Finding housing as an international student is one of the most important steps when planning to study abroad. Many students arriving in the United States need to decide between sharing an apartment, living with a host family, or finding independent accommodation.

The good news is that there are several options for international student housing, and understanding them helps you choose the best option according to budget, lifestyle, and course duration.

In this guide, you will learn how to find housing as an international student, the main options available, and how to avoid problems when renting a place to live.

1️⃣ Sharing an Apartment with Other Students

One of the most common options for students going abroad is sharing an apartment with other international or local students. This option is usually more affordable and also allows you to build a social network from day one.

Lumos students can also share rooms that become available in their accommodations through the notice boards distributed by the school, as well as through our student portal.

Before signing any agreement, always check:

• If there is a rental contract
• Which utilities are included (internet, electricity, water)
• Apartment rules
• Amount of the security deposit

This is a very popular choice for students in English programs or long-term courses in the United States.

2️⃣ Homestay with a Local Family

Another popular option is a homestay, which means living with a local family.

This type of accommodation offers a highly immersive cultural experience and is especially useful for students learning English.

Benefits include:

• Daily English practice
• Direct exposure to American culture
• Family environment
• In some cases, meals included

For students who want to develop language fluency faster, homestay can be an excellent choice.

👉 Learn more about Lumos’s intensive English program:
https://lumos.edu/intensive/

3️⃣ How to Search for Housing Before Traveling

There are many platforms that help students find housing even before arriving in the country.

Planning ahead is crucial to avoid problems and ensure a safe place to live.

Important tips include:

• Research neighborhoods near your school
• Check distance to public transportation
• Read reviews from other users
• Avoid paying upfront without a contract

The U.S. government recommends that international students always look for verified or trusted accommodations.

👉 More information for international students:
https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/

4️⃣ Trusted Websites to Find Housing

There are several platforms widely used by students to search for apartments and rooms for rent in the United States.

Popular options include:

Facebook Marketplace
Many students find roommates and apartments through local groups and listings on Facebook.
👉 https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/

Zillow
One of the largest real estate platforms in the U.S., used to find apartments, houses, and rooms for rent.
👉 https://www.zillow.com/

Apartments.com
A popular site to search for apartments in different U.S. cities, with filters for price, location, and type of property.
👉 https://www.apartments.com/

Always check reviews, communicate with the landlord, and confirm all information before signing any agreement.

5️⃣ Average Housing Costs

The cost of housing for international students in the U.S. can vary greatly depending on the city.

On average, students can spend:

• $500 to $900 per month sharing an apartment
• $800 to $1,200 per month in a homestay
• Higher amounts in high-cost cities

Cities like New York, Los Angeles, or San Francisco tend to have higher rents, while smaller cities often offer more affordable options.

6️⃣ Some Universities Offer Student Housing

Some U.S. universities provide on-campus housing, also known as student housing or dormitories.

Benefits include:

• Proximity to classes
• Living with other students
• Facilities designed for academic life

However, many international students in English programs or independent courses choose shared apartments or homestay, which are more flexible options.

7️⃣ Tips to Avoid Problems When Renting

Some precautions help avoid issues when looking for housing as an international student:

• Written rental contract
• Amount of security deposit
• Cancellation rules
• Additional costs included in rent

Avoid sending money without verifying the legitimacy of the landlord or platform.

EXTRA | Housing Is Part of the International Experience

Studying abroad goes far beyond the classroom. Choosing the right housing for international students directly affects cultural adaptation, daily routine, and even language learning.

Selecting a safe and comfortable environment can make the entire study abroad experience much more positive.

Studying Abroad Starts with Planning

Planning housing as an international student is one of the first steps to a smooth experience abroad.

At Lumos Language School, students receive guidance on courses, adapting to life in the U.S., and preparing for international academic life.

👉 Learn more about studying English at Lumos:
https://lumos.edu/

LUMOS LANGUAGE SCHOOL

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E-mail: info@lumos.edu