“In real estate, you make 10% of your money because you’re a genius and 90% because you catch a great wave.”

Jeff Greene

Navigating the real estate market as a student can be a challenging yet essential aspect of the college experience. In the United States, several cities are particularly popular among students due to their reputable educational institutions, vibrant student communities, and an array of housing options. Whether you are to join professional research paper writers in your career path or obtain any other qualification in a college or university, you are definitely interested in finding a place for a comfortable and bright student life. Check out top cities for students across the USA and the real estate options they offer. Plus, consider the accounting tips for affordable living conditions at any place you prefer.

Boston, Massachusetts

The great city is home to renowned universities like Harvard, MIT, and Boston University. Although not that easy to apply for and get your place to get educated there, Boston is worth studying and living in. Boston is also known for its historic and academic atmosphere only adding to its benefits.

You can opt for on-campus housing at Harvard, MIT, and Boston University. Or choose areas like Allston, Brighton, and Cambridge offer many rental apartments. Shared houses are available in neighborhoods like Jamaica Plain and Somerville.

Accounting tips: Dormitory fees are usually paid per semester and can be included in the financial aid package. For off-campus variants track monthly rent, utilities, and potential lease-related expenses such as deposits or broker fees.

New York City, New York

The Big Apple hosts prestigious institutions such as New York University and Columbia University making it one of the top beloved student’s choices. New York also offers vast cultural and professional opportunities.

NYU and Columbia provide extensive on-campus housing for their students. But you can try out more independent life and rent apartments in areas such as Brooklyn, Queens, and the East Village on your own. Or save some money with co-living spaces which are common in neighborhoods like Harlem and the Upper West Side.

Accounting tips: Mind that NYC rentals often require a significant security deposit and first/last month’s rent upfront.

Los Angeles, California

LA is a popular place for a living among students since it contains major universities like UCLA and USC. The city offers a mix of urban and beach lifestyles, with numerous entertainment industry connections.

UCLA and USC propose comprehensive on-campus housing options. Apartments to rent can be found in Westwood, Downtown LA, and Koreatown. Many students live in shared apartments or houses in areas like Westwood Village and Silver Lake.

Accounting tips: For off-campus variants budget for rent, transportation, and higher living costs in LA. If you choose to share apartments or houses as a lower budget option, keep track of shared expenses and establish a system for collecting and paying shared bills.

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is home to the University of Chicago and Northwestern University. The place is known and cherished for its diverse neighborhoods and vibrant arts scene.

Campus housing can be found at both universities. You can rent apartments in popular neighborhoods like Hyde Park, Evanston, and Lincoln Park. Or go for student co-ops in areas like Rogers Park.

Accounting tips: Be aware of seasonal rental price fluctuations and negotiate lease terms accordingly. Co-op living can be more affordable, but ensure a clear understanding of all shared financial responsibilities.

San Francisco Bay Area, California

If you want to study and live in the San Francisco Bay Area, you can apply to Stanford University and UC Berkeley. Another perk to choosing this place for living and studying is that it is a hub for tech innovation and entrepreneurial ventures making it a perfect place for startups and great inventions even for students.

You can live on campus of the named universities or rent apartments in the areas like Berkeley, Palo Alto, and San Francisco. The wallet-friendly options are co-living spaces in tech-friendly areas such as Oakland and Mountain View.

Accounting tips: Incorporate on-campus living costs into your overall educational expenses for loan considerations. High rent in the Bay Area means budgeting for rent should be a top priority.

Austin, Texas

University of Texas at Austin is a major draw. Additionally, the city attracts young people with its music scene, tech industry, and vibrant nightlife.

The easiest option to settle down here while studying is on-campus housing. For off-campus apartments consider areas like West Campus, North Campus, and Riverside. Shared houses are popular in neighborhoods such as Hyde Park and South Austin.

Accounting tips: Include dorm fees in your semester budget and utilize financial aid if available. With off-campus options monthly rent is generally lower than in other major cities, but utilities and transportation costs should be considered.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia is a must-live-in for students because of its great places of study like the University of Pennsylvania and Temple University. Moreover, the city is rich in American history and cultural institutions.

You can consider dormitories at both universities as housing options. Private rentals can be found in areas like University City, Center City, and Northern Liberties. Shared apartments or houses are available for co-rent in neighborhoods like Fishtown.

Accounting tips: For dormitory residents housing fees can often be paid in installments aligning with tuition payments. For co-living options set up a joint account for shared expenses to streamline payments and reimbursements.

Washington, D.C.

The capital city is home to Georgetown University, George Washington University, and American University. It offers numerous internship and job opportunities in politics and international relations.

All the named universities have campus dorms to live in. Off-campus apartments can be rented in areas such as Georgetown, Foggy Bottom, and Adams Morgan. Meanwhile, shared housing options are more common in neighborhoods like Dupont Circle and Capitol Hill.

Accounting tips: Dorms are the top-recommended options since dorm costs are stable and can be planned as part of educational expenses. In contrast, rent in D.C. can be high; ensure to budget for all related costs, including transportation.

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Students choosing to live in Ann Arbor are primarily driven by the University of Michigan. The place is also known for its college town atmosphere and strong academic focus.

The university provides dormitories for its students to live in. But you can also rent apartments in Central Ann Arbor and near Kerrytown. Shared houses for a co-rent can be often found in student-centric areas like Old West Side.

Accounting tips: For off-campus options track monthly rent, utilities, and consider purchasing renter’s insurance.

Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta is home to institutions like Georgia Tech and Emory University. The city is known for its diverse population and growing tech industry.

Georgia Tech and Emory offer dormitory options. But you can also rent off-campus apartments which are popular in Midtown, Decatur, and Buckhead. Or cut down your living expenses with shared apartments in student-friendly neighborhoods like Virginia-Highland.

Accounting tips: On-campus housing fees can be included in tuition payment plans. Factor in transportation costs when living off-campus.

Conclusion

Choosing the right place to live is a pivotal decision for students, significantly impacting their overall college experience. Each city offers a diverse range of housing options, from on-campus dormitories and off-campus apartments to shared living spaces, catering to various preferences and budgets.

Understanding the financial aspects, such as budgeting for rent, utilities, and other expenses, is essential for maintaining financial health during college years. By leveraging the detailed information and accounting tips provided, students can make informed decisions about their housing arrangements in these popular student cities.

Exploit the top student cities recommended list to choose the most suitable place to study and live at. Consider different living options in a preferred city and mind accounting tips to protect your student budget and enjoy your student life in full.