Certainly, college comes with a hefty price tag. But what may come as a shock is that housing costs can sometimes exceed tuition fees. In the 2023-24 academic year, the average cost for housing and meals at public four-year colleges stood at $12,770, surpassing the $11,260 for tuition and fees, as per a report from the 2023 College Board. Similarly, students at community colleges and private institutions also encountered high housing expenses.
The soaring housing prices can have a significant impact on a student’s ability to succeed in college or complete their degree. A 2019 report by Temple University’s Hope Center in Philadelphia revealed that approximately 56% of surveyed students reported facing housing insecurity, including challenges in paying rent, in the previous year.
Olan Garrett, associate vice president of student affairs at Temple University, notes, “We see escalating prices and escalating costs whether you’re on- or off-campus, and so it’s becoming a bigger piece of the college education funding puzzle for a lot of families.”
To alleviate college housing costs, there are strategies you can employ, from finding roommates to carefully evaluating on- and off-campus alternatives. Your college advisors can assist you in discovering affordable options, even during emergency situations.
Before resorting to excessive student loans to cover housing expenses, consider implementing these expert-endorsed suggestions.
Commence Your Search Early and Conduct Thorough Research
Initiate your housing hunt as soon as possible, especially for students exploring off-campus options, advises Garrett. If you prefer on-campus living, the selection process typically opens in the spring, providing more time, he adds.
To stay ahead, establish contact with leasing agents in your area. Attend open houses or apartment tours and connect with the leasing agent to inquire about other available units not yet listed online, suggests Matt Aini, chair of the Student HOMES Coalition.
Conduct background research on your potential landlord or rental management company before signing a lease. Seek feedback from friends, peers, and online reviews.
Prioritize creating connections with leasing agents and evaluating leases to secure suitable housing options.
Compare On-Campus and Off-Campus Choices
While off-campus living offers independence and potentially lower rent, comparing costs with on-campus alternatives may not always be straightforward, notes Garrett.
On-campus accommodations typically include utilities like water, heat, electricity, trash, and WiFi in the housing fee. Additionally, dorm rooms are usually fully furnished. In contrast, off-campus rent generally excludes these services, leading to additional expenses. Off-campus apartments may also necessitate a security deposit and upfront payment of the first month’s rent.
Most college websites offer online cost-of-living calculators for comparing on- and off-campus living costs.
If your college is near your home, consider commuting to save on housing expenses.
Aini, a senior at the University of California, Berkeley, opts to live with his parents nearby and commute to campus, emphasizing the cost-effectiveness of this decision.
“I made a very conscious decision,” Aini remarks. “And among other things, you see the cost. And I think it just makes things easier.”
Opt for Roommates and Set Realistic Expectations
Living with roommates is a common aspect of the college experience, allowing freshmen and beyond to share rent and utility costs.
“There’s value in roommates or shared living environments,” states Brenda Ice, senior associate dean at Brown University. Ice emphasizes the social and financial benefits of living with multiple individuals in a shared space.
Be prepared to compromise on amenities to secure a place within your budget. You may need to forgo living in a new or recently renovated residence hall without roommates.
“The primary goal is to find a comfortable living space that allows you to sleep, study, and carry out your daily activities,” advises Garrett.
Utilize University Resources
For guidance on housing options, engage with your university’s housing and residence life office. School officials can assist you in exploring on-campus choices and may provide support for off-campus housing decisions.
“Have a conversation with a housing officer,” suggests Garret. “In most cases, one size does not fit all.”
Many colleges offer databases of off-campus housing options with verified landlords and properties. Some institutions even conduct free workshops to educate students on financial literacy and lease understanding, fostering community connections.
Even if your college lacks extensive housing resources, a housing officer is typically available. At North Seattle College, housing resource specialist Shannon Thomas aids students facing emergency housing challenges.
“I establish connections with various agencies and programs in the area, whether it’s community service organizations, city or state initiatives, private landlords, or other educational institutions,” explains Thomas.
Submit the FAFSA for Reduced Borrowing Expenses
If you require student loans for housing, prioritize federal student loans for their enhanced protections and flexible repayment options. To qualify for federal student loans and need-based Pell Grants, you must submit the FAFSA. In case you’ve reached the maximum limit for federal loans, consider private student loans as a last resort to bridge any financial gaps.
Review Your Lease and Maintain Open Communication with Landlords
If you plan to reside off campus, understand that leases are legal contracts with significant financial consequences. Breaching lease terms can result in penalties, eviction, and a tarnished rental record, impeding future rental prospects.
Some universities, such as Brown, offer legal assistance through attorneys to guide students on lease terms and landlord disputes. Attend free legal clinics at your school or in the community for additional support.
In case of financial difficulties in meeting rent obligations, proactively communicate with your landlord, advises Garrett.
“Communicate with your landlord early … if you anticipate challenges, inform them beforehand. Most landlords are willing to collaborate if approached transparently,” he highlights.
Seek Emergency Housing Grants
According to the 2019 Hope Center survey, a significant percentage of college students experienced homelessness, necessitating temporary stays with friends or relatives. Emergency grants serve as vital resources in critical housing situations where stability is at risk.
States, cities, and educational institutions typically offer these grants. Consult your school’s housing officer to explore available options.
For example, Washington state colleges administer the Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) emergency grant to aid students facing housing crises.
To apply for the WSAC grant, students typically engage with a housing coordinator at their school. The grant amount is flexible, with some students receiving up to approximately $3,000.
In urgent scenarios, students may be referred to shelters or provided temporary motel accommodations, ensuring their immediate housing needs are met.
Addressing students’ basic needs not only enhances retention rates but also fosters a supportive campus community, notes Thomas.