Finding student housing in a city with sky-high rent can feel like an uphill battle. You want a place that’s affordable, well-located, and comfortable—but with limited options and fierce competition, that’s easier said than done.
If you’re moving to a student city like London, the good news is that there are ways to secure decent housing without spending a fortune. It’s all about knowing where to look, when to act, and which strategies will give you the best chance of landing a great deal.
Start Your Search as Early as Possible
One of the biggest mistakes students make is waiting too long to start looking for housing. The best properties are snapped up months in advance, and as demand increases, so do the prices.
If you’re serious about getting affordable accommodation, start searching as soon as you know your move-in date. In some cities, students begin securing housing for the following academic year as early as January or February. Leaving it until summer means you’ll be competing with thousands of others, often for overpriced or lower-quality properties.
A good way to get ahead is by checking online listings, asking current tenants if they’re moving out soon, and even reaching out to landlords directly to see what’s available before properties are widely advertised. The earlier you start, the better your chances of securing something within budget.
Expand Your Search Beyond the University Bubble
It’s tempting to look for housing right next to your university, but that’s usually where prices are highest. While convenience is nice, you’ll often find much better deals if you expand your search to nearby areas with good transport links. A 20-minute train ride might not be a huge inconvenience when it means cutting your rent in half.
Before ruling out certain areas, consider:
Commute times
Some locations might look far on a map but have fast transport links.
Transport costs
Make sure the savings on rent aren’t outweighed by high travel expenses.
Safety and amenities
Look for areas with good student communities, supermarkets, and reliable public transport.
Being flexible with location can open up far more affordable options. LHA London is a great example for those looking for budget-friendly accommodation that still offers a prime location and excellent transport links. Since you’ll be commuting to university several days a week, it’s important to factor in travel convenience when choosing your housing.
Explore Alternative Housing Options
If traditional private rentals are out of your price range, consider alternative living arrangements. Many students assume their only choices are university halls or standard rentals, but there are other options worth exploring.
For example, private student accommodation providers offer purpose-built housing that often includes bills and amenities like gyms and study spaces. While some can be pricey, others provide budget-friendly options, especially if you book early or opt for a shared room.
Flatshares are another cost-effective choice. Living with housemates splits the rent and bills, making it much more affordable than renting alone. If you’re open to it, homestays—where you rent a room in a family home—can also be a cheaper alternative, often with bills included.
For those looking to save even more, property guardian schemes allow students to live in temporarily vacant buildings at a fraction of the usual rent. These setups might not be for everyone, but they can be a great way to cut costs.
Know How to Spot (and Avoid) Rental Scams
In competitive rental markets, scams are unfortunately common. Desperate students can become easy targets, so knowing what to look out for can save you from losing money.
One of the biggest red flags is being asked to pay a deposit before viewing a property. No legitimate landlord or agent should demand money upfront without giving you a chance to see the place first. If a deal seems too good to be true—such as a ridiculously low rent in a prime location—it probably is.
It’s also important to be wary of listings that lack clear details or only provide generic photos. Always insist on an in-person viewing or a live video tour if you’re unable to visit in person. And never make payments via untraceable methods like cash or money transfer apps—stick to bank transfers where there’s a record of the transaction.
Negotiate Where Possible
Many students assume that rent prices are fixed, but in reality, there’s often room for negotiation—especially if you’re renting from a private landlord rather than an agency.
If you find a place you like but it’s slightly over budget, don’t be afraid to ask if there’s flexibility. Landlords are often willing to lower the price slightly if you:
- Offer to sign a longer lease, giving them security.
- Pay a few months’ rent upfront if you’re financially able.
- Highlight similar properties in the area that are listed at a lower price.
Even if they won’t budge on rent, they might agree to include bills or reduce other fees, which can still save you money in the long run.
Be Prepared to Move Quickly
In cities where student housing demand is high, hesitation can cost you the perfect place. If you find a property that fits your needs and budget, be ready to act fast. Landlords and agencies receive multiple inquiries daily, and if you take too long to decide, someone else will secure the contract before you do.
To avoid missing out, make sure you have everything ready in advance:
- Proof of student status (some landlords offer student-friendly rental terms).
- A guarantor if required (this is often necessary for students without a rental history).
- Deposit and first month’s rent available immediately.
Being prepared to sign quickly can put you ahead of the competition.
Factor in Hidden Costs
It’s easy to focus solely on the advertised rent price, but additional costs can add up quickly. Before committing to a place, consider:
- Utility bills – Is the rent inclusive of bills, or will you need to budget separately for electricity, water, and internet?
- Council tax – Full-time students are usually exempt, but if you live with non-students, you might have to pay.
- Furniture – Is the property fully furnished, or will you need to spend extra on basics like a bed and desk?
- Travel costs – Moving further from the city centre can save money on rent but increase transport expenses.
Always check the full cost breakdown before signing a lease to avoid unexpected financial strain.
Making It Work Without Overspending
Finding affordable housing in an expensive student city isn’t easy, but it’s not impossible. The key is to start early, explore different options, and be strategic about location and cost. Flexibility and preparation can make all the difference in securing a place that meets both your needs and your budget.
