Best Cities in USA for International Students 2024 – According to the Ministry of External Affairs, data research presented that around 260000 Indian Students went abroad in 2020-21. And one could observe that this was a reduced number as compared to 2019. You can easily find that Indians are crazy to study abroad and students are mainly focusing to choose USA as their favourite study destination. USA is popular because of its marvellous infrastructure, quality of education, and job opportunities. In USA, you can also find cities that are very affordable, especially for Indian students.
Therefore, in this blog post, we are going to discuss the 10 cheapest cities to study in USA for Indian Students. Firstly, let’s look at the reasons why USA is best for study abroad.
Why USA is Best for Study Abroad
Flexibility in Education System
American Universities and colleges offer multiple courses and programs. Here you can select the course and its structure especially for undergraduates, you have the option to select your course before you get your major by the end of the second year. By the second year, you get enough time to look after your interests which eventually helps in selecting the major subjects. Similarly, for graduate students, you can choose their area of interest and gradually work on the dissertation.
Academic Excellence
US has high academic excellence because its Universities rank consistently at the world university rank because as per the QS world rankings, 33 out of the top 100 universities are from US.
Diverse Culture
It is well known that students across the globe come every year to US and this creates a diverse environment and culture which brings you a family from far away. You can celebrate festivals and laugh together, later in your college days your friends become like your family and these moments you would cherish for life.
Great Campus Life
When it comes to the US Universities’ campus life then you are assured to get a great and vibrant campus life because of the high class infrastructure, top-class facilities, and every year you can participate in various cultural fest that will make you closer to the American culture.
Plenty of Job prospects
The well known Silicon Valley is a dream for so many students in the world and working there will make you go a great career success. At your University, you will find companies coming for campus placement and picking the newly grown talents. Once you have bagged into any of the great Multinational companies, you will be assured to touch success in America or even return to your home country.
10 Affordable States to Study in the USA for International Students in 2024
Below is the list of Best Cities in USA for International Students in 2024
Phoenix
Phoenix is a city in the state of Arizona in the US and it is popularly called the “Valley of Sun”. with pleasant weather all year long. Half of the universities and colleges in Arizona is been located in Phoenix, including Arizona State University which has one of the most undergraduate populations in the country.
As a student, you can experience wonderful places in Pheonix like going on world class sporting events, and exploring Native American Culture, or you might visit an instrumental museum.
In short, you won’t be getting bored staying in Phoenix because you will be involved in several activities and enjoy your time.
Cost of Living
The cost of living for international students in Phoenix is $1415 and for one person living alone, it’s $951. The rental cost totally depends on the specific area of Phoenix, however, the average cost will be somewhere around $1400 to $1600.
List of Universities in Phoenix
- Arizona State University
- Arizona Christian University
- Grand Canyon University
- University of Phoenix
- University of Advanced Technology
New York
New York City is the capital of culture, innovation, and creativity, the global financial centre of US. New York has over 400 colleges and universities which are providing the best educational opportunities in all the popular areas of interest.
Being in New York you can experience unlimited entertainment through various art performances or just enjoy doing your hobby and interests. As an international student, you will have your weekend open for the wanderlust you want to do. You can even explore the public parks in New York which are the best place to hang out with your friends, read a book, or might meet strangers.
Cost of living
The average cost of living for international students in New York is $1000 to $1500 and usually, the price mentioned includes the major facilities such as food, travelling, accommodation, tuition fees, clothing, and lifestyle.
List of Universities in New York
- New York University
- Columbia University
- Pace University
- Hunter College
- New York Film Academy
- New York Institute of Technology
- Queens Colleges of the City of the New York
- St Francis College
- City College New York
- Berkeley College – New York City
- Hilbert Collge Global
- Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT)
- LIM College
Chicago
Chicago is located in the midwest region of US and is the third largest city in the US with 2.7 million of population. The most exciting thing about the city is the stunning architecture, museums, food, and diverse culture. The tourist attraction in Chicago is Willis Tower which is the second tallest building in US.
For those who love sports, Chicago has several professional sports teams and the city is well connected with public transportation including the L trains and buses which makes it easier for students to travel around.
Cost of Living
The average cost of living in Chicago is higher than the other states and cities however it offers great job opportunities, for students. The average rent in Chicago is $1500 per month.
List of Universities in Chicago
- Concordia University, Chicago
- DePaul University – Lincoln Park Campus
- DePaul University – Loop Campus
- University of Illinois at Chicago
- Northeastern Illinois University
Boston
Boston is located in the northeastern region of US. It is part of the original thirteen colonies that founded the US which is why it is rich in culture, and history and holds a powerful academic foundation for students who want to study in US.
This place is the birthplace of the American Revolution and similarly, it has world-class biotechnology, health care, finance, education and tourism.
Cost of Living
The average cost of living in Boston is $1000 to $2000 depending on the facilities the apartments are offering.
List of Universities in Boston
- Northeastern University-Boston
- Northeastern University-D’Amore-McKim School of Business
- Suffolk University
- University of Massachusetts Boston
- Simmons University of Newcastle Pathway College
California
California state is located on the west coast of US and is one of the most populous states in the country. With its diverse geography and the coastline stretching over 840 miles whereas the landscape ranges from mountains to fertile valleys to deserts.
California has become the hub for innovation and new stream technology where Silicon Valley is known as home to the world’s leading technologies.
Cost of Living
The average cost of living depends on the city that you live in. For example, one bed apartment costs $3000 per month and in Los Angeles, it costs around $1500-$2500 inclusive of all the amenities.
