Student Housing Cost Comparison Tool

Compare dorm vs off-campus housing costs. Calculate real total cost including utilities, commuting, and hidden fees. Universities do not provide this tool.

Dorm Costs

Off-Campus Costs

Electricity, water, gas, internet, etc.
Gas, parking, public transit, etc.
Typically 9 months for academic year, 12 if staying year-round

Cost Comparison

Dorm Costs

Monthly Total:$0
Annual Total (9 months):$0

Off-Campus Costs

Monthly Total:$550
Annual Total (9 months):$4.950

Cost Difference

Off-Campus Costs More:$4.950
Note: This comparison includes basic costs. Also consider: dorm convenience vs off-campus independence, roommates (can reduce off-campus costs), furniture costs for off-campus, security deposits, and lifestyle preferences. Universities often don't provide this comprehensive comparison.

How This Tool Works

This calculator compares the total cost of dorm/residence hall housing versus off-campus housing for students. It includes all costs: dorm room and meal plan vs off-campus rent, utilities, groceries, and commuting. This comprehensive comparison helps students make informed housing decisions.

Universities typically only show dorm and meal plan costs without comparing to off-campus options or including all expenses. This tool fills that gap by providing a complete cost comparison that students need to make informed decisions.

FAQ

  • Is dorm or off-campus housing cheaper?
    It depends on location and lifestyle. Dorms include room and meal plan but may cost $1,000-$1,500/month. Off-campus can be cheaper ($600-$1,200/month rent) but requires utilities, groceries, and commuting costs. This calculator helps you compare total costs including all expenses.
  • What costs are included in dorm housing?
    Dorm costs typically include: room/board ($800-$1,500/month), mandatory meal plan ($300-$600/month), and sometimes utilities. Additional costs may include: parking fees, laundry, and activity fees. Dorms usually don't include furniture (bring your own).
  • What costs are included in off-campus housing?
    Off-campus costs include: rent ($500-$1,500/month depending on location and roommates), utilities ($100-$200/month), groceries ($250-$400/month), transportation/commute ($50-$200/month), internet ($50-$100/month), and furniture/startup costs. Roommates can significantly reduce per-person costs.
  • Should I live in a dorm or off-campus?
    Dorms offer convenience, community, and proximity to campus but may cost more. Off-campus offers independence, potentially lower costs with roommates, and more space but requires more responsibility. Use this calculator to compare total costs and consider your lifestyle preferences.
  • How much do utilities cost for off-campus housing?
    Utilities typically cost $100-$200/month per person, including electricity, water, gas, internet, and sometimes trash. Costs vary by location, season (heating/cooling), and usage. Sharing with roommates reduces per-person costs. Some apartments include some utilities in rent.
  • Do universities provide cost comparison tools?
    Most universities do not provide comprehensive cost comparison tools that include all expenses. They typically only show dorm and meal plan costs without comparing to off-campus options including utilities, groceries, and commuting. This calculator fills that gap.

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