Finding Accommodation in New York City: A Guide for International Students

3 min readJul 20, 2024

As an international student, I understand the challenges of searching for accommodation in a new city. The process can be daunting, especially when you’re unfamiliar with local rental requirements. To help fellow students, I’ve conducted extensive online research and compiled a list of housing options in New York City that cater specifically to international students.

This list is based solely on information available online and is not affiliated with any of the providers mentioned.

I felt the need to create this guide to make your transition smoother and help you find a suitable place to live without the stress. Whether you’re concerned about not having a Social Security Number or credit history, this guide includes options that understand and accommodate these common challenges. Each option provides unique advantages, and I hope this resource assists you in finding a comfortable and convenient place to stay in New York City.

Here is a detailed overview of recommended housing options for international students in New York City:

1. International House (I-House)

Website: https://www.ihouse-nyc.org
Pros: Diverse community, extensive cultural programs, supportive environment
Cons: Limited to graduate students and young professionals
Details: I-House offers housing for graduate students and young professionals, providing a culturally rich and supportive environment.
Rating/Reviews: Highly positive

2. EHS Educational Housing Services

Website: https://www.studenthousing.org
Pros: All-inclusive rent, prime locations, supportive community
Cons: Higher cost for central locations
Details: EHS provides secure, fully furnished student housing with a variety of amenities and flexible lease terms.
Rating/Reviews: Highly positive

3. FOUND Study

Website: https://www.foundstudy.com
Pros: Fully furnished, central locations, high-speed internet, on-site laundry
Cons: Requires credit and background checks
Details: FOUND Study offers off-campus housing for students and interns with communal amenities, promoting a comfortable living environment in Midtown East and other prime locations.
Rating/Reviews: Generally positive

4. Amber Student

Website: https://www.amberstudent.com
Pros: Wide range of options, detailed guides, flexible leases
Cons: Verification needed to avoid scams
Details: Amber Student offers various types of international student housing, from shared apartments to dormitories, and provides resources to help students navigate the rental process.
Rating/Reviews: Positive

5. Casita

Website: https://www.casita.com
Pros: Multiple housing options, affordable shared apartments
Cons: Limited availability in high-demand areas
Details: Casita offers student accommodations in neighborhoods such as Gramercy Park, Queens, and Brooklyn, with a mix of private and shared housing options.
Rating/Reviews: Positive

6. Student Housing Works

Website: https://www.studenthousingworks.com
Pros: All-inclusive rent, flexible dates, fully furnished
Cons: Limited to specific neighborhoods
Details: Student Housing Works provides safe, secure, and fully furnished student housing in prime NYC locations with a simple online payment system.
Rating/Reviews: Positive

7. Harrington Housing

Website: https://www.harringtonhousing.com
Pros: Affordable luxury, central locations, fully furnished
Cons: Primarily short-term leases
Details: Harrington Housing offers affordable, luxury student housing in downtown Manhattan, suitable for students from universities like Pace and Columbia.
Rating/Reviews: Positive

8. The Guarantors

Website: https://www.theguarantors.com
Pros: Helpful for those without US credit history, streamlines rental process
Cons: Additional costs for guarantor service
Details: The Guarantors act as a guarantor for international students, which can help secure housing without needing a US credit score.
Rating/Reviews: Generally positive

9. June Homes

Website: https://www.junehomes.com
Pros: Clean, well-furnished apartments, seamless application process, convenient locations
Cons: Reports of pests, slow response to maintenance issues, misleading room representations
Details: June Homes offers flexible leases and fully furnished apartments with a streamlined rental process, although some issues have been reported by users.
Rating/Reviews: Mixed

By sharing this information, I hope to ease the process of finding accommodation for new international students in New York City. Each option has its unique benefits and potential drawbacks, so be sure to consider your specific needs and preferences when making your decision.

Feel free to connect with me and ask questions.