Are you heading to Cincinnati to study and plan on living off-campus? The great news is that the city is a very affordable one, ranking highly in the list of the most affordable cities to work or study in the whole US.

Below, you’ll find details of not just why you can save by living off-campus in Queen City but also tips and hacks to make off-campus student life even more affordable.

Rent is Affordable in Cincinnati

If you don’t want to live on campus in Cincinnati then you’ll be pleased to know that rents are relatively affordable here. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $1,037 a month, making Cincinnati much more affordable than most other cities in the US. And if you’re prepared to look outside the city center, things get cheaper still; you can find apartments to rent in Queensgate, West End Cincinnati, and East Westwood for as little as $779 a month.

Check out your college or university’s website, too, for dedicated student housing available. For example, the University of Cincinnati’s off-campus housing page details a variety of options, from one-bedroom apartments and studios to five-bedroom houses.

The Cost of Living is Reasonable, Too

As well as rents, the general cost of living is relatively affordable in Cincinnati, too. A recent survey by US New and World Report found the city to be the tenth most affordable in the entire country. 

This means, in a nutshell, that your money will go further here – everything from groceries to the cost of public transport is likely to be a little cheaper than elsewhere. Renters insurance in Cincinnati won’t break the bank, either. And, as a student in the city, this is something you need. For a small monthly sum, a renters insurance policy provides protection for your stuff and peace of mind. And while it may not be a legal requirement to have renters insurance in Cincinnati, many landlords stipulate tenants must have it in place. So this is something definitely not to skip.

Plenty of Great Student Discounts

For students living off-campus especially, the range of student discounts available can make everyday living even cheaper. As a student, you’ll typically be eligible to receive discounts on public transport, meals out, shopping, and even entry to attractions such as Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden.

Check with your college or university to find out how to access discounts and deals and any specific programs they may run.

Free Things to Do

Finally, there are loads of free things to do in Cincinnati to make your off-campus budget go even further. Take a relaxing stroll in one of the city’s many parks, such as Washington Park, Smale Riverfront Park, or Eden Park. Feeling a little more adventurous? Head out for some hiking in Mount Airy Forest, around a fifteen-minute drive from the city. Here, you’ll find a wealth of trails as well as a lake, gazebo, and specialty gardens.

The Cincinnati Art Museum, Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption, Mount Adams, and Spring Grove Arboretum are just a few of the sites around the city offering free entry.

How to Make Off-Campus Living in Cincinnati Even Cheaper

So you’ve bagged an affordable apartment and are making the most of the generally affordable cost of living in Cincinnati, not to mention all the student discounts you’re eligible for. But are there ways to cut back costs even further? There sure are – try these hacks to make your student budget stretch.

• Getting a roommate (or an additional roommate) is one of the best ways to save money. Check your lease, though, to make sure this is allowed.
• Look for a part-time job around your studies, or consider a side hustle, such as selling online or doing some freelance work.
• Plan your meals and cook in bulk: as well as saving money, this will mean you’ll always have something nutritious in the freezer to heat up.
• Always carry your student ID; it can unlock discounts everywhere, from shops and restaurants to gyms.
• Even if you live off-campus, take full advantage of the university amenities when you visit the campus for classes, whether this is the sports facilities or health center.
• Check out your local thrift store for clothes, equipment, and home bargains for a fraction of the cost of buying new.

Affordability Reigns Supreme in the Queen City

Cincinnati is a wonderful place to live and study. As well as enjoying affordable rents and a general cost of living, there’s a tonne of free stuff to do here, not to mention the generous student discounts on offer. If you’re heading to the Queen City to study, use the guide above to get the most bang for your buck and prepare for an unforgettable experience.