Car ownership in college - Normal?

Quick q: do most college students have their own cars? Or is public transportation and walking more of the norm? Really can't decide if I need to bring my old beater to campus.

It really varies based on the university and its location. Some urban campuses have excellent public transportation options and may even discourage having a car due to limited parking and congested streets. Such universities are often in more walkable areas where grocery stores, restaurants, and other amenities are nearby, making a car less necessary.

On the flip side, if you're attending a more rural or suburban campus, where places are more spread out and public transports are less common, a car can be an added convenience. A car may make it easier to travel home or to go places off-campus that may not be accessible by public transportation.

Here's a tip before you make the decision: check with your university's policies on student vehicles. Some universities, especially those with dense or urban campuses, may not permit first-year students to have cars on campus. Others may charge for parking permits, which can add an additional expense.

Also, take into account the costs associated with car ownership such as insurance, maintenance, and fuel costs, as well as parking fees on campus. It might be more economical not to bring a car and to use public transport, bike, or walk instead.

Ultimately, whether or not to bring a car to campus depends heavily on your personal needs, the infrastructure of your chosen university, and the surrounding area's accessibility.