In the UK, people use the word “accommodation” to describe somewhere to stay or live. Students can choose from various options that differ in price, freedom, and social life. Your lifestyle, budget, and preferences will determine which one suits you best.

The cheapest accommodation for students in the UK is typically off-campus accommodation, on-campus accommodation (Halls of Residence) and homestays

Price is enormously variable by location, the northern cities being enormously more affordable than London

Cheapest forms of accommodation

• On-campus accommodation (Halls of Residence):

On-campus housing of UK international students typically refers to university halls of residence. The university runs this type of housing and is a popular choice among first-year students due to its proximity to the university and already established social network

• Homestay

Homestay as an international student in the UK involves staying with a British host family in their home. It is a warm, immersed experience, especially for those new to the country or wishing to extend their English language skills.

• Off-campus housing:

Off-campus student accommodation for foreign students in the UK includes private student halls (PBSA), privately rented houses or flats, and homestays. Off-campus student housing offers more independence and integration

Cheapest cities to live in for student accommodations

The cost of accommodation varies significantly across the UK with the North of England proving to be the most affordable.

Most affordable budget cities based on recent data:

• Newcastle Upon Tyne: One of the bigger cities that is extremely low-budget, with average student rent around £492 monthly.
• Sheffield: Low-cost city for students, with the average rent at about £493 per month.
• Milton Keynes: Has been reportedly ranked as having some of the lowest average student rent in the UK.
• Bolton and Lincoln: Ranked among the most affordable student cities in the UK by the NatWest Student Living Index.
• Cardiff: Ranked among the most affordable student cities, with a rental rate of approximately £250–£450 a month.

How to get cheap accommodation

• Search early: The most affordable rooms are usually taken first, so get searching early, preferably 3 to 6 months before you begin the academic year.
• Look at the city outskirts: It will typically be more affordable living outside of the city center and campus. You can get by on less money by staying on the fringes of the main university areas and using public transport.
• Book an inclusive package: Rent that includes utility, internet, and insurance makes planning easier and protects you from the surprise of unknown expenses.
• Use reputable online websites: Platforms like Spare Room, Rightmove, Accommodation for Students, and the likes of Amber Student are good starting points to look for genuine postings.