Is It Cheaper To Live Off Campus Than On Campus?

For students at Arizona State University, housing is one of the biggest expenses to plan for each semester. Whether you're an incoming freshman or a grad student looking for more independence, the question often comes up: is it actually cheaper to live off campus than on campus?

The answer depends on your lifestyle, location, and what you're willing to manage yourself. In this post, we’ll break down how off-campus living compares to on-campus dorms—and what factors you should consider when making your housing choice.

Assessing Your Budget and Location Needs

What’s Included in On-Campus Housing?

Living in a dorm at ASU offers convenience. Utilities are included, and you're close to your classes, campus dining, and student events. However, that convenience comes with a price. On-campus housing rates can range from $9,000 to $14,000 per academic year, depending on the dorm and meal plan. That equates to $750–$1,200 per month—sometimes for a shared room and communal bathrooms.

Off-Campus Options Offer More Flexibility

Off-campus housing tends to be more budget-friendly, especially for students who are open to sharing a space. Many properties offer individual leases or roommate matching, which allows students to enjoy the benefits of apartment living without signing a lease for an entire unit. For example, cheap student housing in Tempe AZ can start as low as $700–$850 per month—often for a private bedroom in a shared apartment with more space and amenities than a dorm.

Off-campus properties also give you more control over your meals, privacy, and schedule. With a full kitchen, you can save hundreds per month by cooking at home rather than relying on a campus meal plan.

Proximity Matters

Location is key when considering off-campus housing. Some apartments near ASU Tempe are just a short walk or bike ride to campus, allowing students to save on gas and parking permits. Others may be slightly farther but offer shuttle services or easy access to public transportation.

Living close to campus also keeps you engaged in ASU life while giving you the independence that off-campus living provides.

Factoring in Utilities, Transportation, and Fees

Hidden Costs of Dorm Living

On-campus housing may seem all-inclusive, but many students forget about required meal plans, dorm fees, and limited personal space. Meal plans alone can add an additional $3,000 to $5,000 per year, pushing total housing costs well over what you'd pay in a nearby apartment.

You also can’t customize your space much in a dorm, and there are often restrictions on guests, noise, and lifestyle that don’t exist in apartment living.

Utilities and Furnishings in Off-Campus Housing

When comparing costs, be sure to ask whether utilities (like water, electric, and internet) are included in rent. Many student housing options near ASU now offer all-inclusive rent pricing, so there are no surprise fees at the end of the month. Some properties also provide furnished apartments, saving you the cost of buying beds, desks, or kitchen supplies.

Even when utilities are not included, shared apartments help divide the cost among roommates, making it manageable. Budgeting for groceries instead of a meal plan also allows you to eat how you want, when you want—and often at a lower cost.

Transportation and Parking Considerations

Off-campus students should also consider transportation. Will you be driving, biking, or walking to campus? Many off-campus apartments offer bike racks, on-site parking, and are located near bus stops. This can save you hundreds per semester on parking permits and ride-share costs.

Final Thoughts

While on-campus housing offers structure and proximity, it often comes at a premium. For many students, off-campus living is the more affordable and flexible choice—especially with options like cheap student housing in Tempe AZ, conveniently located apartments near ASU Tempe, and well-equipped student housing near ASU.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your lifestyle and budget priorities. By comparing total costs and factoring in utilities, freedom, and space, you can find a living situation that makes both academic and financial sense.