Harvard University Student Housing: Where Do Most Students Live?

Harvard University offers a variety of housing options for its students. Most Harvard undergraduates live in one of the twelve residential Houses, which serve as a home base for students throughout their time at the university. These Houses are led by faculty deans and offer dining halls, common rooms, and facilities for various activities. A small percentage of undergraduates and some graduate students choose to live off-campus, in areas such as Central Square, Massachusetts Avenue, and Oxford Street, which offer a range of independent housing options.

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Most Harvard students live in on-campus dormitories

Harvard University offers a variety of housing options for its students, with most students opting to live in on-campus dormitories. In fact, 98% of undergraduates live in one of the twelve residential Houses, each accommodating 350-500 students and led by Faculty Deans who live in the Houses with their families. These Houses offer a range of facilities, including dining halls, common rooms, and spaces for academic, recreational, and cultural activities. The Houses are described as the cornerstone of the undergraduate experience, providing a sense of community and fostering connections that endure beyond graduation.

For those who choose to live off-campus, there are various apartments close to the university, such as on Massachusetts Avenue, Western Avenue, and Oxford Street. These areas offer the advantage of proximity to campus, restaurants, and grocery stores. However, living off-campus may be more expensive, as students need to cover apartment costs and meals, which can be a significant consideration, especially for those on financial aid.

Harvard Square, located between MIT and Harvard University, is another popular option for off-campus housing. It offers easy access to both universities and the city of Boston via its T station. While it may be further from campus, Central Square provides cheaper housing options and convenient transportation options.

Ultimately, while there are a variety of housing options available, most Harvard students prioritise the convenience and community of on-campus living, making the residential Houses their home away from home.

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Two percent of Harvard undergraduates live off-campus

Harvard College provides accommodation for its students in one of the twelve residential Houses, which serve as the foundation of the undergraduate experience at Harvard. Each House accommodates 350 to 500 students and has its own dining hall, common rooms, and facilities for academic, recreational, and cultural activities. Faculty members, known as Faculty Deans, live in the Houses with their families and lead the students. This close-knit community fosters friendships and connections that can endure long after graduation.

However, a small percentage of undergraduates, approximately two percent or 120 students, choose to live off-campus. These students have opted out of the Residential House system, which is considered a cornerstone of the Harvard undergraduate experience. Living off-campus offers additional freedom and can sometimes be a preferable option for specific circumstances.

For instance, some students may find that living off-campus suits their senior year, as it provides a change of environment and increased independence. Additionally, students who cook their own meals and rent smaller rooms, such as in a fraternity house, may save money compared to on-campus dining and accommodation charges.

While living off-campus provides certain benefits, it is not always a feasible option for all students. The cost of off-campus living can be high, especially in prime locations close to Harvard Square, and may not be covered by Harvard's room and board fee or scholarship allowances.

Students considering off-campus housing should carefully weigh their preferences for proximity to campus, cost, and independence. While some enjoy the freedom of off-campus life, others may prefer the convenience and immersion of on-campus accommodation.

The Residential House system is considered a cornerstone of Harvard's undergraduate experience

The Residential House system is a cornerstone of the undergraduate experience at Harvard. The university has twelve residential Houses, each accommodating 350 to 500 students, with its own dining hall, common rooms, and facilities for academic, recreational, and cultural activities. These Houses serve as a home base for students throughout their sophomore, junior, and senior years, fostering a sense of community and shared experiences. Faculty Deans, who are faculty members living in the Houses with their families, provide guidance and support to the residents.

The Houses are located in or around Harvard Yard, offering a convenient and immersive living environment. Students share meals, participate in extracurricular activities, intramural sports, and other social events, building lasting friendships and connections. This system allows students to learn from each other's diverse perspectives and experiences, enriching their overall undergraduate journey.

While most undergraduates participate in the Residential House system, a small percentage, approximately two percent, choose to live off-campus. These students opt out of the traditional House system, seeking alternative accommodations such as apartments or fraternity houses. However, they still remain connected to the Harvard community through their classes, events, and access to various amenities on campus.

The decision to live off-campus may depend on various factors, including financial considerations, the desire for increased freedom, or personal preferences. Some students may find that living off-campus suits their specific needs or provides a change of environment during their senior year. Nevertheless, Harvard encourages students to reside on campus, emphasizing the benefits of full immersion in the Harvard community and the convenience of being close to academic resources and support systems.

Overall, the Residential House system at Harvard plays a pivotal role in shaping the undergraduate experience by creating a sense of belonging, fostering meaningful connections, and providing a well-rounded educational journey beyond the classroom. It serves as a foundation for personal growth, academic exploration, and the development of lifelong relationships.

Harvard Square is a popular choice for off-campus housing

Harvard Square is a popular choice for students seeking off-campus housing. Harvard Square is located close to campus, just a two-minute walk from the T station, making it an ideal location for students who want to easily commute to the university and other parts of Cambridge. The area boasts a range of housing options, from smaller apartments to larger buildings, with many properties owned by Harvard University itself. While living in this prime location comes at a higher cost, students benefit from convenient access to nearby amenities, including restaurants, grocery stores, and public transportation.

Harvard Square is a hub of activity, offering a vibrant and dynamic environment for students to reside in. The square is surrounded by popular eateries, such as Zoe's, Sugar & Spice Thai, Upper Crust Pizzeria, and Bourbon Coffee. For those who enjoy cooking at home, there are nearby grocery stores like Star Market, and the famous Whole Foods is also accessible. Additionally, with the T station just a stone's throw away, students can easily explore the wider Boston area and take advantage of the cultural offerings of the city.

The appeal of Harvard Square as an off-campus housing option extends beyond its convenient location and vibrant surroundings. The area is known for its beautiful architecture and tree-lined streets, providing a pleasant atmosphere for students to call home. The square also serves as a central meeting point, often buzzing with students and scholars from various faculties, creating a sense of community and intellectual stimulation. It is a place where ideas are exchanged, friendships are forged, and a strong sense of belonging is cultivated.

For students at Harvard, the choice to live in Harvard Square offers a unique experience. It provides an opportunity to immerse themselves in the heart of academic life, surrounded by like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds. The square becomes an extension of the classroom, where conversations continue long after lectures have ended, and where late-night study sessions are fuelled by the buzz of the nearby cafes. It is a place where students can find inspiration, support, and a sense of camaraderie as they navigate the challenges and joys of their academic journey.

While Harvard Square is a popular choice, it is important to consider that the majority of Harvard undergraduates—approximately 98%—choose to live on campus in one of the twelve residential Houses. These Houses, each accommodating 350 to 500 students, offer a holistic living and learning environment, complete with dining halls, common rooms, and facilities for academic, recreational, and cultural activities. However, for those seeking more independence or a change of pace in their senior year, Harvard Square presents an attractive alternative, providing a balance between campus life and exploration of the wider world.

Central Square is a good option for cheaper off-campus housing

Harvard University's campus is surrounded by restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. The local nightlife incorporates upscale bars and cheap dives. The university is connected to the greater Boston area by the MBTA service, providing quick access to one of America’s most historic and culturally rich cities.

Harvard Square is where most students live or try to live. It is the hub of all social life, with the best restaurants, bookstores, and cafes. It is right between the Harvard Yard, all the Harvard schools, the business school campus, and college dormitories. It is also near the gym. The best places to live near Harvard Square are between Massachusetts Avenue and Broadway. However, housing in this area is not cheap, and smaller apartments may come at higher costs.

Central Square is a good option for those seeking cheaper off-campus housing. While it is far from Harvard Yard and not walkable from grocery stores and Harvard Square, it has several pros. It is located between MIT and Harvard, and there are plenty of restaurants nearby, including The Asgard, The Coast, Clover, Life Alive Organic Cafe, and La Fabrica Central. There are also plenty of bus stops in the area. Housing here is affordable, and you can find a larger house for the same amount you’ll spend living on-campus.

Union Square is another option for off-campus housing, especially for families, as it is quiet and generally safe. There are plenty of restaurants and bus stops here, and it is close to grocery stores like Target and Market Basket. However, it is not walkable from the Charles River, Harvard Square, or the T station. Porter Square is north of Harvard University and is one of the best places to live if you attend Harvard Law School, as it is just a 10-minute walk away.

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