Pros:

• Accessibility to Purdue – Living on-campus makes it easy to walk to classes, libraries, dining halls, computer labs, etc. You don’t have to waste time and money driving to campusevery day. Don’t underestimate the convenience of getting up and walking straight to class from your apartment.
• Social Life – Living on-campus near Purdue puts you in the middle of a social environment that allows you to establish many friendships and get involved in any campus activities taking place.
• Central Location – Near Purdue are restaurants, shops, the Wabash Landing Movie Theatre, and all the sports venues (Mackey Arena and Ross-Ade Stadium). Living on-campus puts you in the center of all this activity.

Cons:

• Little Privacy – privacy can be hard to come by when living on-campus. You are always surrounded by the hustle and bustle of campus, and may find it hard to have quiet time
• Limited Apartment Features – Many on-campus apartments do not have a washer and dryer; nor do they allow pets.
• Limited Parking– Parking on campus can be a significant challenge. Even if you have a place to park, the parking lot will be very congested and you risk the possibility of damage caused to your car. Also don’t forget to display your parking permit or you may be towed!
• Possible Low GPA – Being surrounded by so much activity and social life, you may find it hard to buckle down and study. This could have negative effects on your GPA.

Pros:

• Lower Cost– If you have a tight budget or prefer to have your own bedroom, many students find living off campus is a great way to save money.
• More for your money– Many off campus apartments offer many extra features like vaulted ceilings, larger bedrooms, and more modern floorplans.
• Privacy – Living off-campus gives you the benefit of being able to get away from the hustle and bustle of campus. After a long day of classes you can drive home and enjoy the peace and quiet.
• Better Apartment Features – Many off-campus locations are pet friendly and have many other apartment amenities that on-campus locations don’t offer.
• More Space – Living off-campus you will most likely have more space inside your apartment and also outside. Throwing a football around or playing a game of cornhole won’t be so challenging!
• Parking & Garages– Most off campus apartments have ample parking that is included with your apartment. If you have a really nice car or don’t like to scrape snow/ice off your windshield you can often find an apartment with its own garage.

Cons:

• Transportation – Although there can ride the citybus, , many find it most convenient and somewhat a necessity to have their own car.
• Isolation – You will most likely have less involvement in campus activities and may find it harder to make new friends.
• Plan Ahead– It takes time and money to drive to and from Purdue University every day, not to mention the frustrations of finding a parking spot. Having a “C” parking permit willhelp, but if you want to park close to class you better leave early!