NYC/NJ cost of living allowances

[Chris_Topher]

Our school (KCOM) has opened up a new region for 3rd and 4th year rotations that includes hospitals in Newark and Paterson, NJ, and the Bronx, NY. Coming from Missouri, the living expenses in the region appear high; a review of apartments in northern NJ revealed a 1 bdr average price of $900!

This is a bit more than our Financial Aid office is planning to give us while we live in the region (please note understatement), and I was wondering what med students in similar regions and situations were experiencing.

What is your monthly rent?
How much has your student loan office budgeted for your living expenses (rent and additional living expenses such as utilities)?
How are you getting along, literally and figuratively?
Any other thoughts or comments?

Thanks

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[riverweb]

The figure you have been given is about right for areas just outside NYC. In NYC, a 1 BR is probably a lot more--just depends on how nice a neighborhood you want. And yes, my school can get me a hardship loan if I can't find housing within their alotted range. I have a job to help make up the difference.

 

[fishtolive]

I live around the area and it's definitely not going to be cheap unless you actually want to live in paterson...not recommended.