There are many advantages and disadvantages associated with off campus apartments. While off campus housing gives you more freedom, it also takes away campus security and incurs many more expenses.
Before you jump to the conclusion that off campus apartments are better than on campus dorms,
you'll need to consider the pros and cons of both options. While off campus housing may offer more freedom, it may also entail more cost and inconvenience. When you're on campus, the campus resources are all relatively nearby, definitely within walking distance from your dorm. Consider the following advantages and disadvantages to off campus living before you make your final decision.
Advantages to Off Campus Living
Off campus apartments definitely provide more freedom than on campus dorms. You'll not be held to the restrictions and rules that those on campus need to follow, and you'll also have the option to use your interior decorating skills to make your apartment your home. And if you prefer home cooking, you'll be able to plan and make your own meals, rather than visit the campus dining hall. Now, while the cooking may appeal to some, others may find they save time by eating already prepared food on campus.
Living off campus gives you a wide variety of accommodations. You can rent a studio apartment for yourself, or share a larger apartment with others. Some students even go together to rent a house! It all depends on your income and your preference for roommates.
Renting an off campus home provides a break from campus every single evening. Those breaks are few and far between when you live in campus housing. If you'd prefer a quiet neighborhood versus noisy dorms, then off campus housing may be perfect for you! Find peace and serenity in your own apartment when your campus classes and other responsibilities are complete.
Disadvantages to Off Campus Living
Of course, there are just as many disadvantages to consider when you're looking to live off campus. Apartments may cost more than you're able to afford, and off campus housing is not usually covered by the grants and scholarships you may be using to get through school. If finances are a problem, you'll probably choose your housing based on what can be afforded.
Besides paying for your own apartment, shopping for food, and taking time out of your class, work and study schedule to clean and keep house, you will probably need to buy a car for transportation to school, the grocery store, and work. Besides paying for gas, you'll also need to pay for upkeep like oil changes and occasional engine tune-ups.
And while we're on the subject of finances, consider all the extra costs associated with an apartment. Electricity, water, heating, internet, phone service, pest control, trash pick-up and other similar conveniences aren't free. Be sure to add up all the expenses before jumping into signing a lease for any off campus apartments.
One final note to consider is the lack of campus security. Unless your apartment is owned by the school, you won't be under campus security surveillance. So, you'll want to be sure you choose an apartment that you can afford, but also one that's in a good neighborhood.
There are many things to consider when choosing between on campus dorms or off campus apartments. Be sure to consider all your options and all the facts before you make your final decision.
