Best Student Housing in Philadelphia, PA 2025-26

Finding the best student housing in Philadelphia is easier than ever with University Living, a trusted global student accommodation platform designed to simplify your housing search. Whether you're studying at the University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University, Temple University, or any other institution, University Living offers a wide range of verified, fully furnished student accommodations near major campuses. From modern studios to shared apartments, each property is equipped with essential amenities like high-speed internet, study spaces, and 24/7 security. Philadelphia ranks 64th from last year in QS Best Cities Rankings based on indicators of quality of education and good performance. It is the largest town college in the USA, having 120,000 uni students within the city and about 300,000 in the cosmopolitan area. So, if you plan to study here, you can easily find student housing Philadelphia. And, with University Living's help, you will get all the assistance you need to find accommodation anywhere in the city.

Many types of student droms are listed on our website, ranging from studios, suites, en-suites, private apartments, and shared apartments. You can filter and search the accommodations based on your preferred location, budget, occupancy type, and other personal preferences.

The student residence Philadelphia are located in the best student area in Philadelphia. They are safe, secure, and stand apart from traditional accommodations. Student housing Philadelphia provides a bed, fully-fitted kitchen, bathroom, wardrobe, study table & chair, etc. Whether you choose to stay in a private student apartments Philadelphia or share student accommodation, they come with all-inclusive utility bills.

Book early and find the best & cheapest student living in Philadelphia by contacting our experts now!

There are many student rentals in Philadelphia for international students. Below is a list of the student accommodation you can find in and around the city. Before choosing an accommodation, checking certain factors like location, safety, price, and amenities is important. They are crucial and will enhance your living experience as a student.

Student Housing

They are an ideal off-campus housing Philadelphia located in the prime area and near the universities, restaurants, markets, and hospitals. They offer a wide range of fully furnished student rooms in Philadelphia.

University Halls

These on-campus residence halls provide accommodation for students looking to stay within or close to the university campus.

Philadelphia is a student-friendly and historic city where it's played an important role in shaping the historical and political structure of the country. Besides its history, it is an international student destination, welcoming many students to study at its universities from all over the world.It is home to an Ivy League member, The University of Pennsylvania, a prestigious university with a high ranking among the top universities in the world.

Students come to study in Philadelphia because of the education system, favorable climate, accessibility, and livability, and it offers a multicultural student vibe. The colleges in the city are well-known for their innovation in the health and finance sector. This makes it a more favorable factor for students to consider studying in Philadelphia as job opportunities are available after completing studies at the Pennsylvanian universities.

Philadelphia is a big city, no doubt, but it has the elements of a small town; it is more relaxing yet vibrant in terms of fun, culture, and entertainment. It has more than 150 recreational centers and 150 parks to provide green and healthy living and high quality of life for the residents.

Facts of Philadelphia

1. Philadelphia is named the "Mural Capital of the World"
2. Philadelphia has the oldest residing road in the world
3. It is a place to go and watch Einstein's brain
4. The first business in Philadelphia was the beer business
5. Philadelphia had the 1st electronic computer

1. University City
   It is in West Philadelphia, located 2.7 miles from the city center. This is a student hub, and you will find many student housing in this area as it is home to the University City campus of Saint Joseph's University and Drexel University.
2. Temple
   It is an affordable neighborhood in North Philadelphia if you do not want to stretch your budget. Temple University is located here, only 1.7 miles from the city center. There are many student accommodations here with access to transportation and social amenities.
3. BreweryTown
   It is an upcoming neighborhood just north of the Art Museum area, which makes it an ideal place to live in Philadelphia. For one, it offers cheap rental in student housing, and the other is cheap eats and beer! It has a good mix of students and working crowd.
4. Old City
   This is a cool area if you are an old school who wants to enjoy the old historic cobblestones and historic sites. It is also only 1.0 miles from the city center, offering lively nightlife, restaurants, bars, and pubs. You can also find reasonable student accommodation in the area.
5. Northern Liberties
   It is a hipster neighborhood with art galleries, unique shops, great food, and low rental costs. It is only 2 miles from the city, making it an accessible area to get to universities, restaurants, bars, shops, etc.

The cost of living in Philadelphia varies depending on lifestyle, accommodation choices, and personal habits. On average, students should budget between $1,500–$2,400 per month to cover essential expenses while studying in the city.

As for food, it will depend on your eating and spending habits. If you eat outside, your spending will be more than paying for your groceries $108/month. Eating in a mid-range restaurant will cost $30 per person while eating at local eateries will cost less. For a detailed breakdown of expenses, you can check out this guide on the cost of living in Philadelphia .

Breakdown of Student Expenses in Philadelphia:

1. Tuition Fees: $20,000 – $50,000 per year, depending on the program and university.
2. Rent for Student Housing: $800 – $1,400 per month, based on location, whether it's on-campus or private housing.
3. Food & Groceries: $300 – $600 per month; cooking at home is typically more economical than dining out.
4. Utilities (Gas, Electricity, Water): $100 – $200 per month; some student apartments include these in the rent.
5. Internet & Mobile Phone: $80 – $150 per month.
6. Dining Out: $150 – $300 per month, depending on how often and where students eat.
7. Laundry: $30 – $60 per month; may vary based on housing facilities.
8. Books & Supplies: $70 – $150 per month, depending on the course.
9. Clothing & Shopping: Around $100 – $200 per month.
10. Transport Costs: $90 – $150 per month; SEPTA offers discounted transit passes for students.

How Can Students Save on Living Costs in Philadelphia?

There are several ways students can manage their budget more effectively. Living with roommates or choosing student housing near campus can help reduce rent and transport costs. Preparing meals at home instead of relying on takeout can cut food expenses significantly. Students should also take advantage of discounts on public transportation, shopping, and entertainment. Using student ID cards and exploring local deals can go a long way in keeping monthly expenses manageable.

Philadelphia has been named as the walkable city in the US. SEPTA public transportation networks like the Bus, Rail system, and the Subway will get you places in Philadelphia. Public transportation is one of the most cost-efficient, cheap, and fast modes of city travel.

Buses

The buses in Philadelphia serve many neighborhoods and more locations throughout the country's five regions. A bus fare ticket will cost $2.

Regional Rail

The rail will take you to surrounding areas and to known destinations like Manayunk, East Falls, Swarthmore, Chestnut HillArdmore’s Suburban Square, Mt. Airy, Villanova, Doylestown, and Downingtown.

Philadelphia Discount Cards For Students

The Student Fare Card is a smart travel card that students can avail of to get a lower fare on traveling on all modes of public transportation.

The Liberty Bell

It was previously known as State House Bell or Old State House Bell. It is a historical symbol of America's Independence. It stands across the Independence halls where the U.S. Constitution and Declaration of Independence were signed.

Rocky Statue

This is a famous statue landmark of the fictional Rocky Balboa. Because of the 72 steps leading the Philadelphia Art Museum, it's now known as the Rocky Steps. It is a famous photography spot for tourists.

Love Park

The Love Park is located in the city's heart to remind people of the brotherly city's motto. It is a great place to hang around and have iconic pictures with friends.

City Hall

The building has a great architectural structure depicting continents, seasons, allegorical heads, figures and masks. Up until 1987, it was the tallest building in Philadelphia.