Edinburgh, the historic and vibrant Scottish capital, is home to some of the finest universities in the world. With prestigious institutions like the University of Edinburgh and Heriot-Watt University attracting students globally, finding the right student accommodation in Edinburgh is a critical priority for many. From proximity to campuses to modern amenities that enhance student life, choosing the right housing contributes immensely to both academic and personal success. Thankfully, Edinburgh offers a diverse array of student accommodation options, ranging from university halls to private student apartments.
This guide will provide a detailed overview of top student accommodation properties in Edinburgh, key factors to consider when choosing your living space, and practical advice for securing affordable housing.
Top Student Accommodation Properties in Edinburgh
Below are highly-rated student accommodation options in Edinburgh, complete with details on location, room types, amenities, pricing, and more.
1. Potterrow
- Provider: Sanctuary Students
- Location: Central city, near University of Edinburgh
- Room Types: En-suite rooms, studios
- Key Features: High-speed Wi-Fi, social spaces, laundry facilities
- Pricing: Starting from £200/week
- Website: Sanctuary Students Potterrow
2. Sciennes
- Provider: The University of Edinburgh
- Location: 10-minute walk from central campus
- Room Types: Shared flats, en-suite rooms
- Key Features: On-campus living, library access, communal areas
- Pricing: Range £155–£225/week
- Website: University Accommodation Sciennes
3. The Old Printworks
- Provider: Collegiate
- Location: Just off South Bridge, near key student areas
- Room Types: En-suite apartments, studios
- Key Features: Gym, cinema room, study spaces
- Pricing: Approximately £257/week
- Website: Collegiate Old Printworks
4. Murano Place
- Provider: Unite Students
- Location: City centre, close to all universities
- Room Types: Shared apartments, private en-suites
- Key Features: Social calendar, laundry, 24/7 security
- Pricing: Starts at £207/week
- Website: Unite Students Murano Place
5. Huxley Studios
- Provider: Hello Student
- Location: Central Edinburgh
- Room Types: Studio flats with kitchenettes
- Key Features: Modern design, bills included, Wi-Fi
- Pricing: From £180–£230/week
- Website: Hello Student Huxley Studios
6. Student Castle Edinburgh
- Provider: Student Castle
- Location: Newington, close to historic attractions
- Room Types: Deluxe studios, twin studios, en-suite flats
- Key Features: On-site gym, bike storage, friendly staff, communal spaces
- Pricing: Starts at £190/week
- Website: Student Castle Edinburgh
7. University of Edinburgh Accommodation
- Provider: University of Edinburgh
- Location: Various locations across the city
- Room Types: Catered halls, self-catered flats, apartments
- Key Features: Affordable options, proximity to campus, inclusive community
- Pricing: From £140–£200/week
- Website: University of Edinburgh Accommodation
8. Scape Edinburgh
- Provider: Scape
- Location: Near the city center
- Room Types: Studios, en-suite apartments, shared flats
- Key Features: Modern design, study areas, gym, regular social events
- Pricing: Starts at £220/week
- Website: Scape Edinburgh
9. Native Edinburgh
- Provider: Native Living
- Location: Central Edinburgh
- Room Types: Studios, en-suite rooms
- Key Features: High-speed Wi-Fi, on-site service team, co-working and social spaces
- Pricing: From £200/week
- Website: Native Edinburgh
10. The Haymarket
- Provider: Novel Student
- Location: Haymarket, central to key transport links and local amenities
- Room Types: Studios, en-suite rooms
- Key Features: Wellness studio, games rooms, outdoor courtyard, 24/7 on-site support
- Pricing: Starts at £230/week
- Website: The Haymarket
11. Canal Point
- Provider: Student Roost
- Location: Near Union Canal, a short distance from the University of Edinburgh
- Room Types: En-suite rooms, shared apartments
- Key Features: Social spaces, bike storage, laundry facilities, bills included
- Pricing: From £175/week
- Website: Canal Point
12. Portsburgh Court
- Provider: Unite Students
- Location: Close to the Edinburgh city center and Edinburgh College of Art
- Room Types: En-suite rooms, studio apartments
- Key Features: On-site team, communal spaces, secure entry, all-inclusive bills
- Pricing: Starts at £185/week
- Website: Portsburgh Court
13. The Old Printworks
- Provider: Downing Students
- Location: Within walking distance to the University of Edinburgh and the city center
- Room Types: En-suite rooms, studio apartments, shared apartments
