What do college students spend most of their money on?

Hey everyone, I'm trying to plan out my financial situation for when I head to college. I feel clueless about where most of my budget would go besides tuition. Could anyone here help me out with where the majority of a college student's budget typically goes? Is it textbooks, food, rent, or something else?

In general, after tuition and fees, there are a few major areas where college students tend to spend a significant portion of their budget.

1. Housing: If you're living off-campus, rent can be a major chunk of your budget. The cost will greatly depend on the location of your college and the type of housing (i.e., apartment, shared house, studio, etc.). If you're living on campus, room and board fees cover this cost.

2. Food: Most universities offer meal plans to their students, especially those who live on campus. However, if you plan on cooking or eating off-campus often, grocery or restaurant expenses could add up.

3. Textbooks and Supplies: Although many courses have started to use online resources, textbooks can still be a substantial cost. Additionally, course materials and supplies, like notebooks and pens, add to this category.

4. Transportation: Whether it's a bus pass, parking permit, fuel for a car, or money for an occasional flight home, transportation costs can add up.

5. Personal expenses and Entertainment: This one can vary significantly depending on lifestyle and habits. Gym memberships, club dues, movie tickets, and other recreational activities fall into this category.

An excellent way to navigate these costs is to create a budget and track your spending. There are many online tools and apps that can help you manage your money and see where you spend the most. Keeping your expenses organized and regularly reviewing your budget can help ensure that you're staying within your means. It's important to remember that everyone's situation is unique, though, so what makes up a "majority" can differ greatly from person to person!