University of Massachusetts, Amherst (UMASS)

Food is very expensive compared to Australia. The cheapest still means paying the same as home but then the currency exchange you still pay far more in America. Add tax and tipping, which is huge at times, and it is far more expensive eating out. Telephone was far cheaper for me because any calls locally within Amherst and Hadley were free. It was like one big intercom system. Accomadation isn't as expensive as a big city but i don't pay rent at home so it was more expensive for me here. Nightlife ewas cheaper for me because house parties meant a small 'cup' charge and unlimited (at least until it ran out) beer for the rest of the night. However alcohol at nightclubs is more expensive plus you do have to tip most times you buy a drink. Travelling around was more expensive than home because in general the US is far more expensive than Australia.

Everything is more costly than in Spain, that's for sure, but overall it is affordable if you get a part time student job at the university.

the united states is just more expensive in most social areas

The dollar rate was very high.