Finding the best student accommodation in the UK, that matches your budget and provides a comfortable stay requires a lot of planning. The UK offers a variety of housing options based on the diverse needs such as affordability or proximity to the university. This blog aims to give you all the details starting from types of accommodation, city specific options covering cheap student accommodation in UK and affordability details too.
Types of Student Accommodations in England
When it comes to student accommodation in the UK, there are many options specific to different budgets, preferences, and lifestyles. If you are wondering how much does student accommodation cost in UK, here is the detailed list of accommodation with the cost.
1. University-Managed Halls of Residence
University managed halls of residence are owned and operated by universities. They are a very convenient option for the first yeas students as they are often located on or near the campus. In other words, they are walkable to the classes. The accommodation in UK for indian students is preferably University managed Halls of residence. Features include:
- Fully furnished rooms.
- Shared or en-suite bathrooms.
- Communal kitchens or meal plans included.
- Utilities and Wi-Fi included in the rent.
University-managed halls impart a sense of community and are suitable for students looking to meet fellow students and participate in campus activities.
2. Private Student Halls
If you are looking for privacy and a comfortable stay, then private student halls are appropriate. These are run by private companies. They ffer modern facilities and a more luxurious living experience. They often include:
- En-suite rooms or studios.
- High-speed internet.
- On-site gyms, study spaces, and entertainment areas.
- All-inclusive rent covering utilities and maintenance.
Companies like Unite Students, Student Roost, and Vita Student are popular providers of private student halls.
3. Shared Houses and Flats
If you are moving abroad with any of your friends and you all prefer staying together then, shared apartments are the best. It involves renting a property with other students. Shared housing give you the feeling of home stay and keep you away from home-sick feeling as you are surrounded by your friends. They are managed by private landlords or letting agents. You should be very careful when choosing a shared apartment. It should be cross verified with the locals as there are many student traps. The main features include:
- Private bedrooms with shared common areas like kitchens and living rooms.
- Freedom to choose housemates.
- Bills such as electricity, water, and internet may be separate from rent.
Shared housing is often more affordable, safe and provides a more independent living experience.
4. Homestays
Many families provide paying guest facilities for international students. Homestays involve living with a host family in their home. This option is popular among international students who wish to experience British culture firsthand. You will be provided with a student room with all facilities like table and bed. If you prefer you can opt for meals too.The main features include:
- A private room within the host’s home.
- Meals may be included.
- A welcoming environment with support from the host family.
5. Studio Apartments
If you can afford a luxirous stay in the UK, then there is nothing like studio apartments. Studio apartments offer living spaces ideal for students who value privacy. Usually Studio apartments are rented by postgraduates and doctorate students who can handle them well. They cost high when compared to private student halls and shared apartments. These typically include:
- A bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom in one unit.
- Utilities often included in the rent.
- Higher costs compared to other options, making it suitable for postgraduate or mature students.
6. Lodgings
Lodgings are rooms rented in private homes where the landlord also resides. However, there is no interference by the landlord with respect to your daily activities. They are very affordable and provide basic furniture and other amenities. No meals are provided by the lodging owners. They offer:
- Affordable rents.
- Basic amenities.
- A quiet environment, suitable for focused studying.
7. Short-Term Accommodation
For students who need temporary housing, options include hostels, hotels, or serviced apartments. These are typically used when transitioning between long-term accommodations or arriving early in the UK. Here is a table outlining the average cost of student accommodation in UK.
|
Type of Accommodation |
Cost Range (per month) |
Features |
|
University managed halls/ dormitories |
$300 - $1,000 |
Close to classes, utilities included, shared rooms and facilities, ideal for convenience. |
|
Shared Apartments |
$400 - $1,200 |
Shared rent and utilities, private rooms, access to kitchen and living spaces. |
|
Homestays |
$500 - $1,200 |
Stay with a host family, meals often included, great for cultural immersion. |
|
Private Studio Apartments |
$700 - $1,500 |
Independent living, private space, more expensive but suitable for privacy seekers. |
|
Paying Guest (PG) Accommodation |
$300 - $800 |
Meals and utilities often included, shared rooms or private options, common in urban areas. |
|
Lodging Houses |
$200 - $600 |
Basic facilities, shared rooms, often include meals and utilities. |
Among all cheapest accommodation in UK for international students lodging houses followed by university dorms. Overall cost of student accommodation in UK ranges between $200 - $1,500 per month.
