Live with a local family, feel at home in Chicago

Homestay is more than a room. It is a ready-made support network, a language-learning environment, and a genuine home base as you study or work in Chicago.

Find a host now How it works

No placement or matching fees Contact up to 10 hosts per day with no commission or matching fee.

Suburbs across Chicago Hosts near universities, colleges, transport links, and key study areas.

Deal directly with your host You contact hosts yourself and agree on the arrangement directly.

Why Homestay?

Six reasons students choose homestay over renting

Apartments exist, but homestay gives you something a standard rental cannot.

Improve your English faster

Living with an English-speaking family means you practise every day at the dinner table, around the house, and during the week.

A real home, not just a room

Homestay gives you access to common areas, shared routines, and a more comfortable environment than a dorm or standard rental.

Experience local culture

Hosts introduce you to daily life, customs, food, and social routines in ways you do not get from a classroom or short stay.

Safety and support

A host household gives you a ready-made safety net when you are new to the city, especially in your first few weeks.

Local knowledge on tap

Hosts know the best transport routes, neighbourhood shops, and local routines, which makes settling into Chicago much easier.

Friendships that last

Many students stay in touch with their host families for years. It is one of the most rewarding parts of the homestay experience.

What's Included

What to expect from your homestay

Every homestay is a little different, but there are a few expectations that stay consistent across listings.

Your own private bedroom All hosts provide a private, furnished room with a bed, wardrobe, and desk. Your room is your own space.

Bathroom access You may share a bathroom with the household or have a private en-suite. Listings make this clear so you can choose accordingly.

Wi-Fi included Reliable internet access is a standard expectation, so you can study, stream, and stay in touch with family.

Meals vary by listing Some hosts provide meals, others offer breakfast only, and some provide kitchen access only. Check each listing carefully.

Living as part of the household Homestay means sharing common areas and day-to-day life with your host while following reasonable house rules.

Tip: Read each host listing carefully before reaching out. The more you understand about the household before you make contact, the better the conversation will be.

Who can stay in a homestay?

International university, college, TAFE, and secondary school students
Language school students and short-term study visitors
Interstate workers on temporary assignments
Travellers wanting a more personal alternative to hotels
Working holiday visa holders new to the city
Anyone relocating who wants a comfortable base while they settle in
Male and female guests, depending on each host listing preference

What does it cost?

Room only (kitchen access): $170 - $250
Room + breakfast: $220 - $300
Room + breakfast and dinner: $270 - $380
All meals included: $320 - $440
Private en-suite room (meals included): $370 - $500+
No placement fees. You pay the host directly.

Getting Started

How to find your homestay

It takes only a few minutes to register and start contacting hosts.

Browse host listings

Search by suburb, place of study, or price range. Listings show photos, home details, meal arrangements, and weekly rates.

Register for free

Create a guest profile and add a photo and short introduction about yourself, your plans, and the type of stay you want.

Contact hosts directly

Registered guests can contact up to 10 hosts per day free of charge. Introduce yourself and ask the questions that matter to you.

Agree on the arrangement

Once you find a suitable host, confirm your start date, weekly rate, meal arrangement, and house rules before arrival.

Move in and settle in

Your host will help you get oriented when you arrive. Ask questions, communicate clearly, and respect the household routine.

Questions

Frequently asked questions

Common questions from students before they register.

Yes. Chicago Homestay charges no placement fees, no matching fees, and no commission. Registering as a guest is free, and you can contact up to 10 hosts per day at no charge. The only cost is the weekly rate you agree with your host directly.

Start with your place of study and work backwards. Search for hosts near your university or college, then check public transport options. Most students want to be within 30 to 45 minutes by train or bus.

No. Meal arrangements vary by host and are clearly stated on each listing. Options range from full board through to room-only with kitchen access.

Most homestay arrangements run from 3 months to 2 years, and many students stay for a full academic year. Short-term stays are possible with some hosts as well.

Most issues come down to differing expectations around noise, kitchen use, guests, or study hours. Ask questions early and agree on house rules clearly from the start. If the placement genuinely is not working, either party can give reasonable notice. A two-week notice period is standard courtesy.

Payments are arranged directly between you and your host. Chicago Homestay does not process payments. Most hosts prefer weekly or fortnightly bank transfer, and a two-week bond before arrival is standard practice.

Some hosts speak other languages and mention this in their listing. If improving your English is your main goal, an English-speaking household is usually the best choice.

Yes. Many hosts are available immediately or at short notice. Starting your search 2 to 4 weeks before arrival gives you the best chance of finding a strong match, but last-minute placements do happen.

Ready to find your home in Chicago?

Register free today and start contacting hosts. No fees, no commission, and direct contact with households ready to welcome you.

Find a host now Register free