Should I Live on Campus? A Guide to Student Housing

You did it. You’ve received your acceptance letter and are on your way to starting your college journey. But now you’re asking yourself a series of questions: What should my major be? How does financial aid work? Should I live on campus?

This last question is about more than choosing a place to stay—it’s about customizing your student experience to meet your needs and creating memories that last a lifetime. Living on campus may not be for everyone, but it could be ideal for you.

Northampton Community College’s (NCC) comprehensive guide for student housing helps you explore the many benefits of living on campus while deciding whether it's the right option for you.

What to Consider When Deciding

• Am I relocating for school?
• Is this my first time living on my own?
• Do I want to be close to classes and shorten my daily commute?
• Am I looking to get involved on campus?
• Is it easier to budget when housing costs are all-inclusive?
• Do I want to have academic support nearby?

If you answered “yes” to most of these questions, then on-campus living might be right for you

Five Benefits of Living on Campus

1. Enjoy Convenient, Safe Accommodations

Going to college may be your first time living away from home, bringing both excitement and a newfound sense of responsibility. Student housing gives you more independence while providing additional support to ease the transition.

With your classes, dining halls, and campus resources just steps away, you save time and effort on commuting. Plus, colleges design campus life with safety in mind, including secure entry, on-site staff, and campus security services. These measures ensure that you have peace of mind so you can focus on your studies and social life.

2. Be at the Heart of Campus Life

Imagine: student events around campus, late-night study sessions, game nights with your roommates that stir up a bit of friendly competition. All of these events and activities make up your college experience, creating friendships and memories that you’ll carry with you long after graduation. On campus, you’re always connected to the rhythm of college life. Plus, you have the opportunity to choose what that looks like. From joining a club or organization to tackling a leadership role in student government, you can tailor your campus life experience to your interests and desired level of involvement.

3. Make the Most of Built-In Community

When you move into student housing, you join a thriving community. While you and your fellow residents may come from different backgrounds, you are navigating this new experience together, sharing challenges and victories and supporting one another along the way. These are the adventures that bond you. Whether you form close friendships with your roommates, neighbors down the hall, or someone who lives across campus, you become part of a network that delivers a deep sense of belonging during your college years.

4. Easy Access to Student-Focused Resources

Colleges and universities work hard to ensure students living on campus have everything they need for a well-rounded experience. Need additional support with your studies? You can take advantage of the academic resources, like one-on-one tutoring and learning centers. Or, if you want to get a head start on charting your professional path, you can connect with your school’s career development center to develop your career skills.

5. Take Care of Your Wellbeing

In addition to academic and professional support, you have access to health and recreation facilities, robust health services, mental health counseling, and other wellness benefits. With these resources at your fingertips, you can thrive academically, physically, and personally throughout your college years.

Student Housing FAQs

Do Community Colleges Have Dorms?

Yes, some community colleges do have residence halls and student apartments on campus; however, this is not as common as it is at traditional four-year colleges and universities.

In fact, Northampton Community College is the only community college in Pennsylvania that offers student housing. We proudly provide safe, affordable housing to approximately 600 students.

Want to learn more? Discover what it’s like living at NCC.

Does Financial Aid Pay for Housing?

Yes, many students use a portion of their financial aid, including student loans, to cover the cost of their on-campus housing. It’s essential that you understand your cost of attendance and how your financial aid package works. For more guidance on how to finance living on campus, we recommend visiting your school's financial aid office. They’ll be able to help you determine how much of your aid is available to cover your housing expenses and answer any questions you have.

Connect with NCC’s Financial Aid Office for additional support.

How Much Does It Cost to Live on Campus?

• Room type (single, double, suite)
• Residence hall or apartment
• Meal plan options
• Amenities included

We recommend keeping these variables in mind when budgeting for your student housing.

For more information, review Northampton’s student housing costs and fees.

You Belong at NCC

Find a new home at Northampton Community College. Our student housing offers more than just a place to live—it gives you a space to grow into who you are meant to be. At our Bethlehem campus, you enjoy safe, affordable accommodations and easy access to student resources that enrich your time at NCC.

Excited to kick-start your future at Northampton? Take the next step toward becoming a Spartan—apply to NCC today!