Choosing where to live as a student is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during your academic journey. The right living arrangement can significantly impact your studies, social life, and overall university experience.
From the social vibrancy of dormitories to the independence of living in your own apartment, students today have a variety of housing options to consider. Whether you’re weighing the convenience of campus life, the privacy of solo living, or the shared experience of living with a roommate or partner, each type of housing comes with its own unique set of benefits and challenges. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of living in a dorm, a small apartment, and a larger shared apartment to help you make the best choice for your student lifestyle.
So, let’s begin with dormitories
For many students, dormitory life embodies the college experience. Living in a dorm fosters a vibrant, communal atmosphere where students can bond over late-night study sessions and social events, making the transition to college easier. This built-in community is often viewed as a rite of passage for first-year students. However, dorm living also has its challenges, such as limited privacy, shared spaces, and differing routines among neighbours.
Pros:
Dorms offer a great opportunity to meet new friends and are often a more affordable option when it comes to rent and move- in supplies, especially since they don’t require much furniture. They can serve as the perfect transition from living with your family to becoming independent, and it’s reassuring to be surrounded by people who are in the same situation as you. If you value being around others or feel that moving away from home will be a big adjustment, dorm living might be the best option for you.
Cons:
While dorm living has its benefits, it also comes with some downsides. One of the biggest challenges is the lack of privacy—sharing a bathroom and amenities, such as kitchens or laundry rooms, which can sometimes be crowded or poorly maintained. Noise levels can also be an issue, as dorms are often bustling with activity, which may make it difficult to concentrate or relax. Finally, conflicts with roommates or other residents are common and can negatively impact your overall experience. If you’re someone who values independence, personal space, or a quieter living environment, dorm life might not be the best fit.
Next up is solo living
Living alone as a student offers independence and control over your space and schedule, making it ideal for those who value freedom. Without roommates, you can create a personalized environment suited to your needs. However, this also means handling all responsibilities—cooking, cleaning, and budgeting—on your own. While autonomy is nice, the potential for isolation and lack of social interaction are important factors to consider.
Pros:
Solo living offers a unique sense of freedom and independence that can be highly appealing to students. One of the biggest advantages is the privacy—living alone means you have complete control over your space, schedule, and environment without having to worry about roommates’ habits or preferences. It also allows for greater peace and quiet, making it easier to focus on studies or unwind without distractions. For those who value personal space and autonomy, solo living can be a perfect fit.
Cons:
However, solo living comes with its own set of challenges. Without roommates, you’ll need to handle all the responsibilities yourself, from cooking and cleaning to managing rent and utilities, which can be overwhelming for some. It’s also typically more expensive than sharing an apartment, as you don’t have anyone to split costs with. Another potential downside is the lack of social interaction—living alone can sometimes feel isolating, especially if you’re in a new city or transitioning from a more social living environment like a dorm. If you’re someone who enjoys company or needs support managing household tasks, solo living might feel a bit lonely or challenging.
And lastly, sharing an apartment with a friend or a partner
Sharing a larger apartment with a roommate or partner offers a balance of independence and companionship, making it a popular choice for students. More space allows for a comfortable lifestyle, with the added benefit of splitting rent and utilities. Sharing household tasks can strengthen relationships, but it also comes with challenges like coordinating schedules and managing different habits.
Pros:
Living in a bigger apartment with a roommate or partner can offer several advantages. One of the main benefits is the ability to split costs—rent, utilities, and even groceries can be shared, making it more affordable than living alone. With more space than a dorm or small solo apartment, a larger apartment provides comfort and flexibility, and having someone to share household responsibilities, such as cleaning or cooking, can make daily tasks easier. Additionally, living with a roommate or partner can provide companionship, helping to reduce loneliness and create a supportive living environment.
Cons:
Nevertheless, there are some challenges here as well. Compromising on personal space is one of the biggest adjustments—you’ll need to coordinate schedules, manage differences in habits, and resolve conflicts over things like cleanliness, noise, or visitors. While sharing responsibilities can be convenient, it also means you’ll need to negotiate boundaries and maintain clear communication to avoid misunderstandings. Additionally, if conflicts arise, they can affect the overall harmony of the household, making it important to live with someone whose lifestyle is compatible with your own. For students who value independence and prefer having full control over their environment, sharing an apartment might feel restrictive at times. It can also be harder to find a bigger apartment in comparison to a dorm or a studio or one bedroom apartment.
I hope this article gives you some clarity and that you find the living situation that fits you the best.
Writer: Emma Hjalmarsson