How to book student accommodation in UK:
Whether you are looking for a shared apartment or private studio or home stay apartment browse through the internet listings available. There are multiple websites which provide the top listings that can be filtered based on accommodation cost, proximity to the university, meal options and safety. The best website for student accommodation in UK can be the one which provides multiple options with reviews. Let us take a look at some of the steps you need to follow to choose the perfect home for you in the UK.
- Browse Trusted platforms: Considering the number of students traps these days, it is always recommended to check the options only on trusted websites such as UniversityLiving.com, Student.com
- Set your preferences straight: You have to be clear about your preferences, such as what kind of accommodation you are looking for. You might prioritize safety over comfort or proximity over affordability.
- Check availability: Once you have set some goals, surf the trusted websites that provide a realistic view of the accommodation. If you like any, book it before its taken.
- Read Reviews: Defore finalizing and booking the accommodation its always important to read the reviews as what the other fellow students have to say about the stay. This feedback can be so invaluable in making the right decision.
- Verify if needed: If you have anyone already staying in the UK you can crosscheck the authenticity with them too. See if you can get in touch with the owners before you seal the deal.
- Keep in Touch: Once you’ve booked, keep in touch with the accommodation provider.
Student accommodation in the UK varies by city, offering a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets. Below is an overview of student accommodation in England, followed by specific details for Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool, Cambridge, Brighton, Oxford, Southampton, Coventry, and Leeds.
General Overview of Student Accommodation in England
There are various accommodation types, such as university-managed halls of residence, private halls, shared houses, and studio apartments in England. University-managed halls are located close to campus, and they also provide a community atmosphere. Private halls, are managed by private owners like Unite Students and iQ Student Accommodation, offer modern amenities and are available in many cities. There are plentiful shared houses and studio apartments in England, and they offer comfortable stays. If you are wondering how to find student accommodation in UK.
|
Accommodation Type |
Average Weekly Cost |
Features |
|
University Halls of Residence |
£125 – £135 |
On-campus living, utilities included, shared or private rooms, communal facilities. |
|
Private Student Accommodation |
£155 – £228 |
Purpose-built, ensuite rooms or studios, modern amenities, all-inclusive bills. |
|
Shared Houses/Flats |
£80 – £200+ |
Private bedrooms, shared common areas, variable utility inclusions, managed by private landlords. |
Student Accommodation in Manchester
Manchester has a vibrant student community with multiple accommodation options. University-managed halls are available, but many students prefer private accommodations. Unite Students offers several properties in Manchester, such as Artisan Heights and Bridgewater Heights, providing en-suite rooms and studios with communal spaces. Additionally, platforms like UniHomes showcase a variety of student houses and flats with all bills included.The estimated living cost in Manchester is £1,148.30 per month.
|
Accommodation Type |
Average Monthly Cost |
Features |
|
University Halls |
£4,527 – £7,224/year |
Proximity to campus, utilities included, communal living spaces. |
|
Private Student Accommodation |
£657/month |
Modern facilities, ensuite rooms, all-inclusive bills. |
|
Private Rentals |
£910 – £1,200/month |
Studios or 1-bedroom flats, additional utility costs apply. |
Student Accommodation in Birmingham
Birmingham is a major student hub with diverse accommodation choices. University halls are available, but private accommodation is also prevalent. Unite Students ( Student Accommodation & Housing Across the UK | Unite Students )operates multiple properties in Birmingham, offering en-suite rooms and studios with communal facilities. UniHomes also lists various student houses and flats in Birmingham, providing different budgets and preferences.
