How Far Is Too Far? 5 Reasons Commute Time Matters More Than Rent Price for Students

When searching for student housing, rent is often the first factor you consider. However, the distance from your university can be just as important. A cheaper apartment might seem like a great deal at first, but the savings may not be worth it once you factor in transportation costs, travel time, and the impact on your daily routine.

Here are five reasons why commute time should be a key consideration when comparing student housing options.

Why commute time matters when choosing student housing

1. Transportation costs add to your monthly budget

Rent is only one part of your monthly budget. If you live far from campus, you may also need to pay for bus fares, fuel, parking, or occasional taxi rides when public transit isn't convenient.

For example, you might find two apartments: one farther from campus with lower rent and another closer to campus that costs a little more. While the cheaper apartment may seem like the better deal, the extra transportation costs could make it just as expensive as living closer to university.

Before choosing a place, consider how you'll get to campus each day and calculate your expected transportation expenses. This will help you compare the total cost of different student housing options.

2. Long commutes take time away from studying

After lectures and classes, you still need time to complete assignments, work on group projects, and prepare for exams. A long commute can eat into valuable time that could otherwise be spent studying or completing academic tasks.

For example, travelling 45 minutes each way adds up to seven and a half hours over a five-day week. That's almost a full working day spent getting to and from university.

Living closer to campus can also make it easier to meet classmates for group projects, visit the library, or attend extra study sessions without having to fit another lengthy journey into your day.

3. Living nearby makes your schedule easier to manage

Your university timetable might include an early lecture followed by a three-hour break before another class or lab in the evening. When you live far from campus, these gaps can be inconvenient, as travelling home and back may take up almost as much time as the break itself, leaving you with little choice but to stay on campus.

Accommodation within walking distance offers greater flexibility, allowing you to quickly return home for lunch, rest between lectures, or collect something you've forgotten.

4. Long commutes can affect your sleep and energy levels

Attending an early morning lecture can mean waking up considerably earlier when you live far from university. Similarly, getting home late after an evening class can leave less time for dinner, assignments, and relaxation.

Over time, this routine can reduce the time available for sleep, making it harder to feel rested and maintain your energy levels throughout the day. Choosing accommodation closer to campus can give you more time in the morning and evening, helping you balance your academic responsibilities with adequate rest.

5. Living closer makes it easier to participate in campus activities

University isn’t just about lectures and exams. Student clubs, workshops, cultural events, and social gatherings offer opportunities to meet new people and become part of the campus community.

Living nearby gives you more flexibility to join an evening event or spend time with classmates after lectures, without worrying as much about catching a bus or facing a lengthy trip home. It can also make spontaneous plans easier to say yes to, since returning to campus doesn’t require as much travel time.

Final thoughts

Rent is an important factor when choosing student housing, but so is the time and money you spend getting to class. Living closer to university can help reduce transportation costs, make your daily schedule easier to manage, and give you more opportunities to participate in campus activities.

If you're looking for a room for rent in Oshawa, Foundry 1805 offers fully furnished student apartments within walking distance of Ontario Tech University. Its convenient location helps you spend less time commuting and makes it easier to access campus facilities and activities. Foundry 1805 also features dedicated study rooms, a fitness centre, and shared common areas where you can study, exercise, and spend time with roommates.

Frequently asked questions

How long should a student’s commute to university be?

There is no ideal commute time for every student. It depends on your class schedule, transportation options, and how often you need to be on campus. Think about whether you can manage the journey regularly, especially during winter or when you have early morning classes.

Is living within walking distance of campus worth it?

For students who attend classes most days, living within walking distance can be convenient. It reduces your reliance on transportation and makes short trips to campus easier. However, you should also consider rent and other housing expenses to see whether the location fits your budget.

How can you calculate your monthly commuting costs?

Multiply your usual round-trip transportation cost by the number of days you travel to campus each month. If you drive, include fuel and parking expenses. If you use public transit, compare the cost of individual fares or monthly passes, and check whether your student fees include transit services.

What should you consider when choosing off-campus housing?

Consider the total cost, commute time, and available transportation options. You should also check whether the room is furnished, which utilities are included, what study facilities are available, and whether you’ll share a kitchen or bathroom with roommates.

Can a shorter commute help you manage a part-time job?

A shorter commute can make it easier to balance classes and part-time work. Spending less time travelling between home and campus may give you more flexibility to fit work shifts around your class schedule and other responsibilities.