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Living on campus is a popular student residence option in Canada. But still, so many students choose to live off-campus. So what are the reasons for these students to select off-campus living?

Some students choose off-campus living for obvious reasons, such as to enjoy more freedom and because they don’t want the limited social opportunities on campus. And others decide to live off-campus for safety reasons or for a more homey atmosphere.

Although on-campus living is considered convenient for first-year students, upperclassmen often prefer living off-campus. And rightly so because having personal space is almost non-existent in on-campus housing.

Here’re the main reasons why so many university and college students choose to live off-campus:

Shared Housing Facilities are Affordable

On-campus housing is relatively expensive because these facilities usually charge a per semester amount upfront to cover all amenities you’ll use during your stay. On the contrary, off-campus living is more affordable in many cases, depending on the facilities offered at the property.

With a bit of research, you can easily find affordable student housing. Barrie, for example, has facilities that provide all the amenities you could need without costing a fortune. Also, keep in mind that living with roommates is way more affordable than living alone.

You Gain Independence

On-campus residences have strict rules. While some students are okay with that, others prefer more freedom. Living in an off-campus apartment means you’re free to make your own rules. This allows you to create your own routine, live as you want, and have more fun while focusing on your studies.

Also, living off-campus means you are on your own. As such, you learn to manage your day-to-day life without help. You get the chance to learn to cook, clean, manage finances, do grocery shopping, and more. All of these will help you in your future professional and personal life.

Off-Campus Housing is Better for Working Students

Whether you’re doing an odd job or running a small-scale business alongside your studies, you’ll find that living off-campus is a better option for many reasons.

For example, if you come back from work late, an off-campus student housing property won’t give you any hassle, as its core objective is to give students a comfortable living space.

At most off-campus student apartments, you can come and go at your preferred times. But many on-campus residences have strict rules for entering and leaving the premises. That makes them a less attractive option for working students.

Freedom & Fun Go Hand-in-Hand

Whether you’re a party lover or an adventurer, living off-campus offers you more opportunities to have fun. However, on-campus housing facilities have early quiet hours, strict rules, and several limitations that can suppress your fun side.

As an adult, you’d want to focus on your studies and have fun because you understand that life is not all about studies and work. Off-campus life offers you the freedom to go out with friends, enjoy parties, and set your own routine.

You’ll Have Personal Space

Whether you like pin-drop silence or cannot bear an unorganized room, living off-campus allows you to make independent decisions. In collaboration with your roomies, you can make decisions and set rules regarding cleaning, cooking, grocery shopping, chores, and more. On top of that, you can organize your room to your liking, have a roommate or live alone, and follow your own schedule.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, living off campus has many advantages. By budgeting and finding the perfect spot for your needs, you can find an off-campus living facility that feels like home.

Even if you’ve already lived on campus, you may eventually want to transition into an off-campus living environment. Many students start on campus and move off campus to gain more freedom in their later college years. No matter your decision, you can find all of the facilities you need to have an enjoyable experience in an off-campus living space.