The transition from living on campus to apartments off campus-whether you’re moving out of BYUI housing, BYU Idaho housing, or even exploring other options like the Lodge, brings freedom of choice along with accountability. You no longer pay one price for the rooms and meals; instead, you are now responsible for separate costs which add up fast. One of the best ways not to stress out is to create a budget that covers both foreseen and unforeseen expenses. The guide breaks down each category that is important-rent, utilities, transportation, groceries, as well as hidden fees-so you’re aware of the exact expenses you need to prepare for before committing to the lease.
Understanding Rent as Your Core Monthly Expense
Rent is generally the biggest expenditure you will have. Let’s say you are considering on-campus apartments, or newer student complexes like the Lodge. Pricing varies for each due to factors including location, amenities, and the type of dwelling you will have- alone or sharing a room with others. A good rule of thumb is to keep your rent at or below 30% to 40% of your monthly income or your financial aid award.
When you are comparing off-campus options to BYUI housing or BYU Idaho housing, you will want to know what the rent includes. Some apartments include water, WiFi, or trash service in their rent while others charge for each utility separately. Other fees that should be considered are those like parking, pet rental, and access to amenity facilities in addition to the renter’s insurance. Small charges like these can add $50 to $150 to your monthly total. You will want to create a spreadsheet so you can determine your “true rent” and fairly compare different apartments including the Lodge and other housing communities.
Utilities Contributing to Your Cost of Living
Unlike on-campus and BYUI homes, which generally provide utilities, off-campus apartments will typically leave you responsible for the costs yourself. Common utilities you will be charged for include water, electricity, gas, garbage, sewer, heating, and internet. Prices fluctuate based on the season: winter heating, summer electric power, and heating.
When considering moving off campus, ask your landlord what the average utility bill is each month. Apartment complexes, such as the Lodge, should add in energy-efficient appliances to keep utility costs as low as possible. If you are living with roommates, decide how you will split the cost then pay the bills on or before the due dates. Apps like Splitwise ensure all parties pay their portion of a bill. Be prepared for deposits when setting up utilities, a key component of the budget you are using for your move.
Groceries and Household Supplies You'll Need Every Month
One of the biggest expenses that most students are unaware of when transitioning from dorms or BYU Idaho housing into off-campus living is groceries. Most students will find themselves paying anywhere from $150 to $300 per month, depending on their eating habits and dietary needs. Home cooking, meal preparation, and grocery shopping can greatly reduce your monthly food costs.
Don’t forget to add to your move-in list household items such as laundry detergent, toothpaste, cleaning supplies, hand soap, garbage bags, and essentials for the kitchen. The additional household costs range on average from $20 to $50 every month. Buying in bulk or splitting large household items with roommates, especially if you’re living in student-focused communities like the Lodge, helps to keep costs low.
Breaking Down Your Total Budget: The 6 Essential Categories
Rent
The amount charged to you each month. You also add pet fees, amenity fees, parking, and renter’s insurance if necessary. When comparing the cost of BYUI housing, BYU Idaho housing alternatives, and the Lodge, make sure you’re comparing the big picture rather than base rent.
Utilities
Gas, electricity, heating, Water, WiFi, and trash collection. The bill cost depends on the age of the building, the effectiveness, and the season.
Groceries and Food
Foodstuffs, snacks, takeaways, and kitchen appliances. Food planning is very important to make sure you remain within your budget.
Transportation
This category includes public transportation passes, rideshare (parking permits, bikes, equipment, and maintenance). Distance to campus significantly impacts this area.
Personal Expenses
Clothing, laundry, subscriptions, books, hygiene products, textbooks, also social events and products for personal hygiene. The little things add up if they’re not kept track of.
Unexpected or Emergency Expenses
Medical care needs, appliances that need repair, roommate problems, travel or schooling expenses over and above what was planned. Even $20 to $50 a month can be critical security savings.
Transportation Costs You May Not Anticipate
The option to live off-campus, whether close to the Lodge or farther away than BYU Idaho requires you to have transportation responsibilities that you may not have had previously. If you have a car you will need to budget for fuel, oil, and wheel rotation in addition to parking at your home and the BYU Idaho parking permit.
If you rely on public transportation, you should calculate the cost of your bus ticket or a budget for rideshare. Students who can bike or even walk will very likely be buying winter equipment, bicycle maintenance tools, or security accessories. You can choose an apartment that may be a little more in rent but is close to campus, such as Lodge’s near-campus place, and will save you money in the long run in transportation or fuel costs.
The Unexpected Expenses that Catch Students Off Guard
Some costs are ‘hidden’, or unexpected, and can blow your budget if you’re not careful. They include:
- Application fees during housing sign-ups
- Security deposits
- Moving in and cleaning materials cost
- Furniture, and the basic kitchen appliances.
- It is during winter when the utility uses peaks.
- Repair costs for damage caused by an accident
- Roommates who moved out early
- Professionally cleaned at the time of removal
- Repairing worn or damaged products
Students who are transitioning from BYUI housing to BYU Idaho housing or independent living often have these challenges in the beginning. That is why an emergency fund should be established each month.
Smart Budgeting Makes Off-Campus Life Easier
Living off campus-whether at the Lodge, or some other BYU housing option-provides greater freedom and flexibility. It also requires careful budgeting. Once you have a good sense of what you will need for monthly rent, utility bills, food items, transportation costs, personal expenses, and other unexpected expenses, you can be in a position to proactively manage your budget, rather than simply reacting to unexpected expenses. If you have a well-thought-out budget, the off-campus life can become enjoyable and sustainable, and help you establish a valuable money management system that will serve you well during and long after graduation.