Buy a car and drive, or live on campus?

[ShiftHitTheFan]

Been looking at options for my spring semester. simply can't decide between driving to school 40m each way, or rent out a dorm room.

 

For renting, it would cost about 6k plus food. 

 

The other option is to buy a family friend's wife's 2007 Subaru for $3k, and drive that. Food / house at home would be free.

 

Total cost both ways adds up to around 8k est.

 

Driving would mean that I get a car of my own. But the dorm means school is more accessible.

 

Having my own car is a massive thing for me, as my location requires it for almost everything.

[terrytek]

honestly, if it were up to me, i'd rent out the dorms, but i'd still keep a car on campus in case of emergencies or if you need to get around town, that would render a bike/walking impractical.

[Zodiark1593]

Fuel and insurance prices may put the costs about on par. 

 

Depending on location, public transit system and preference, the capability to drive may be nearly irreplaceable, or borderline negligible. This aspect only you can decide.

 

Given the time, this is most likely highway miles. The drive train and brakes should experience somewhat less wear, though tires, suspension and other such components will experience more wear, if this were the case.