Hunting for an excellent college is one of the most daunting things you have to do after high school.
But if there’s one thing more challenging than that, it’s finding the best place to stay during your studies.
Fortunately, there are many options. You can choose between an on-campus dormitory and an off-campus apartment.
While staying on the premises has its perks, going off-campus may suit some students better.
In fact, off-campus apartments may be a great housing option for college students looking for more independence and flexibility than what they’ll find in a campus dorm.
Whether you’re taking your first steps to a new stage of life or just looking for a new place to stay, this quick guide is for you.
Here’s what you need to know:
What Is An Off-Campus Apartment?
An off-campus apartment is a type of housing not affiliated with a college or university. It’s typically rented by college students seeking an alternative to on-campus dorms.
The reason is that it offers more in terms of independence and privacy in their living arrangements.
Off-campus apartments are typically located in the surrounding community near a college or university, and they’re often within walking distance or a short drive from campus.
They may be part of an apartment complex or a standalone building and may be furnished or unfurnished.
They can vary in size and layout but typically include one or multiple bedrooms, a kitchen, and a bathroom
Some even include a living room, a balcony or patio, and in-unit laundry facilities. If you want to find out more about this, you can check some great sources online.
Why Off-Campus Apartments Are Great
Here are the specifics of why off-campus apartments can be a better housing option and how to find one that fits your needs:
1. More Independence
One of the main advantages of living off-campus is the greater independence you get than living in a dorm.
Here, students have more control over their living environment and can come and go as they please.
This can be a big plus for students looking for more flexible living arrangements. You get to pursue part-time jobs, visit friends and family more often, and practice living on your own if you want.
In contrast, on-campus dorms tend to have stricter rules and regulations, such as curfews and guest policies, which can limit students’ independence.
Additionally, they may not offer the same level of privacy as off-campus apartments, as students may have to share a room or suite with others they don’t know.
2. More Space
Another advantage of living in an off-campus apartment is that they typically offer more space.
Off-campus apartments usually provide much greater room in places meant for specific tasks, like bathrooms and kitchens.
This is a big plus for students looking for more room to spread out and store their belongings.
In contrast, on-campus dorms tend to be cramped. Also, students have to give up some room to accommodate other people in a suite.
This can be particularly challenging for those used to having more space or who need a quiet place to study.
3. Greater Flexibility
As mentioned before, off-campus apartments offer greater flexibility than on-campus dorms.
Students can choose the length of their lease and even have a say on whether to sign a monthly one or commit to one much longer.
This is ideal for those unsure how long they will need housing or want the flexibility to move out if their circumstances change.
In contrast, on-campus dorms typically require students to commit to a full academic year.
Additionally, they may have stricter rules about transferring to a different room or building, narrowing your options for an ideal living arrangement.
4. Lower Cost
Another great perk of living in an off-campus apartment is its cost-effectiveness. They usually offer lower rent prices than on-campus dorms, especially for students who want to split costs with roommates.
Additionally, off-campus apartments may have more amenities.
5. Greater Choice In Amenities
Following the previous point, the typical amenities provided by off-campus apartments include the following:
- Private bathrooms: You can find a private bathroom for each bedroom, an important feature for students who value their privacy.
- Fully-equipped kitchens: These usually include a stove, refrigerator, and microwave. Such kitchens are a big plus for students who want to save money on food costs by cooking their meals.
- In-unit laundry facilities: Many off-campus apartments come with an in-unit washer and dryer. These save students money on laundromat costs while being more convenient than a communal laundry room.
- Living rooms: They may also have a living room area, providing a space for students to relax and socialize.
- Balconies or patios: Some off-campus apartments come with a balcony or patio, providing a nice outdoor space for students to enjoy.
Fancier ones can come with the following:
- Clubhouse with swimming pool: On days when you want to relax and chill, you can go to the clubhouse or do some laps in the pool to relieve stress.
- Secure parking garage: You won’t have to worry about the safety and security of your vehicle since these garages have modern security systems in place.
- 24-hour fitness center: Some off-campus apartments have fitness centers, something fitness-minded students will enjoy.
- High-speed fiber Internet: Good connectivity is a much-welcome perk since students are online most of the time to research and work on projects.
How To Find The Best Ones
To find an off-campus apartment that fits your needs, consider the following tips:
- Determine your budget: Know how much you’ll have to spend on rent each month and stick to that budget when looking for an apartment. Working part-time may provide some funding. But if it’s something beyond your capacity, consider sharing with roommates to save.
- Know your preferred location: Consider where you want to stay. You can think about factors like proximity to the campus or access to public transportation. Having a location near your school is usually the smart way to go.
- Research your options: Compare the amenities and rates offered by different apartment complex options in your preferred location. Most of these places have websites you can check for reviews, be sure to do this before going there.
Consider Living Off-Campus Now
From greater independence and privacy to more amenities and potentially lower costs, off-campus apartments can provide students with a more comfortable and convenient living situation.
While there are certainly some drawbacks to living off-campus, such as the need to arrange your utilities and furnishings, the overall benefits of off-campus housing can make it a practical choice.
With careful research and planning, you can find an off-campus apartment that meets your needs and budget. Enjoy all the perks this type of housing offers.
