- Top 10 cities for student accommodation in Europe are all located in the United Kingdom.
- Ranking based on EDUopinions student ratings for accommodation among 12,679 reviews across Europe.
- UK universities typically provide owned student accommodation, offering guaranteed spots for first-year and international students.
- Guildford ranks as the city with the best student accommodation, with a rating of 4.51/5.
- Other top cities include Bournemouth, Leeds, and Coventry, known for affordable and modern accommodation options.
You’ve decided on a university, a course, maybe even a specific campus. Now, where are you going to live? We’ve found the top 10 cities with the best student accommodation in Europe.
To compile our ranking, we looked at student reviews from cities across Europe and ranked them only according to the ‘accommodation’ rating.
Immediately, it’s clear which country in Europe has the best student accommodation—every city in the top 10 of the ranking is in the United Kingdom!
So, read on to find out which city has the best student accommodation in Europe. You might be surprised which city takes the number one spot!
Which City Has the Best Student Accommodation in Europe?
Summary and Methodology
To figure out which city is best for student accommodation, we turned to EDUopinions student reviews ratings. In their reviews, students and graduates can rate their university on eight aspects of their student experience: professors, career prospects, internationality, value, student life, location, facilities, and accommodation.
To produce a top ten ranking, we’ve filtered reviews based on the town or city each university is located in (the ‘campus’). Campuses with less than 160 reviews were discounted from the data, as were any campuses not in Europe. That gave us a ranking based on 12,679 student ratings for universities in Europe.
Interestingly, Europe’s best student cities aren’t present on our ranking. In fact, popular destinations such as London, Edinburgh, Paris, and Munich barely make it into the top 30.
However, the UK is certainly one of the best countries in Europe for student accommodation, and our the top 10 is comprised of solely UK cities. Contrary to other European countries, most UK universities own student accommodation, called ‘halls’, and first-year students and international students often get a guaranteed spot in these accommodation blocks.
Their proximity to campus, affordability, and bonus amenities (some halls have meals included) means they’re a great choice for students, and make settling into university life in the UK much easier.
Many of the cities on this ranking are large student hubs to rival London, but others are smaller destinations home to world-class institutions with high numbers of international students.
So, let’s see which cities have the best student accommodation in Europe.
10. Nottingham (3.69/5 Rating)

Nottingham often gets overlooked in favour of the biggest Midlands city: Birmingham. However, Nottingham has a thriving student population, in a city that’s only slightly smaller (by population) than places like Bristol and Cardiff. Students in Nottingham can explore a thriving nightlife scene, including top music venues, as well as good transport links to other top UK destinations like London.
Overall ratings for Nottingham universities are some of the highest on this ranking, despite only just breaking into the top 10 cities for student accommodation. However, reviewers on EDUopinions praise the variety of student accommodation available and the focus on student safety. In particular, student accommodation is very close to campus and the city centre, meaning it’s easy to get back at night.
Student Review – Nottingham Trent University
Nottingham Trent University is a modern and dynamic university located in the heart of Nottingham, UK. It is known for its strong focus on creative and vocational education, and its commitment to providing students with a quality of teaching, and inclusive learning environment. The range of courses and programs on offer, and the university’s excellent facilities are some of the key strengths of the institution.
The university has strong links with local and national employers, which means that students have access to a range of internship and job opportunities. In terms of campus life, Nottingham Trent University offers a vibrant and diverse community. There are plenty of clubs, societies, and events to get involved in, as well as excellent sports facilities and student accommodation options.
Student Review – University of Nottingham
My course is challenging and allows you to really learn in various different ways, such as workshops, lectures, shadowing etc. Nottingham student life is amazing as the campus is not far from the town centre where there are all types of bars and clubs. Campus accommodation is catered which isn’t the best food but the experience alone is worth it
9. Southampton (3.79/5 Rating)

