In-state flagship costs in dorm this semester.
Tuition 5,500 (yes, it’s a great bargain)
Room 4,500
Board 2,500
Basically, in their current situation, their dorm life resembles 4 kids renting a two bedroom apartment with a shared bathroom with no other living space for $4,500 a month total. Of course all utilities are provided when they work so there is that.
Off campus housing close in is more expensive (@$1,000/month each) and requires a 12 month lease. Food costs off campus would be about the same depending on student choices. Dorm housing is not guaranteed past freshman year and is very rare after sophomore year. Room and board certainly makes a big difference in cost.