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Posted May 7, 2025

Brighton – Student City Guide

With both the University of Sussex and the University of Brighton calling this vibrant city their home, Brighton is a hotspot for many postgraduates looking to embrace life in a relaxed haven that’s as exciting as it is accepting. Here postgrad students get the best of all worlds, with both beautiful coastline and countryside within easy reach, and a city centre known for its exciting nightlife and cultural scene.

The points above represent just a few reasons why Brighton is such a bustling student city, with 11.7% of its total population studying full or part time, and a high proportion of these being international students. But, what is it really like to study a postgraduate program in Brighton? Read on to discover what to expect from life outside the classroom.

Living in Brighton

The cost of living for students varies, with the monthly outlay differing based on your lifestyle and student accommodation type.

The latest research on typical costs for students living in Brighton accommodation (2024/25) from the University of Brighton found that the monthly cost for self-catered halls is from £693. Privately rented shared houses all offered an affordable option, with the average monthly cost £606 and gas, electricity, TV licence and water costing £107 per month based on a four-bed property. For a one-bed or studio flat, average costs ranged from £1,005 to £1,330 per month.

The costs of other weekly essentials – such as groceries, toiletries, laundry, phone, study materials, travel, clothing and entertainment – were similar for those living in halls and off-campus, with the average student spending up to £223 per month on such expenses according to the same research.

The postgraduate community

Whatever your budget, there are several housing options to explore along with a range of popular student areas. Lewes Road, Hanover, Hove Park and Elm Grove are among the most popular student neighbourhoods, while Kemptown is considered the best of the best as Fly Homes describes:

“Kemptown is one of the best areas for students to live in Brighton. It is located on the city’s east side and extends along the beautiful seaside. This area will be ideal for students who want to enjoy the LGBTQ lifestyle. You can enjoy beach days in summer due to the ocean located just in front of this neighbourhood. You can enjoy it in winter too.”

Getting to and from your student digs to university or into the city centre is also made simple thanks to the abundance of transport options. Catch the bus, car share, embrace Brighton’s biking culture or explore on foot to get around easily and affordably.

City life at its most vibrant

Brighton is a seaside town with some serious twists! Its music and arts scene, independent cafes and quirky food hotspots, vintage shops, LGBTQ+ friendly spaces, and unique bohemian vibe make the city of Brighton a great place to study, socialise, live and work. It’s a place that is buzzing all year round, not just during the warmer months when the beaches are busy.

The beach and seafront offer a space to relax and meet new friends, with the bustling promenade full of restaurants, cafes and bars. The pier is a British classic that never gets old – with its funfair, arcade and sweet stalls iconic. Delving deeper into Brighton’s fascinating history is also something we’d encourage all postgraduates studying here to do, and the place to begin your history lesson has to be the Royal Pavilion – an opulent Chinese-inspired palace.

We couldn’t mention things to do and see without touching on Brighton’s incredible nightlife scene. There are literally hundreds of bars, pubs and clubs, which means, when you’re not studying, you’ll have plenty to keep you busy!

Has this guide got you even more excited to study as a postgraduate in Brighton? Make it a reality by exploring our postgraduate courses in Brighton today.

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