Is Paradise, NV the right place for your college years? With its proximity to campus, affordable housing options, vibrant nightlife, and ample job opportunities, it’s no wonder Paradise consistently ranks as a top choice for students. Let’s explore what makes this sunny city so appealing for the college crowd and why it earns a student-friendliness score of 85/100.
Why Students Choose Paradise for Off-Campus Living
Paradise offers an ideal blend of convenience, affordability, and college-town energy. The city’s prime location puts you within easy reach of major campuses like the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), while still providing a distinct off-campus living experience. Students love the abundance of affordable apartments, the lively social scene, and the opportunity to balance academics with part-time work.
One UNLV sophomore sums it up: “Living in Paradise gives me the best of both worlds. I can focus on my studies, but I’m also close to all the action and opportunities that come with being in a bigger city. Plus, my rent is way more affordable than if I lived right on campus.”
Housing Options for Students in Paradise
When it comes to student housing in Paradise, you’ll find a range of options to fit your budget and lifestyle. Many students opt for shared apartments or houses, which typically run from $500-800 per month per bedroom. Studio apartments start around $700, while one-bedrooms average $900-1,100.
For a more student-centric experience, consider one of the purpose-built student housing complexes. These communities offer fully furnished units, flexible lease terms, roommate matching services, and tons of on-site amenities geared toward college life. Expect to pay a bit more for these perks, with rates starting around $750 for a shared room.
Most off-campus housing is clustered in the neighborhoods just east of the Strip, putting you within a 10-20 minute drive or bus ride from UNLV’s main campus. When comparing your options, be sure to factor in any additional costs like utilities, parking, or commuting expenses. Many landlords require a security deposit equal to one month’s rent, but some student-focused communities may offer more flexible arrangements.
Getting Around: Transportation and Campus Access
One of the biggest perks of living in Paradise as a student is the easy access to campus. The RTC Transit system provides extensive bus service throughout the area, with student discounts available. A monthly pass runs about $32 with a valid student ID. Many apartment complexes also offer private shuttle service to and from UNLV.
Paradise is a very bike-friendly community, with miles of dedicated bike lanes and paths. If you live within a couple miles of campus, cycling can be a quick, cost-effective way to get to class. For late-night studying or weekend adventures, rideshares like Lyft and Uber are always available. Fares to most parts of Paradise run about $10-15 each way.
While you can certainly get by without a car, many students find that having their own wheels makes life a lot more convenient, especially if you plan to work off-campus or want to explore the greater Las Vegas area. Just be sure to budget for the added costs of gas, insurance, and parking.
Student Cost of Living in Paradise
One of the biggest draws of Paradise for students is the affordable cost of living compared to other college towns. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to spend each month:
| Expense | Shared Housing | Solo Living |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $500 – $800 | $700 – $1,100 |
| Food | $250 – $350 | $300 – $500 |
| Transportation | $30 – $100 | $50 – $200 |
| Textbooks & Supplies | $50 – $150 | $50 – $150 |
| Personal & Misc. | $150 – $250 | $200 – $350 |
| Monthly Total | $980 – $1,650 | $1,300 – $2,300 |
Estimates based on average student spending patterns and local Paradise costs in 2023.
Many students offset these costs by working part-time. The abundance of service industry jobs in Paradise and the surrounding Vegas area means it’s relatively easy to find flexible work that fits your class schedule. Typical campus jobs pay $10-15/hour, while tipped positions like serving or bartending can earn significantly more.
Student-Friendly Amenities and Services
Paradise caters to its student population with a variety of amenities and resources to make college life more manageable:
- Extensive public transit system with student discounts
- Affordable off-campus housing options
- Plentiful part-time job opportunities
- UNLV campus services like health center, rec facilities, and academic support
- Student-budget-friendly restaurants, coffee shops, and entertainment
- Numerous parks, trails, and public spaces for studying or socializing
The city also offers a variety of student discounts on everything from gym memberships to restaurant meals to entertainment venues. Many local businesses actively cater to the student crowd, making it easy to get by on a college budget.
Social Scene and Nightlife
Paradise’s proximity to the Las Vegas Strip means you’ll never run out of things to do in your free time. The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a huge variety of clubs, bars, and live music venues that cater to the under-21 crowd. Many hotspots offer discounted entry or drink specials for students.
If the party scene isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other ways to socialize and unwind. Catch a show at one of the many theaters or performance venues, explore the local art scene at First Friday, or take a day trip to nearby natural wonders like Red Rock Canyon or Valley of Fire State Park.
On campus, UNLV offers a robust lineup of student organizations, intramural sports, and special events throughout the year. Greek life is also a big part of the social fabric, with numerous fraternities and sororities to choose from.
Safety and Practical Considerations
As with any urban area, safety is an important consideration for students living in Paradise. UNLV takes campus security seriously, with a dedicated police force, emergency call boxes, and a 24/7 safety escort service. The school also offers regular self-defense workshops and safety seminars.
When it comes to off-campus housing, take common-sense precautions like choosing a well-lit, populated area and securing your apartment with extra locks or a security system. Many student-focused complexes offer gated access and on-site security personnel for added peace of mind.
In terms of practical matters, Paradise offers easy access to essential services like healthcare, banking, and shopping. The area is home to several major hospitals and urgent care centers, as well as numerous pharmacies and medical offices. ATMs and bank branches are readily available, and you’ll find a variety of grocery stores and retail centers catering to student needs and budgets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the average cost of student living in Paradise?
Expect to spend between $980 – $1,650 per month for shared housing, or $1,300 – $2,300 for a solo apartment. See our full breakdown of average monthly expenses in Paradise.
How safe is it for students to live off-campus?
Paradise is a relatively safe area, but it’s always smart to take basic precautions like securing your apartment, being aware of your surroundings, and sticking with a buddy when out late at night. Choose a well-lit, populated neighborhood and look for added security features in student housing complexes.
Are there good part-time job opportunities for students?
Absolutely! Paradise and the surrounding Vegas area are known for an abundance of service industry jobs that are perfect for students. You’ll find plenty of part-time and flexible opportunities in restaurants, retail, hospitality, and on-campus employment.
What’s the social scene like for college students?
Paradise offers a lively social scene for students, with a huge variety of nightlife, entertainment, and cultural attractions catering to the under-21 crowd. UNLV also has a vibrant campus life, with numerous student organizations, Greek life, sports, and special events.
Making the Decision: Is Paradise Right for Your College Years?
Paradise has a lot to offer for students seeking an affordable, vibrant off-campus living experience. With its prime location, variety of housing options, easy access to campus and work, and dynamic social scene, it’s easy to see why so many college students choose to call this sunny city home.
Of course, no community is perfect. Paradise’s urban setting and proximity to the Strip’s 24/7 action can be a distraction for some students. It’s important to find a balance between studies, work, and socializing that works for you.
Ultimately, the decision to live in Paradise during your college years is a personal one that depends on your individual priorities, budget, and lifestyle. We recommend visiting the area, touring a few housing options, and talking to current students to get a feel for whether it’s the right fit.
If you do decide to make Paradise your college home, we think you’ll find it to be a welcoming, budget-friendly community that supports your academic and personal growth. With a little planning and common sense, you can make the most of all this dynamic city has to offer while still crushing your college goals.