As a college student, finding affordable places to eat is often as important as acing your next exam. Between tuition, textbooks, and late-night study sessions, your budget might not stretch to fancy dinners or takeout every night. But don’t worry—you can still enjoy delicious, satisfying meals without breaking the bank! Whether you’re craving comfort food, international flavors, or just need a quick bite between classes, there are plenty of student-friendly spots that offer big flavors for small prices.
In this guide, we’ll take a look at the best cheap eats for college students—places where you can eat well and still have money left for that weekend coffee date or late-night snack. Get ready to dig into some delicious options that won’t drain your wallet!
1. Food Trucks: Flavor on the Go
Food trucks are the unsung heroes of student dining, offering everything from gourmet tacos to loaded fries at prices that won’t leave you in debt. Plus, they’re quick, convenient, and often serve up local specialties that you won’t find in chain restaurants.
- Taco Trucks: Tacos are one of the best budget-friendly meals around, and many food trucks specialize in serving up flavorful, filling tacos for around $2-$4 each. Look for local taco trucks that serve carne asada, al pastor, or fish tacos for a fresh, satisfying meal.
- Banh Mi Trucks: Craving something with a little more zing? Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches—crispy baguettes stuffed with pickled vegetables, meats, and fresh herbs—are often sold by food trucks for $5 or less, making them an excellent cheap eat with a ton of flavor.
- Fried Chicken or BBQ Trucks: If you’re in the mood for comfort food, fried chicken or BBQ trucks offer hearty portions at affordable prices. Fried chicken sandwiches, loaded fries, and BBQ plates often cost between $6 and $10, giving you a lot of bang for your buck.
Check your campus or city’s food truck schedule to catch the best deals during lunch breaks or late-night study sessions.
2. College Cafes and Campus Dining
If you’re a student, you probably know that campus dining can be a hit-or-miss experience. But there are hidden gems within your university’s food scene—cafes, student-run restaurants, and specialty eateries that serve up delicious and affordable meals.
- Student Cafes & Delis: Many universities have small cafes or delis that offer daily specials, sandwiches, soups, and salads for reasonable prices. Look for meal deals like soup and sandwich combos or wraps with a side that typically range from $5 to $8. Not only do you save money, but you also support local student-run businesses.
- Daily Meal Deals: Check your campus dining services for daily meal deals or discounts during specific hours. Some schools offer $5 meal days or all-you-can-eat specials on select days, making them perfect for students who want variety without the price tag.
- Student Unions or Common Areas: Many student unions feature food courts with affordable options, from basic burgers to international cuisine. Whether you’re craving Chinese takeout, pizza by the slice, or sushi, you can usually find something cheap and tasty near student hangouts.
3. Affordable Local Restaurants and Diners
If you’re looking for a place off-campus that won’t blow your budget, many diners and local restaurants cater specifically to students by offering inexpensive menus or daily specials. These places may not have the glitz of a high-end restaurant, but they serve up hearty meals that fill you up and keep your wallet happy.
- Cheap Breakfast Joints: Who doesn’t love a hearty breakfast to start the day? Many local diners serve affordable breakfast options all day. You can typically get a plate of eggs, toast, and bacon or pancakes for $5–$8. Some spots even offer all-you-can-eat pancakes or breakfast burritos at budget-friendly prices.
- Pizza by the Slice: If you’re in a rush or just need a quick and filling meal, pizza by the slice is a college student’s best friend. Many pizzerias offer gigantic slices of pizza for $2–$4, and you can often find daily specials, such as two slices and a drink for under $6.
- Fast-Casual Spots: Restaurants that offer fast-casual dining, like Subway, Chipotle, or Jimmy John’s, allow you to get filling meals for under $10. Opt for a bowl, sandwich, or wrap packed with protein and veggies to keep costs down while still eating healthy.
4. International Cuisine: Affordable Global Flavors
Exploring different cuisines can be a fun way to experience new flavors without spending much. International restaurants often offer big portions at low prices, so you can satisfy your cravings for something new and exciting.
- Indian Buffets: Many Indian restaurants offer lunch buffets for around $8–$12, and it’s a great deal if you want to try a variety of dishes. Curries, rice, naan, and lentils make for filling and flavorful meals that won’t break the bank. Plus, you can go back for seconds if you’re really hungry.
- Mediterranean and Middle Eastern: Mediterranean restaurants serving falafel, hummus, and shawarma are great for students on a budget. A falafel pita or shawarma wrap is typically $6–$8, and combo platters with rice, vegetables, and a protein can range from $9–$12, offering plenty of food for your dollar.
- Asian Restaurants: Chinese, Thai, and Vietnamese restaurants are known for offering big portions at small prices. You can get a hearty bowl of pho for $7–$10, or a stir-fry dish with rice or noodles for around $8. Plus, many Asian restaurants offer family-style options, meaning you can share a large dish with friends and save.
5. Convenience Stores and Grocery Store Meals
When you’re too busy (or too broke) to dine out, don’t forget about the convenience store or grocery store options. Many stores offer pre-made meals, snacks, and ingredients for easy, cheap meals you can make yourself.
- Convenience Store Snacks: Grab a quick snack or light meal from a convenience store, where you can find everything from instant ramen to fresh fruit, yogurt, sandwiches, and more for just a few dollars. It’s not gourmet, but it’s a great budget-friendly option when you need something quick.
- Frozen Meals and Ready-to-Eat Options: Most grocery stores have a selection of frozen meals, like frozen pizza, microwavable burritos, or pasta dishes, all of which are perfect for those nights when you don’t feel like cooking but still want something filling. A frozen meal can cost you between $2 and $6, and some stores even offer meal deals or multi-packs at a discount.
- Meal Prep Ingredients: If you have a little time on your hands and want to cook your meals, stock up on ingredients for easy, student-friendly dishes. Canned beans, pasta, rice, vegetables, and basic spices can be used to create a week’s worth of meals for $15 or less. Look up simple, one-pot recipes like chili, pasta with sauce, or stir-fried rice to keep costs down and flavors up.
6. Student Discounts and Meal Apps
Many restaurants, cafes, and food delivery services offer student discounts or special promotions. Take advantage of these deals to stretch your dining budget even further.
- Student Discount Cards: Some cities offer student discount cards that give you access to exclusive deals at local restaurants. Be sure to check with your school’s student union or dining services to see if they offer a card or membership that unlocks discounts at local eateries.
- Delivery Apps with Student Discounts: Apps like UberEats, DoorDash, and Postmates often run promotions where students can get a discount on their first order or free delivery. Keep an eye out for deals and sign up for any available discounts.
Eating Well on a Budget
Being a college student doesn’t mean you have to rely on instant noodles or fast food every day. There are plenty of affordable dining options where you can get delicious, filling meals without stretching your budget. From food trucks to local cafes, international restaurants, and grocery store finds, the world of cheap eats is wide open. With a little planning, you can enjoy a variety of cuisines and flavors while keeping your wallet intact.
So the next time you’re hungry and on a budget, skip the pricey takeout and explore one of these student-friendly dining options. Your taste buds—and your bank account—will thank you!