Condo vs Dorm: Which is the Best Option for Students? | Dormy

Choosing whether to live in a dormitory or a condominium can be confusing, especially when dorm hunting in Metro Manila, where almost all the buildings and rooms look alike, and the rent prices are similar. Making the right choice is crucial as this will greatly affect the daily experience of college students. This guide will provide a comprehensive comparison to help you choose between a dormitory and a condominium.

What Are Condos?

Condominiums are private residential units within a large building or complex. There are multiple room variations such as studio units, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and so on. Although, the most common options available near universities are studio units and 1-bedroom units. In a condominium setup, the units are for sale and are bought by private individuals. If you decide to rent in a condominium, you will most likely be paying to an owner rather than the developer.

What Are Dorms?

Dormitories are also residential buildings with individual rooms, but the buildings are typically smaller in terms of the number of floors). There are also room variations depending on the number of tenants per room (e.g. solo room, room for 2 persons, room for 4 persons). Some dorms rent out bed spaces instead of rooms which means that you will be assigned to a room and you would not need to find your own roommates. However, some dorms rent out the rooms, so you can only move in when you have found roommates already. In comparison to condominiums, the units are not for sale but rather only for rent. As such, you will pay rent directly to the owner or administrator of the dormitory. 

Condos vs Dorms

1. Living Conditions
   1. Condominiums
      1. Condominiums offer more freedom and privacy for the residents. There are far fewer restrictions regarding curfew, visitors, internet installation, and room modifications.
   2. Dormitories
      1. While dormitories have more restrictions, they emphasize a greater sense of community. Dorm administrators often organize events and activities to get their tenants acquainted. As a tenant, you also get more support from the administrators and service staff in the building.
2. Cost Comparison
   1. Condominiums
      1. Buying a condominium can be really expensive, especially in the Metro Manila area, with the average price ranging from PHP 3M to PHP 5M for a 20-square-meter unit. Consequently, the rent prices are also often more expensive compared to dorms. On top of the rent, you also have to pay for association dues.
   2. Dormitories
      1. Dormitories are generally more affordable, and there are no association dues in addition to the rent. Sometimes, the dormitories already include electricity, water, and wi-fi to the rent, making it much more affordable than condominiums where it’s really up to you to pay for the utilities.
3. Amenities and Facilities
   1. Condominiums
      1. Condominiums often offer more modern amenities, such as a swimming pool, a complete gym, multi-level parking, and commercial spaces.
   2. Dormitories
      1. Dormitories often have basic shared amenities such as study rooms, shared kitchen/pantry, and laundry facilities.
4. Suitability for Different Needs
   1. Condominiums
      1. If you are planning to live in a certain area (e.g., near the university) long-term, then finding a good condominium unit would be advisable. This is because the usual contract duration for condominiums for rent is 1 year or more. Additionally, condominiums allow flexibility (i.e. furniture, appliances, internet provider, etc.) so you can customize the room according to your needs over the years.
   2. Dormitories
      1. If you are planning to rent short-term (e.g. for boards review), then dormitories are the way to go. The rooms are usually complete with the necessary furniture already and they allow short contract durations. All you would need to do is just move in.
5. Pros and Cons
   1. Condominiums
      1. Pros: more privacy, freedom (fewer restrictions), modern amenities, customizability of units.
      2. Cons: Higher price points and more fees.
   2. Dormitories
      1. Pros: Cheaper price points and community environment.
      2. Cons: less comprehensive amenities, more restrictions

FAQs

Do condominiums have curfews?

Condominiums do not enforce curfews for their residents. However, there may be a set curfew for visitors. You would need to secure an overnight permit if the visitor exceeds the curfew.

Are visitors allowed in dorms?

Dorms usually only allow visitors up to the lobby or the common areas but not the rooms.

Do college students have to live in dorms?

College students are not required to live in dorms (inside or outside the campus). It depends on your preference and budget.

Condo or Dorm? The choice is up to you.

Ultimately, choosing between a condominium and a dormitory depends on your preferences and budget. Condominiums are for those who are planning to stay long-term and those who value privacy, amenities, and freedom. On the other hand, dorms are ideal for those who want to be a part of a community and are looking for budget options. Consider your priorities and use this guide to make the best decision for your college living experience.