- Key Features: Gym, cinema room, study spaces, landscaped courtyard
- Pricing: From £195/week
- Website: The Old Printworks
14. Meadow Court
- Provider: Hello Student
- Location: Central location near the University of Edinburgh and Arthur’s Seat
- Room Types: En-suite rooms, shared apartments
- Key Features: 24/7 security, communal areas, laundry facilities, all-inclusive bills
- Pricing: Starts at £175/week
- Website: Meadow Court
15. Shrubhill House
- Provider: Fresh Student Living
- Location: Close to transport links and a short distance from Edinburgh Napier University
- Room Types: En-suite rooms, studio apartments
- Key Features: Games area, cinema room, on-site team, secure bike storage
- Pricing: From £180/week
- Website: Shrubhill House
16. Gateway Apartments
- Provider: Prestige Student Living
- Location: Situated near the University of Edinburgh and local amenities
- Room Types: Deluxe studio apartments, en-suite rooms
- Key Features: Private gym, games room, study spaces, secure on-site parking
- Pricing: Starting at £190/week
- Website: Gateway Apartments
17. Arran House
- Provider: Homes for Students
- Location: Within walking distance of Edinburgh city center and universities
- Room Types: Shared apartments, en-suite rooms, studio options
- Key Features: Common room with pool table, study zones, all-inclusive utility bills
- Pricing: From £170/week
- Website: Arran House
18. Merchiston Residence
- Provider: Napier Student Accommodation
- Location: Perfect for those attending Edinburgh Napier University
- Room Types: Studio apartments and cluster flats
- Key Features: Quiet study zones, communal lounges, laundry facilities, 24/7 security monitoring
- Pricing: Prices start at £185/week
- Website: Merchiston Residence
19. Goods Corner
- Provider: Prestige Student Living
- Location: Conveniently located near the University of Edinburgh
- Room Types: Studio apartments
- Key Features: Modern interiors, rooftop terrace, private courtyard, high-speed Wi-Fi, on-site gym
- Pricing: Starting from £200/week
- Website: Goods Corner
20. iQ Fountainbridge
- Provider: iQ Student Accommodation
- Location: Close to Edinburgh’s city center and universities
- Room Types: En-suite rooms, studios, and apartments
- Key Features: On-site cinema, spacious study areas, games room, outdoor social spaces, 24/7 security
- Pricing: From £190/week
- Website: iQ Fountainbridge
21. Sugarhouse Close
- Provider: Unite Students
- Location: Situated in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, within walking distance of key universities
- Room Types: En-suite rooms, studios, and shared flats
- Key Features: Historical charm combined with modern amenities, on-site laundry, spacious kitchen areas, and bike storage
- Pricing: From £185/week
- Website: Sugarhouse Close
22. The Old Printworks
- Provider: Hello Student
- Location: Close to the University of Edinburgh and the city center attractions
- Room Types: En-suite rooms, studios, and duplex apartments
- Key Features: Stylish interiors, a games lounge, study hubs, outdoor courtyard, and pet-friendly options
- Pricing: From £170/week
- Website: The Old Printworks
23. Vita Student Edinburgh
- Provider: Vita Student
- Location: Central location, offering easy access to universities and local landmarks
- Room Types: Studio apartments
- Key Features: Complimentary breakfast, 24/7 gym, weekly events, private dining rooms, and high-speed Wi-Fi
- Pricing: Starting at £250/week
- Website: Vita Student Edinburgh
24. Arran House, Edinburgh
- Provider: Hello Student
- Location: Centrally located, within walking distance of the University of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Napier University
- Room Types: En-suite rooms, shared apartments, and studios
- Key Features: On-site gym, social spaces, study rooms, cinema room, and weekly cleaning services
- Pricing: From £195/week
- Website: Arran House
25. Student Castle Edinburgh
- Provider: Student Castle
- Location: Close to the University of Edinburgh and city center attractions
- Room Types: Private flats and shared apartments
- Key Features: 24/7 security, state-of-the-art gym, study zones, bike storage, and communal lounges
- Pricing: Starting at £215/week
- Website: Student Castle Edinburgh
When choosing student accommodation, it is important to evaluate not only the facilities and features offered but also the proximity to your university and surrounding amenities. Students are advised to carefully read rental agreements, considering cancellation policies and other terms, to make an informed decision.
