Flats, rooms and residences near Columbia

Columbia University, also known simply as Columbia and located in New York City, is one of the oldest and most prestigious Ivy League institutions in the United States. It was founded in 1754 and is regularly ranked among the top universities in the world.

For exchange students, Columbia University offers an enriching and diverse educational experience, allowing you to work with renowned professors, access state-of-the-art facilities and participate in a large university community. It is also worth noting that about 20% of the student population is made up of international students! If you have the opportunity to be part of this multicultural community, we recommend that you read this article, in which we mention useful information to know if you want to find student housing near Columbia University easily and quickly.

Flats and rooms for students near Columbia

First we tell you where the campuses of the institution are located, so then you can choose among the most convenient neighborhoods to live near the one you are going to.

Where is Columbia University located?

Most of its facilities are located north of Manhattan. Here's what they are:

Morningside Heights Campus

The university's main campus is located in Morningside Heights, a neighborhood on Manhattan's Upper West Side. This beautiful urban campus encompasses approximately 36 acres and features a mix of iconic neoclassical and modern architecture.

Academically, it houses the university's undergraduate colleges, including Columbia College and the Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science, as well as several graduate schools and academic departments.

Other campuses of the institution

These are two other major complexes of the University:

• Irving Medical Center (CUIMC): located in the Washington Heights neighborhood of Upper Manhattan, it houses the university's College of Physicians and Surgeons, Mailman School of Public Health, College of Dental Medicine, and School of Nursing.

• Manhattanville Campus: it’s an expansion of the University, located in the Manhattanville neighborhood of West Harlem. It houses several schools and departments, including parts of the School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation, the School of International and Public Affairs, the Columbia Business School, the Data Science Institute, among others.

Best neighbourhoods to live near Columbia

The following are some of the most convenient neighborhoods to live in close proximity to the institution's campuses:

Morningside Heights

This neighborhood is home to the institution's Morningside Heights Campus, making it a favorite for those who go there to study. It offers a mix of residential buildings, academic buildings and local amenities such as restaurants, cafes and bookstores. It also has very good public transportation connections to the rest of Manhattan and is very close to Central Park.

Washington Heights

Located north of Morningside Heights, Washington Heights is ideal for commuters to the institution's Manhattanville Campus. It has a strong sense of community and is home to a diverse population. It offers more affordable housing options compared to other nearby neighborhoods. Washington Heights has a vibrant dining scene, beautiful parks and easy access to the Hudson River waterfront.

Harlem

Harlem offers a vibrant and culturally rich experience, convenient for both Morningside Heights Campus and Manhattanville Campus commuters. This neighborhood has undergone a major revitalization in recent years and is known for its lively music scene, historic landmarks and diverse dining options. Harlem offers a variety of student housing options and tends to be more affordable than neighborhoods located further south on the island.

Student residences near Columbia

In much of New York City you will find student residences where you can apply, and many of them are located near Columbia. One advantageous feature is that it’s in an area of the city that is a bit more affordable, so it’s probably easier to find a room or studio apartment in a residence that is ideal for you.

Erasmus at Columbia University

Here are some recommendations to get the most out of your exchange at the U.S. institution:

• The University has several traditions that can give you a deeper insight into the campus culture. For example, you can join the Homecoming festivities, which include a parade, parties and a soccer game. Participate in the Varsity Show, an annual student-produced musical that satirizes campus life and traditions. In addition, you'll be able to attend Bacchanal, a spring music festival, or the tree lighting ceremony during the Christmas holidays.

• It has a wide range of student organizations covering diverse interests, hobbies and cultural backgrounds. We recommend that you join clubs or student groups that match your passions, whether it's a cultural club, sports team, academic society or community service organization - this will make it easier for you to meet students with the same interests as you!

FAQ about Columbia University