Is your New OU Student Rental Ready for Fall Semester?
Moving into a new living space is exciting, but furnishing it can feel overwhelming—especially on a student budget. Whether you’re moving into an Ohio University off-campus apartment or a rental house in Athens, Ohio, these seven affordable and sustainable options will help you make your space feel like home without breaking the bank.
1. Check Out Secondhand Stores
Athens has a variety of thrift shops and secondhand stores where you can find furniture, decor, and household items at a fraction of the cost. Shops like the Habitat for Humanity ReStore and UpCycle Thrift Store often have unique and gently-used furniture that adds character to your Ohio University rental while keeping items out of landfills.
2. Explore Facebook Marketplace and Local Buy/Sell Groups
Facebook Marketplace is a treasure trove for affordable, pre-loved furniture and household items. Search for local listings around Athens to score deals on desks, chairs, beds, dressers, or other essentials for your new place. Joining community groups online can also get you connected with some great finds.
3. DIY with Pallets and Reclaimed Wood
Get creative with DIY projects using free or low-cost materials like wooden pallets or reclaimed wood. For example, you can build a simple coffee table, bookshelf, or bed frame with minimal tools. Check out online tutorials for step-by-step instructions.
4. See if Anyone is Replacing Old Furniture
Reach out to classmates, local businesses, or even the university to see if anyone is preparing to throw away old furniture as they upgrade. Organizing a donation event could be a fun way to help furnish spaces for students in need, including yours! Apps like Freecycle or Nextdoor can also connect you with people giving away items.
5. Shop Discount Stores and Clearance Sections
Stores like Big Lots and Walmart in Athens have affordable options for basic furniture and household items. Always check the clearance sections—you’d be surprised at what you can find at deeply discounted prices.
6. Milk Crates and Cinder Blocks are Tried and True
It may be a cliché, but cinder blocks and milk crates are cheap, durable, and often easy to snag for free if you ask the right person. Both support a surprising amount of weight and are generally uniform in size, so you don’t have to worry about your makeshift furniture being wobbly.
7. Take Advantage of the Curb
Keep an eye out for free furniture and items being left by the street, especially during move-in and move-out seasons. Students often leave perfectly good furniture curbside in front of Ohio University housing or in designated donation areas.
Pro Tips for Success
- Measure First. Before you buy or bring in furniture, measure your space to ensure everything fits.
- Plan Your Layout. Sketch out where each piece will go to maximize your space.
- Prioritize Multi-Function Items. Look for furniture that serves multiple purposes, like a futon that doubles as a bed or a storage ottoman footrest.
Furnishing a new apartment in Athens, Ohio will always be a little stressful. But by using these tips, you can create a cozy, personalized, and eco-friendly living area without breaking the bank or getting overwhelmed.