List of Universities in California
- California State University, Bakersfield
- California State University, San Bernardino
- University of California, Santa Cruz – Silicon Valley Extension
- California State University of East Bay
- California State University of Monterey Bay
- California State University of Sonoma
- Marymount California University
- University of California Irvine
- University of California, Riverside IEP
- California Lutheran University
- Foothill De Anza Colleges
South Carolina
Located in the southeastern region of the US, South Carolina is the 40th largest state by area and the 23rd most populous state in US. It is well known for its natural beauty such as beaches and vibrant city views.
The state has popular cities like Charleston and Greenville, Spartanburg, and Myrtle Beach. Also, the state is home to well known tourist attractions including the Fort Sumter National Monument, etc.
North Carolina has a diverse economy that includes farming, healthcare, finances, manufacturing and technology. It is the capital city to produce textiles, paper products, and chemicals and is also well known attraction for tourists.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in North Carolina is affordable which is lower than the national average. Therefore, the average one bedroom apartment in Charleston ranges from $1600 per month and on the other hand Columbia ranges from $800 to $1200 per month. These costs are inclusive of transportation, and other amenities.
List of University in South Carolina
- University of South Carolina
Texas
Texas is the second largest state in terms of both area and population in US and is located in the southeastern region of the country. Texas is rich in diverse culture, wide open spaces, and southern hospitality.
The state has a robust economy including energy, technology, manufacturing, and healthcare. Texas is a great producer of oil, and gas as well as holds significant power in the agricultural sector including cotton production, cattle rearing, and dairy production.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Texas is comparatively lower than the national average. A one bedroom apartment in Houston (city in Texas) is around $1000 per month, whereas in Dallas in between $900 to $1500.
List of Universities in Texas
- Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi
Mississippi
Mississippi is a state located in the southeastern region of the US and the fun part lies in the state’s name which often is misspelt or used in the permutations and combinations of subjects. Jokes apart!
Mississippi is a beautiful place as it is rich in history, southern hospitality and natural beauty scenery. The state is the center of attraction to most amazing places such as Elvis Presley’s Birthplace, Natchez Trace Parkway, and National Military Park.
The primary source of economy in Mississippi is agriculture, and manufacturing, especially in the growing industry such as automobiles and aerospace centers. The state provides quality education with an assurance of great job opportunities.
Cost of Living in Mississippi
The average cost of living in Mississippi is lower than in many states in the US as the one-bedroom apartment inclusive of all the amenities would cost $600 to $850 per month. Also, students living here can easily travel by public transportation. Therefore, a pocket-friendly state for international students
List of Universities in Mississippi
- University of Mississippi
Utah
Utah, the state is located in the western region of US and is well known for its natural beauty including the five national parks that are Arches, Bryce, Canyon, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Zion. Utah State has prominent companies brands that are quite popular such as Vivint Smart Home, Nu Skin Enterprises, and Qualtrics, etc.
Utah has a variety of options for students as it is home to many public and private universities. The state government of Utah invests in K-12 education and the schools are consistently ranked among the top schools in the country.
On the other hand, the state also offers various programs to help students to pay for their college and also get scholarships or grants in the student loan forgiveness programs.
Cost of living
The average cost of living in Utah depends on the location of the city and the general housing rent is between $800 to $1200 per month.
List of Universities in Utah
- University of Utah
- Southern Utah University
Alabama
Alabama, is a state in the southeastern region of US, and it’s well known for its rich culture, beautiful scenery and much more. It is an attraction for several landmarks such as US Space and Rocket Center, Civil Rights Memorial and Gulf Shores Beaches. Alabama has both private and public colleges.
The state is focusing on K-12 education with significant investment in funding. Alabama has a diverse economy in agriculture, and manufacturing services including chemical, automotive parts, and paper.
Cost of Living
The average cost of living in Alabama is lower as compared to other states which ranges from $600 to $900 per month for a one bedroom apartment inclusive of all other facilities.
List of Universities in Alabama
- University of Alabama – Birmingham
- University of South Alabama
Pros of Study in USA for International Students
High Quality Education
As we have discussed, US is the education hub in the world and it has the world’s top universities ranging from broader courses which are curated for the upcoming technology.
Unlimited Programs
Here in US, there are approx. 4000 universities and colleges, and all the colleges are offering various courses including the traditional academic fields or specialization in a particular subject.
Design your Course
The US curriculum is so flexible that it offers students to create their courses according to their aspirations. For instance, you can opt for chemistry and political science or music or drama classes together depending on your interests.
Cultural Diversity
US has become a welcoming state and people across the globe have settled there for so long, although students from various countries also visit US just for the sole purpose to study. Therefore, this creates cultural diversity and broadens one’s horizon to think can respect others’ perspectives.
Ocean of Career Opportunities
As US is home to the world’s leading companies, and industries and once a student complete their higher studies, they usually get placed as an intern or go for job placement in any of the leading companies.
Cons of Studying in USA for International Students
Cost
Planning to Study in US can be a little expensive that includes tuition fees, living expenses, and healthcare costs adding to your list as International students are not eligible for any form of financial aid.
Immigration Process
Usually, the process of obtaining a student visa to study in US is a little complicated and time-consuming that requires a lot of documentation and paperwork.
Cultural Shock
A new challenge that students might experience is cultural shock especially if they are not able to find like minded people.
Far from Home
Studying in US means that students have to live far from home, their friends and family which might give them the feeling of isolation and homesickness.
We hope this article gave you an insight regarding the affordable states and cities to study in USA for International Students. You might also want to check how to apply at USA University as an International Student.
As an international student, it becomes exhausting to search for a university in US and then apply for the various courses without getting any fee waivers or scholarships.
If you are someone looking to study abroad at an affordable cost then you are at the right place. SecureMyscholarship has transformed many student’s lives, and we have granted over $5 million as a fee waiver to students who want to pursue their career overseas. And be assured, you can be the next.
