Dorm vs Apartment: Choosing Which is Right For You

There are certainly benefits to living in college dormitories when young men and women first arrive. Your classes are often conveniently located within walking distance, and you have an opportunity to make friends with peers who are also living on campus. Building a social group makes a significant difference in terms of getting acclimated and enjoying college life. These are other benefits living in the dorms may provide.

• Close to the College Cafeteria
• Do Not Need Transportation
• Single Dorm Rooms Offer Privacy
• Access to Laundromats
• Fewer Housekeeping Chores
• Convenient Access to University Libraries & Other Facilities

Dorm life has a variety of facets that can help first-year students thrive. By that same token, the negatives tend to send freshmen looking for off-campus housing before they enter their sophomore year. These include the following.



• Double Dorm Rooms Eliminate Personal Privacy
• Communal Areas Tend to be Crowded & Noisy
• Studying in a Dorm Room Isn’t Always an Option
• Sharing Bathroom and Shower Facilities Can be Unpleasant
• Not All Students Clean Up After Themselves
• Cafeteria Meal Options Lack Diversity and Flavor

It’s also essential to note that colleges and universities place restrictions on people living in their dorms. These may include curfews, guest limitations, and not allowing certain items in the facility. Truth be told, living on campus requires young adults to forego certain freedoms and be managed as if they were minors living with their parents.

Pros & Cons of Living in an Apartment in College

The conventional thinking surrounding the dorm vs apartment life discussion tends to circle back to cost. It’s not uncommon for decision-makers to believe dorms are far less expensive, at least at first blush. But a deep dive into a dorm vs apartment cost analysis paints a different picture.

Monthly Rental Fees & Utilities

Reports indicate the expense of on-campus room and board hovers around $12,000, with utilities included. By contrast, living in an apartment typically costs about $17,000, also with utilities included. If one were to look no further, it would be easy to conclude residing in the dorms saves families money. Such is not necessarily the case.

One often overlooked caveat concerns time spent in a housing facility. Dormitories are usually 9-month rentals, while apartments generally require a 12-month lease. If we do the math, dorms cost $1,333 per month, compared to apartments that cost $1,416 per month. At the end of the day, we’re looking at a difference of under $100. Naturally, the person living in the dorm must travel home to their parents or pay for a 3-month rental during summer break

Food & Meal Expenses

Socialization Benefits

Living in the dorms during freshmen year helps students make new friends because they are immersed in the campus. During your second year, most people have a group of friends. Moving off-campus provides a place where everyone can gather. It’s also an opportunity to rent a multi-bedroom apartment and split the cost.

Starting your post-secondary education in the dormitory has worthwhile socialization benefits. However, the overall cost, lack of privacy, conditions, and restrictions generally give apartments a better quality of life and are cost-effective solutions.

Tips for Deciding Between Dorms & Apartments

Choosing between dorms and apartments is an important decision for college students. Here are five practical tips to help you decide:

1. Calculate the Total Cost:

2. Evaluate the Level of Independence:

Consider how much independence you want. Dorms often have more rules and structured living environments, while apartments offer more freedom and responsibility. Think about whether you're ready to manage your own household tasks, such as cooking and cleaning.

3. Assess Proximity to Campus and Amenities:

Consider the distance to your classes, campus facilities, and amenities such as grocery stores and gyms. Dorms are typically closer to campus, which can save time and transportation costs. Apartments might offer more variety in location and proximity to city life or off-campus activities.

4. Determine Your Social and Privacy Needs:

Reflect on your preference for social interaction versus privacy. Dorms often provide a built-in social network and opportunities to meet new people, while apartments can offer more private, quiet spaces for studying and relaxation.

5. Consider Safety and Security:

Assess the safety and security features of both options. Dorms usually have security measures like key card access and on-site staff, while apartments vary in their security offerings. Consider factors like neighborhood safety, building security, and emergency procedures.

Take your time to consider these factors, and make a decision that best suits your unique situation and preferences.

Weida Apartments is locally owned and operated by Purdue Alumni. The majority of the staff at Weida are Purdue University graduates, and we’re here to support our fellow Boilermakers throughout their college journey. If you are interested in renting an apartment near Purdue University, contact Weida. Let’s get the process started.