Short-Term Rentals for Students: Are They a Good Option?

1 February 2026

Finding a good place to live as a student can be a real headache. Do you go for a long-term lease? Try to squeeze into a dorm? Or maybe opt for a short-term rental? With the rise of platforms like Airbnb and furnished apartment rentals, short-term housing is becoming a popular choice. But is it really a smart option for students? Let’s break it down.

What Are Short-Term Rentals?

Before we dive into whether short-term rentals are a good choice for students, let’s define what they actually are. Essentially, a short-term rental is any living arrangement that lasts less than 12 months. These can include:

- Airbnb and other vacation rentals – Fully furnished places available for days, weeks, or months.
- Sublets – Renting from someone who’s temporarily leaving their lease.
- Student housing with flexible leases – Some housing complexes offer flexible contracts designed specifically for students.
- Co-living spaces – Shared housing arrangements, often with a furnished setup and utilities included.

Now, let’s weigh the pros and cons.

Pros of Short-Term Rentals for Students

1. Flexibility That Fits a Student’s Lifestyle

Students don’t always stay in one place for long. Maybe you have an internship in another city for the summer or you're studying abroad for a semester. A short-term rental keeps you from being locked into a 12-month lease, giving you the freedom to move when you need to.

2. Fully Furnished = Less Hassle

Most short-term rentals come furnished, meaning you don’t have to go hunting for a bed, a couch, or even kitchenware. This is great if you’re moving from out of town (or out of the country) and don’t want to deal with the hassle of buying furniture just for a temporary stay.

3. No Need to Worry About Utilities

Many short-term rentals bundle utilities like electricity, water, and Wi-Fi into the rent. This means you won’t have to set up or cancel accounts, worry about splitting bills with roommates, or deal with unexpected costs.

4. Better Locations

In some cases, short-term rentals allow students to live much closer to their university than traditional leases do. Cities with high rental competition often have limited long-term apartments near major universities, but short-term rentals (like Airbnbs or sublets) can put you just a short walk from campus.

5. Lower Upfront Costs

While long-term rentals often require hefty security deposits, first and last months' rent, and sometimes even guarantors, short-term rentals often have fewer upfront costs. Some may require a deposit, but it’s usually lower than what you’d pay for a traditional lease.

Cons of Short-Term Rentals for Students

1. Higher Rent Costs

While short-term rentals may save on upfront fees, they usually come at a higher monthly rent. Landlords charge more for the convenience and flexibility, knowing tenants will only be staying for a limited time. If budget is your main concern, this can be a big drawback.

2. Unpredictability

Unlike long-term leases, short-term rentals can lack stability. A landlord may decide to suddenly increase rent, stop renting altogether, or cancel your stay. That uncertainty can be stressful, especially if you’re in the middle of a busy semester.

3. Limited Lease Protections

Many long-term leases come with tenant protections, but short-term rentals—especially those arranged through platforms like Airbnb—may not offer the same security. If something goes wrong (like sudden eviction or disputes over deposits), you might not have much legal recourse.

4. Shared Living Concerns

If you're renting a room in a short-term housing setup, you may find yourself living with strangers. While this can sometimes be a great experience, it can also be uncomfortable if you end up with difficult roommates.

5. It Can Be Hard to Find Something Reliable

Since short-term rentals cater to travelers and temporary guests, finding a good one that fits your academic schedule can be tricky. Many landlords prioritize short-term tourists over students looking for a months-long stay.

When Do Short-Term Rentals Make Sense for Students?

Short-term rentals aren’t for everyone, but they work well in certain situations. Here are some scenarios where choosing one might actually be the best move:

- You’re a study-abroad or exchange student – If you’re only in town for one semester, a short-term rental saves you from committing to a full-year lease.
- You have an internship in a different city – Short-term rentals give you the flexibility to move where the job takes you without breaking a lease.
- You’re unsure where you want to live long-term – Maybe you’re new to the city and want to get a feel for different neighborhoods before committing to a long-term lease.
- You’re attending a summer program – If you’re only staying for the summer, renting for a few months makes much more sense than trying to find a full-year lease.

Tips for Finding a Good Short-Term Rental as a Student

If you decide to go the short-term rental route, here are some pro tips to make the process smoother:

- Start your search early – Good rentals get taken fast, especially in student-heavy areas.
- Use multiple platforms – Look beyond Airbnb—try Facebook housing groups, student housing websites, and local rental platforms.
- Read the fine print – Some listings come with hidden fees (cleaning fees, service charges, etc.), so check the total cost before committing.
- Verify the landlord or host – Scams exist. Always ensure the person renting the place is legit by reading reviews and verifying their identity.
- Negotiate if possible – Some landlords are willing to lower the price, especially if you’re staying for multiple months. It never hurts to ask!
- Check for student-focused housing services – Some universities have partnerships with short-term housing providers, which can be safer and more affordable options.

The Verdict: Are Short-Term Rentals a Good Option for Students?

The answer? It depends on your situation.

If you value flexibility, hate dealing with furniture, and don’t mind paying a bit more for convenience, short-term rentals can be a lifesaver. On the other hand, if you’re trying to save money and prefer stability, a traditional lease might be the better choice.

At the end of the day, it’s all about what works best for your needs. Just make sure to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.

So, if you’re in the hunt for student housing, ask yourself: Do you need flexibility or affordability? Your answer will guide you toward the best choice.