Cost of Living Question: So, I've received a TA'ship for years 2-5. I'm wondering: how far will about 1500 a month go during the nine-month calendar year? I'm looking to get a one-bedroom apartment, have a vehicle, want to live near campus. Rent goes for anything between 600-1000. I'm looking at places in the 600 area. While I understand the "broke" perspective that grad students talk about; I'm also not too keen on literally being broke. Is Austin fairly expensive?
My other option is Michigan State in East Lansing, which is throwing a lot more money at me. There, I'd be living comfortably, especially in an economically depressed town. But, I'm much more interested in attending UT Austin, a few hours from home, and in warm weather.
Any suggestions, ideas, would be helpful. Have you been in a similar situation?