<p>It really depends on what you value most. I decided to live off campus because I really wanted to have my own room, and because I’m older than most people who would be staying in the dorms. If you do decide to live in apartments, I would look for a large complex designed for students. That way you still get some of the dorm like atmosphere. I was lucky to find a complex that has a good sense of community and social atmosphere. However it is more expensive than living on campus would be. I just couldn’t see myself sharing a small room with 1 or 2 other people. If you really want to live in a dorm though and the only thing making you consider an apartment is the price, I would go with the dorm. You only get this experience once. Besides, the difference could only be a couple thousand dollars at most right? I’m surprised you found housing cheaper than the dorms.</p>