Finding the right off-campus housing can be an exciting, yet challenging experience for UW-Eau Claire (UWEC) students and their parents. Transitioning from dorm life to renting an apartment or house in Eau Claire comes with new responsibilities, and it’s important to know how to navigate the process. This guide is designed to help students and their families make informed decisions when looking for off-campus housing in Eau Claire, WI.
Why Move Off-Campus?
For many students, living off-campus during their sophomore year or later offers several benefits, including:
Independence: Off-campus housing gives students more freedom to choose their roommates, create their own schedules, and live without the rules of dorm life.
More Space: Apartments and houses tend to offer more living space, with separate bedrooms, full kitchens, and sometimes outdoor areas.
Potential Cost Savings: In some cases, off-campus housing can be more affordable than living in the dorms, especially if students share rent and utilities with roommates.
Popular Neighborhoods for UWEC Students
Eau Claire offers several student-friendly neighborhoods close to the UWEC campus. Here are a few popular areas where students often look for housing:
Water Street: This area is a hub for students, offering a variety of apartments within walking distance of campus. Water Street is also home to many restaurants, cafes, and bars that make it a lively place to live.
Third Ward: Known for its quieter atmosphere, the Third Ward is a residential area where many students rent houses. It's still close to campus but offers a more laid-back vibe.
Randall Park: Just across the river, Randall Park is another popular area for students. It's close to campus and offers a mix of older houses and smaller apartment buildings.
How to Start Your Search
Finding the right off-campus housing requires some planning. Here are steps to help students and parents get started:
Begin Early: The best housing options near UWEC fill up quickly, so it’s important to start your search early. Many students begin looking for the next school year’s housing in January or February.
Online Resources: Websites like Zillow, Apartments.com, and Craigslist can help you find available apartments and houses in Eau Claire. You can filter your search by rent, number of bedrooms, and distance from campus.
Property Management Companies: Several property management companies in Eau Claire specialize in student rentals. Companies like Investment Realtors and Commonweal Development Corporation offer a range of options near UWEC.
Word of Mouth: Students can often find housing by talking to friends or classmates who are moving out of their current place. Some landlords prefer to rent to students through personal recommendations, so it’s always a good idea to ask around.
Evaluating Rental Options
When evaluating potential rental properties, there are a few key factors to keep in mind:
Location: Proximity to campus is an important consideration. Living close to campus can save time and money on commuting. Many students prefer to walk or bike to classes, so being within a mile of UWEC is ideal.
Rent: Rent prices in Eau Claire vary depending on the size and location of the property. On average, students can expect to pay between $350 and $500 per month per person. Make sure to ask if utilities like water, electricity, and internet are included in the rent.
Lease Terms: Before signing a lease, carefully review the terms. Most leases are for 12 months, and students are responsible for rent even during the summer months. Also, check if there’s a security deposit and understand what’s required to get it back when you move out.
Amenities: Some off-campus housing options offer amenities like on-site laundry, parking spaces, and furnished units. Make a list of must-have amenities and compare them when evaluating different properties.
Budgeting for Off-Campus Housing
Living off-campus comes with new expenses that students need to account for. Here are some typical costs to consider:
Rent: As mentioned earlier, rent can vary based on location and size, but expect to pay around $350 to $500 per month.
Utilities: If utilities are not included in the rent, students should budget for electricity, water, and internet. These costs can range from $50 to $100 per month, depending on usage.
Groceries: Without a campus meal plan, students will need to budget for groceries. A typical student grocery budget is around $150 to $200 per month.
Transportation: If living farther from campus, students may need to budget for transportation. Eau Claire Transit is free for UWEC students, but if you plan to drive, consider gas and parking expenses.
What to Expect When Living Off-Campus
Living off-campus brings both benefits and responsibilities. Here’s what UWEC students and their parents should know:
Cooking and Meal Prep: Without a campus meal plan, students will need to cook for themselves. While this can save money, it also requires planning. Students new to cooking might want to start with simple recipes or consider meal prepping for the week.
Roommates: Many students choose to live with roommates to help share the cost of rent and utilities. While living with friends can be fun, it’s important to communicate openly and set expectations around cleaning, noise levels, and shared spaces.
Cleaning and Maintenance: Unlike dorm life, off-campus housing requires students to clean and maintain their own living space. This includes taking out the trash, cleaning the kitchen and bathroom, and reporting any maintenance issues to the landlord.
Safety: While Eau Claire is a relatively safe town, it’s still important for students to think about safety. Always lock doors and windows, and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight. If students are out late at night, it’s a good idea to walk in groups or use a rideshare service like Uber.
Making the Most of Off-Campus Living
Off-campus living offers UWEC students a unique opportunity to experience more independence and responsibility. By planning ahead, managing finances, and communicating with roommates, students can make the most of their off-campus housing experience.
Final Thoughts
For both students and parents, moving off-campus represents a significant step in a student’s journey through college. It’s an exciting opportunity that provides more independence and a taste of what life will be like after graduation. By following this guide and starting the search early, UWEC students can find a comfortable and affordable home away from home.
Eau Claire offers plenty of housing options near UWEC’s campus, and with careful planning, students and parents can feel confident that they’ve made the right choice for off-campus living.