On the south coast of England, Southampton is the place to go if you want to combine natural landscapes with a cozy, student-centric town. Despite being close to picturesque regions like the New Forest, Southampton remains a more affordable place to study than other southern English cities, and you don’t need to miss out on shopping or nightlife experiences, either.
When it comes to student accommodation, reviewers mention the proximity to campus and the additional amenities that come with some accommodation options, including things like gym access. But the biggest praise is for cost—students say Southampton’s student accommodation is very affordable.
Student Review – University of Southampton
I love my university! The people are all friendly and fun to be around, people actually want to study theirs subjects. The lecturers are willing to answer your emails and talk at any point and always give a helping hand when possible. I have a good range of optional modules on my course to choose what I want to specialise in. There is a huge range of halls, varying in condition and age and price, so everyone could find something for them, and guaranteed student accommodation to first years and international students is hugely reassuring! There are 3 bars/clubs on campus, a letting agents, a box office, cinema and theatre, and a giant library that has lots of individual cubicles for you to do work in. There is also a range of sporting facilities including gyms, which are also in some accommodation complexes, and a swimming pool. I really love the uni and the vibe it gives off.
Student Review – University of Southampton
The University of southampton is a magnificent institution with a wealth of activities for students, the university provides outstanding learning resources, including numerous libraries and study areas, as well as a staff and faculty that is very supportive. Its location in a good area, cheap accommodation,a sizable campus.
8. Leicester (3.79/5 Rating)

Leicester claims to be one of the most affordable student destinations in the UK, and combined with a massively diverse population (the city hosts the largest Diwali outside of India), it’s a place that will make you feel at home immediately. It’s also known for its historical significance—Kind Richard III’s body was discovered here, and there are lots of free museums to keep you occupied when you’re not studying.
Opinions of student accommodation vary depending on which university in Leicester students are reviewing. For example, students of the University of Loughborough, which has a large campus just outside Leicester, say that accommodation is modern and convenient. In Leicester city centre, meanwhile, students are more likely to praise the variety and affordability of student lettings in the city.
Student Review – University of Leicester
I came to this University after spending my first year at a different uni.
Studied biology. Was an ok course, well supported by faculty members. The learning was a mix of lectures and labs.
Was well supported during my dissociation. The campus is nice but small. The city centre is nearby. Decent accommodation options especially when you want to move out from living in student accommodation.
Plenty of extra curricular things to get involved with and if there isn’t a society for the thing you are interested in then you can just make one, lots of spot societies on offer with the courts and everything close to the uni. Met good people here . Overall have enjoyed my past 3 years.
Student Review – University of Leicester
Loughborough has a massive campus, full of great facilities for your education. One of the off-putting things is that the university is in a market town, but after starting there in 2021, I found this was no issue! The campus pleasantly surprised me, and there’s so many opportunities to get involved with stuff.
In regards to my degree (BA Design / Industrial Design), I’ve loved every minute of it. At first it was a little tough, but now I’m doing way better, achieving an overall 2.1 for my first year. Plus the facilities in the design school are top tier! With lecturers it’s definitely hit or miss, but for the most part they’ve been great. Career aspects are also amazing for my course, you also get regular emails and stuff to keep you in the loop about events, job fairs and opportunities.
Accommodation wise, I have no complaints. Some are a bit outdated (such as Rutherford, would also stay clear of Whitworth), but the newer buildings are class. It’s quite competitive between different accommodations, as they usually engage in friendly competition which makes for a really nice atmosphere. I can definitely recommend my accommodation (Faraday), it’s made my first year a joy and the location makes it ideal. Plus everyone knows everyone! The community aspect is amazing, and in my 9 months there I’ve never felt left out. It honestly feels like a home away from home, hence why I chose to return next year.
Last thing I will comment on is the nightlife. It’s… okay. Our student union becomes a massive club on certain days of the week, which is great. But we mostly go to Nottingham or Leicester on a night out, since they’re at most 15 minutes away by train! Being so close to the two cities makes things a lot easier!
Overall, I can’t wait to start my second year at Loughborough! Good luck to everyone, hope this helped 🙂
7. Sheffield (3.82/5 Rating)

