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Yale University is a prestigious Ivy League research university founded in 1701, located in New Haven, Connecticut. Enrolling approximately 14,000 students across undergraduate and graduate programs, Yale is known globally for its law, medicine, arts, and humanities programs. The university's residential college system houses all undergraduates on or near the historic central campus, fostering a strong sense of community. Yale's urban location in New Haven provides students with access to cultural institutions, diverse dining, and a vibrant city environment.
Yale University requires all undergraduate students to live within the residential college system for all four years, meaning housing is generally guaranteed and assigned through the university rather than sourced independently. First-year students are assigned to one of Yale's 14 residential colleges, where they remain affiliated throughout their undergraduate career.
Because Yale's residential college system is designed to house all undergraduates, the majority of Yale students live on campus or in university-managed housing. Graduate and professional students are not required to live on campus and commonly seek off-campus rentals throughout New Haven's neighborhoods.
Graduate students and those with special circumstances seeking off-campus housing in New Haven should begin their search in February or March for fall move-ins. New Haven's rental market is competitive due to the large university population, and desirable units near campus are typically claimed by April.
Housing policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with Yale University before signing a lease.
Graduate students and Yale affiliates who begin their housing search in January or February will have the widest selection of apartments and houses throughout New Haven's student-friendly neighborhoods. Starting early is especially important for furnished units, pet-friendly rentals, and housing close to the medical campus on Cedar Street.
The busiest period in the New Haven rental market near Yale runs from February through April, when graduate students and incoming Yale affiliates are actively signing leases for the following academic year. Units in popular areas like East Rock, Wooster Square, and the neighborhoods adjacent to the central campus fill up quickly during this window.
Students searching in May or June can still find housing in New Haven, particularly in neighborhoods further from central campus or in larger apartment complexes with higher turnover. Checking listings on Zillow, the Yale off-campus housing board, and local New Haven rental platforms can help late searchers find available units.
A leafy neighborhood north of campus popular with graduate students and affiliates, known for residential streets, hiking trails, and a strong community feel.
East of downtown, popular for its historic charm, Italian restaurants, and walkability to the main campus and arts facilities.
West of campus, with more affordable rents and a diverse mix of long-term residents and students.
The areas immediately bordering campus, with strong rental inventory for those who prioritize walking distance to class.
Common questions from students searching for housing.
No, Yale undergraduates are housed within the university's residential college system for all four years, so most do not need to search for off-campus rentals. Off-campus housing is primarily relevant for graduate, professional, and medical students.