Heading to the U.S. for university is an exciting milestone, but one of the biggest challenges for new students, especially international ones, is finding the right place to live. From budget and location to lease terms and amenities, every detail matters.
Whether you’re exploring College Station student apartments near Texas A&M University or modern apartments in Tempe near Arizona State University, this guide will help you make a smart, stress-free housing decision that fits your student lifestyle and budget.
1. Set a Realistic Budget
Before diving into apartment listings, it’s crucial to decide how much you can afford monthly. Your total living cost includes rent, utilities, groceries, transport, and leisure, not just the rent amount.
Average Monthly Rent in Popular U.S. Student Cities (2025):
| City | Shared Apartment | Private/Studio Apartment |
| College Station | $700 – $1,000 | $1,200 – $1,600 |
| Tempe | $800 – $1,200 | $1,400 – $2,000 |
| Austin | $900 – $1,300 | $1,500 – $2,200 |
| Chicago | $1,000 – $1,400 | $1,800 – $2,500 |
| Miami | $1,100 – $1,600 | $1,800 – $2,400 |
Tip: International students should prepare at least three months of savings before arrival to cover deposits, setup fees, or initial expenses.
2. Choose the Right Location
Location is everything when it comes to student housing. It affects your commute time, monthly expenses, and access to amenities.
Try to choose housing that is:
- Within 15–20 minutes of your university (by foot, bike, or bus).
- Close to public transport and grocery stores.
- Safe and well-lit at night.
If you’re attending Texas A&M University, the city of College Station offers a range of affordable student housing options within walking distance to campus. Similarly, apartments in Tempe are ideal for students of Arizona State University, they combine convenience with a fun, youthful community vibe.
3. Check for Essential Amenities
Modern student apartments offer more than just a roof over your head. But not all amenities are worth paying extra for.
Must-Have Amenities:
- Fast Wi-Fi and study lounges
- Secure entry systems and CCTV
- Furnished rooms with utilities included
- On-site laundry and maintenance
Nice-to-Have Amenities:
- Gym or yoga studio
- Rooftop lounge or pool
- Game or cinema room
- Shuttle service to campus
For international students: Choose fully furnished apartments to avoid furniture expenses and moving hassles.
4. Understand the Lease Terms
Before signing anything, carefully read your lease agreement. U.S. rental contracts can vary by state and property.
Key things to check:
- Lease duration: 6, 9, or 12 months
- Deposit amount and refund terms
- Included utilities: Internet, electricity, water, etc.
- Subletting rules in case you plan to travel or study abroad
Some landlords may require a U.S. guarantor if you don’t have a local credit history. If you’re an international student, look for properties that offer no-guarantor leasing options or accept advance payments instead.
5. Evaluate the Neighbourhood and Community
Where you live has a big impact on your well-being and study-life balance. Student-friendly neighbourhoods offer safety, good transport, and vibrant social scenes.
For example:
- College Station student apartments often come with strong community vibes, study lounges, and social events that help you make friends easily.
- Apartments in Tempe near ASU are surrounded by coffee shops, fitness centres, and entertainment spots, perfect for balancing study and leisure.
Tip: Use student forums, Reddit, or Facebook groups to get honest feedback about the area and potential roommates.
6. Start Searching Early
Don’t wait until the last minute. The best student apartments are usually booked months in advance, especially near top universities.
Start looking at least 3–6 months before your semester begins. Use verified platforms to explore listings, filter by budget, and take virtual tours from abroad.
Booking early often means lower rent, better locations, and more housing options.
7. Calculate the Total Living Cost
Rent isn’t the only cost you’ll face. Always factor in additional monthly expenses such as:
- Utilities: $100–$200
- Groceries: $200–$400
- Public Transport/Car: $50–$150
- Personal Expenses: $100–$250
Tip: Many student apartments offer inclusive rent packages that cover Wi-Fi, utilities, and parking, making budgeting much simpler.
8. Extra Tips for International Students
Moving to a new country can be overwhelming, but these small steps can make it easier:
- Apply for housing before arriving in the U.S.
- Check if your apartment meets visa proof of accommodation requirements.
- Get renter’s insurance to protect your belongings.
- Open a U.S. bank account for easy rent payments.
- Buy a local SIM card for communication and emergency use.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right student apartment in the U.S. can feel challenging, but with research, planning, and a clear budget, it’s absolutely manageable.
If you value affordability and community, College Station student apartments are a great choice near Texas A&M. If you prefer a vibrant, resort-style environment, apartments in Tempe offer a balance of comfort, amenities, and student life near ASU.
At the end of the day, your student housing should feel like home, a place where you can study, relax, and create memories that last a lifetime.
How can amber help you?
amber helps you secure ideal student accommodation on your study abroad journey. Having served 80 million students (and counting), amber is your one-stop shop for all your accommodation needs. Download the amber app from the Google Play Store or App Store to book an affordable home for your adventure.
About author
Bhavna.S is a storyteller at heart who loves weaving words into engaging narratives. When not writing, she can be found sipping chai while lost in a book, taking long walks to clear her mind, or planning her next travel adventure – only to end up binge-watching a documentary instead.
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