Accommodation Guide in the UK: Finding the Perfect Place to Stay Abroad

Starting your studies in the UK is an exciting step, but let’s face it, figuring out where you’re going to live can be a bit overwhelming.

It’s a big decision, right? You’re not just choosing a place to sleep; you’re picking your home base for your entire study abroad experience.

In this blog, we’re going to walk you through the maze of student accommodation options in the UK.

Types of Student Accommodation in United Kingdom

The following are the different types of student accommodation available in United Kingdom:

1. University Halls of Residence

The Structure

• Primarily for first-year students.
• Options range from single rooms to shared dormitories.
• Many halls offer catering services with various meal plan options.
• Organized social events and access to support services.
• Typically for an academic term.

Average Rent

• London: £1,200 – £1,800 per month
• Manchester: £550 – £1,500 per month
• Birmingham: £560 – £1,200 per month
• Leeds: £450 – £1,000 per month
• Liverpool: £470 – £1,040 per month
• Bristol: £500 – £1,100 per month

Facilities

• Basic Furnishings: Bed, desk, chair, and storage space in each room.
• Common Areas: Shared kitchens, lounges, and study spaces.
• Utilities Included: Electricity, water, and internet covered in the rent.
• Security and Maintenance: On-site security and maintenance staff.
• Access to Campus Facilities: Easy access to university libraries, sports facilities, and other amenities.

How to Find

• Detailed information is available online on university websites.

2. Private Halls of Residence

The Structure

• Not affiliated with any university, offering more flexibility in choice.
• New buildings with contemporary designs.
• From en-suite rooms to studio apartments.
• Offers a range of contract lengths to suit different needs.
• Require guarantor service to book accommodation.

Average Rent

• London: £350 – £500 per month
• Manchester: £250 – £400 per month
• Birmingham: £230 – £350 per month
• Leeds: £210 – £320 per month
• Liverpool: £200 – £300 per month
• Bristol: £220 – £330 per month

Facilities

• Modern Amenities: Gyms, study areas, and sometimes even cinemas or games rooms.
• All-Inclusive Bills: Rent includes utilities, internet, and sometimes even gym memberships.
• Security Features: 24/7 security and key card access for safety.
• Social Events: Organized activities and events for residents.
• On-Site Support: Maintenance and support staff available on-site.

How to Find

• You can also check out amber student accommodation to explore affordable and secure accommodation in the UK.

3. Shared Houses or Flats

The Structure

• Common areas like kitchens and living rooms are shared among housemates.
• Each student has their own bedroom.
• Housemates share responsibilities for cleaning, cooking, and other chores.
• Signed with private landlords or through letting agencies.
• Offers a sense of community and opportunity for close friendships.

Average Rent

• London: £600-£900 per month
• Oxford: £450-£700 per month
• Reading: £400-£650 per month
• Edinburgh: £400-£600 per month
• Manchester: £350-£600 per month
• Leeds: £320-£550 per month

Facilities

• Basic Furnishings: Includes basic furniture in bedrooms and common areas.
• Utility Bills: Not included in the rent and shared among housemates.
• Internet Access: Arranged separately by the tenants.
• Laundry Facilities: Available either in the house or in the building.
• Storage Space: Limited storage space, requiring efficient use of available room.

How to Find

• Many universities have physical or online notice boards with listings.
• Facebook groups can be useful for finding shared accommodation whether its student housing in Oxford or London.

4. Homestay or Family Stay

The Structure

• Students stay in a private home with a local family.
• Opportunity to experience British culture and improve language skills.
• Includes one or two meals per day with the family.
• Flexible duration, from a few weeks to an entire academic year.
• Families often provide support and guidance to students.

Average Rent

• London: £850 – £1,500 per month
• Manchester: £450 – £800 per month
• Birmingham: £400 – £700 per month
• Leeds: £380 – £650 per month
• Liverpool: £350 – £600 per month
• Bristol: £400 – £750 per month

Facilities

• Private or Shared Room: Depending on the arrangement, students may have a private or shared room.
• Access to Home Amenities: Use of the family’s living areas, kitchen, and laundry facilities.
• Internet Access: Included in the homestay arrangement.
• Cultural Exchange: Opportunity to participate in family activities and local traditions.
• Safety and Security: Living in a family home often provides a sense of security.

How to Find

• Websites like Homestay.com and Host Families specialize in arranging homestays.
• Some universities offer homestay programs or can recommend reputable providers.

Conclusion

We hope this article helps you to understand what students should know about finding accommodation in the United Kingdom. Choosing where to live is more than just picking a place to sleep. It’s about finding a space where you can study, relax, and maybe even make a few lifelong friends.

How can amber help you?

amber student Accommodation helps you secure accommodation of your choice on your study abroad journey. Having served 80 million students (and counting), amber is your one-stop shop for all your accommodation needs, with great choices for student housing. Download the AmberStudent app now to book an affordable home for your adventure.

Author’s Bio

Archit is an avid writer who is keen to get his doctorate. When not writing, he can be found reading, taking the metro and then questioning this decision, and haunting local bookstores.