Known as a music hotspot in northern England, Sheffield has long been one of the most popular student cities in the UK. The city has a strong cultural identity, and has plenty of options for club or museum hopping—whichever is more your style! Plus, the city is one of the most picturesque in the UK, with easy transport links to the Peak District if you need to get away from city life for a day (or a weekend).
Both the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University are situated in the city centre, and students say that accommodation is frequently just a short walk from university buildings and city-centre sights. Students also praise the support given when looking for accommodation, especially for international students.
Student Review – Sheffield Hallam University
Personally, I would say Sheffield Hallam University overall is a very good Uni. In terms of my course which is Interior Design, the lecturers are really helpful and the Uni on a whole offers a lot of support to students. All the accommodations are also very close to campus which is great for those early lectures🥲.
Student Review – University of Sheffield
The university provides its students a holistic experience and nurtures them in every way, we have the 301 facility to improve our academic and research skills too. The faculty is very helpful and the course is very well designed, you get a lot of help through tutorials, libraries, online faculties, student mentors, personal tutors and there is always someone you can go to. This is also what I liked the most, having exceptional faculty who are experts in their field and are always readily available for you to approach. The student life is amazing and there are a lot of international students, everyone I came across yet was super friendly and helpful, the living costs are low and accommodation services are really good. My experience during the first year was fulfilling and I cannot wait to go back to uni after summer.
6. OXford (3.82/5 Rating)

Among UK student cities, Oxford is certainly one of the most prestigious thanks to the existence of the world-renowned University of Oxford. A cozy city, home to thousands of students, including many international students, Oxford is a great place to call home if you’re looking to combine modern city amenities with a beautiful historic environment.
As the University of Oxford operates on a ‘college’ system, student accommodation can vary depending on which college you choose. Reviewers say that quality can vary, and you might not have particular facilities that students at other colleges do have. So, make sure to check the accommodation options when you apply for your college of choice!
Student Review – University of Oxford
Freshman week was informative and engaging, but we worked for two days, which ruined the freshman week vibe. There was also more room to do compulsory seminars on racism and classism, as no one had such seminars until week 2, when the seminar was voluntary, completely defeating its purpose. My accommodation is very large, good value for money and faces the street, but it varies a lot by college. My friends from other colleges are paying exorbitant prices, but this is for rooms normally reserved for third year students. Having such cheap and quality accommodation is a great feature of Oxford. The college library can get busy, but it’s a good place for everyone to work. Large exercise areas are available, and the college gym is small but free. The faculty library is very well stocked and makes books very accessible. Lectures are held in an auditorium, which is resonant due to its size, but is generally a great venue for lectures due to its proximity to me. My studies are structured, but also offer great creative freedom in the first year, which allows me to choose historical subjects that are new and that interest me. Classes are good because they are taught by leading scientists in their fields and you can ask questions after class. City life in Oxford is very different from city life in London – it’s smaller and generally less busy, but busier in a very different way. There can be a lot of traffic jams and bicycles around so you have to be careful when walking as you also have to deal with tourists. There’s not as much variety of shops as you’d expect in a city – no Poundland, Waitrose or Lidl in central Oxford, which can make shopping expensive. Get ready to read much more than ever for GCSE or A level. History at Oxford is uniquely intellectually rigorous. With that in mind, this is an informative and engaging course that you can tailor to your interests more than other universities, so take advantage of this feature. Tutorials and lectures with world renowned scholars are an unprecedented and unique opportunity that should be valued more.
Student Review – University of Oxford
It was great – I met a lot of people and really felt like I was part of the university. in terms of subject mix, there was not much across the university. Even though I had work on the third day of freshman year, I still enjoyed it. Really good – the accommodation at my college is excellent, I stayed in a room with a private bathroom so it was very comfortable. My staircase was super nice and we all got along great. The only downside was that the first year we didn’t have a kitchen, which would have been useful. The library is fantastic – so many books and it’s really nice to work in, nice environment and relaxed rules for eating and drinking help. The sports fields are in very good condition, although far away. College Bar is a highlight – such a great atmosphere and cheap drinks! Private lessons are amazing and a great experience to get familiar with your subject. The lectures were pretty good – it can be confusing to know which ones to attend, but they are very informative. The lessons and tutoring are excellent. Life in Oxford is wonderful, the atmosphere is great and the buildings are beautiful. When you walk through the center it really feels like a university town and you see a lot of people you know. Coming from London Oxford may seem a bit small but it’s not claustrophobic
5. Coventry (3.86/5 Rating)

