As Billy Callaghan writes, we asked students what they thought of on-campus accommodation. Here’s what they said.

Choosing to live on campus or off campus can have an impact on your university lifestyle. It can affect daily routines, responsibilities and the overall university experience. Both have pros and cons, creating a debate between students in search of the perfect balance of convenience, independence, and community.

Whether you’re weighing up your options before you leave home, or if you’re already studying and thinking about moving on campus, here’s what we found when we asked students how they rated their accommodation.

So, which is better?

As a third-year student who spent my first two years in student accommodation. I’m enjoying now living off campus. I do agree my first two years on campus helped to ease me into living out of home. But living outside of university accommodation makes me feel like I have a lot more freedom and autonomy outside of university life, and I know I’m not alone with this belief.

From a poll posted on our Instagram page, 83% of students shared that they prefer living off campus. Many of the reasons given were issues such as expenses, space or accessibility. With the rising cost of living, many students can’t pay the costs of on campus living.

Pros for Living on Campus

Living on campus is a great way to start your University journey. It can be a way to connect with other like-minded students and make new friends. Many residences hold sporting and social events to foster a sense of community among students.

With the proximity to the University, it makes it much easier for students to get to class saving time and the expenses of travelling. Facilities such as the library, gym, stationary shop, pharmacy and printing, are all nearby.

One fee covers the cost of your accommodation, water, electricity, cleaning and internet. It saves you all the hassle of finding electricity providers or internet plans and streamlines the process giving you less to worry about throughout the year. And with 24-hour security, students can (most of the time) feel safe moving around campus.

Cons for Living on Campus

Although there are benefits, on-campus living isn’t for everyone. Residences have varying levels of limited privacy, with up to 10 people using one kitchen and living room. If you want your own apartment or studio, you’ll be adding more to the already high price tag set on University accommodation.

“$2.50 every time you want to use the washers and driers can really add up,” said a former UON campus tenant.

Parking on campus can be a really expensive hassle. Students take the gamble on a $150 parking pass to hopefully get a park nearby. Student living regulations are also much stricter than private rentals about guests and parties. And, the limited car parks don’t help at select times of the year.

Another stress-filled reality is fighting for your own room. At the end of the university year, all tenants have to move out, either to Summer Stay (even more expensive) or move home during the Christmas break. This can be a real hassle for anyone who lives far away from Newcastle. Then you have to hope you get accepted the next year.

It’s rumoured that the books fill up within minutes of the University opening up preferences for residences.

Like all life decisions, it’s really up to what you’re looking for. If you are searching for that ‘university life’ you see in TV and movies, on-campus living is for you. If you want a more chill lifestyle, sharing a house off campus with a friend or partner could be a better fit.