When you’re starting uni in the UK, student housing types, the different ways students live near campus, from university halls to private rentals. Also known as student accommodation, it’s not just about where you sleep—it’s about your budget, your peace of mind, and whether you’ll actually like living there. Most students assume halls of residence are the only option, but that’s not true. In fact, over 60% of UK students live outside university-managed housing by their second year. Why? Because halls are expensive, often overbooked, and come with rules that feel more like a boarding school than adult life.
There are shared student housing, a setup where multiple students rent a house or flat together, splitting bills and chores, and it’s the most popular choice after first year. You get more space, more freedom, and way cheaper rent per person. But it’s not all smooth sailing—finding the right housemates matters as much as the location. Then there’s university housing, official accommodation run by the uni, usually on or near campus. It’s safe, easy to apply for, and often includes utilities, but you’re stuck with fixed contracts and limited privacy. Some unis also offer private student rentals, apartments or flats marketed specifically to students, often with 51-week leases and on-site management. These are growing fast, especially in cities like Manchester and Birmingham, but watch out for hidden fees.
What no one tells you? The cheapest option isn’t always the best. A £500/month studio might sound great until you realize you’re paying £150 extra for a 51-week contract when your course only runs 30 weeks. Or you end up in a house with no washing machine, no heating in winter, and a landlord who won’t fix the toilet for months. You need to know what’s included, what the deposit rules are, and whether the place is actually in a safe area—not just close to campus on a map.
Some students try co-living spaces, a newer model where you rent a private room in a shared house with curated amenities like cleaning, events, and Wi-Fi. These are trendy, especially for international students, but they cost more than a standard shared house. And if you’re on a tight budget? Stick to the basics: find a house with reliable tenants, check the energy rating, and always read the contract before you sign.
The real question isn’t just what type of housing exists—it’s which one fits your life. Are you quiet and need to study? Avoid shared houses with loud parties. Need to work part-time? Make sure the place is near bus routes. Want to save for next year? Skip the fancy studios and go for a house share with a solid deposit return policy. Below, you’ll find real breakdowns of what these housing types actually cost, what problems students run into, and how to avoid the traps most first-timers don’t see coming.
