Making the decision to live off campus is a big deal. There are a lot of factors to consider - and I don't just mean figuring out how many parties you should throw. Housing that is not sponsored by the university can get pricey. There are hidden costs that don't apply when living in dorms. You've probably already figured out that you'll most likely have to pay separate utilities, but have you really paid attention to these costs? Electricity is a big one and, depending on the construction of the building, can be reasonable or outrageous.

If you're the type to constantly forget to turn lights off, you may want to pay extra attention to this added expense. Along with electricity comes gas, which may or may not apply to the space you want to rent. Gas has a wide range of cost too. You may also be billed for water - which can be measured either by actual usage or by the size of the residence. Apartment complexes and landlords shouldn't have a problem with giving you the past or average rate for these bills.

Cable and internet most likely won't be included in the rent price. Cable is optional, of course, but you will probably need the internet. Most apartments and rental homes are unfurnished too. You'll have to decide just how much furniture you need and whether you can afford to buy that. Televisions, beds, and desks may all be things you have at your parent's house or in storage somewhere. If not, check the prices on anything you consider a necessity (like dishes and cooking stuff) before you sign a lease. Trash service may or may not be included in a rental home but an apartment complex will probably offer some solution for you. Landlords may also require you to carry renter's insurance. It's definitely something you should invest in regardless of whether or not it's required, but it isn't terribly expensive.

One last expense to consider is transportation. If you have a car, factor in the daily cost of gas to and from campus. If you don't, figure out the price for public transportation. You may be lucky enough that you can still walk to campus from your off-campus home, but keep a small emergency transportation stash for stormy days or late nights.

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