It is widely known that living expenses take up a large portion of college expenses for any student. Rent and utility expenses can pile up quickly, especially on top of tuition and extra things such as Greek life, groceries, and social activities. Finding a cheap apartment in Tuscaloosa is a great alternative to breaking the bank too early in your college career. There are many reasons to do so, and it is important to keep in mind that the cost of your UA apartment does not make or break your social life at The University of Alabama. There are always people to meet, things to do, and places to go that have nothing to do with the monthly rent of your off-campus housing near UA, so your parents or the people who financially support you will thank you for choosing a realistic place to live.

Utility Flexibility

One reason to move into a cheap apartment is flexibility with utilities. While choosing an all-inclusive Alabama apartment is an option, some affordable apartments may separate utilities from regular rent. Spending less on rent means that you might have more wiggle room to spend on things like electricity, heat, and gas. Whether this might be because you are forgetful in unplugging or turning off devices and lights, or because you enjoy long showers, or simply because you like to have lights on at all hours of the day, spending less on rent means more ability to pay for other things. This also includes food, toiletries, and other life necessities.

Saving Money

Saving money is another great benefit of moving into a cheap student apartment near UA. Being at a four-year university, tuition and course bills add up very quickly. It is important to keep in mind that money is a necessity for living and ensuring that you are aware of this information is crucial to your college career and to your future. Many students get jobs either with the University or at restaurants and other local shops near campus. By doing these few things, that money that has been saved adds up very quickly and can be a great cushion throughout your life at UA and even into your future.

Permanence

One of the most important things to remember is that you will not be a college student forever. The goal of getting an education is to take it into your future and be successful later in life, whether in Tuscaloosa or across the country at a new job. Regardless, the apartment that you choose during your time at The University of Alabama will not be the apartment you live in forever. Knowing this, choosing a cheap Tuscaloosa apartment is a great decision for all students. This is not a permanent place of residence, and choosing not to spend excessively on an apartment now will save plenty of money and hassle in the future.