Food & Lodging

Most large employers (such as theme parks) arrange housing that ranges from the employers’ own dormitory style accommodation to apartment style rooms. Prices and conditions vary widely depending on the cost of living in the area and availability during the time of travel. Students pay between USD 20 – USD 150 a week per person for shared accommodation. Therefore, it is advisable for students to consider housing arrangements before securing a job. Students should be prepared to share their space, respect their housemates, tidy up after themselves and keep their belongings safe.

If housing is not arranged, you will be responsible for finding your own accommodation. Your employer will usually provide assistance in finding temporary accommodation (motels, youth hostels or guesthouses) in the nearby area and you will then find permanent housing once you arrive. Students with arranged housing should also be prepared to find short-term accommodation for the first few nights upon arrival if permanent housing is not arranged or ready for check-in.

Some housing comes with cooking facilities in which you can prepare your own food. Certain jobs provide meals or at a discount during your work shifts or at your workplace. Depending on your preferences and job location, you will be spending USD 30 – USD 150 a week. Other than hotdogs, hamburgers, pizzas, fries and adopted Mexican food, Asian food is widely available in the USA. Sample the wide variety of international cuisine available if you travel to bigger cities!