Student Budgeting Tips CSULB: How to Save Money as a Beach Student
- Ong Ogaslert
- Nov 12
- 2 min read
Introduction
Long Beach is the perfect mix of coastal fun and college life — but living here can stretch your wallet. These student budgeting tips CSULB students use will help you cut costs on rent, food, and everyday expenses without missing out on the Beach experience.
1) Plan Your Budget Before Classes Start
Get ahead by setting your financial goals early.
List monthly expenses: rent, utilities, groceries, transport.
Use budget apps like EveryDollar or YNAB.
Separate “needs” from “wants” and track weekly spending.
Pro tip: Set a small emergency fund for unexpected bills or textbook costs.
2) Lower Your Food and Grocery Bills
Shop at Ralphs or Food4Less for student discounts.
Split bulk items like rice and snacks with roommates.
Cook meals for the week instead of ordering delivery.
Bring your own lunch — campus cafés add up fast.
3) Housing and Transportation Savings — student budgeting tips CSULB
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Housing:
Share apartments with roommates to split utilities.
Search for leases that include Wi-Fi or water.
Ask about student-friendly payment plans.
Transportation:
Use Long Beach Transit U-Pass for free rides.
Bike or walk to campus when possible.
Carpool to cut gas and parking fees.
Local tip: Avoid parking tickets near Bellflower Boulevard — they’re expensive and strictly enforced.
4) Take Advantage of Student Discounts
Spotify + Hulu bundle for $5/month.
Amazon Prime Student six-month trial.
Discounted movie nights at Regal Long Beach.
Free CSULB Recreation Center access for students.
Weekend idea: Explore free Long Beach events like movies at the Pier or local farmers markets.
5) Avoid Common Spending Traps
Unplanned Starbucks runs and ride-shares.
Impulse shopping after midterms.
Forgetting about subscription renewals.
Pro tip: Audit your subscriptions every semester — cancel unused ones to save cash.
6) Earn Extra Income
Check on-campus jobs via Handshake.
Freelance online (tutoring, writing, design).
Sell old textbooks or clothes on OfferUp.
Conclusion
Managing money as a college student doesn’t have to be stressful. Follow these student budgeting tips CSULB to live comfortably, save smart, and enjoy everything Long Beach offers.
Visit CSULB Universe Housing as a great resource to meet roommates and find off-campus housing atCSULB Housing Near Campus
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