Studying in the UK is a dream come true for many international students. The prospect of living in the UK is an exciting one and attracts people from all over the world. Though the end goal is high-quality education, you cannot do it without food, water and a roof over your head. To help you figure where you should be living, we have outlined the different types of accommodation in the UK and the amenities that come with it.
We understand that the cost of accommodation is a massive concern when planning your finances. For that reason, we have also included a list of popular student cities in the UK with the average cost for each type of accommodation.
Table of Contents
- Types of student accommodation in the UK
- Average accommodation cost in the UK cities for international students:
Types of student accommodation in the UK
Halls of residence
As far as accommodation for international students in the UK goes, it doesn’t get easier than halls of residence provided by the university.
These are shared dorms that are either set inside the campus of the university or off-campus. It is the option many first-year students chose.
Many international students also prefer this as it makes it easier for them to mingle with other students and socialise. When on-campus halls of residence, it is also easier to utilise the university’s facilities such as the library 24/7.
Though it might cost more than renting an apartment, this is the best option for your first time living in the UK. You can slowly get used to the new place comfortably from under the wings of the university.
Typical amenities & facilities
- Different sized rooms on sharing/ single basis
- Fully furnished with essentials
- A shared fully equipped working kitchen
- Regular cleaning of communal areas
- Wi-Fi
- Catered meals (this varies depending on each hall of residence)
Many universities also offer more facilities for additional costs. Make sure to visit your university’s website before signing up for on-campus accommodation.
Private halls of residence
These are privately-owned student accommodation in the UK that is quite similar to the university dorms. We have seen such types of hassle-free residences crop up a lot in recent years due to student demands.
Typically, you can expect to find four to five private rooms with communal sharing hall/kitchen areas. You will also benefit from similar amenities that universities offer.
Students may choose this type of accommodation in their second year after they are familiar with the new location, or in the first year if they do not get a room in the university’s accommodation. Many universities will help you find reputable and safe off-campus halls. You can also work around your budget by choosing cheaper options or locations.
Typical amenities & facilities
- Single/sharing rooms
- Fully furnished with essentials
- Shared kitchens and communal areas
- Regular cleaning of communal areas
- Wi-Fi
There are numerous private residences available in the top student cities, look at the various options available before picking.
Also read: How to find student housing facility abroad
Rented houses/apartments
This last one offers you complete freedom and allows you to become fully independent.
It is typical for second-year students to go with this option after living in residential halls the first year. You can then take up a house or apartment with your friends. You will be taking care of all the everyday activities of your life such as food, cleaning, and paying bills. It is important you find a reasonable landlord who is transparent and fair.
The choices you will have can be huge and you can look into many places before settling on one. This way, you can choose a place that has everything that you need within your budget.
Typical amenities & facilities
- Single/sharing rooms
- Fully furnished with essentials
- Shared kitchens and communal areas
Make sure to consider your other costs of living like food, household bills, and internet charges before finalising your apartment or house.
Related topic: Student Accommodation in the USA
Average accommodation cost in the UK cities for international students:
Here are some of the 5 popular cities in the UK with cheap accommodation options.
London
- Halls of residence - Average Cost: £213 / Week
- Private halls of residence - Average Cost: £170 / Week
- Rented houses/apartments - Average Cost: £140 – £340 / Week
Glasgow
- Halls of residence - Average Cost: £170 / Week
- Private halls of residence - Average Cost: £160 / Week
- Rented houses/apartments - Average Cost: £110 – £140 / Week
Liverpool
- Halls of residence- Average Cost: £160 / Week
- Private halls of residence - Average Cost: £130 / Week
- Rented houses/apartments - Average Cost: £100 – £200 / Week
Manchester
- Halls of residence - Average Cost: £200 / Week
- Private halls of residence - Average Cost: £130 / Week
- Rented houses/apartments - Average Cost: £100 – £150 / Week
Nottingham
- Halls of residence - Average Cost: £190 / Week
- Private halls of residence - Average Cost: £150 / Week
- Rented houses/apartments - Average Cost: £150 / Week
Edinburgh
- Halls of residence - Average Cost: £200 / Week
- Private halls of residence - Average Cost: £210 / Week
- Rented houses/apartments - Average Cost: £150 / Week
Newcastle
- Halls of residence - Average Cost: £250 / Week
- Private halls of residence - Average Cost: £140 / Week
- Rented houses/apartments - Average Cost: £130 / Week
Brighton
- Halls of residence - Average Cost: £205 / Week
- Private halls of residence - Average Cost: £150 / Week
- Rented houses/apartments - Average Cost: £160 / Week
Southampton
- Halls of residence - Average Cost: £150 / Week
- Private halls of residence - Average Cost: £140 / Week
- Rented houses/apartments - Average Cost: £130 / Week
Bristol
- Halls of residence - Average Cost: £170 / Week
- Private halls of residence - Average Cost: £150 / Week
- Rented houses/apartments - Average Cost: £220 / Week
Additionally, check out popular areas in manchester for student accommodation.
You might also like
Start your journey and begin a conversation with a friendly Edvoy Counsellor and download the app today.
