List of Cheapest Universities and States in USA for International Students

Introduction

One of the most well-liked locations for overseas students seeking academic success in a dynamic, multinational setting is the United States of America.

The number of international students who research in the USA and may also be studying in the United States during the 2021–2022 academic year was 948,519.

The primary factors influencing international students’ decision to study in the United States are the excellent educational system, a wide range of programs and institutions, a high standard of living, and job prospects.

The high expense of living in the USA’s top student cities, such New York and Los Angeles, can make it challenging for many students to pay for their education and have a pleasurable time while visiting.

Several reasonably priced American locations provide excellent education without breaking the bank.

This article will contrast some of the best colleges, average tuition costs, and average living expenditures of the most reasonably priced US towns for international students.

Most Affordable Cities for International Students in the USA

San Diego

For students who wish to pursue a top-notch education without going over budget, San Diego is among the most reasonably priced cities in the United States. Compared to other US cities like New York, Los Angeles, or San Francisco, San Diego offers a cheaper cost of living.

In San Diego, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,885. Students can reduce their commuting costs by taking advantage of the city’s numerous public transportation choices, which include trains, buses, and trolleys.

The beaches, parks, museums, and festivals in San Diego are free or inexpensive things for students to do and see.

In addition, The city offers diverse research students at a reasonable cost. Several of the world’s best universities, including the University of California, San Diego, San Diego State University, and the University of San Diego, are in the city.

Top Universities

• University of California, San Diego
• San Diego State University
• The University of San Diego.

Average Tuition Fees

• 19,637 USD

Average Monthly Rent

• 1,885 USD

Transportation Pass

• 72 USD

St Louis

Another reasonably priced American location for overseas students is St. Louis. It is a Missouri city with a thriving professional baseball and hockey scene and a rich history, culture, and entertainment.

Some top educational institutions, including the Maryville University of Saint Louis, Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis University, and the University of Missouri – St. Louis, are located in St. Louis.

St. Louis has substantially lower monthly rent than the country, with an average of 856 USD for a one-bedroom apartment. Students can also travel around the city for less money by taking public transportation, such as buses and light rail.

Living costs are cheaper in St. Louis than in other large American cities. St. Louis’s living conditions are 12.6% less than the national average.

Top Universities

• Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis
• , University of Missouri – St Louis.

Average Tuition Fees

• 27,777 USD

Average Monthly Rent

• 856 USD

Transportation Pass

• 78 USD

Philadelphia

One of the most significant locations for overseas students to study in the US and lead a luxurious yet affordable lifestyle in Philadelphia.

With cheaper living and tuition than many other well-liked locations, it has continuously been rated as one of the most affordable student cities in the US.

Philadelphia is the eighth most affordable city for students in the US, per a QS Best Student Cities survey. Philadelphia has a cheaper average annual tuition fee for international students than many other US cities, at 38,900 USD.

Depending on the student’s lifestyle and interests, the cost of living is also acceptable in Philadelphia. The availability of student amenities and services is another advantage of attending school in Philadelphia.

Top Universities

• University of Pennsylvania
• Temple University
• Drexel University
• Thomas Jefferson University.

Average Tuition Fees

• 38,900 USD

Average Monthly Rent

• 1,600 USD

Transportation Pass

• 96 USD

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Dallas

Every year, more international students come to Dallas, a dynamic and multicultural city in Texas.

Rent, tuition, and other living expenditures are included in the approximately 1,782 USD monthly cost of living for students in Dallas.

For out-of-state students, the average annual tuition at a public university in Texas is roughly 26,800 USD.

Although they can be more expensive, private universities provide qualified students with financial help and scholarships. Southern Methodist University, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, and the University of Dallas are a few of the best universities in Dallas.

Dallas also offers students various facilities and services to help their academic and personal growth.

Compared to other major US cities, Dallas offers a lower cost of living, with an average monthly rent of approximately USD 900 for a one-bedroom apartment.

Top Universities

• Southern Methodist University
• The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
• Dallas Baptist University.

Average Tuition Fees

• 24,900 USD

Average Monthly Rent

900 USD

Transportation Pass

• 96 USD

Houston

Houston is the largest city in Texas and the fourth largest in the US. More than 2.3 million people call it home, including more than 100,000 international students who attend the area’s schools and universities.

Houston is home to esteemed universities like Rice University and the University of Houston, a Tier One research university for international academics looking for a top-notch education.

Studying in Houston is now even more affordable because of these universities’ excellent academic programs, financial aid alternatives, and scholarship programs.

With a cheaper cost of living than many other large cities, it is also one of the most affordable places in the US for international students. In Houston, the typical monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is 1,106 USD.

Top Universities

• Rice University
• University of Houston

Average Tuition Fees

• 23,100 USD

Average Monthly Rent (Single Bedroom)

• 1106 USD

Transportation Costs

• 60 USD

Tips for International Students to Save Money in the United States

Apply to universities strategically.

You can save money when applying to several universities and colleges in the USA, as some do not charge an application fee.

Additionally, some universities provide international students with scholarships or in-state tuition rates, which can drastically lower your tuition expenses.

Work in school.

You can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and 40 hours per week during breaks on campus if you hold an F1 visa.

You can make some extra cash and obtain helpful work experience by doing this.

Set a budget and reduce wasteful spending.

It’s critical to monitor your spending patterns and make advance plans.

Apps and other resources are available to assist you in creating and adhering to a budget.

Aim to avoid impulsive buys and unnecessary spending like eating, getting new clothes, and having several streaming service subscriptions.

Stay off-campus.

While living on campus has certain benefits, it may also be expensive.

Off-campus housing choices like room sharing, rental, or host family accommodations may be less costly.

When deciding where to reside, you also need to consider safety and transportation costs, which are costly.

you can also work in USA after graduation

Conclusion

At Edify, a presidential award-winning consultancy, we are committed to empowering Pakistani students to pursue higher education abroad.

Our dedicated team of counsellors provides comprehensive support and guidance, assisting students at every stage of their study abroad journey.

FAQ’s

How can I study cheaply in the helpful USA?

If you want to study for less money in the USA, look into inexpensive universities that have reduced tuition costs.

You can also apply for scholarships and grants.

Can international students work part-time while studying in these states to help with their expenses?

There are plenty of options for part-time, entry-level jobs for international students at US universities and institutions.