Don’t overlook cheaper dorm options

If you’re still scrambling for ways to save money on college bills in the days before classes start, here’s one option that may not be as much of a Hail Mary as you’d think: dorm room costs.

Most incoming freshmen and other students required to live on campus have already received their fall dorm assignments, but it doesn’t necessarily mean they’re out of luck when it comes to choosing potentially cheaper options.

Some schools allow dorm room reassignments throughout the semester, or allow students to swap rooms and dorms if they’re able to find another student who is interested in trading, said Elizabeth Renter, a data analyst at NerdWallet, which issued a recent report on the rising costs of on-campus living. (For the full report, go to https:// www.nerdwallet.com/article/loans/ student-loans/data-dorm-costs.)

We all know how much tuition has soared in recent years. The same has happened with dorm costs. According to NerdWallet, the average room rate at public universities has climbed 111% to $6,665 over the past 30 years.

While not exactly an apples to apples comparison, that far outstrips the median gross off-campus apartment rental rate, which grew 24% over the same period, NerdWallet reported.

What’s behind the increase? Many dorms built in recent years closely resemble fancy apartment complexes, with outdoor swimming pools, coffee shops and nutrition centers. Some schools offer rooms with private toilet and shower areas.

And to recruit and retain students, technology upgrades featuring high speed internet and Wi-Fi are a must, especially in older dorms where wiring is expensive.

If you’re a first-year student and required to live on campus, it is never too late to ask the campus housing office which dorms are cheapest and whether it is possible to switch. Schools typically offer housing at different price points.

“You could have trade-offs for saving money, such as no air conditioning or cinder block walls,” Renter said, “but if costs are the top concern, it can be a worthwhile sacrifice.”

In addition to dorms with different prices, some room arrangements may be priced lower, Renter said. The traditional dorm room — think tiny rooms with two beds — are typically the least expensive, while suites and apartment-style dorms are the priciest.

Also, keep in mind that the more roommates you have, the less you’ll likely pay, Renter said. “Single-person rooms are definite no-goes for the budget-minded,” she said.

The costs and room policies for students considering fraternities and sororities also vary widely. Many Greek houses only allow upperclassmen to live in the house. And while these houses can be comparable or even cheaper than dorms, additional expenses can easily overrun cost benefits, Renter said.

With the ongoing pandemic raging away, schools are most likely anticipating some student no-shows and cancelled housing contracts. This means additional rooms could open up as the fall semester unfolds, Renter said.

If there are no cheaper options at move-in time, don’t lose hope. You may be able to make a move at the start of the next semester.