Housing Costs At Rutgers New Brunswick

Rutgers University–New Brunswick provides students with a variety of housing options across its five campuses, ranging from large, lively residence halls to smaller, more intimate houses. The university operates one of the largest collegiate housing programs in the country, with more than 50 housing options. The average student paid $8,170 for housing and $5,232 for dining in 2021. Off-campus housing is also available, with prices varying depending on the number of roommates and proximity to the university.

On-campus housing costs

Rutgers University–New Brunswick provides students with a range of housing options across its five campuses. Each campus offers a distinct living experience, from large, lively residence halls to smaller, more intimate houses. The university operates one of the largest collegiate housing programs in the country, with more than 50 housing options.

The cost of on-campus housing at Rutgers University–New Brunswick varies depending on the specific residence hall and room type. The average cost of on-campus housing for the 2021 academic year was $8,170. This figure represents the typical cost of a single semester and can be estimated to be one-half of the annual rate.

For the 2023-2024 academic year, the annual rates for undergraduate residence halls with double rooms range from $8,360 to $10,450. These rates are for two semesters and include residence halls that remain open during university breaks.

There are also options for undergraduate apartments with one or two bedrooms and graduate apartments, with annual rates ranging from $10,640 to $12,810. These rates are also for two semesters and include apartments that remain open during university breaks.

It is important to note that these rates may not include all possible combinations and are meant to be used as a budgeting guide. Specific questions about housing charges can be directed to the university's housing department.

In addition to housing costs, other expenses to consider when living on campus at Rutgers University–New Brunswick include meals, books and supplies, and other living expenses. The average cost of meals for the 2021 academic year was $5,232, bringing the total estimated cost of room and board to $18,626 for the first year.

Off-campus housing costs

Students at Rutgers University–New Brunswick have a variety of housing options across its five campuses. The university operates one of the largest collegiate housing programs in the country, with more than 50 housing options.

For those who prefer to live off-campus, there are also many options available. The average rent for a studio apartment in New Brunswick, NJ is $1,166. For a one-bedroom apartment, the average rent is $1,481, while for a two-bedroom apartment, the average rent is $1,055.

There are also options for larger apartments, such as three, four, or five-bedroom apartments. The Standard at New Brunswick, for example, offers luxury apartments with upscale amenities and a convenient location just steps from the oldest campus in New Jersey. The rent for these apartments ranges from $1,400 to $4,950, depending on the location and the number of bedrooms.

To find off-campus housing, students can use resources such as College Pads, which allow them to filter their search by bedrooms, bathrooms, amenities, rent, and more. It is recommended that students start their housing search early, as competition for off-campus housing near the university can be fierce.

Additionally, finding roommates can help cut down on monthly rent, making off-campus housing a more cost-effective option for students. Some apartments also come furnished, which can save students the cost of buying furniture. Utilities may also be included in the rent price, making off-campus housing a more affordable option for those who want to live independently.

Dining plans

Rutgers University–New Brunswick offers a wide range of dining plans to suit different student needs.

Dining Halls

The university's dining services, which serve 35,000 meals daily, are the third-largest student dining operation in the country. Dining halls offer all-you-care-to-eat options, including vegan, vegetarian, halal, kosher, and gluten-free meals. Breakfast options include eggs, pancakes/French toast/waffles, grill options, hot/cold cereals, yogurt, fruit, granola, and beverages. Lunch and dinner choices include grill options (chicken/burgers, grilled cheese, fries, etc.), soup, salad bar, sandwiches, pizza, fruit, desserts, and beverages.

Meal Plans

First-year students living in residential dorms are required to have a minimum of a 210 Meal Plan, while upper-class students must have at least a 150 Meal Plan. Off-campus and apartment residents may opt for the 75 or 50 Meal Plan, or any of the other plans offered. Additionally, there is the option to purchase mini blocks, which are equivalent to five meals, with a maximum of five mini blocks per semester.

Meal plans are "block plans," meaning students decide in advance the number of meals they will need for the semester. Students can also use the Rutgers ID card as a university debit card with RU Express to purchase meals at both on-campus and off-campus locations.

Off-Campus Dining Options

Students can also opt for off-campus meal plans, such as Elevate, which allows them to use their meal plan at New Brunswick restaurants instead of dining halls. This provides late-night food access, a wider variety of options, and exclusive discounts at partner restaurants.

Dietary Considerations

Rutgers Dining Services accommodates students with special dietary needs and medical conditions, ensuring they receive a nutritionally sound diet. Students can complete the Medical and Dietary Consideration Form and return it to the RU Express/Board Plan Office to initiate a professional review of their nutritional and dietary concerns.

Living-learning communities

Rutgers University–New Brunswick offers a range of housing and dining options across its five campuses. One of the largest collegiate housing programs in the country, it offers over 50 housing options.

There are a variety of living-learning communities to choose from, including:

• Asian American Identities and Images
• Business Discovery House
• Entrepreneurship and Innovation
• French Language and Culture
• Health and Medicine International
• Law and Political Science Discovery House
• Paul Robeson (African Diaspora)
• Psychology Discovery House
• RU-tv Weather Watchers

Housing options across five campuses

Rutgers University–New Brunswick offers a variety of housing options across its five campuses: Busch, College Avenue, Douglass, George H. Cook, and Livingston. Each campus has its own unique atmosphere and provides a distinct living experience for students.

The Busch Campus, located in Piscataway Township, is known for its high-tech and suburban feel. It is home to the SHI Stadium and focuses on academic areas related to the natural sciences. Residence halls on this campus include BAMM Residence Halls, suites, and apartments, as well as graduate-only housing options.

The College Avenue Campus includes the historic seat of the university and is within walking distance of downtown New Brunswick. It offers a mix of residence halls and off-campus housing options, such as apartments and houses.

The Douglass Campus, adjacent to New Brunswick's second ward, shares open fields with the Cook Campus. It is home to the Douglass Residential College for women and offers four women's-only housing options.

The George H. Cook Campus, also known as the Cook Campus, features farms, gardens, and research centres. Residence halls on this campus include Helyar House, Lippincott, Nicholas, Perry, and Voorhees, as well as apartment options.

The Livingston Campus is located in Piscataway Township and is home to the social science departments and the Rutgers Business School. Residence halls include Lynton Towers and The Quads, as well as apartment options.

In addition to on-campus housing, there are also several off-campus housing options near Rutgers University–New Brunswick, including apartments and houses. These options provide a range of amenities and convenient access to the university and the surrounding area.

Frequently asked questions