Moving for university is not only a new chapter in life, but also the first serious confrontation with real expenses. Most people plan only for rent and basic shopping, forgetting about costs that appear only once they get there, often unexpectedly. And those can quickly strain a budget.

7 hidden costs that may surprise you

Security deposit and administrative fees

When renting an apartment or a room, you need to count on a security deposit usually equal to one or two months’ rent. In private student residences, administrative or reservation fees may also apply.

Additional room or apartment furnishings

Even if the room is furnished, you often still need to buy bedding, a drying rack, a lamp, or dishes. These small items can add up to a significant expense, especially when buying everything at the last minute.

Travel and moving costs

Transporting your belongings, renting a car, tickets, or a courier service — moving costs depend on the amount of stuff and the distance. For students coming from other cities, this can range from a few hundred to even several thousand zlotys.

Utilities and internet — hidden catches in contracts

Not every rental offer includes electricity, water, rubbish collection, or Wi‑Fi. These are often added separately, and the contracts can be complicated. Private student residences with all-inclusive fees help avoid this.

Insurance for the apartment and belongings

A flooded room, theft, broken furnishings — these things happen. Apartment insurance and tenant liability insurance cost from just a few dozen zlotys per year, but can save you much more.

Costs related to registration or address registration

Some universities require address registration. On top of that, there may be document changes, certificate fees, or bank charges — small, but still worth noting.

Unexpected repairs and damage charges

Scratched furniture, faults, signs of wear and tear — the landlord may deduct these costs from the deposit. It is worth taking photos of the room when you arrive and reading the contract carefully.

How do you plan a move without surprises?

Checklists, student living cost calculators, and student residence comparison tools work really well. Many modern private student residences, such as Next Door Kraków, offer a fixed rent with utilities included, which makes budgeting much easier.

Summary — it pays to be prepared

Moving into a student residence or apartment is not just about the monthly rent. In practice, the list of expenses is much longer. There are often less obvious costs as well. That is why, instead of improvising, it is better to prepare in advance. 

FAQ

What should be included in a moving budget?
The deposit, transport, utility bills, internet, basic furnishings, and hidden administrative fees.

Do private student residences have additional fees?
Often not — many of them (e.g. Nextdoor Krakow) offer a fixed rent with utilities and internet included, which helps avoid hidden costs.

How can you reduce moving costs?
Plan ahead, compare offers, split costs with roommates, and use public transport or car sharing.

Can a student avoid paying a deposit?
It is rare, but some private student residences offer options with a reduced deposit or no deposit at all as part of a promotion.