Living Affordably as a Student in New York City
Living affordably as a student in New York City can be challenging, but it’s possible with careful planning and smart choices. Here’s a guide on how to do it:
1. Housing:
– Explore Different Neighborhoods: Some neighbourhoods in NYC are more affordable than others. Check out these neighbourhoods and their connectivity to the university and other facilities. Research areas with lower rent costs and commute times to your campus.
– Roommates: If you’re renting off-campus, consider sharing an apartment with roommates to split the rent and utilities. This can also help you make connections and friends and ease your journey in NYC.
– Explore Student Accommodation: Student Accommodation is a great alternative to on-campus housing; you get all the amenities, proximity to your college and a safe and verified living space.
2. Transportation:
– Use Public Transit: New York has an extensive public transportation system. Invest in a monthly MetroCard for unlimited subway and bus rides; it’s often cheaper than paying per trip. You will find that most of the working population and students commute by public transport, so it is definitely safe and cheaper.
– Walk or Bike: Whenever possible, walk or bike to save on transportation costs. It is also eco-friendly, and you can also get in some exercise while saving up on transportation costs.
3. Entertainment and Food:
– Free Activities: New York offers plenty of free or low-cost food and entertainment options. Museums, parks, and cultural events are some local favourites, and you will find plenty of food trucks, bodegas and grocery stores if you wish to cook.
– Student Discounts: Many museums, theatres, and venues offer student discounts. Always carry your student ID when you step out. Some restaurants also offer student discounts on the bill, so always remember to carry your ID.
4. Textbooks and Supplies:
– Buy Used Textbooks: Look for used textbooks, rent them, or consider digital versions to save on book expenses. You can share and borrow the study materials with your fellow students and use campus resources, too. Universities come with libraries, computer labs, and printing services to reduce personal expenses on supplies. These resources are free for students, so make sure to use them from time to time.
5. Part-Time Work:
– Find a Part-Time Job: Consider finding part-time work on or near campus to supplement your income. Many colleges have job boards or career centres that can help. Finding a part-time job can help you get some experience in work life or corporate life and can also help you earn some pocket money.
– Internships: Look for paid internships related to your field of study. They can provide valuable experience and income and give you a good opportunity to network with people from your field.
6. Financial Aid and Scholarships:
– Apply for Financial Aid: Ensure you’ve applied for all available financial aid, grants, and scholarships. This can significantly reduce your tuition costs.
– External Scholarships: Search for external scholarships; there are many organizations that offer financial assistance to students in NYC.
7. Room for Savings:
– Create an Emergency Fund: Set aside a small portion of your income for emergencies. This can prevent unexpected expenses from derailing your budget. More than that, it is important to have a safety net to ensure that you have money saved for a rainy day.
– Track Your Expenses: Use budgeting apps or spreadsheets to closely monitor your spending habits and identify areas where you can cut costs.
8. Networking:
– Connect with Fellow Students: Network with your peers; they may know about affordable resources and opportunities in the city.
– Utilize Career Services: Your college likely has career services that can help you find work, internships, and career opportunities.
Living affordably as a student in New York City requires discipline and careful financial planning. By making informed choices and taking advantage of available resources, you can enjoy your time in the city while keeping your finances in check.
Amber and you- AmberStudent is an online student accommodation that helps you secure a home of choice on your study abroad journey. Having served 80 million students (and counting), AmberStudent is your one-stop shop for all your accommodation needs, with great choices for student housing in Australia and UK Accommodation. Amber helps with assistance, booking, and price match guarantees! Check out their Facebook and Instagram and stay connected!
Author’s Bio
Madhura Ballal plays many roles- a cat person, a food lover, an avid marketer, and a postgraduate from the National University of Singapore. You can find her painting and doing yoga, when she’s not playing one of the most critical roles that she has taken on- writing.