The opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Texas chapter.
Are you getting ready to start your journey at the University of Texas at Austin? One of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make is where to live. The neighborhoods of West Campus, North Campus, and Riversides are popular alternatives to living on campus with high student populations. We’ve weighed the pros and cons of each area to help you decide!
On-Campus Living:
Pros:
- Convenience: You can roll out of bed and be in class within minutes. Plus, you’ll be close to all the university’s amenities like the gym, library, and dining halls.
- Social Life: Living on campus means you’re in the middle of all the action. You’ll be surrounded by other students, making it easy to make friends and attend campus events.
- Safety: On-campus living is generally considered safe since the university has its own security measures in place.
Cons:
- Limited Space: Dorm rooms can be pretty small, and you’ll likely have to share with at least one other person.
- Lack of Independence: Living on campus means you have to adhere to the university’s rules and regulations. You may not have as much freedom as you would off-campus.
West Campus
Pros:
- More Space: West Campus apartments can be more spacious than on-campus dorms, plus you’ll have more privacy.
- Independence: Living off-campus means you get to live life on your own terms. You can cook your own meals, have friends over, and make your own schedule.
- Culture: West Campus is a trendy and vibrant neighborhood with tons of coffee shops, restaurants, and boutiques to explore.
Cons:
- Cost: West Campus apartments can be pricey, especially if you want a place with lots of amenities. Plus, you’ll have to factor in utilities like electricity and water.
- Noise: West Campus is a bustling neighborhood, and noise levels can be high. It can be tough to study or sleep if you have loud neighbors.
North Campus
Pros:
- Location: North Campus is close to the university, so you won’t have to deal with a long commute.
- Walkability: North Campus is a walkable neighborhood with plenty of amenities nearby like grocery stores and restaurants.
- Quaintness: North Campus has a charming, historic feel that many people find appealing.
Cons:
- Cost: North Campus can be pricey, especially if you’re looking at newer constructions. Keep cost of amenities, food, and cost in mind for comparisons.
- Limited options: North Campus has a limited number of apartments available, so you might have to act fast to snag a place.
Riverside
Pros:
- Affordability: Riverside is one of the more affordable neighborhoods near UT Austin, making it a great option for students on a tight budget.
- Amenities: Riverside has plenty of amenities like grocery stores, restaurants, and shops.
- Diversity: Riverside is a diverse neighborhood with a variety of cultures and backgrounds.
Cons:
- Commute: Riverside is further away from the university, so you’ll have to deal with a longer commute.
- Safety: Riverside has a higher crime rate than some other neighborhoods near UT Austin.
In the end, the decision of where to live comes down to your individual preferences and priorities. Consider factors like cost, location, and lifestyle when making your choice. Whether you choose to live on-campus or off-campus, make sure to make the most of your college experience!