As a community that’s around the corner from Yale University and has housed thousands of Yale graduates over the years, we know firsthand what it takes to find the perfect place to live during your time at Yale.
If you’re new to the university, you might be wondering, “Where do all the students live?”
The short answer: everywhere! But to help you navigate your options, let’s break it down based on whether you’re an undergrad or a grad student—and what might work best for you.
On-Campus Options
Every incoming Yale undergrad is assigned to one of Yale’s fourteen residential colleges, which will be your home base for all four years. Many freshmen start out in dorms designated for their college, but by sophomore year, most students move into housing within their residential college.
If you’re placed in Silliman, Timothy Dwight, Benjamin Franklin, or Pauli Murray Colleges, you’ll be living in your college from day one. Each of these residential colleges offers its own dining hall, library, fitness center, and more—giving you everything you need right on campus. And from what we’ve heard from the students who’ve lived with us, having these amenities so close by is a huge advantage, especially during those busy academic years.
Living on campus also means you’re just a short walk from New Haven’s diverse restaurant scene and activities. For first and second-year students, living on campus is required unless you’re married or at least 21 years old. After that, many students choose to explore off-campus housing, and we’ve seen them thrive in neighborhoods like Downtown, Wooster Square, and East Rock—all just a stone’s throw from campus.
Graduate students at Yale have plenty of housing options, and we’ve had the pleasure of hosting many of them in our buildings. Here are some neighborhoods that have proven popular among the graduate community:
For those who prefer Yale-owned apartments, the university offers several options specifically for graduate students. We always recommend contacting Yale directly for the most up-to-date list of these properties.
Over the years, we’ve seen a wide range of budgets and preferences when it comes to Yale housing.
Off-campus housing can sometimes be more affordable, especially if you’re splitting rent with roommates, but it really depends on the type of housing and the neighborhood you choose. Remember, off-campus options typically don’t include furnishings, so you’ll need to factor that into your budget.
We’ve found that many students appreciate the flexibility and cost-sharing opportunities that off-campus living provides.
Finding the right place to live at Yale is a big decision, but with so many options available, you’re sure to find something that fits your needs. Whether you’re required to live on campus for your first two years or you’re exploring off-campus options as an upperclassman or grad student, New Haven has a lot to offer. And if you’re looking for a place where many Yale students and grads have already found their home, we’re here to help you find your perfect fit!
Ready to explore your options? Contact our team at New Haven Towers today—we’ve been helping Yale students find their ideal home for years, and we’re excited to help you too!
