Living Off-Campus: Hidden Costs of Leaving the Dorms

What Hidden Costs Should You Consider When Planning to Leave the Dorms?

Moving off-campus can be great, but only if you know what you're letting yourself in for. You're counting on saving your room and board, about $9500/year at a typical mid-Atlantic state university. You already expect to pay rent, probably $600/month per room. However, what hidden costs lurk when living off-campus?

Living Off-Campus Hidden Cost #1 - Furniture

College dorms provide your basic furniture - bed, bookcase, desk, chair, and lamp. When you start living off-campus, plan on a furniture shopping spree. Depending on means and taste, this could be anywhere from $300 to over $1000 for the basics. Furnishing a living room, dining room, and kitchen will add $100-$500 per person.

Living Off-Campus Hidden Cost #2 - Utilities

In the dorm you flick on the light or turn on the faucet, with no bills for electricity, water & sewage, heating-oil or gas, etc. Living off-campus you'll get monthly bills for these. Unless your lease specifically states the rent includes utilities, plan on $75/month per person or more. Renting with fewer room-mates, that number will increase.

Living Off-Campus Hidden Cost #3 - Broadband, Cable, Phone

Many campus dorms provide cable, broadband, and phone service. When you're living off-campus, these can set you back $40/month per person or more.

Living Off-Campus Hidden Cost #4 - Groceries

One advantage of living off-campus is that you can prepare your own, healthier, meals. However, without the college meal plan, don't forget to add groceries to your "living off-campus" budget. Expect groceries to cost at least $200/month per person while living off-campus. If you're like most students, at the end of a long day of classes you'll be tempted to order in pizza or Chinese food. After several days you'll throw out groceries that have gone bad, increasing your next grocery bill.

Living Off-Campus Hidden Cost #5 - Commuting