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Posted Oct. 8, 2025

UK student housing costs explained: here’s what you need to know

Finding a home away from home as a student can make all the difference, whether studying as an undergraduate or postgraduate, especially if you’ve moved to a new region or country to pursue the program of your choice. Housing is a critical part of postgraduate life, with everything from academic success to an individual’s health and wellbeing influenced by their student digs.

Every postgraduate student deserves accommodation that’s comfortable, convenient, private and cost-effective. With the average living costs for students increasing for the 2025/26 academic year, understanding what to expect from the student housing market is crucial. Join us as we talk you through UK student housing costs…

Rent

Let’s begin with the biggest area of expenditure after tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate students alike. The cost of rent can vary significantly, with the location of your student housing and accommodation type presenting some dramatic differences in price.

The costs of university-owned halls of residence, private shared houses or flats, and private or premium halls can differ. While generally higher in cost, the advantages of renting privately can outweigh steeper rent, especially for postgraduates, as the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) describes:

“Rooms in student accommodation can often be small and feel cramped. I have to say that this can be deceptive, though. Small rooms in halls come with great storage whereas in a private flat you might have more floor space… The variety in privately rented houses and flats is obviously much greater. If you look long enough, you are more likely to find something that suits all or most of your personal preferences.”

House shares are a great way to get the best of all worlds – an affordable place to live, a private spot you can call your own, and a chance to socialise on your terms.

Electricity, gas and water

There are some services you just can’t be without, and this includes electricity, gas and water. Some private landlords offer rental options that are inclusive of these utilities. This ensures costs are more predictable and manageable for busy students.

The shared costs of electricity and gas range from £20 to £60 per month per person depending on usage. While water costs tend to be between £20 and £35 per month per person according to these 2025 figures.

Broadband and WiFi

Another must-have for any budding postgrad is reliable internet, especially with the rising popularity of online PG programs. The average cost of a broadband-only connection with a leading provider (like BT, EE, TalkTalk or Virgin Media) was £43.71 at last count.

Insurance – contents, health, travel, etc

Insurance is a must-have for postgraduate students living away from home. Contents insurance protects personal belongings that could be at risk in shared student accommodation, with the costs of damaged, lost or stolen valuables, electricals and even clothes able to be recovered.

Health insurance, travel insurance, gadget insurance and tenant’s liability insurance are other cover types well worth investigating as an international or home-based postgrad student.

Deposit

Don’t forget to budget for any upfront costs that may be incurred when renting student housing. You’ll generally need to pay rent in advance to secure your student house. This figure is capped at five weeks’ rent for properties with an annual rent of below £50,000 in England and Wales. Tenancy deposits for rentals in Scotland are capped at two months’ rent.

For further student housing advice and support, please visit our student accommodation zone.

Related articles

Sharing a student house: what to expect

Cost of Postgrad Accommodation in the UK

Our top tips for budgeting during your postgraduate studies

 

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