Atlanta is the capital city of Georgia and is home to some of the best universities in the USA. This city has a rich history, has a vibrant environment and is one of the fastest growing economies in the USA. As a developed economy, a very common question is asked about it; is it expensive to live in Atlanta? Atlanta’s cost of living is 2% higher than the national average of the USA. According to experts, you must have an annual salary of $100,000 to live a comfortable life in Atlanta, Georgia. However, this is not the case for everyone. For students, living in Atlanta is now affordable, due to affordable student housing, job opportunities, etc. Today, we will discuss how to manage your finances while living in Atlanta along with names of the
How to Manage Your Finances in Atlanta?
Living in Atlanta, Georgia is not cheap. The rent, food, travel, and entertainment costs are above the national average. This might be challenging for international students, for they come from a foreign land and must get a part-time job to make a living. However, the below list steps will surely help students manage their finances while living in Atlanta.
Open a Local Bank Account
The primary step to managing your finances in Atlanta is to set up a bank account. You can either visit the nearest bank branch or their website to open a local bank account. Make sure you select the bank which offers maximum benefits to international students and does not levy any additional taxes. Here are some of the student-friendly banks in Atlanta:
- Atlanta are Ameris Bank
- Credit Union of Atlanta
- Chase Bank.
Budget it Out
You need to draft a realistic financial budget based on your current financial status. Your budget plan must include factors like house rent, groceries, utility, transportation, Wi-Fi bills, etc. Also, you need to save some extra money for unwelcome emergencies.
Get Smart
Remember the saying, ‘A penny saved is penny earned’? Studying abroad is expensive, and it can put a hole in your pocket. However, if you have planned well, then you can save a lot. You need to differentiate between your needs and wants. Prioritize your needs and not your wants. There are plenty of ways of saving money such as:
- Sharing accommodation
- Using public transport
- Get student discount coupons
- Look for free online books
- Wait for sales
- Join a library
Work to Support Your Lifestyle
International students in the USA can work up to 20 hours a week when classes are in session and up to 40 hours when not. You need to manage your expenses according to your income. If your visa permits you to work for more than 20 hours a week, then this extra work money can be of great help.
Learn to Cook
Why eat unhealthy food at a fancy restaurant and waste money when you can eat healthy at home and save a lot? A one-time lunch in a restaurant in Atlanta can cost $25-$30. However, for the same amount, you cook two meals for yourself and save almost 45 to 50%.
Use Your Student Status
As an international student, you can issue student cards to avail coupons at grocery stores, malls, restaurants and other outlets. These student cards will also offer you discounts on public transportation, movie theatres, gyms, stadiums, etc.
Grab Your Bike/ Bicycle
If your campus is within 5 miles, then riding a bike can be the best option available. This way, you can save money on travel and can also work on your fitness.
Top 5 Student Accommodation in Atlanta, Georgia
As the capital city of Georgia, Atlanta has some of the best colleges and universities in the USA. More than 100,000 students are currently enrolled at these top institutes. To provide these students with accommodations, several student housings have been established. Here are the top 5 student apartments in Atlanta.
University House Midtown
The University House Midtown is a private student accommodation in Atlanta. This student housing is located just 3 miles from the Georgia State University and the neighbourhood is filled with several exciting places. The Publix Super Market, McCamish Pavilion, La Fitness Ecco Midtown European Restaurant, etc. are all located close to this property.
The Connector Atlanta
The Connector is another popular student housing in Atlanta, located within 6-minute walking distance from the Georgia Institute of Technology. This student housing is known for its premium facilities like coffee-breakfast bar, fitness centre, yoga room, gaming room, rooftop terrace, etc.
Yugo Atlanta Summerhill
Yugo Atlanta Summerhill is a premium student housing, located just 1.1 miles South of Georgia State University. This property features luxurious facilities at an affordable price for all. This property is surrounded by several exciting places, like the Center Pac Stadium, Publix Super Market, Halfway Crooks Beer, Believe Music Hall, etc.
Standard Atlanta
Standard Atlanta is one of the top student accommodation in Atlanta and is known for its premium facilities like an on-site gym, skyline terrace, lounge area, personal study space, and designer bedrooms. This property is located just 2.2 miles from Georgia State University. What makes this property an ideal place is its proximity to the Marta Station North Avenue, which enables you to explore this city.
The Mark Atlanta
The Mark Atlanta is an affordable and student friendly accommodation in Atlanta, located right next to Georgia Tech University. The Midtown Subway Station is just across the street, enabling you to travel without much difficulty. This is a fully furnished property and includes facilities like personal student space, en-suite bathrooms, on-site maintenance service, etc.
Conclusion
Living in Atlanta is expensive. Reports say that it is 2% higher than the national average. However, if you are smart and determined to manage your finances while living there, you can make living affordable for yourself. All you must do is open a bank account, create a budget, cook for yourself, use student discount coupons and work to support your life.
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