Each of these options has its own advantages depending on your needs and budget. When selecting accommodation, it’s essential to consider factors such as transport links, amenities, and proximity to lectures or social hubs. Taking time to review these details can help ensure a comfortable and convenient student life experience.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Accommodation
Choosing the best student accommodation in Edinburgh goes beyond proximity and price. Here are the vital factors you should weigh carefully:
Location and Transportation
Being close to your university will save time and money on commuting. Aim for neighbourhoods like Old Town, Marchmont, and Newington, which provide both walkability to campuses and access to public transport.
Budget and Affordability
Knowing your financial constraints is key. If you’re searching for affordable student accommodation in Edinburgh, consider shared flats or university halls.
Room Type and Amenities
Decide whether you need a private en-suite, shared facilities, or a self-contained studio. Additional features like Wi-Fi, gyms, and laundry services contribute to convenience.
Safety and Security
Ensure the property is well-secured with CCTV, on-site staff, and secure entry systems.
Reviews and Reputation
Check online reviews and feedback from other students. A positive history of customer service and maintenance is critical.
Types of Student Accommodation in Edinburgh
University Halls
- Pros: Close to university, affordable, and promotes networking.
- Cons: Limited amenities and less privacy.
Private Student Accommodation
- Pros: High-quality amenities, modern facilities, and privacy.
- Cons: Higher price point.
En-suite Rooms
- Features: Ideal for privacy with private bathrooms. Amenities include shared laundry and study spaces.
Studio Apartments
- Features: Self-contained units with kitchenettes and private bathrooms. Best for independent living.
Shared Flats
- Features: Budget-friendly option with communal living spaces and split costs.
Tips for Finding Affordable Student Accommodation
- Start Early
Begin your search 3–4 months before term starts to secure the best deals.
- Explore Alternate Neighbourhoods
Don’t limit yourself to central Edinburgh. Areas like Leith and Dalry offer quality housing at lower costs.
- Look for Discounts
Providers often offer early-bird booking discounts or referral deals.
- Outline Your Budget
Set a realistic monthly budget, factoring in rent, food, and utilities.
- Join Student Groups
Local Edinburgh student groups on social media often share housing leads and offers.
How to Book Student Accommodation
Step-by-Step Guide to Booking
- Research Providers
Use trusted websites or visit accommodation providers’ official sites.
- Shortlist Properties
Narrow down options that align with your budget, location, and preferences.
- Visit the Property
If possible, visit in person or take virtual tours.
- Prepare Documents
Have identification, proof of university enrolment, and payment-ready.
- Confirm and Secure
Pay the deposit, complete paperwork, and receive confirmation.
Payment Options
Monthly or termly payment plans are common. Ensure payment platforms are secure.
Safety Tip
Beware of scams. Only book through verified providers.
Final Thoughts on Edinburgh Student Accommodation
Edinburgh is a world-class city for higher education, and finding the right student accommodation is essential for making the most of your university experience. With well-curated options like The Old Printworks and university halls, there’s something for every budget and lifestyle. By considering location, budget, and key amenities, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision.
For hassle-free booking and personalised recommendations, visit [Brand Name] for expert guidance. Secure your ideal student housing in Edinburgh today!
