Keep Your Expenses Down: 5 Tricks To Studying In NYC

If you are a student with big dreams of studying in a city that never sleeps, New York is a perfect destination packed with opportunities. The vibrant city offers the perfect academic background for a college student to prosper academically.  

However, New York City is undeniably one of the most expensive cities in the world, making it financially challenging for students to move there.  

With the high cost of living, it becomes paramount to plan your expenses with effective budgeting tips to give you a gratifying academic experience. Hence, in this article, we talk about the best budgeting tips for students attempting to study in the Big Apple. 

Find Affordable Housing  

New York is one of the most expensive cities, where renting an apartment is a wild dream for many students.  

However, if you want to live in the New York dream and want the best of the entire experience, you can opt for affordable rented apartments offered by Nycstudenthousing.com. These fully furnished apartments on rent are great for students and provide all necessary amenities in a safe environment.  

However, if renting an apartment does not seem viable, there are many alternative housing options at a much cheaper rate. There are many institutions that provide on-campus housing options.  

Hence, students can opt for colleges with dormitories to cut down on extra expenditures. Moreover, you will save all your transportation expenses by simply walking next door to your classes.  

However, if your college does not provide on-campus accommodation and renting an apartment alone seems too expensive, get a roommate or try subletting options. You will find many students willing to share an apartment.  

Use Student Discounts 

Much like many other metropolitan cities, New York offers various discounts for students. Hence, remember always to carry your student ID.  

Students can get discount metro cards from the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, saving additional expenses.  

Additionally, many museums, theatres, and other attractions offer incredible student discounts. Moreover, many cafes and restaurants give discounts on the entire bill for students. Hence, make the most of these discounts and explore the city. 

Manage Your Finances 

Don’t spend mindlessly. We understand how exciting a new city can be, and you would want to try everything out.  

However, do not go with the flow and end up overspending. Download budgeting apps that allow you to have control of your finances. 

Use applications like You Need a Budget or YNAD, Mint, or PocketGuard to keep a close track of where you are spending. If you want to save money in New York, getting a part-time job is the best option. Moreover, you can also try some freelancing jobs to get extra income.  

Make It a Habit to Cook At Home  

Eating in New York City is quite expensive unless you come from generational wealth. Hence, make it a habit to go to the local store for groceries and cook at home.  

Avoid the ‘Starbucks’ aesthetic and make coffee at home. Moreover, shop smart and avoid expensive supermarket chains. Consider local produce options or shop at affordable grocery stores like Aldi, Costco, Trader Joe’s, and others.  

Don’t Miss Out on Free Events and Resources  

New York City, known for its hustle and bustle, hosts many free events open to all. Students interested in arts and culture or students who simply want to explore the artistic side of the city can take advantage of such free events.  

Conversely, some of these free events include lectures, festivities, museum or art gallery tours, and others. Moreover, if you are unsure where these events happen, check for websites like Eventbrite and Time Out New York.  

Additionally, students can enjoy the benefits of public libraries, which provide free WiFi, a quiet study place, and unlimited internet access. Interestingly, the New York Public Library also offers free books, e-books, movies, and more.  

Conclusion  

Studying and living in the City of Dreams can be financially strenuous for students. However, with effective planning and budgeting, you can make the most of your student life in New York City.  

Finding affordable accommodation, budgeting, using student discounts, and other strategies will help you ace the Big Apple student life. Hence, remember the key to academic success in a big city is making informed budgeting decisions.