Best Student Accommodation Options in the UK

09-May-2025

Pollstereducation

Study Abroad

Best Student Accommodation Options in the UK

Finding the right accommodation is a crucial part of your UK study abroad journey. It directly affects your comfort, budget, academic focus, and social life. With various options available — from university halls to private studios — it’s essential to understand what suits you best in terms of cost, location, lifestyle, and support.

This blog explores the best student accommodation options in the UK, their pros and cons, average costs, and practical tips to help you make the right choice in 2025.

Types of Student Accommodation in the UK

1. University Halls of Residence (On-Campus Accommodation)

These are rooms provided directly by universities and are usually located on or near campus.

Room Types: Single, shared, en-suite, studio
Facilities: Wi-Fi, common kitchen, laundry, security, and social areas
Contracts: Typically for 38 to 50 weeks

✅ Pros

Easy to meet fellow students
No need to worry about bills — often all-inclusive
Managed by university with student support available

❌ Cons

May be costlier in top cities
Less privacy
Limited availability for second-year students

Average Cost:

Outside London: £400 – £700/month
London: £600 – £900/month

2. Private Student Halls (Purpose-Built Student Accommodation – PBSA)

These are privately operated buildings designed specifically for students, offering modern, all-inclusive living spaces.

Companies: Unite Students, iQ, Student Roost, Scape, Urbanest
Amenities: Gym, cinema, study rooms, laundry, social spaces

✅ Pros

More luxurious and secure
Bills are included
Often located close to campus or city centre

❌ Cons

Expensive compared to shared housing
Some locations may feel isolated from campus culture

Average Cost:

Outside London: £500 – £850/month
London: £750 – £1,300/month

3. Private Rented Accommodation (Flats & Houses)

Renting a room in a flat or house shared with other students (or even a private studio/flat alone).

Options: Shared flat, private room, studio apartment
Platforms: Zoopla, Rightmove, SpareRoom, Studentpad

✅ Pros

More independence and flexibility
Ideal for second/third-year or PG students
Cost-sharing with flatmates

❌ Cons

You may need to manage utility bills separately
Requires searching, contract handling, and sometimes deposits

Average Cost:

Shared house (outside London): £350 – £550/month
Private studio (London): £1,000 – £1,500/month
Bills: £60 – £100/month extra if not included

4. Homestays

Living with a local UK family, often arranged through agencies or university links.

✅ Pros

Cultural immersion
Home-cooked meals (optional)
Fully furnished and safe

❌ Cons

Limited independence
Might not suit students who prefer social or late-night lifestyle

Average Cost: £450 – £700/month (with meals included)

Top Student Cities & Their Rent Averages

City	Average Rent (per month)	Popular for
London	£800 – £1,300	UCL, KCL, LSE, Imperial
Manchester	£500 – £850	University of Manchester, MMU
Birmingham	£450 – £750	University of Birmingham, Aston
Glasgow	£450 – £700	University of Glasgow, Strathclyde
Edinburgh	£500 – £800	University of Edinburgh, Heriot-Watt
Leeds	£450 – £700	University of Leeds, Leeds Beckett

What’s Typically Included in Rent?

Included: Electricity, water, Wi-Fi, heating (especially in halls and PBSAs)
Not always included (in private rentals): TV license, council tax (students are exempt), internet

When Should You Book Accommodation?

January Intake: Start searching by October
September Intake: Start searching by April–May

Early booking ensures better availability and pricing, especially in high-demand cities like London, Bristol, and Edinburgh.

Tips for Finding the Right Student Accommodation

Define Your Budget – Consider monthly rent plus additional bills, groceries, and transport.
Check the Commute – How far is the location from campus? Look for nearby bus/train connections.
Read Reviews – Use sites like StudentCrowd and Trustpilot for genuine reviews.
Inspect Contracts – Read the tenancy agreement carefully. Check for deposit terms, cancellation policy, and utility inclusion.
Visit (if possible) – Before finalizing, try to view the room or ask for a virtual tour.
Secure Deposit Protection – UK law requires deposits to be kept in a government-approved scheme.
Check Council Tax Exemption – Full-time students are exempt, but you may need to apply.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Booking accommodation without a verified source
Overlooking cancellation clauses
Ignoring public transport links
Underestimating hidden costs (e.g., laundry, kitchenware, bedding)
Choosing cheaper housing too far from university

Recommended Accommodation Portals

University Websites/Housing Teams
Unite Students
Student.com
AmberStudent
Rightmove & Zoopla (for private rentals)
Facebook Groups – “Indian Students in UK”, “Student Rooms London”

Finding suitable accommodation is not just about finding a place to sleep — it’s about creating your home away from home. Whether you're looking for privacy, affordability, or a social experience, there’s an option in the UK for every student.

Make sure to research thoroughly, budget wisely, and seek support from your university or agencies like Pollster Education who provide free counselling, housing assistance, and help with visa and budgeting guidance.