Washington, DC is not only the political heart of the US — it's also a major hub for higher education with several highly prestigious colleges and universities dotted around the nation’s capital. 

If you’re looking for student housing in Washington DC, you’re in safe hands with Student.com. We offer various room types at different price points and locations across the city, simplifying the process of finding your dream student home.

Universities in Washington, D.C.

Washington D.C is home to over a dozen colleges and universities, giving prospective students plenty of options. From top-ranking universities to specialized colleges, there’s something for everyone.

Georgetown University

Founded in 1789, Georgetown University is one of the oldest universities in the US and consistently ranks among the top higher education institutions in the country. It offers a varied study program with notable courses in business, law and international relations.

The university is based in the historic Georgetown neighborhood, which is famed for its cobblestone streets and Federal-style architecture. It’s home to a vibrant campus life with over 350 clubs and organizations for students to take part in.

What separates Georgetown University from other highly rated institutions is the wealth of opportunities available to students when graduating: alumni often go on to secure high-paying jobs in areas ranging from Wall Street to the US Congress.

Interested in studying at the university? Check out our range of apartments near Georgetown University.

George Washington University

George Washington University is another highly popular and well-rated university with a multidisciplinary study program. Like Georgetown University, some of the best courses on offer are in law, business and international relations, as well as political science.

The campus is based in the riverside neighborhood of Foggy Bottom, just a stone’s throw from major landmarks like National Mall and the White House. The university’s central location puts it within easy reach of some of the best student housing in Washington DC.

Ready to enroll? Browse our list of apartments near George Washington University.

Howard University

Founded in 1867, Howard University is a historically black research university with several nationally ranked programs. The university has a strong reputation in the STEM fields, along with social studies, business and communications.

The main campus is located in the historic neighborhood of Shaw, just north of downtown, meaning there are plenty of options for student housing nearby for those looking to live off-campus.

Thinking about applying to the university? Explore our range of apartments near Howard University.

American University

Set in the leafy Spring Valley neighborhood in northwest DC, American University is a great option for students in search of a more relaxed, suburban campus experience while retaining close ties to downtown.

The university is well known for its School of International Service – which offers highly ranked programs in international relations – as well as the Washington College of Law and Kogod School of Business.

Considering the universities for your studies? Discover our apartments near American University.

Other universities

In addition to the larger institutions listed above, DC is also home to the Catholic University of America – which has highly rated courses in social work, nursing and architecture – as well as Gallaudet University, a leading institution for deaf and hard-of-hearing students.

Another option catering to international students is the International Language Institute, which offers comprehensive ESL classes, as well as foreign language programs in Arabic, Mandarin, Spanish, French and several other languages.

Things to do in Washington, D.C

From historic landmarks to a thriving arts scene, Washington DC offers countless activities for students to enjoy during their free time. No matter where you go, you’re bound to witness and feel a lively atmosphere. 

History

A captivating city sprawling with history and adventure, this vibrant city was founded as the nation’s capital – and its charm radiates at every step.

Every corner is monumental to the nation with historic landmarks like the National Mall, the White House, the Washington Monument and the US Capitol building all found here.

Take time to visit the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, a monument dedicated to the heroes and history of the nation, and gaze upon crowds of surrounding sculptures and waterfalls. 

Arts & culture

DC is a haven for arts and culture enthusiasts. The vast majority of the Smithsonian Institution’s 21 museums – including the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of African American History and Culture – are located in the city and free to the public.

Students can also explore local galleries in neighborhoods like Adams Morgan or attend live performances at venues like the Kennedy Center or Howard Theatre. For a unique cultural experience, visit the Hirshhorn Museum or the National Portrait Gallery. 

Food & drink

Washington DC’s food and drink scene is as dynamic and diverse as the city itself, offering an array of options that cater to every palate and budget. Students can take advantage of the many food trucks that often pop up near university campuses and the big-ticket landmarks.

For casual food lovers, the iconic Ben’s Chili Bowl is known far and wide for its half-smokes – smoked hot dogs made in equal parts of pork and beef. On the drinks front, DC also has a thriving craft beer scene with leading local breweries like DC Brau and Right Proper Brewing Company.

Nightlife

From pubs and college bars to nightclubs and live music venues, nightlife in Washington DC has a bit of everything. Adams Morgan and Dupont Circle are two hotspots for students, thanks in large part to the plethora of affordably priced venues.

For live music lovers, U Street Corridor has some great venues including Black Cat and the historic 9:30 Club. Comedy clubs like DC Improv are also popular and offer an alternative to a big night out.

Outdoors

The city’s vast swathes of outdoor space provide plenty of opportunity to relax and recharge. National Mall – America's most-visited national park – is an iconic spot that proves popular for picnics and jogging.

The waterfront is another scenic setting that’s best appreciated by walking along the 10-acre Georgetown Waterfront Park. Those with a penchant for watersports can rent a kayak or paddleboard for the day and travel down the Potomac River in style.

Best student neighborhoods in Washington, D.C.

