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Affordable Living Tips for Florida College Students
Going to college in Florida is an enriching experience of education and sunshine. Of course most college students are also facing their first challenges when it comes to budgeting, saving, and managing an affordable lifestyle. Whether you are working your way through college or living carefully off a stipend, affordable living in Florida is a key element of success in your college years.
Fortunately, you don't have to figure it out alone. Every Florida student can benefit from a few helpful tips on how to budget, plan, and build a practical lifestyle to make your college years more affordable - and kick-start your financial future.
Master Your Cost of Living
The first step is to completely understand your college cost of living. Your primary concerns are likely housing, food, transportation, and fun. But you can get a clear view of your total expenses by keeping receipts and/or tracking your transaction records, as well.
- Housing: How much are you paying per-semester for
- Rent or
- On-campus housing?
- Food: How much are you paying for
- Groceries?
- Restaurants and fast food?
- On-campus meal plans or ala-carte meals?
- Transportation: Are you driving or riding the bus? What are your costs for
- Gasoline and car maintenance?
- Per-semester bus pass?
- On-demand ride services?
- Fun: Calculate your monthly spending on
- Streaming services
- Partying and events
- Entertainment
- Discretionary spending like candy, decorations, or art supplies
Tally up all your spending to see your outgoing budget for the month and per semester to master your cost of living.
Tips for an Affordable Student Lifestyle
Rent with Other Students
Typically, the most affordable student housing is when students share a rented house or multi-room apartment. Choose a few trustworthy friends and rent a near-campus house together instead of living in the dorms or renting an expensive apartment solo.
Optimize Your AC
Florida utility bills are strongly impacted by the temperature. Smart use of the AC can help control high power bills while staying comfortable enough to study.
Cook Your Own Meals
Buy your food at the grocery store and cook/prepare your own meals. Pack lunches and snacks and use cooler packs to keep them cold in your bag.
If you really want to eat on campus, get a meal plan and prioritize the buffet locations that offer more (and healthier) food per charge with infinite drink refills.
Take the Bus or Carpool
Optimize your transport costs. If you live close enough, get a semester bus pass. If not, carpool with other students to minimize both gas and parking requirements.
Prioritize Free Events
Instead of paid parties and clubs, find your fun at free on-campus events.
Share Streaming Accounts
Share streaming service accounts with your roommates to save money on entertainment, or get 'family' deals for multiple accounts at a lower cost.
Minimize Impulse Spending
Try to cut back on on-campus candy and other impulse spending. Look for more satisfying and economical ways to boost your morale.
MIDFLORIDA Financial Perks for Students
Student financial services can help you improve your financial outlook, keep a better budget, and prepare your finances for future success. MIDFLORIDA Credit Union offers several services uniquely suited to Florida college students.
Student Checking Account
Our student checking account1 is completely free for accountholders between 10 and 20. You can enjoy free mobile banking, mobile wallets, bill pay, text and phone banking, and debit card cash rewards without worrying about account fees.
High Five Savings Account
If you're also saving for the future, the High-Five Savings account at MIDFLORIDA Credit Union is a great way to make your savings work for you, offering competitive rates while keeping your funds easily accessible.
Financial Calculators
Looking to build a budget, buy a car, or plan a big savings budget? Our financial calculators are a free resource for students to explore financial planning the smart way.
Empower Your Student Finances with MIDFLORIDA Credit Union
If you are a Florida college student, starting your finances on the right foot is one of your most important goals. From planning for affordable living to starting a healthy savings habit, MIDFLORIDA is here to help with student accounts, personalized savings, and resources to help you achieve your financial goals.
Affordable living in Florida is achievable with planning and the right resources. Explore MIDFLORIDA Credit Union's services for college students and contact us for more information.
