For many college students, deciding where to live can shape their social life, convenience, and independence. While on-campus housing offers proximity to classes and campus events, some students choose off-campus living for cost savings and personal space.

Sophomore Addison Ladnier lives in a house with her parents. She chose off-campus living because it’s a short drive to campus and allows her to enjoy her own space while spending time with family. “It is convenient not having to pay for on-campus housing, but I have to put more consideration into making plans since I can’t just walk over and hang out or grab coffee with friends whenever,” she said.

Despite living off campus, Ladnier ‘28 feels well-connected to campus life through her Tri Delta and nursing classes. “Getting involved and putting myself out there really helped me make friends on campus,” she said. She also attends sorority events and supports other campus activities regularly.

Another sophomore, Elsa Grow, meanwhile, lives at her family’s home and often housesits locally. Cost and practicality influenced her decision. “It’s cheaper, I’m from here, and I wouldn’t be at the dorms much anyway since I’m always housesitting,” she explained. Elsa finds the commute somewhat inconvenient but appreciates the flexibility her living situation offers. While she doesn’t feel as connected to campus life as on-campus students, she still attends events regularly and maintains a social circle.

Both students highlighted the pros and cons of off-campus life. Advantages include saving money, enjoying personal space, and maintaining independence. Challenges involve less spontaneous socializing and commuting. Making friends off campus may take more effort, but involvement in clubs and organizations can bridge the gap, especially with Addason and Elsa’s involvement in Tri Delta.

Senior Sam Dumas offers a slightly different perspective. Although he technically lives on campus, he returns home to Chatom, Alabama, almost every weekend. He enjoys hunting and values the quiet, slower pace of life there. Compared to Chatom, he says Mobile feels too “city-like” for him, making his time at home a welcome escape from campus life. While he appreciates the balance of having access to both environments, he admits that quiet weekends at home are what he looks forward to most.

For Addison and Elsa, the verdict is clear: while off-campus living requires planning and effort to stay engaged, it’s worth it for the independence and cost savings it provides.