For international students coming to study in the United States, finding suitable and affordable housing can be a significant challenge. Shared housing, where multiple students live together in an apartment or house, has become an increasingly popular option. Here are five compelling reasons why shared housing is ideal for international students in the US:
1. Cost Savings
One of the most significant advantages of shared housing is the potential for substantial cost savings. By splitting rent and utilities with roommates, students can significantly reduce their living expenses.
Examples of cost savings in major US cities:
- New York City: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Manhattan is $3,731 per month[1]. By sharing a three-bedroom apartment, each student could pay around $1,500-$2,000 per month, potentially saving over $1,500 compared to living alone.
- Los Angeles: With an average one-bedroom apartment rent of $2,691, sharing a three-bedroom apartment could reduce individual costs to approximately $1,200-$1,500 per month.
- Chicago: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,917. Sharing a three-bedroom apartment could bring individual costs down to $800-$1,000 per month.
2. Cultural Exchange and Language Immersion
Shared housing provides an excellent opportunity for international students to immerse themselves in American culture and improve their English language skills.
Living with American students or other international students from diverse backgrounds allows for daily cultural exchanges. This exposure helps international students adapt more quickly to life in the US and enhances their overall study abroad experience.
3. Built-in Support System
Moving to a new country can be overwhelming. Shared housing offers a built-in support system, which is especially valuable for international students.
Roommates can help each other navigate challenges such as:
- Understanding local customs and norms
- Finding the best places to shop for groceries and other necessities
- Dealing with homesickness and culture shock
- Providing emotional support during stressful periods like exams
4. Expanded Social Network
Living in shared housing naturally expands an international student's social circle. Roommates often become friends and can introduce each other to their own social networks.
This expanded social network can lead to:
- More opportunities to practice English
- Invitations to social events and gatherings
- Potential academic or professional connections
- A richer, more diverse social life overall
5. Practical Life Skills Development
Shared housing provides an excellent opportunity for international students to develop essential life skills that will serve them well beyond their academic years.
These skills include:
- Budgeting and managing shared expenses
- Conflict resolution and compromise
- Time management and scheduling
- Household maintenance and cleaning
For example, in cities like Chicago, where the average monthly cost for utilities is $158, students in shared housing learn to manage and split these expenses efficiently.
In conclusion, shared housing offers numerous benefits for international students studying in the US. From significant cost savings in expensive cities like New York and Los Angeles to opportunities for cultural exchange and personal growth, shared housing can greatly enhance the study abroad experience. As you embark on your academic journey in the United States, consider the advantages of shared housing to make the most of your time as an international student.
