Tips for Living Off-Campus and Saving Money

Every year college students tell their parents that by moving off campus they will save money. Out on their own for the first time, they soon realize that money is in short supply. Living off campus can be a money saving option if you are prepared and have thought about the ways you will save money. If you plan ahead, you can save money on your housing, living, and entertainment costs.

Housing Costs

* Find Roommates: If you find trustworthy roommates, you can expect large savings on your housing costs.

* Buy Cheap Houses: If your school is located in a depressed real estate market, your parents might be able to help you buy a house as an investment. If you buy, you do not lose your money to a landlord.

* Find out Your Utility Costs: If you are renting an apartment, you should look for an off-campus apartment where the heating costs are included in the rent. There is nothing worse than paying out of the roof to keep your apartment warm and still being cold because moving the thermostat higher will only add to your pricey gas bill. In climates where the weather is extremely cold or hot, you should ask to see an old bill for the apartment or call the utilities company to ask what the average is for your building or former house. One should not overlook heating costs when looking to move into an old house. Ask to see the bill. Also, you should be sure to ask your landlord what their maintenance practices are on their heating equipment. If they do not regularly change the filter or get it professionally serviced, you heating unit will not work as well and will cost you more each month on the bill.

Living Costs

* Save money on household products: Shop for incidentals-- dishwashing soap, tupperware, cleaning materials, windex, toothpaste, spices, toilet bowel cleaner-- at a discount place like Big Lots or a $1 store. The prices will be significantly lower than going to Target or Walmart. You can even find notebooks and other school supplies at such places. On average, your bill will be about 30 percent or 40 percent of what it would be if you went to a regular store. If you spend about a $100 at Target, you will probably pay closer to $40 for the same goods at the discount store.

* Students who live off-campus find that their biggest expense is food. Food is what makes or breaks your living off-campus budget. You should look for sales on food. Learn how to cook. You can check out websites for ideas: College Cooking, YumYum.com, Easy Guide to College Cooking.

Entertainment Costs

* Use the Internet only when you are at school.

* Move into an apartment building where wireless or dsl is included

* Attend free campus events and movie screenings.