On vs. Off Campus Living: Comparison and Costs
Information provided by Residential Life
| On-Campus | Off-Campus |
| Convenience (Walking between buildings from residence hall, etc.) | Longer commute time, less convenient if locked out (wait for landlord or roommates); walking in the elements |
| Accessibility of resources (Dolly/Hall Item rentals, RA on-Call, RHD on-Call, Public Safety, Emergency Housing, etc.) | Have to access resources via 3rd-party vendors (Off-campus resources outside of business days/hours) |
| Housing Contract: Cancellation Fee | Legally binding lease: 6-18 months without opportunity to get out of contract |
| Room-Buyout Option | Subleasing (hassle) for 4-6 months while away for summer or on study away |
| Sustainable Bins and Trash/Recycling dumpsters during move out | Hard Credit Check (Good Credit and Rental experience) |
| Room Change Request Option | Housing Deposit (1-1.5 month rent) |
| Room/ESA Accommodation (Center for Disability Resources approval) | Income Check (usually requires 2-3 times monthly rent expense) |
| Free (Limited) Storage for some students (400+ miles from campus) | No Animals allowed or must pay Pet Fee |
Additional Housing Costs Besides Rent:
- Furnishing (Dining, kitchen, common room, bathroom, bedroom, etc.) – From $50-$500 or more
- Lot or underground parking (if applicable) – $50-$200 per month
- Extra storage closet/garage – $75-$200 per month
- Utilities (Electricity, water, trash, wifi, phone) – $100-$300 per month or more
- Cooking supplies for Kitchen – $50-$300 up front costs
- Food costs – $150-$400 per month
Cost Comparison Information
Information Provided by Residential Life
| On-Campus Housing | Semester | Total Cost |
| Halls | $4,152.00 | $8,304.00 |
| GDD | $4,152.00 | $8,304.00 |
| GCA | $4,724 | $9,448.00 |
| Kirk | $4,152.00 | $8,304.00 |
| L-Houses | $4,279.50 | $8,559.00 |
| Veggie Co-Op | $4,152.00 | $8,304.00 |
| Study-Away (Kirk) | $4,152.00 | $8,304.00 |
Questions? Please email any of the following offices: