You also have the option to choose between a furnished and unfurnished apartment although unfurnished apartments can be a little challenging for first time international students.
Cost for Off campus accommodation is somewhere from $300 to $1000 per month depending on the location and how many people are sharing the apartment.
Homestays
Homestay is basically living with a host family which is a good way to get accustomed to the new culture and get to meet people. It also gives you an opportunity to improve your command on the local language. Most likely homestays offer furniture and have a separate washroom. The kitchen and living space are shared with the host family. You can opt for a meal service offered by the host family. Overall, it is a nice comfortable stay as most American families happily welcome international students but nonetheless you should be wise before choosing a homestay. Students opting for homestay accommodation might have to put in some time and money for their daily commute to the college unless you are lucky to find one nearby.
Cost for Homestays is somewhere between $400 to $800 per month.
Keep in mind that prices vary depending on the location, placement fee charged by the school/college and whether a meal plan (applicable for on campus and homestays) and utilities (applicable for on campus and off campus) are included or not.
Hope this article helped you understand the different accommodation options. Which one would you prefer and why? We would love to know in the comments below.
Also, don’t forget to check out our article on the 6 important factors you should consider before choosing an accommodation.
To easily find available accommodations make sure to download EDAPT app.
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