The 12 Best Overall Student Apartments Near Columbia University (October 2026)

1. 1.

   

   Avalon Morningside Park

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   5.0(5 reviews)FMP Score

   why it ranked: Avalon Morningside Park stands out as the top overall choice near Columbia because it delivers the kind of consistency and care that makes a building feel like home for the long haul. Residents rave about the staff's politeness and professionalism, with Patrick in particular earning repeated praise for his charm and resourcefulness during maintenance visits. The property has clearly earned the trust of its community, as evidenced by one resident's heartfelt reflection: "Best living experience I've ever had!!!!! And I've lived in NYC my entire life." When a building can anchor someone for fourteen years, you know it's doing something right.

   $4475/person/mo
2. 2.

   

   EHS New Yorker Residence

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   5.0(5 reviews)FMP Score

   why it ranked: EHS New Yorker Residence earns its ranking through thoughtful attention to the details that matter most when you're navigating a move to New York City. Students consistently praise the quality of the rooms themselves and the exceptional security team, who go beyond the call of duty to make residents feel safe and supported. As one resident put it, "EHS was super helpful in making the move in process seamless in the busy city of New York! Security also made sure it was very safe and they even had people help take bags up to our rooms!" That kind of hands-on care during a stressful transition sets the tone for a positive living experience.
3. 3.

   

   FOUND Study Financial District

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   5.0(5 reviews)FMP Score

   why it ranked: FOUND Study Financial District rises to the top by combining excellent location and transportation access with a management team that genuinely listens and acts. Residents highlight the modern rooms, stunning views, and the staff's professionalism and responsiveness to maintenance needs, but what really stands out is the transparency and trustworthiness around fees and communication. As one resident noted, "From the beginning, everyone has been welcoming, responsive, and genuinely willing to help whenever questions or issues come up." When management leads with clarity and follow-through, it transforms a housing experience into something you'd actually choose again.

   $1400/person/mo
4. 4.

   

   Amsterdam Residences

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   5.0(5 reviews)FMP Score

   why it ranked: Amsterdam Residences distinguishes itself by removing friction from the moving process and creating a welcoming environment from your first interaction. The team offers virtual tours before you arrive, handles move-in with ease, and delivers clean, furnished rooms that are ready to live in immediately. As one resident shared, "I chose Amsterdam Residence because the location was perfect for me and everyone I spoke with made the process feel easy and welcoming from the start." The new management has also brought positive changes that residents notice, making this a solid choice for anyone seeking a smooth transition into city living.

   $1680/person/mo
5. 5.

   

   Columbus Square

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   5.0(5 reviews)FMP Score

   why it ranked: Columbus Square stands out for its exceptional maintenance and responsive management team that actually gets things done. Students consistently praise Dino and Ilir for their reliability and professionalism, with residents noting how quickly service requests are handled and concerns fully addressed. As one resident put it, "Dino came by our apartment, assessed our service requests, and quickly repaired them." When your landlord's team shows up and solves problems, everything else feels easier.

   $3733/person/mo
6. 6.

   

   425 Riverside Dr #3j

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   4.6(5 reviews)FMP Score

   why it ranked: 425 Riverside Dr offers a solid residential option in a nice complex area near Columbia. The building provides straightforward apartment living without unnecessary frills, making it a practical choice for students looking for a no-nonsense housing situation. It's the kind of place that lets you focus on school and your social life rather than worrying about your living situation.

   $5000/person/mo
7. 7.

   

   The Forten

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   4.0(5 reviews)FMP Score

   why it ranked: The Forten delivers on location and aesthetics for students willing to venture uptown near the 1 train. The building's beautiful design and proximity to convenient transit make it an attractive option, with residents appreciating how the views and transportation access justify the pricing. The neighborhood location near Harlem offers an authentic New York experience beyond the immediate campus bubble.

   $2725/person/mo
8. 8.

   

   FOUND Study Chelsea

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   4.0(5 reviews)FMP Score

   why it ranked: FOUND Study Chelsea excels at creating a welcoming community atmosphere through genuinely caring RAs who go above and beyond for residents. Students rave about the building's beauty and the exceptional support from staff like Aerin and Isobell, who handle everything from street assistance to lockouts with real warmth. As one resident shared, "Found Study Chelsea is a great option for students who want more independence while still being part of a friendly, college-style social environment." It's the kind of place where your RA actually feels like part of your community.
9. 9.

   

   FOUND Study Midtown East

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   3.6(5 reviews)FMP Score

   why it ranked: FOUND Study Midtown East stands out as a genuinely community-focused residence where students actually want to spend their time beyond just sleeping. Residents rave about the thoughtfully designed common spaces the lounge, penthouse, and kitchen all get regular use, and the on-site deli plus TULU vending machine mean you're never scrambling for food or snacks. The real magic here is how the amenities actually work to bring people together; as one resident reflected, "I loved the amenities because it fosters a community and make it easy to connect with others." This is the kind of place where you'll find yourself hanging out with friends by choice, not just passing through your room.
10. 10.

    

    251 West 117th Street

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    4.0(4 reviews)FMP Score

    why it ranked: 251 West 117th Street offers the kind of home-away-from-home feel that makes the Columbia experience genuinely livable. The building creates an environment where family and friends naturally want to visit and spend time, reflecting the warm, welcoming residential community that students consistently praise. Located steps from campus, this residence balances proximity with the comfort and hospitality that transforms a dorm into an actual home during your college years.

    $3295/person/mo
11. 11.

    

    Hunter College 79th Street Residence

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    2.3(4 reviews)FMP Score

    why it ranked: Hunter College 79th Street Residence struggles with serious structural and maintenance issues that significantly impact daily life. Students report persistent problems with the aging building itself tilted floors, doors that don't close properly, and recurring water damage alongside security concerns that leave residents feeling unsafe. As one student put it, "The building is old and disgusting. The security is awful. Basically anyone can come in without showing ID." For the premium price you're paying, these fundamental failures in building integrity and resident safety make this a difficult choice.

    $10500/person/mo
12. 12.

    

    Columbia Housing

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    5.0(1 review)FMP Score

    $1050/person/mo

Walk times are door-to-door to Columbia University campus. Rent is per person, per month.