Student rentals tend to be one of two types – a house, or an apartment. For students who attend colleges in heavily urban environments, or in sparsely populated areas, the choice is already made, but for most, both options abound. When it is entirely up to you, what one should you pick? Take a looks at the lists below to see the pros and cons of renting houses and apartments.
Attribution: Pinterest
Houses
Pros:
- Plenty of room – Houses tend to come with full kitchens, large living rooms, and several bedrooms, so you and your housemates will have plenty of room to stretch out. Additionally, houses often come with a washer and dryer, and may have a basement or an attic where you can store your extra stuff.
- Driveways – Often, houses have a corresponding driveway, which can be very useful for students with cars. By having the option of not parking on the street, car owners can worry less about the dings and scrapes associated with street parking.
- Backyards – Rental houses may also have a grassy backyard, which gives you a great outdoor space for parties and barbecues. The space can also be useful for students who have pets, and is a great place to relax with a drink after a long day.
- Less noise – Because most houses do not share walls with the neighbors, living in a house may be quieter and yield more privacy than living in an apartment would.
- Cheaper rent – Usually, houses are cheaper to rent than apartments, since more students can live in them and split the bill. If you’re looking to save money, a house may be more cost-effective than an apartment.
Cons:
- Yard Work – Due to most houses having extra property around them, students who rent houses are often responsible for mowing the lawn, raking the yard, and doing other basic tasks outside. Inclement weather, such as snow or ice, can also add to the workload.
- Distance – Most homes are located somewhere away from central downtown areas, which tend to be dominated by apartments. Because of this, it may be difficult to get to bars, restaurants, and stores located near the center of town.
- Transportation – Because rental houses can be located a fair distance away from downtown, finding public transportation like buses and trains can be more difficult, and you may have to walk for a few minutes to get to a bus stop or train station.
Attribution: The Odyssey Online
Apartments
Pros:
- Amenities – Some apartment buildings come with amenities, including lounges and gyms. Additionally, outdoor maintenance and garbage pickup are often provided, making life easier for busy students.
- Views – Aesthetically, apartments often provide better views than houses, especially if the apartment is located on a higher floor in a multi-story building. For some, waking up to a beautiful city view is worth it.
- Downtown – Since most apartments are located in downtown, urban areas, everything is easy to get to. That new store everybody is talking about is a block away, and on your way there, you can stop and grab some coffee.
- Transportation – Bus stops and train stations are likely located right outside your door if you live in an apartment, and often, the commute to campus is shorter, letting you sleep in for a few extra minutes in the morning.
Cons:
- Price – Apartments tend to be located in more in-demand areas, so they often cost more than a room in a house would. Additionally, extra fees are often associated with pets and parking.
- Less Space – Most apartments lack the space afforded by a house, so finding places to store your stuff might be tough. Closet, kitchen, and bathroom space is often limited. Additionally, many apartments lack gardens or backyards, so parties and get togethers will have to be held strictly indoors.
- Less Privacy – Because you live above and below your neighbors, you are likely to run into them more often, and hear them if they make a large amount of noise. Due to space constraints and the lack of an outdoor space, you may find that your room is the only place that you have substantial privacy and quiet.
Want to know more about renting a house or apartment? Visit our resources page, where students, landlords, property managers, and parents can find more information about off-campus living!
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