<p>Here are the rates for the UCI housing
[UC</a> Irvine Student Housing - Coming Year Housing Rates](<a href=“http://www.housing.uci.edu/rates_nextyear.asp]UC”>http://www.housing.uci.edu/rates_nextyear.asp)
How are the apartments so cheap? Even including the meal plan, the dorms cost significantly more. Is there some kind of disadvantage in choosing apartment in terms of cost ( “college experience” is a no-factor)?</p>
<p>Are you a freshmen?</p>
<p>yeah I am talking about the freshmen rates</p>
<p>because the dorms are a rip off.
It’s even cheaper if you live in a surrounding area like costa mesa</p>
<p>I was wondering that too. The disadvantages, I mean, to living in the alternative housing. The only reason that I can really think of is that Arroyo Vista & Camion Del Sol are so far out; they’re like, on the edge of campus. It’s so far you’d have to take a shuttle.
So you’re really isolated. & because you aren’t living with as much people, it’s like, who are you gonna meet?
But I figure if I get really involved around campus, I’ll still be able to meet lots of people.</p>
<p>The reason why Dorms are more expensive because:
-You’re paying costodians to clean your bathrooms, make your community look nice
-Room and Board: Furnitures offered in your dorm (your bed, closet, desk…common room…study room)
-your RA’s and coordinators are funded at certain amount of money and are used for programs and events offered around your area(ME and Mesa)
-you are paying your MANDATORY Meal Plan to help fund your common’s eatery</p>
<p>You’re basically being spoiled if you decided to live in dorms. You don’t have to worry much about cleaning or paying bills or what you’re gonna eat. Its all paid in your expense. Yes, its expensive but its worth every penny to have a great time.</p>
<p>i think the apartments are waaaay better. if you buy a voluntary meal plan it comes out to be the same price. :)</p>