Living as a student comes with its own unique set of financial challenges. Between tuition, textbooks, food, and transportation, managing money can quickly become overwhelming. For many students, choosing where to live is one of the most significant financial decisions they'll make during their time in college. At Lark on 14th, student living is designed to be both convenient and affordable, with a range of amenities that make budgeting easier. Whether you're considering 1 bedroom apartments near Marquette or need a shared living space, Lark offers flexibility to meet your needs. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of budgeting for student living: what to expect at Lark on 14th, focusing on what’s included in rent, how it compares to on-campus housing, tips for managing monthly expenses, and how to make the most of local student discounts and resources.

What’s Included in Rent at Lark?

One of the first things you’ll want to know when budgeting for student living is what’s included in your rent. The good news is that Lark on 14th offers an all-inclusive rent package, which can make your budgeting process much simpler. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to be included in your rent:

1. Rent and Utilities:

Rent at Lark on 14th covers both your living space and essential utilities. Unlike many off-campus apartments where utilities such as water, gas, and electricity are separate costs that may fluctuate throughout the month, Lark includes all utilities in the rent price. This includes:

• Water: You won’t have to worry about tracking your water usage or paying separate bills each month.
• Electricity: The electricity costs for heating, cooling, and powering appliances are all included in your rent.
• Internet: High-speed internet is included in the rent, so you can easily stay connected for online classes, research, and entertainment without any additional cost.

This all-inclusive pricing is a huge benefit when it comes to budgeting. It eliminates the need to manage separate utility bills and gives you a clear idea of your monthly expenses. Having predictable costs can reduce the stress of managing your finances during the school year.

2. Furnishings and Appliances:

Lark on 14th comes fully furnished, so you won’t have to worry about the additional costs or logistics of buying furniture. This includes essential items like:

• A bed, desk, and chair
• A wardrobe or closet space
• A refrigerator, microwave, and stove (for units with kitchens)

By offering fully furnished apartments, Lark on 14th helps students avoid the upfront costs of purchasing furniture and kitchen appliances, which can add up quickly.

3. Amenities and Common Spaces:

Living at Lark on 14th also comes with access to a variety of amenities that are included in the rent. These amenities are designed to enhance student life and provide convenient spaces for studying, socializing, and relaxing:

• Fitness Center: No need for an expensive gym membership – Lark on 14th provides an on-site fitness center for residents.
• Study Rooms: Private and quiet study spaces are available, making it easy to focus and get work done.
• Social Spaces: Lounge areas and common spaces offer opportunities to meet new people, relax, or host social events.
• On-site Laundry: Forget about lugging your laundry to a laundromat – Lark on 14th has convenient on-site laundry facilities available.

These added amenities reduce the need for students to spend extra money on fitness memberships, off-campus study spaces, or other services that might be necessary for living independently.

Comparing Cost to On-Campus Housing

When considering your living options as a student, one of the first comparisons you’ll make is between off-campus housing and on-campus housing. So, how does Lark on 14th compare to on-campus housing in terms of cost?

1. Rent at Lark vs. On-Campus Housing:

While on-campus housing prices can vary depending on the university, they are typically higher than what you would pay for off-campus housing. According to data from the College Board, the average cost for on-campus housing can range from \$10,000 to \$15,000 per year, depending on the school and type of accommodation. This price often includes rent, utilities, and some amenities but can still be more expensive than off-campus alternatives.

At Lark on 14th, you can typically expect to pay lower rent than you would for similar-sized on-campus accommodations. Not only is the rent at Lark more affordable, but it also includes utilities and amenities, which can add up significantly when living on campus. For example, on-campus housing might charge extra for access to gym facilities, parking, or internet, whereas Lark offers these services as part of your rent.

2. Flexibility and Privacy:

In addition to cost, off-campus housing like Lark on 14th provides students with more flexibility and privacy. On-campus housing often comes with strict rules and regulations regarding visitors, curfews, and noise, which can feel restrictive for some students. At Lark on 14th, you’ll enjoy the independence of living in your own private apartment or shared space without the oversight that comes with on-campus living. Plus, Lark on 14th offers a greater variety of unit types, allowing you to select a living arrangement that best fits your needs.

Managing Monthly Expenses Efficiently

Budgeting for student living requires careful planning and management of your monthly expenses. Here are a few tips to help you manage your money more efficiently while living at Lark on 14th:

1. Create a Budget:

Start by creating a detailed budget that outlines your monthly income and expenses. Be sure to include rent, utilities, groceries, transportation, and other regular costs like subscriptions, entertainment, and personal expenses. By creating a budget, you’ll be able to track your spending and identify areas where you can cut back or save.

2. Set Aside Savings:

It’s a good idea to allocate a portion of your monthly income to savings, even if it’s just a small amount. Having an emergency fund can help you deal with unexpected expenses and give you peace of mind. Aim to save at least 10% of your income, if possible.

3. Be Mindful of Non-Essential Spending:

While it’s tempting to spend money on dining out, entertainment, or shopping, it’s important to prioritize your essential expenses first. Try to limit unnecessary spending by cooking at home, using student discounts, and finding free or low-cost activities to enjoy.

4. Use Student Discounts and Local Resources:

One of the best ways to save money as a student is by taking advantage of student discounts and local resources. Many businesses offer student discounts on everything from food and entertainment to transportation and clothing. Be sure to sign up for student discount programs or check websites like UNiDAYS and Student Beans for the latest offers.

Lark on 14th is also located in a community with plenty of student-friendly resources. From discount grocery stores to local coffee shops offering student deals, taking advantage of these resources can significantly reduce your monthly expenses.

Relevant Resource: College Board – Student Budgeting Calculator

To help you with your budgeting journey, a great tool to check out is the College Board’s Student Budgeting Calculator. This free online resource allows you to input your income and expenses to help you create a detailed budget that works for you. It also provides helpful tips and advice on managing your finances during college. By using this tool, you can get a clearer picture of your financial situation and make more informed decisions about where to live and how to spend your money.

Conclusion: Budgeting for a Successful Student Life at Lark on 14th

Choosing where to live as a student is one of the most important financial decisions you'll make, and Lark on 14th offers a unique combination of affordability, convenience, and amenities that can help make budgeting easier. With all-inclusive rent, fully furnished apartments, and access to essential amenities, Lark on 14th provides an affordable and stress-free living experience that helps students focus on their studies, health, and personal growth.

By understanding what’s included in rent, comparing costs to on-campus housing, and using practical budgeting tips, students can manage their finances effectively while living in a vibrant, connected community. With the right planning, living at Lark on 14th can be a financially manageable and rewarding part of your college experience.

Relevant Resource:

For additional budgeting tools and tips, visit the College Board’s Student Budgeting Calculator to help create a budget tailored to your needs.