Making it into the top five best cities for student accommodation is Coventry. An affordable destination, Coventry attracts students from all over the world to its large universities, giving the city a strong student feel. There’s also a wide range of activities to enjoy when you’re not in the lecture hall: the city has independent museums and sports facilities including tree-top climbing courtesy of Go Ape.
The city has two main universities: the University of Warwick and Coventry University. Students at Warwick benefit from a woodland campus, with accommodation regularly praised as feeling safe and convenient. Those studying at Coventry University, meanwhile, say that proximity to the city-centre is a bonus, while the size of accommodation rooms are also good.
Student Review – University of Warwick
Providing me with an unparalleled atmosphere for education and unforgettable friendships, I can truly say Warwick has contributed in large to the person I am today. It has instilled in me a sense of belonging and made me realise the extent to which I can make my place in our vast world. As a second year undergraduate studying psychology, I have gained valuable insights into the workings of the human mind. The Warwick psychology department is a warm and academically driven community to be a part of, with excellent educators to impart knowledge to me. The Warwick campus presents itself as a safe haven for students attending the university, it definitely was one for me when I lived on campus last year at bluebell. I thoroughly enjoyed my walks around the woodlands surrounding my accommodation, the bluebell lake was a favourite spot of mine when I needed time to myself, the geese however, as Warwick legend states can be a little daunting but is one of the many things unique to the university. I have loved every minute that I have been a part of this lovely community, and I know when I graduate next year, I will definitely miss my daily trips to the library.
Student Review – Coventry University
Overall, it’s a good university. Although my time was greatly impacted by covid, I can say you get out of it what you put in. The campus is based around the city center which is incredibly convenient and also means it’s easy to meet friends, teachers and coursemates. Also, it helps it feel quite warm and cozy as often you can bump into people you know but there are shortcuts if you wish not to do that. Most of the accommodation is close by too, i think there is a lot of new accom so i would look into those, during my time there i have always felt safe and secure in and around the private accommodations. Campus is great, clean and newly built so. features are good, the library is great too (wasn’t 24hrs during covid time).
In regards to the course it can be a bit complicated to get help, the only real way is to use the resources and external staff they provide, often proffs hands are tied and they can’t look at your work for example, so use the academic writing service, there’s also a maths service etc.
For psychology, after 1st year often the lectures were actually irrelevant to the assessments/courseworks, they provide a week-by-week syllabus so look before going otherwise it is a massive waste of time!!
They do however update the course nearly. every year so your experience is likely to be different, do your research into your course and specific modules before the start of the semester.
4. Newcastle (3.86/5 Rating)

It would have been a surprise if Newcastle hadn’t been in the top 10 cities for student accommodation. Home to two world-class institutions (Newcastle University and Northumbria University), the city offers plenty of choice for low-cost accommodation for students. Then there’s the nightlife scene. The city hosts concerts from international artists at its multiple music venues, but there’s also plenty of culture to devour at places art galleries and museums.
Newcastle is known as an affordable place to live, so it makes sense that students at university in the city also praise the affordability of student accommodation. The city’s moderate size, combined with the number of students in the city, also give the student accommodation a lively, social feel, which many students say enhanced their experience.
Student Review – Newcastle University
During my almost 3 full years of stay here in Newcastle upon Tyne I have had one of the best moments of my life. Newcastle University and the Computer Science programme have allowed me to meet a lot of amazing people with whom I have shared many amazing moments.
Overall, the programme has given me a stable foundation, allowed me to learn several coding languages to an intermediate level. The lecturers are professionals and have taught and demonstrated me a lot along the way.
Moreover, the student life in the city is simply amazing, international friendly and gives you the chance to meet a lot of amazing people. Finally, one of the best perks of studying in Newcastle is that the accommodations are affordable and there is a good balance between cost and quality.
Student Review – Newcastle University
Living in Castle Leazes accommodation in first year, I met a lot of my friends throughout university. I was lucky enough to have an ensuite room, with a large living room and kitchen too for the floor, although they’re not all as modern as this. With over 1,000 people in these halls, they are definitely the most sociable and I would recommend Castle Leazes to anyone going. Societies are also a key aspect of university and allow you to meet more people, join events, be part of a team in sports matches, and it can also add to your CV. I didn’t join a sport until the end of first year, but I’m so glad I did it, even if I started late. I studied Marketing and Management and thoroughly enjoyed my three years there. The lecturers are all very supportive, and you can choose a range of modules in second and third year. The business school has arguably some of the best facilities on Campus and even allowed me to do an internship in Rwanda during my time there. I also lived in Jesmond during my second and third years and would say that it is the best student area in the country. You have so many bars on Osbourne road, everyone is around the corner from one another and it’s also a very nice area with a Waitrose as your local shop, alongside a Tesco and Sainsburys. It’s also relatively cheap for the large houses you get!
3. leeds (3.95/5 Rating)

