Best Cities in USA for International Students
Choosing where to study in the USA is one of the most important decisions you'll make as an international student. With over 4,000 accredited colleges and universities spread across 50 states, the USA offers an unmatched range of academic programs, cultural experiences, and career opportunities. But not every city is equally welcoming, affordable, or student-friendly.
Whether you're looking for the best place to study in the USA, the most affordable city on a student budget, or a safe community where you can thrive academically and personally, this guide has you covered. We've carefully curated the top 10 best cities in the USA for international students, considering factors like cost of living, university rankings, safety, public transport, job opportunities, and cultural diversity.
If you're a student from Nepal dreaming of studying abroad, read on - this guide will help you make an informed, confident decision.
Why Study in the USA from Nepal?
Nepal sends thousands of students abroad every year, and the United States consistently remains one of the top destinations. Here's why:
World-Class Education: The USA is home to some of the world's highest-ranked universities, including Harvard, MIT, Stanford, and hundreds of other respected institutions. A degree from a US university carries global prestige and opens doors across industries worldwide.
Diverse Academic Options: From engineering and IT to business, healthcare, and the arts, US universities offer an extraordinary range of programs at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Many programs are specifically designed to welcome international students and offer flexible learning pathways.
OPT and Work Opportunities: One of the biggest advantages for Nepalese students is the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which allows international students to work in the USA for up to 12 months after graduation, and up to 36 months for STEM graduates. This gives you real-world experience and a head start on your career.
Cultural Diversity and Inclusion: The USA is one of the most multicultural nations in the world. For Nepalese students, this means you'll find thriving South Asian communities, Nepali student associations, and cultural events that help you feel at home even while abroad.
Scholarship and Financial Aid Opportunities: Many US universities offer merit-based scholarships, assistantships, and fellowships specifically for international students. With proper guidance and planning, like the support offered by Dewarshi Education Consultancy, you can significantly reduce your financial burden.
Post-Study Immigration Pathways: The USA offers several visa pathways post-graduation, including the H-1B work visa and potential green card sponsorship, making it an attractive long-term destination for ambitious Nepalese students.
Best Cities in USA for International Students: Top 10 Picks
When evaluating the best cities in the USA for international students, it's not just about the university, the city matters just as much. Here are the top 10 cities that offer the perfect blend of academics, affordability, safety, and lifestyle.
1. New York City, New York
Best For: Business, Arts, Media, Finance, and Law
New York City is arguably the most iconic student city in the world. Home to institutions like NYU, Columbia University, Fordham, and The New School, NYC offers an unparalleled academic and cultural environment.
Key Highlights:
- Access to Fortune 500 internships and networking events right in the city
- One of the largest international student populations in the country
- World-class museums, libraries, and research centers
- Extensive subway and bus network; no car needed
Cost of Living: High (~$2,500–$3,500/month), but scholarship opportunities and part-time work options help manage expenses.
Safety: Generally safe in student-heavy neighborhoods like Morningside Heights, Greenwich Village, and Brooklyn.
Ideal for Nepalese students who want to be at the center of global business, finance, and arts.
2. Los Angeles, California
Best For: Film, Technology, Engineering, Business, and Design
LA is home to UCLA, USC (University of Southern California), and Cal State LA, making it a powerhouse for both academic excellence and industry connections.
Key Highlights:
- Thriving tech and entertainment industry; great for internships
- Large South Asian community including a growing Nepali diaspora
- Year-round sunny weather and a vibrant cultural scene
- Strong OPT and STEM-extension opportunities in Silicon Beach
Cost of Living: High (~$2,200–$3,200/month), but neighborhoods like Koreatown and Palms offer more affordable student housing.
Safety: Safe in university zones; Westwood and Exposition Park are popular with students.
3. Boston, Massachusetts
Best For: Medicine, Research, Engineering, Law, and Liberal Arts
Boston is arguably the best place to study in the USA for academically driven students. It is home to Harvard University, MIT, Boston University, Northeastern University, and over 50 colleges within a small geographic area.
Key Highlights:
- The highest concentration of universities per capita in the USA
- Robust research funding and lab opportunities
- Excellent co-op and internship programs (especially Northeastern's famous co-op model)
- Walkable and public-transit friendly via the MBTA
Cost of Living: High (~$2,000–$3,000/month), but many universities offer on-campus housing subsidies.
