Student Accommodation Guide: Halls vs Private Rentals
Accommodation is one of the biggest decisions you'll make at university - and one of your largest expenses. This guide compares your main options.
Types of Halls
Catered Halls
Meals included in rentOften more expensiveSocial dining experienceLess cooking responsibilitySelf-Catered Halls
Kitchen facilities shared or privateMore independenceLower cost than cateredMost common optionEn-suite vs Shared Bathrooms
En-suite: Private bathroom in your roomShared: Bathroom facilities for multiple roomsEn-suite costs 30-50% moreAdvantages of Halls
All-inclusive bills: Utilities, internet usually includedSocial environment: Easy to make friendsUniversity support: On-site help availableSecurity: Controlled access, CCTVLocation: Usually on or near campusGuaranteed for first years: Most universities offer thisDisadvantages of Halls
Cost: Often more expensive than privateNoise: Especially in first-year hallsRules: Quiet hours, guest policiesLimited choice: Take what's allocatedContract length: Usually 40+ weeksTypical Costs (2024-25)
London: 180-350/weekOther cities: 100-200/weekTypes of Private Accommodation
Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)
Privately run student housingModern facilitiesAll-inclusive billsSimilar to halls but off-campusHouse/Flat Shares
Traditional rental propertiesUsually with other studentsBills separate from rentMore independenceAdvantages of Private Rentals
Choice: Pick your housemates and locationCost: Can be cheaper, especially in groupsIndependence: No university rulesSpace: Often larger roomsContract flexibility: Different lengths availableDisadvantages of Private Rentals
Bills: Manage utilities separatelyDeposits: Usually required upfrontMaintenance: Rely on landlordsCommuting: May be further from campusFinding housemates: Can be stressfulTypical Costs (2024-25)
London: 150-250/week + billsOther cities: 80-150/week + billsFirst Year
Recommended: University Halls
Easier transition to universityBuilt-in social networkAll-inclusive simplicitySupport services nearbySecond Year Onwards
Consider: Private Rentals
Live with chosen friendsMore independencePotentially lower costsExperience "real world" livingStart early: Good places go fastView in person: Photos can misleadCheck the contract: Understand all termsMeet potential housemates: Compatibility mattersConsider location: Transport, safety, amenitiesBudget for bills: Add 50-100/monthDocument everything: Photos of condition at move-inLandlords who won't provide contractsPressure to sign quicklyCash-only paymentsProperties in very poor conditionExtremely low prices (too good to be true)Most universities offer:
Accommodation officesPrivate rental listingsContract checking servicesAdvice on housing issuesUse these free services to avoid common pitfalls and find accommodation that suits your needs and budget.