A real hotspot for students in the North of England, Leeds is a buzzing city with a busy nightlife scene, top restaurants, and plenty of shopping areas. Its two city-centre universities offer student accommodation in the centre of the action, so you can explore all of the city’s sights during your studies. Among those sights are museums, bars, and, not far away, beautiful green spaces.
Students at universities in Leeds say there’s a good variety of student accommodation to choose from, though you should check where the accommodation is as they can be spread across the city centre. Additionally, the support given to students in accommodation is good, so if you have any problems, you’re likely to be supported.
Student Review – Leeds Beckett University
The history course at Leeds Beckett is one of the most engaging and enthralling experiences I’ve had thus far. The course is situated in a modern learning environment and takes advantage of new technology and resources to make the course as enjoyable as possible. Furthermore, the building is positioned right in the centre of Leeds as well, this is perfect for commuting from student accommodation in and around Leeds and also gives students the opportunity to explore the diverse culture the city has to offer. I would thoroughly recommend the three-year course to anybody who is wanting to expand on their knowledge of history from A-Level or GCSE. Overall, it is one of the best decisions I have made to move to Leeds and uptake the challenge of this course.
Student Review – University of Leeds
I completed my BsC Geological Science degree in 2014. The course was quite intense in terms of hours on campus compared to many other courses, but this was necessary for the course content. Professors, tutors and PhD students were very approachable and supportive on the whole. As someone who did not have a Maths or Chemistry A level, I received support to complete extra modules in these. I went through a hard time with my mental health due to issues in my accommodation, and was extremely well supported by my tutors and student welfare staff – my exams were rearranged and I was treated with dignity and respect.
2. Bournemouth (4.16/5 Rating)

If you want to study somewhere where you can take a dip in the sea in the morning, head to class in the afternoon, and then enjoy a lively night out in the evening, then look no further than Bournemouth. This city has all the entertainment of a larger destination, with the feel of a small, student-centric town—plus, the beach is one of the best in the UK.
Students say that the accommodation available in Bournemouth is very modern, with lots of options whether you want to stay on-campus or off-campus. They also say that the facilities available around accommodations are good, meaning you don’t have to go far to find a study space, a coffee, or a place to meet friends.
Student Review – Arts University Bournemouth
Excellent accommodations. I’ve been living here for two years and plan to stay for a third. Even the smaller rooms are quite spacious, and they are quite modern. The internet is both fast and reliable. Lecturers are great too. Great environment, I love the buildings and the atmosphere, and the city as well
Student Review – Bournemouth University
As a transfer student who just started this semester, I am blown away by how amazing Bournemouth university is. The students are really diverse, the site is stunning, and there is fantastic accommodation both on and off campus. Despite the fact that I don’t like it very much, the chilly temperature probably enhances the experience. As of now, every single one of my lecturers has been really kind and helpful.
1. Guildford (4.51/5 Rating)

