Top 10 Budget-Friendly Student Accommodations in the UK (2025 Guide)

Studying in the UK is a dream for many international and domestic students alike-but managing living costs can be challenging. Accommodation is often one of the biggest expenses, especially in major cities like London, Manchester, and Edinburgh. Luckily, there are a range of budget-friendly student accommodations that offer comfort, convenience, and great value.

In this guide, we'll explore the top 10 affordable student housing options across the UK. Whether you're looking for shared flats, university halls, or private rentals, these options provide safe and well-located spaces without breaking the bank.

1. Unite Students - Various Cities

Price Range: £130 - £190/week

Locations: London, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, and more

Unite Students is one of the largest student housing providers in the UK, offering affordable options in major cities. Rooms are fully furnished with bills included, and many sites feature social spaces and 24/7 security.

Why it's budget-friendly:

• All-inclusive rent

• Flexible tenancy options

• Frequent student discounts

2. Sanctuary Students - Multiple Locations

Price Range: £100 - £160/week

Locations: Liverpool, Manchester, Preston, Glasgow

Sanctuary Students provides budget-friendly, centrally located student housing. They offer shared kitchens, free Wi-Fi, and no hidden costs.

Best for: Students looking for reliable services and a strong community vibe.

3. Student Roost - Affordable City Options

Price Range: £120 - £170/week

Locations: Sheffield, Swansea, Aberdeen, Nottingham

Student Roost combines affordability with high-quality amenities like gyms, study areas, and social events.

Perks:

• Rent includes all utilities

• Great locations close to universities

• Friendly staff and student support

4. Liberty Living (Now Part of Unite Students)

Price Range: £11 - £180/week

Locations: London, Cardiff, Leeds, Glasgow

Although now merged with Unite Students, many Liberty Living properties still maintain their budget-friendly appeal with competitive prices and modern amenities.

5. University Halls of Residence

Price Range: £90 - £160/week

Available At: Almost all UK universities

Most universities offer their own halls of residence, often at a lower cost than private providers. While amenities vary, many offer en-suite or shared bathrooms, meal plans, and social facilities.

Budget tip: Apply early for a higher chance of securing the cheapest rooms.

6. Homes for Students

Price Range: £100 - £170/week

Locations: Newcastle, Leicester, Liverpool, Plymouth

Known for their transparent pricing and friendly staff, Homes for Students offers excellent value for money. Many properties are within walking distance to campus and city centres.

7. Fresh Student Living

Price Range: £110 - £175/week

Locations: Glasgow, Exeter, Aberdeen, Loughborough

Fresh offers stylish and affordable accommodations with strong community activities and modern facilities.

Student-approved features:

• Free events and giveaways

• Smart design

• Secure bike storage

8. Amber Student (Aggregator Platform)

Price Range: Varies by listing (starting from £85/week)

Locations: Nationwide

Amber Student connects students to verified, low-cost housing options across the UK. You can filter by budget, city, and room type.

Why use it:

• Quick comparisons

• Offers and cashback deals

• Suitable for international students

9. Host Student Housing

Price Range: £105 - £165/week

Locations: Coventry, Colchester, Cardiff, Bath

Host offers competitively priced student housing with a focus on comfort and cleanliness. Rooms come fully equipped and the team is known for being responsive and helpful.

10. Private Shared Rentals (via SpareRoom, Rightmove, etc.)

Price Range: £70 - £130/week

Locations: Nationwide

For students comfortable with independent living, private rentals can be a budget-saver. Sharing a house with others in less central areas significantly reduces costs.

Caution: Always ensure landlords are registered and use verified platforms.

Tips for Finding Budget Student Accommodation in the UK

• Book early: The cheapest rooms go fast-especially in cities like London and Edinburgh.

• Use student discounts: Some providers offer early-bird or referral discounts.

• Check what's included: Look for "bills included" deals to avoid extra costs.

• Roomshare: Splitting costs with flatmates can save a significant amount.

• Location matters: Living slightly outside the city centre often reduces rent dramatically.

Affordable student accommodation in the UK is not only possible but increasingly available thanks to a wide variety of providers and platforms. Whether you're a fresher or a returning student, these top 10 options give you great choices to live well on a budget.

Be proactive, research thoroughly, and compare your options before signing any agreement. With the right approach, you can enjoy both comfort and affordability throughout your academic journey.