New York City isn't just a cultural capital; it’s an academic one, too. It has some of the world’s top-ranked universities, and it attracts thousands of international students each year. No matter if you're pursuing fine arts, business, engineering, or liberal studies, the city is full of universities that cover each and every field and have something for every kind of learner.

But once you've got your dream uni picked, there's another big decision to make: where are you going to live? Finding the right student accommodation in NYC can feel like a challenge, but with the right info (and a little help from Casita), it’s totally doable.

Below, we’ve rounded up the best universities in New York City, their global rankings and nearby housing options to help you plan your move.

New York University (NYU)

• QS Rankings 2025: #9

• THE World University Rankings 2025: #33

• Notable For: Business, Performing Arts, Social Sciences, and Law

New York University is one of the largest private universities in the United States. It was founded in 1831 and is located primarily in Greenwich Village, Manhattan. NYU is globally respected for its teaching methods, research excellence, and highly ranked programs across the arts, humanities, law, and business.

NYU students get to live in some of NYC’s coolest areas, like East Village, Greenwich Village, and even Williamsburg in Brooklyn, which are popular choices. Accommodation options near NYC include West Harlem, Central Harlem, Sunset Park and Bushwick. 

Columbia University

• QS World University Rankings 2025: #12

• THE World Reputation Rankings 2025: #18

• Notable For: Political Science, Journalism, Engineering, Business and Law 

Columbia University is an Ivy League icon in the historic Morningside Heights neighbourhood in Upper Manhattan. It is one of the most well-known universities in the world, and it was founded in 1754 as King’s College. The University has several campuses, Pulitzer Prize-winning faculty, and world-class programs. Columbia attracts ambitious students from all over the globe. 

When it comes to housing, nearby neighbourhoods like Harlem, Manhattanville, and Upper West Side are popular among students. You’ll find a mix of shared apartments, private studios, and en-suite rooms. Many students also opt for co-living spaces with flexible lease terms. Top Columbia University student housing include Crown Heights, Chelsea, Hamilton Heights, and Upper West Side.

The Juilliard School

• QS World University Rankings 2025 (Music): #6

• Known for: Music, Drama, and Dance

Juilliard isn’t just a school. It’s a dream for everyone serious about the performing arts. The school was founded in 1905, and it officially became known as The Juilliard School in 1946 after merging with another institution.

The school is super selective, as it accepts fewer than 1,000 students per year. Its alumni include legends like Yo-Yo Ma, Viola Davis, and Adam Driver. The training here is intense, hands-on and all about prepping you for the stage or screen like a pro.

First-years usually stay in the Rose Building (aka Juilliard’s own dorms), but once you level up, a lot of students dip into nearby areas like Hell’s Kitchen or the Upper West Side for private digs.

Juilliard students live right in the heart of NYC’s performing arts scene, with places like the Met Opera, NYC Ballet, and the Philharmonic just a short walk away. It’s the kind of location that keeps you surrounded by inspiration while you’re training to be part of that world.

International student housing in New York City near The Juilliard School includes Bedford-Stuyvesant, Lower East Side, Crown Heights, and  Chinatown.

Parsons School of Design (The New School)

• QS World University Rankings 2025 (Art & Design): #4

• Notable for: Fashion Design, Graphic Design, Interior Design, Product Design

Parsons School of Design, part of The New School, is widely recognised for its strength in art and design. It began in 1896 as the Chase School and took on the Parsons name in 1941. The campus sits in Manhattan’s Chelsea and Flatiron districts, which are neighbourhoods deeply connected to fashion, media, and the creative industries.

Parsons places a strong emphasis on design with purpose. Students are encouraged to tackle real-world problems through their creative work, from building sustainable fashion lines to designing inclusive, user-friendly products. The school regularly partners with external organisations, giving students the opportunity to apply their skills in real industry settings.

Many students choose to live nearby in neighbourhoods like NoHo, Chelsea, or Gramercy Park. These areas offer a range of housing, from modern co-living spaces to private studios, all within easy reach of campus buildings, workshops, and galleries. NYC off-campus housing options near Parsons School of Design include Gramercy, Flatbush, Astoria and SoHo.

City College of New York (CUNY - CCNY)

• Notable for: Engineering, Architecture, Liberal Arts, Education

The City College of New York, founded in 1847 as the Free Academy, was the first free public institution of higher education in the United States. Its mission was bold for its time: to offer rigorous academic training to anyone, regardless of background or income. Today, it remains a cornerstone of the CUNY system and continues to serve a diverse, ambitious student body. The campus sits in Hamilton Heights, a historic neighbourhood in Upper Manhattan, and is known for its striking neo-Gothic buildings, including the iconic Shepard Hall.

Students usually live in nearby neighbourhoods such as Washington Heights, Inwood, and Harlem. These areas are popular for their relatively affordable rent, cultural vibrancy, and easy access to campus via the subway. Housing options range from traditional walk-up apartments and shared flats to quieter homestay arrangements. Many students appreciate being part of communities with strong local character, just a short commute from their classes and labs.

Student apartments in NYC near CUNY - CCNY include Clinton Hill, Columbus Circle, Sunset Park, and Morningside Heights.

Baruch College (CUNY)

• Notable For: Finance, Accounting, Economics, Public Affairs, and Business Analytics

Baruch College is part of the City University of New York (CUNY) system. It is in Midtown Manhattan, and it was founded in 1919. It is consistently ranked as one of the best public colleges in the U.S. for business. The Zicklin School of Business is highly respected, especially in finance and accounting. It also offers students direct access to internships on Wall Street and in major multinational firms.

Due to its central location, Baruch students often live in areas like Kips Bay, Murray Hill, and the East Village. Student housing in New York near Baruch College includes Flatbush, Hamilton Heights, Greenpoint and East Village.

Fordham University

• Notable For: Business, Law, Political Science, Philosophy, and Liberal Arts

Fordham University is a private Jesuit research university. It has two main campuses in New York City: Rose Hill in the Bronx and Lincoln Centre in Manhattan. It was established in 1841 and is known for combining rigorous academics with a strong liberal arts foundation. The Gabelli School of Business and Fordham Law School are very well-regarded. They attract students interested in finance, ethics, international law, and public service.

Housing options vary by campus. Affordable student housing options in New York near Fordham University include Bedford-Stuyvesant, Kips Bay, and South Harlem.

Ready to Take On NYC?

So, you’ve got the facts, rankings, and housing tips and options. What’s next? No matter if you’re vibing with the arts at Juilliard, planning your finance empire at Baruch, or dreaming big at Columbia or NYU, one thing’s clear: studying in New York City hits different.

This city isn’t just where you’ll earn your degree. It’s where you’ll grow, hustle, and maybe get a little lost on the subway (don’t worry, we all do). But before the lectures and late-night bagels kick in, you’ve gotta sort where you’re living.

That’s where Casita has your back. We’ll help you find a place that feels like home. No drama, or hidden fees. Just solid options and 24/7 support.

NYC’s waiting! Pack your bags, get your housing sorted, and get ready to start your student life in one of the most iconic cities in the world. Let’s make it happen!