Presenting, the city with the best student accommodation in Europe: Guildford!
This small town in the south east is easy to miss, given that it’s hidden among the quiet South Downs and a short train ride from the buzzy capital, but there are reasons it’s a top student destination. A typical university town, as a student here your accommodation won’t be far from the historic high street, and you’ll be surrounded by students from around the world at a top-ranked university, the University of Surrey.
So, what do students actually say about their experience with student accommodation in Guildford?
By far the most commented-on aspect of student accommodation at the University of Surrey is its proximity to campus. Surrey has three main campuses, with student accommodation available on all three, and good transport connections means it’s easy to meet friends on other campuses if necessary. Plus, there are various accommodation options available, meaning you’ll almost certainly be able to find something to suit your preferences and budget.
On the subject of cost, though, some students at the University of Surrey say that finding accommodation in Guildford town itself can be challenging. South East England is one of the most expensive areas of the UK, and Guildford’s proximity to London can mean rental prices are higher than in other areas of the UK.
Student Review – University of Surrey
The Stag Hill Campus is amazing – from the facilities to the gorgeous lake, I love being on campus. – Manor Park is great but it feels a bit disconnected – when I lived there in the first year, I always felt like I was an outsider. – The Student’s Union is amazing and with each year, when new officers come along, you can see the amazing difference they are making. – The university is inclusive, representing each student and their needs. – I love my course – Surrey is one of the top universities for it and you can tell why!
– The Computer Science department at Surrey has really worked with what is best for the students throughout the pandemic – even as we come out the other side, there is so much support and the lecturers truly care. – The content they teach is engaging and prepares us for when we leave the university.
The best aspects of my university experience include the beautiful campus (I love the lake, geese, and natural environment) and the students’ union (so many events are offered). I admire the consistent support from lecturers and interesting course content. The course could be improved by tackling the amount of reading offered – for some years it’s too much reading! Also, some modules seem harder than others – there should be a balance between all modules in terms of intellectual stimulation. I prefer online lectures and seminars – they are much more accessible. As an English literature degree, contact hours are inevitably low. However, I would appreciate it if they were much higher.
It’s very close to London! A good divide between student and personal life because of the campus university. I like the 24/7 support provided by accommodation services. I also admire the mentor scheme – definitely helped me in the first year. I disliked the kitchen… the stove and fridge weren’t the greatest. Also, not all rooms on campus are the same – I pay the same as others, and their kitchens etc are much better! It is quite a homely place to be. Nice views, amazing campus, and great course! The facilities are modern and useable, you can book rooms as a student and use them for anything! Also, good food options (my personal favourite is Young’s Kitchen) and the student life is lively.
Student Review – Surrey Business School
Teaching – Amazing teaching, they reflect upon student feedback and have provided quality teaching involving independent tasks which offering and guiding students whenever they struggle. Very professional and the system is clearly structured.
Social life – Due to being in a small town the social life is limited with only one campus club. And 3 other clubs, however, being closely located to town it is super convenient and fun.
Travelling/Exploring – The local station offers a 33-minute direct train to London Waterloo, easy for commute as well as going out and exploring London too. Guildford is located just outside London with close access to travel to Reading, Portsmouth and Brighton where there’s amazing nightlife, exploring and beaches. Nevertheless, Guildford holds pretty places such as the Castle, Cathedral with many pubs and beer gardens to go to. It’s what you make of it! They have an amazing high street with stores including Hugo Boss, Ted Baker, House of Fraser and more.
Cost / Living – Surrey is a very rich area and being close to London too, accommodation is pretty expensive especially if you decide to live off-campus.
Accommodation – although costly, Surrey has 3 campuses including the main campus. Hazel Farm is the furthest campus where the accommodation is the cheapest and bus rides are free. Their most modern campus is Manor Park where there are continuing works on luxury looking en-suite accommodation (where I was lucky enough to stay in and VERY much approve). Finally, their main campus offers a mix of different accommodation types, whilst being close to all necessities.
Transport in and out of uni – Their £2 university buses also go through all three campuses as well as a large Tesco’s, hospital and town centre for extra convenience.
Conclusion

If you’re considering studying abroad, we’d recommend that you carefully examine each aspect of the student experience at your preferred university, and that includes looking at accommodation options!
International students often have guaranteed accommodation, particularly in the UK where rooms are often provided. However, if you need to look for student housing independently, take a look at our guide.
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