Safety: One of the safest cities in the USA for international students, especially in areas like Fenway, Allston, and Cambridge.
Top pick for Nepalese students interested in STEM, medicine, or research-intensive careers.
4. Chicago, Illinois
Best For: Business, Economics, Architecture, Social Sciences, and Healthcare
Chicago is one of the most underrated student cities in the USA. With University of Chicago, Northwestern University, DePaul, and Loyola, the city offers elite academics without the extreme costs of NYC or Boston.
Key Highlights:
- Home to the second-largest business district in the USA
- Rich cultural diversity with strong South Asian communities
- Excellent public transportation (the "L" train system)
- A wide range of part-time and internship opportunities
Cost of Living: Moderate (~$1,500–$2,500/month); much more manageable than coastal cities.
Safety: Safe in university-adjacent neighborhoods like Lincoln Park, Hyde Park, and Evanston.
5. Seattle, Washington
Best For: Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, and Business
Seattle is a dream destination for tech-oriented students. It's the home base of Amazon, Microsoft, Boeing, and Starbucks, and also home to the prestigious University of Washington.
Key Highlights:
- Direct pipeline to Big Tech companies for internships and jobs
- No state income tax in Washington; great for students who work part-time
- Growing Nepali and South Asian community
- Beautiful Pacific Northwest scenery and a progressive, welcoming culture
Cost of Living: Moderate to High (~$1,800–$2,800/month).
Safety: Very safe, especially in university districts and Capitol Hill.
Best city for Nepalese CS and IT students who want to be close to the tech industry.
6. Houston, Texas
Best For: Petroleum Engineering, Medicine, Business, and Data Science
Houston is rapidly becoming one of the best states in the USA for international students, particularly due to Texas's strong job market and lower cost of living. University of Houston and Rice University anchor the city's academic scene.
Key Highlights:
- One of the most ethnically diverse cities in America
- Home to the Texas Medical Center, the largest in the world
- Competitive tuition rates compared to coastal universities
- No state income tax; your part-time earnings go further
Cost of Living: Affordable (~$1,200–$1,800/month); one of the most budget-friendly major cities.
Safety: Safe in Midtown, the Museum District, and university zones.
7. Austin, Texas
Best For: Technology, Business, Music, Liberal Arts, and Entrepreneurship
Austin is one of the fastest-growing student cities in the USA. Home to the flagship University of Texas at Austin, the city blends academic excellence with an electric startup and tech culture.
Key Highlights:
- Nicknamed "Silicon Hills", a booming tech hub with companies like Dell, Apple, Tesla, and Oracle
- Vibrant social scene, music festivals, and a youthful energy
- Lower tuition and living costs compared to West or East Coast cities
- Strong OPT opportunities in the tech sector
Cost of Living: Moderate (~$1,400–$2,200/month).
Safety: One of the safest cities in the USA for international students with a very welcoming student culture.
8. Atlanta, Georgia
Best For: Business, Public Health, Computer Science, and Film
Atlanta is home to Georgia Tech, Emory University, Georgia State University, and a rapidly growing economy. It's one of the most exciting emerging student cities in the South.
Key Highlights:
- Home to CDC headquarters; great for public health and research students
- Growing film and entertainment industry (dubbed "the Hollywood of the South")
- Large international student body and a very diverse population
- Affordable living costs compared to northern cities
Cost of Living: Affordable (~$1,300–$2,000/month).
Safety: Safe in Midtown, Buckhead, and university zones.
Great option for Nepalese students who want a major city experience at a lower cost.
9. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Best For: Medicine, Law, Education, Business, and History
Philadelphia is one of the most historically rich cities in the USA and a growing hub for international students. University of Pennsylvania (Ivy League), Temple University, and Drexel University call this city home.
Key Highlights:
- Ivy League education at UPenn with strong financial aid for international students
- One of the most walkable and affordable major cities on the East Coast
- Rich Nepali and South Asian community in the greater Philadelphia area
- Excellent public transport and close proximity to NYC and DC
Cost of Living: Moderate (~$1,400–$2,000/month); significantly cheaper than NYC or Boston.
Safety: Safe in West Philadelphia, University City, and Manayunk neighborhoods.
10. Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina
Best For: Biotechnology, Research, Engineering, Computer Science, and Healthcare
The Research Triangle, made up of Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, is one of the best-kept secrets for international students seeking quality education at an affordable price. Duke University, UNC Chapel Hill, and NC State form one of the most formidable academic clusters in the country.
Key Highlights:
- One of the fastest-growing tech and biotech hubs in the USA
- Significantly lower cost of living compared to major metro cities
- High quality of life with less urban stress
- Excellent scholarship opportunities, particularly at Duke and UNC
Cost of Living: Very Affordable (~$1,000–$1,600/month); making it one of the cheapest cities in the USA for international students without compromising on academic quality.
Safety: Consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in the USA for international students.
Top recommendation for budget-conscious Nepalese students who don't want to compromise on education quality.
Quick Comparison: Top 10 Best Cities in USA for International Students
|
City |
Best for |
Avg. Monthly Cost |
Safety Level |
|---|---|---|---|
|
New York City |
Business, Arts, Law |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
Moderate - High |
|
Los Angeles |
Tech, Film, Design |
$2,200 - $3,200 |
Moderate |
|
Boston |
STEM, Medicine, Research |
$2,000 - $3,000 |
High |
|
Chicago |
Business, Economics |
$1,500 - $2,500 |
Moderate - High |
|
Seattle |
CS, Engineering, Tech |
$1,800 - $2,800 |
High |
|
Houston |
Petroleum, Medicine |
$1,200 - $1,800 |
Moderate - High |
|
Austin |
Tech, Entrepreneurship |
$1,400 - $2,200 |
High |
|
Atlanta |
Business, Public Health |
$1,300 - $2,000 |
Moderate - High |
|
Philadelphia |
Medicine, Law |
$1,400 - $2,000 |
Moderate - High |
|
Raleigh-Durham |
Biotech, Research, CS |
$1,000 - $1,600 |
Very High |
Conclusion
The USA remains one of the most exciting and rewarding destinations for international students, and for Nepalese students especially, it represents a life-changing opportunity. From the world-class research labs of Boston to the booming tech corridors of Seattle and Austin, and the affordable academic hubs of Houston and Raleigh-Durham, there truly is a perfect city for every student's goals, budget, and lifestyle.
When choosing your ideal city, think beyond just the university rankings. Consider the cost of living, safety, cultural community, part-time work opportunities, and long-term career prospects in that region. The best city in the USA for international students is ultimately the one that aligns with your personal and academic goals.
At Dewarshi Education Consultancy, we specialize in helping Nepalese students navigate the entire US study abroad journey, from university selection and application to visa guidance and pre-departure preparation. Our experienced counselors will help you find not just the right university, but the right city for your future.
Ready to take the next step? Contact Dewarshi Education Consultancy today and let's turn your US dream into reality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the cheapest city in the US for international students?
Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina is widely considered the cheapest city in the USA for international students, with average monthly living costs ranging from just $1,000–$1,600. Other affordable options include Houston, Texas and Atlanta, Georgia, where students can enjoy a full urban experience without the heavy price tag of coastal cities like New York or Boston.
2. Where is the best place to study in the US for international students?
Boston, Massachusetts is often regarded as the best place to study in the USA, thanks to its extraordinary concentration of world-renowned universities like Harvard, MIT, and Northeastern. However, the "best" city ultimately depends on your field of study; Seattle excels for tech, Houston for medicine and engineering, and New York for business and the arts.
3. Which states are best to live in the USA for international students?
Texas, Massachusetts, New York, California, and North Carolina consistently rank among the best states in the USA for international students. Texas and North Carolina stand out for affordability and safety, while Massachusetts and New York lead in academic prestige and career networking opportunities. Washington state is also a strong choice, particularly for STEM students, and offers the added benefit of no state income tax.
4. What is the #1 hardest college to get into in the USA?
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is frequently ranked as the hardest college to get into in the USA, with an acceptance rate of around 3 to 4%. Other highly selective institutions include Harvard University, Stanford University, and the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). For international students, gaining admission to these schools requires exceptional academic records, strong test scores, and well-crafted applications; areas where expert guidance from an education consultancy can make a real difference.
Also Read:
Affordable Universities in USA for International Students
Best Courses in USA for International Students: Top Picks 2026
US Visa Interview Preparation: Complete Guide for Nepali Students (2026)
Study in USA from Nepal: Requirements, Costs, Visa & Scholarships (2026)