University of North Carolina at Chapel HillOff-Campus Housing Summary

Written by Kavita Gupta

Kavita Gupta

Hometown

Austin, Texas

Major

Biology

Grad Year

2013

View all previous student authors

Many students choose to move off campus for the slightly lower prices and extra space. Chapel Hill and its surrounding areas have many types of living from luxurious apartments and homes to those more fitting of a college student's sparse budget. However, it is important to note that off-campus housing is hard to find, and many places are reserved a full year in advance. Places that are considered to be within walking distance of campus are more expensive than places that require more of a commute. Students who live off campus are generally happy with the quality and spacious atmosphere that an apartment or house may bring, but the commute and parking on campus are an entirely different story.

There are a few options available for students who aren't the biggest fans of dorm living, one of the most popular being Granville Towers. Although this is technically off-campus housing, it is sometimes considered to be a dorm because of its proximity. It combines the luxury of an apartment with the convenience of centrally located dorms, making it a great option for many students. Rent for off-campus housing is typically cheaper, depending on how far you are willing to go from campus, but as it gets later in the year and closer to campus, beware of high prices and talk to other students about good or bad landlord experiences. It depends on the type of person you are, but many find off-campus living as rewarding, if not more so, than on-campus living.