|
Accommodation Type |
Average Weekly Cost |
Features |
|
University Halls |
£125 – £135 |
On-campus, utilities included, shared facilities. |
|
Private Student Accommodation |
£155 – £228 |
Ensuite rooms, modern amenities, all-inclusive bills. |
|
Shared Houses/Flats |
£80 – £200+ |
Private rooms, shared common areas, variable utility inclusions. |
Student Accommodation in Liverpool
Liverpool has a variety of student accommodation options such as private homes and university residence halls. Numerous student homes and apartments in Liverpool that suit a range of demands and price ranges are listed on websites like UniHomes and Accommodation for Students. Liverpool offers Cheapest Accommodation in the UK for International Students.
|
Accommodation Type |
Average Monthly Cost |
Features |
|
University Halls |
£580 |
On-campus, utilities included, communal areas. |
|
Private Student Accommodation |
£516/month |
Purpose-built, ensuite rooms, all-inclusive bills. |
|
Shared Houses/Flats |
£80 – £200+ per week |
Private rooms, shared facilities, utility costs may vary. |
Student Accommodation in Cambridge
The various student accommodation options in Cambridge are give below. Unite Students operates properties in Cambridge, offering en-suite rooms and studios with communal facilities. UniHomes lists various student houses and flats in Cambridge, catering to different preferences. The cost of living in Cambridge is usually higher because of its prestigious status.
|
Accommodation Type |
Average Monthly Cost |
Features |
|
University Colleges |
£628 |
Traditional college living, meals often included, communal facilities. |
|
Private Student Accommodation |
£155 – £228 per week |
Modern amenities, ensuite rooms, all-inclusive bills. |
|
Shared Houses/Flats |
£80 – £200+ per week |
Private rooms, shared common areas, variable utility inclusions. |
Student Accommodation in Brighton
Brighton, is famous for its vibrant culture and provides various accommodation types. University-managed halls are available, and private accommodations, shared apartments are plentiful. Unite Students provides properties in Brighton, offering en-suite rooms and studios with communal spaces. UniHomes showcases a variety of student houses and flats in Brighton, suitable for different budgets.
|
ccommodation Type |
Average Weekly Cost |
Features |
|
University Halls |
£600/month |
On-campus, utilities included, shared facilities. |
|
Private Student Accommodation |
£235.93 |
Modern amenities, ensuite rooms, all-inclusive bills. |
|
Shared Houses/Flats |
£80 – £200+ |
Private rooms, shared common areas, variable utility inclusions. |
Student Accommodation in Oxford
Oxford offers traditional college accommodations and private housing options. University colleges provide on-campus housing, but private accommodations are also available.
|
Accommodation Type |
Average Monthly Cost |
Features |
|
University Colleges |
£837 |
Historic college accommodation, meals often included, communal facilities. |
|
Private Student Accommodation |
£155 – £228 per week |
Ensuite rooms, modern amenities, all-inclusive bills. |
|
Shared Houses/Flats |
£80 – £200+ per week |
Private rooms, shared common areas, variable utility inclusions. |
Student Accommodation in Southampton
Southampton provides a range of student accommodations, from university halls to private options.
|
Accommodation Type |
Average Weekly Cost |
Features |
|
University Halls |
£540/month |
On-campus, utilities included, shared facilities. |
|
Private Student Accommodation |
£155 – £228 |
Modern amenities, ensuite rooms, all-inclusive bills. |
|
Shared Houses/Flats |
£80 – £200+ |
Private rooms, shared common areas, variable utility inclusions. |
Student Accommodation in Leeds
Leeds has a vibrant student community with multiple accommodation options. There are many University-managed halls , but many students opt for private accommodation.
|
Accommodation Type |
Average Weekly Cost |
Features |
|
University Halls |
£130 - £180 |
On-campus living, utilities included, shared or private rooms, and close proximity to campus. |
|
Private Student Accommodation |
£150 - £230 |
Purpose-built, ensuite rooms, modern amenities, all-inclusive bills. |
|
Shared Houses/Flats |
£90 - £150 |
Private bedrooms, shared kitchens and living spaces, utilities may not be included. |
|
Studio Apartments |
£180 - £250 |
Independent living, fully furnished, with a private bathroom and kitchen. |
Conclusion
For a comfortable stay in the UK, always plan your accommodation within walkable distance or with a good transportation facility. By careful planning and research you can make your stay very comfortable in the UK.
