The Goddard Space Flight Center sits in Greenbelt, Maryland, just inside the Beltway in Prince George's County. Postdocs, interns, and cooperative researchers arrive year-round, with a summer peak for interns. This is an independent community resource and is not affiliated with NASA.
Popular areas
- Greenbelt — closest, green and quiet, near the Metro and Greenbelt Park; the historic "Old Greenbelt" co-op housing is well loved.
- College Park — a few minutes west, more amenities, easy bike/bus to campus and to UMD.
- Lanham / New Carrollton — affordable, near MARC and the Orange Line.
- Berwyn Heights / Hyattsville — leafy, residential, good value.
- Bowie — farther out and car-oriented, but more space.
Getting to campus
- Greenbelt (Green Line) is the nearest Metro; many drive or take a shuttle/bus the last stretch to the gate.
- New Carrollton (Orange Line + MARC + Amtrak) is also close and good for regional trips.
- A car is convenient for Goddard, but living in Greenbelt or College Park keeps the commute short.
What to expect on rent
- Prince George's County rents are generally lower than the Montgomery County science corridor.
- Furnished short-term rooms and sublets are common, especially in summer for interns.
- Interns on a stipend often share a house or apartment to keep costs down.
Tips for visiting researchers and interns
- A NASA/host appointment or internship letter helps with landlords if you lack U.S. credit history — see the no-credit guide.
- Confirm lease flexibility; many visitors need 2–9 month terms.
- Tour in person or by live video before paying anything.
Browse current Goddard-area listings, and read the car-free guide for transit and biking options.
A quick note
This guide is practical information only — not legal, immigration, or tax advice. Confirm details with official sources and your host institution.
Related guides
Getting around without a car near NIH/NIST
Transit, biking, and car-share options so you can skip buying a car.
Read guide →Renting without U.S. credit history
How international researchers can secure a lease without a U.S. credit score.
Read guide →Short-term housing near NIH, NIST, and DC research campuses
The main short-term housing options for visiting researchers — sublets, shared houses, aparthotels, and corporate housing — and which fits each campus.
Read guide →