From the bustle of downtown DC to quieter areas in the suburbs, the US capital is home to some amazing neighborhoods that students won’t have any trouble settling into.

Dupont Circle

One of the most popular student neighborhoods is Dupont Circle, which is located a short walk north of downtown. Not only does the neighborhood occupy a prime location, but it also boasts remarkable cafes, funky shops, chic restaurants and a buzzing nightlife scene.

Georgetown University, George Washington University and Howard University are all close by, with the neighborhood one of the main hotspots for student housing in Washington DC.

Foggy Bottom

Another outstanding and sought-after location is Foggy Bottom, a historic neighborhood with a dense urban feel and political significance as the home of the US Department of State.

It’s also home to George Washington University, making it an obvious choice for students at the university. However, its prime location means it’s generally on the more expensive side when compared to the rest of the city.

Navy Yard

If you’re looking for more affordable student housing that still offers good access to the main university campuses, Navy Yard is well worth considering. This rapidly developing neighborhood is situated in the southeast city along the Anacostia River.

This historic industrial area now plays host to trendy waterfront parks and eateries, as well as Nationals Park – home of the Washington Nationals baseball team. There’s plenty to do and see, while strong transport links make commuting easy.

Washington, D.C. cost of living

Living in Washington DC can be more expensive than in smaller cities, but it’s relatively affordable compared to other major hubs like New York or San Francisco. The average rent for a student apartment ranges from $1,200–$2,000 per month.

In terms of living costs, the city is again fairly affordable. There are lots of student-friendly options for dining, as well as plenty of free things to do, which can help keep costs down.

Free things to do in Washington, D.C.

One of the best things about DC is that many of its best attractions can be experienced for free. National Mall has dozens of unique monuments highlighting fascinating figures and events from American history.

Entry into the Smithsonian museums which flank the park is also free. Throughout the year, there are plenty of public events like the springtime Cherry Blossom Festival taking place in and around National Mall.

Public transport in Washington, D.C.

Getting around DC is easy thanks to the city’s extensive public transport network. It includes options for bus and rail travel, connecting all major neighborhoods and university campuses.

Metro

The go-to method of travel for most students, the metro consists of six color-coded lines and close to 100 stations. The main university campuses are generally only a short walk from the nearest station, while George Washington University has the luxury of its own station.

Bus

The metro system is complemented by a comprehensive bus network connecting DC’s central areas with the suburbs. Bus stops are positioned outside almost every metro station, making it easy to transfer from one service to another.

Frequently asked questions

How can I apply for student housing in Washington, D.C.?

Found the perfect student apartment in DC? Applying for the lease with Student.com is simple:

Choose your room – browse our properties and find a place that suits your needs. Our team of experts are on hand if you need some help!

Request to book – let us know which property you are interested in & our booking consultants will guide you through the next steps.

Sign your contract – once your contract is signed you will pay your rent.

Student.com does not charge you anything for our booking service: you’ll only need to pay the rent to your chosen landlord.

Learn more about how the booking process works here.

How much does student housing in Washington, D.C. cost?

The cost of renting a student apartment in Washington DC typically ranges from $1,200–$2,000 per month. You can find lower prices by searching in areas further away from downtown and by opting for shared accommodation.

What types of student housing are available in Washington, D.C.? 

The student apartments we list in DC are classed in one of three different room types:

Shared room – two or more people sleeping in separate beds in the same room. The living room, kitchen, and bathroom are all shared with other rooms.

Private room – additional facilities are also shared with other rooms, but you’ll have a private bedroom. In some properties, you can also have private rooms with a private bathroom.

Entire place – this is a fully self-contained property. This means you don’t have to share with anyone. Your bedroom, as well as living, cooking and bathing facilities, are exclusively for you.

What options are there for contract length?

Properties built for student housing typically have a 10-12 month minimum stay. Depending on availability, the properties may make exceptions and offer shorter terms as well. The shorter the lease term, the higher your monthly rental rates will typically be. Check with our team and we will work to find the best option for you!

What bills are included in the rent?

This depends on the property you select, so check the property you are interested in. Many of the properties we list have at least some bills and amenities included though.

Can you arrange a viewing for me?

If you’re in DC before you move in, we can arrange a viewing for you. We also offer virtual tours, and many of the properties we list have lots of good photos to give you an idea of what the property will look like, so even if you can’t see the property in person before moving in, you’ll still be able to get a good idea of what the place will be like.

What are the best student neighborhoods in Washington, D.C.?

Two of the most popular neighborhoods for student housing in Washington DC are Dupont Circle and Foggy Bottom, both of which are centrally located. If you’re willing to look further afield, Navy Yard is an up-and-coming area with more affordable options.

Do I need a visa to study in the US?

If you want to study in the US as a non-US citizen, you’ll need to obtain a student visa from a US embassy or consulate in your home country. For university or college study, you’ll need an F visa. Read more on the requirements and your eligibility here.

What if I didn’t get an answer to my question here?

If you have any other questions, you can check our FAQ page or contact one of our booking consultants by phone or via live chat. They are always happy to help!