Dorm life hits different in freshman year. But at some point, sharing a bedroom and surviving off dining hall food gets old. If moving off campus has been on your mind, now’s the time to do something about it.
When you look at the bigger picture, off-campus living is totally worth it. Between having your own bedroom and having friends over whenever you want, it’s a great alternative to living in the dorms.
Here’s everything to know before you make the move off-campus, plus how Jackson Properties can help you make the transition as smooth as possible.
Finding The Dream Crib
Every apartment complex is going to look fire on Instagram and TikTok, but don’t fall for it right away. Tour at least 2 to 4 spots before you commit so you can actually compare prices, layouts, and how close you are to campus.
Either way, most apartments or houses are way cheaper than the dorms anyway. You’re looking at hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars saved over the year when you live off-campus.
Jackson Properties has 5 neighborhoods and complexes near FSU, FAMU, and TSC, so if you don’t know where to start, check them out. Text (850) 894-7368 or schedule a tour, and we’ll help you figure out what makes sense for your vibe.
Roomies
Who you live with makes or breaks the living experience. If you communicate early on, it’s basically a never-ending sleepover. If not, it could be a living nightmare.
The good news is that everyone gets their own room, and sometimes their own bathroom! You won’t have to worry as much about sharing your private space with a roomie. The flip side is you’re splitting more responsibilities: groceries, cleaning, and figuring out who bought the last roll of paper towels. These things add up and can lead to arguments if not handled the right way.
How to avoid this? Set expectations early. Talk about cleaning, guests, quiet hours, all of it. A five-minute conversation in the beginning will save you a lot of awkward conversations later.
No roommates lined up? Lucky for you, Jackson Properties does roommate matching. Just contact our leasing office, and we’ll get you set up in no time.
Parking
Most complexes will sneak in a fee for parking or give you a parking lot that’s always full. At Jackson Properties, parking is free for you and your guests at all our properties, and there are plenty of spots available (even after 9 PM).
Getting to Campus
Off-campus living means adding a little more time to your morning routine. Most students are looking at a five to fifteen-minute drive to campus, not counting the hunt for a parking spot once you’re actually there.
All Jackson Properties locations are ten minutes or less from every college campus in Tallahassee. And when you get back, parking is handled, so you won’t have to circle the lot for another half hour.
Time to Cook (Literally)
Having your own kitchen is lowkey one of the best parts of moving off campus. You eat what you want, when you want, without being at the mercy of dining hall hours. It’s cheaper, it’s healthier, and honestly, learning to cook is a whole vibe.
Cooking may seem like a daunting task, but just look up a few easy recipes on TikTok, and you’re good to go! If not, frozen pizza will do the job just fine.
Jackson Properties locations are close to ALDI, Publix, and Target, so grocery runs are easy. Your bank account will thank you.
No More Socks On The Door
This is the one. Your own room, your own schedule, and no RA knocking on your door. Have people over, host a tailgate, or just exist in peace… no permission required.
Depending on the property you choose, you could have up to two rooms to yourself at Jackson Properties. Check out our University Center Apartments or our Campus Circle Cottages if you’re looking for more space for a study room, office, or even just closet space.
The Real Pros and Cons
Below, we’ve broken down the pros and cons of living off-campus.
- Pros: Affordable prices, private bedroom (and sometimes bathroom), privacy, more space, kitchen, free parking, and no guest restrictions.
- Cons: You need a car, there’s a commute, and adulting responsibilities.
Considering how much you’ll get in return, living off-campus seems like the clear winner. But it’s always good to consider your options and do what’s best for you.
Time to Ditch the Dorms
If living off-campus has been living rent-free in your head, it’s time to go look at some places. Check out our neighborhoods at Jackson Properties and text us at (850) 894-7368 to talk to a leasing agent. We’ll help you figure out what off-campus life could actually look like for you!
To check out more of the benefits of living off-campus, read our blog: Beyond the Dorms: The Perks of Off-Campus Housing in College.
