Short-term housing in the US

When moving to the US, you’ll need a place to stay while you piece your new life together.

Planning ahead can ease your worry when making a big move to the US. Avoid making a hasty living decision by looking into short-term accommodations.

Corporate housing

Corporate housing or executive rentals provide a temporary, furnished place for you or your family to stay. This type of housing has historically catered to businesses helping their employees relocate, but today they’re open to anyone in search of a temporary home. Choose from condos, apartments, houses or lofts.
Corporate housing can ease your stress with benefits that include:

• Fully furnished units.
• Options with ample space and privacy.
• Utilities, cable and Internet that are part of the rent.
• Laundry and other convenient facilities facilities.

Where do I start?

Google “corporate housing” to find sites that offer searches by city, bedrooms and amenities.

Extended Stay Hotels

Dozens of extended stay hotel chains in the US can help you with a place to live during your transition. Depending on where you plan to move, hotels can range from $40 a night for budget accommodations to $150 or more for upscale options.

Benefits of extended stay hotels include:

• Laundry, pools, gyms and restaurants.
• Small kitchens with a sink and refrigerator.
• Housekeeping and fresh linens.

• View hotel coupons here

Conventional hotels

If you need housing for a few days to a week, your typical hotel may be an option. Unlike extended-stay hotels, costs are typically quoted per night and may not include discounted rates.

Airbnb

It’s easy to line up accommodations through this online marketplace that connects people who want to lend their homes to others looking for a place to stay. Airbnb has locations in nearly 200 countries and 34,000 cities.

Costs are set by host and often depend on the dates you choose. Payment is due at the time of your reservations and paid using Airbnb’s secure online payment system. Fees can include cleaning, extra guest and currency exchange.

Hostels

Though hostels tend to target travelers, if you don’t need too much space and are on a budget, look into a hostel that’s local to your desired city. Ranging from $10 to $100 a night, hostels are prolific in larger US cities and near tourist attractions.

It is safe to carry small amounts of cash in the United States – have some on your arrival by comparing money transfer service here.

Common questions about short-term housing

• Does corporate housing require a minimum stay?

  It depends on the company or broker. Some corporate housing options require a minimum 30 days for the best deal. Corporate housing in larger cities — like New York and Los Angeles — may come with shorter requirements of five days.

• What is the difference between a hotel and corporate housing?

  A hotel room typically provides only a bed and bathroom, whereas corporate housing typically comes with more amenities. You may find corporate housing offering the convenience of fully equipped kitchens, common areas for relaxation and even restaurants.

• Does all temporary housing come with housekeeping services?

  Hotels typically come with daily housekeeping, while corporate housing can come with weekly or biweekly service, depending on your preference. Depending on where your hostel is located, your fee may come with housekeeping that includes refreshed sheets and more.