With working from home becoming the new normal, finding a location where you can set up your mini-office to get the corporate vibes is essential. PG vs. hostel, which one do you prefer? Let’s find out through this blog.
To make your decision easier, decide whether you are an introvert who requires solitude or an extrovert who needs a room full of people and life. Before making a final decision, you should consider your financial restrictions.
Before you do anything, you should first understand the fundamental differences between PG and hostels.
| Parameters | PG | Hostel |
| Definition | It is a private individual or institution-managed facility. Although you have a separate bedroom, the living area is shared. | Colleges, universities, or offices manage hostels. They emphasize community living. |
| Cost | A PG costs more than a hostel. | Hostels are less expensive. |
| Facilities | Wifi, laundry, and food are all available in some PGs. | Hostels only provide basic amenities such as beds and electricity. |
| Flexibility | PGs typically have more leeway. You are free to enter or exit at your leisure. | There are strict rules in hostels. Curfew extensions will require your permission. |
| Privacy | If you choose a private bedroom, you will have more privacy. | Because you will be sharing a room, privacy is a distant dream. |
| Cleanliness | The majority of PGs are spotless. | Hostels and cleanliness do not maintain much tidiness. |
| Security | PGs may or may not be adequately secured. The PG owner may sometimes live in the same compound, which may provide some security. | College or office hostels have security guards on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week. |
| Study and work environment | PGs offer a quiet study environment, especially if you have your own bedroom. | Hostels aren’t ideal for studying, especially if you have mischievous roommates. |
| Social life | In PGs, people remain in their rooms and rarely come out to mingle with others. | In a hostel, you can make some fantastic friends.Furthermore, you will never feel lonely in a new place. |
What are PGs?
A PG, or paying guest accommodation, is an arrangement where you deliver the property owner a monthly rent for room and board and facilities.
The owner may provide wifi, electricity, laundry, and other basic amenities. Some PGs also offer food. You might have your own bedroom.
However, you must share the living space with your roommates.
There is a fixed-term agreement with the landlord. So, if you intend to leave, you must notify them in advance. If you want some privacy while avoiding the high cost of a flat, PG accommodation is ideal.
Benefits of living in a PG
- Amenities- There is no need to worry about wifi or paying the electric bill. Some PGs also provide food so that you can enjoy home-cooked meals.
- Affordable – PGs are less expensive than flats. Whether you want to stay alone or with roommates, you can get a PG for Rs 5k to 10k.
- Environment – You can work on your college or office assignments without interruptions. That’s because there aren’t many people in a PG.
Drawbacks of living in a PG
- Long-term contract- You must sign a 12-month agreement with the owner. As a result, you are unable to leave at any time. If you leave midway, you will not be refunded your security deposit.
- Hidden costs- Some PGs may not include the cost of electricity in the rent. As a result, the summer months will burn a hole in your wallet, especially if you use the air conditioning.
- Disputes with the owner- In most cases, the owner’s word is final. This may occasionally result in bitter conflicts.
What are hostels?
Hostels are managed by colleges, universities, or government agencies. They provide shared housing. As a result, you’ll have several housemates.
The authorities may provide some necessities such as food. However, there are strict rules regarding entry and exit times.
Because you share the living room, bathroom, and other amenities, hostel lodging is extremely inexpensive. As a result, it is ideal for students and job seekers on a tight budget.
You may have idealized hostel life after watching movies. Hostel life may be enjoyable, but reality differs from fiction.
Benefits of living in a hostel
- Most cost-effective lodging – Because hostels are so inexpensive, you won’t have night terrors about empty wallets. As a result, you can concentrate on your studies without worrying about money.
- Sense of community – Since you’ll have many roommates, you won’t be lonely. You will not miss your family or friends to an extent.
- No landlord disputes- As no landlord exists, there will be no bitter disputes. Furthermore, there is no long-term agreement. As a result, you can leave whenever you want without fear of losing your security deposit.
Drawbacks of living in a hostel
- Lack of privacy – Expecting personal space amid 3-4 other people is unrealistic. Focusing on your studies during exams can be difficult.
- Strict rules apply – Hostels have set arrival and departure times. That means you’ll need to get permission ahead of time if you have any promises.
- Lack of cleanliness – No hostel room is immaculate. You might struggle a little if you’re used to spick and span rooms.
PG vs. hostel, which is the better option?
Your needs determine the difference between a hostel and a PG. A PG is better if you want more personal space and less disruption. However, a hostel is a better option if you’re on a strict budget and don’t mind sharing a room.
PGs are preferable if –
- You prefer a private bedroom or few or no roommates.
- You desire additional features such as Wifi and DTH.
- You want a calm environment with few interferences.
- You crave comfort food.
- You can afford a slightly increased cost.
However, hostels are ideal if –
- You have a limited budget.
- You want to meet new people and make connections with them.
- You don’t mind sharing a room with multiple people.
- You don’t want to sign a long-term contract.
We have given a clear view of PGs and hostels. Please choose what suits you the best in terms of accommodation and budget.