Finding the right student accommodation in London can make a big difference to your university experience. London is home to some of the UK’s most respected universities, but it is also one of the country’s most competitive and expensive rental markets.
The short answer: most first-year students in London apply for a university hall. For 2026/27, weekly rents run from about £150 to £425 at Imperial College London and from about £177 to £329 at Queen Mary University of London, depending on the room and building. Private purpose-built rooms usually cost more: the 2024/25 London average was £341 a week on a 50-week contract. Compare the whole-contract cost and your commute to campus, not just the weekly rent.
At Student Accommodation Guide, you can explore student accommodation in London across different locations, room types and budgets. Whether you are looking for an affordable shared room, a modern en-suite, a private studio or accommodation close to your university, comparing your options before booking can help you find a home that works for both your lifestyle and your budget.
Compare student accommodation in London by location, price, room type, university and facilities.
Planning to study in London? Start your accommodation search early. Popular properties and well-connected locations can become limited as the academic year approaches.
Find Student Accommodation in London
London offers a wide range of accommodation options for university students, from university halls and purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) to private student flats and shared houses.
Your ideal accommodation will depend on several factors:
- Your university and campus location
- Your weekly or monthly budget
- Preferred room type
- Distance from campus
- Access to public transport
- Whether bills are included
- Contract length
- Available facilities
- Your preferred lifestyle and neighbourhood
Instead of choosing a property simply because it is cheap or close to your university, consider the total cost and your daily commute. A room slightly further from campus may offer better value if it is located close to a fast Tube, Overground, Elizabeth line or rail connection.
Why Choose Student Accommodation in London?
London gives students access to an extraordinary combination of universities, businesses, cultural attractions and international communities.
The city is home to institutions including Imperial College London, University College London, London School of Economics and Political Science, King’s College London and Queen Mary University of London.
Living in London also places students close to major employment centres, cultural attractions, restaurants, museums, parks and entertainment venues.
For international students, the city’s multicultural environment can also make the transition to life in the UK easier. Different neighbourhoods offer a wide variety of food, communities, shops and cultural experiences.
But London is a large city, so choosing your location carefully is essential.
Types of Student Accommodation in London
There is no single type of student accommodation that suits everyone. Your choice will usually depend on your budget, privacy requirements and preferred lifestyle.
1. En-suite Rooms
An en-suite room gives you a private bedroom and private bathroom, while the kitchen and communal living areas are usually shared with other students.
This is one of the most popular options in purpose-built student accommodation.
Best for: Students who want privacy without paying the full price of a studio.
2. Studio Apartments
A studio normally combines a private bedroom, bathroom and kitchenette or kitchen into one self-contained living space.
Studios generally cost more than shared accommodation, but they provide greater privacy.
Best for: Students who prefer independent living.
3. Non-en-suite Rooms
A non-en-suite room usually gives you a private bedroom while the bathroom and kitchen are shared.
This can be a useful option for students who want to reduce accommodation costs.
Best for: Budget-conscious students who are comfortable sharing facilities.
4. Shared Rooms
Shared rooms allow two or more students to share a bedroom, with communal facilities.
They are usually among the more affordable accommodation options.
Best for: Students prioritising affordability and social interaction.
5. University Halls
University-owned halls are often located close to university campuses and are particularly popular with first-year students.
Availability, room types and prices vary between universities.
Best for: Students who want university-managed accommodation and a convenient introduction to student life.
6. Purpose-Built Student Accommodation
Purpose-built student accommodation, commonly called PBSA, is designed specifically for students.
Depending on the property, facilities may include:
- Furnished bedrooms
- En-suite bathrooms
- Studios
- Shared kitchens
- Study areas
- Gyms
- Laundry facilities
- Social lounges
- Cinema or games rooms
- Bicycle storage
- On-site staff
- Secure access
Many PBSA properties also include utilities within the advertised rent, although students should always check exactly what is included before signing a contract.
University halls in London: what they cost in 2026/27
Most first-year students start in a university hall, and universities publish their own rents. Two London universities list 2026/27 prices on their official pages, so here is what they show. Rents differ by room, building and contract length, so always check the university’s current page before you apply.
Imperial College London
Imperial’s undergraduate fees page lists weekly rents for 2026-27. The page does not state a contract length, so you cannot work out the full-year cost from it alone.
| Hall | Room type | Weekly rent |
|---|---|---|
| Wilson House | Standard twin | £150 |
| Beit Hall | Standard single | £199 |
| Kemp Porter Buildings | En suite single | £236 |
| Wilson House | En suite single | £295 |
| Beit Hall | En suite single | £308 |
| Eastside Halls and Southside Halls | Premium en suite single | £425 |
Imperial’s accommodation guarantee covers first-year undergraduates who have firmly accepted a conditional or unconditional offer (not an insurance offer), come to Imperial alone and study full time for the whole academic year. For 2026 entry you needed to apply by 17 July 2026 and have your unconditional offer accepted by 23 August 2026. Later applicants get help but no guarantee.
Queen Mary University of London
Queen Mary’s fees page lists 2026-27 weekly rents by residence. Most Mile End, Student Village and Whitechapel rooms run for a minimum of 38.3 weeks, while Stratford’s Aspire Point is 51 weeks and Eleanor Rosa House is 50 weeks. Postgraduate licences are 51 weeks.
| Residence (area) | Room type | Weekly rent | Contract |
|---|---|---|---|
| Floyer House (Whitechapel) | Small single | £176.75 | 38.3 weeks |
| Albert Stern House (Mile End) | Basic single, shared bathroom | £178.92 to £196.28 | 38.3 weeks |
| Albert Stern House (Mile End) | Single en suite, economy | £213.57 | 38.3 weeks |
| Aspire Point (Stratford) | Standard single, shared bathroom | £209.37 | 51 weeks |
| Student Village (Mile End) | En suite standard | £223.44 to £229.39 | 38.3 weeks |
| Aspire Point (Stratford) | En suite standard | £244.09 | 51 weeks |
| Eleanor Rosa House (Stratford) | Standard single en suite | £299.88 | 50 weeks |
The contract length changes the real cost. By our calculation, an economy en suite at Albert Stern House comes to about £8,180 over 38.3 weeks, while a standard en suite at Aspire Point comes to about £12,450 over 51 weeks. Queen Mary says new undergraduate, postgraduate and foundation students starting in September 2026 for their first year are guaranteed accommodation if they meet its criteria. The housing portal opens each March, and the university reviews deadlines every year, so check its application page.
UCL, King’s College London, LSE and other universities
UCL, King’s, LSE and the other London universities each set their own rents, contract lengths and guarantee rules. We have not listed their prices here because we could not confirm current figures from their official pages, so check each university’s accommodation page and your offer email for the dates that apply to you.
Private student accommodation in London
Private purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) is run by companies such as Unite Students, iQ, Scape, Chapter, Urbanest, Nido and Yugo. Buildings are concentrated around Bloomsbury, King’s Cross, Shoreditch, Whitechapel, Stratford and the South Bank. They offer en suite rooms and studios, usually with bills and Wi-Fi included.
Private rooms generally cost more than university halls and run for longer contracts. The 2024 HEPI survey (covered in the cost section below) put the average private London rent at £341 a week over 50 weeks, against £226 a week over 41 weeks for a university-owned en suite. That is roughly £17,050 against £9,270 for the contract, by our calculation. Check the building’s own website for the current price, what is included and the contract dates before you book. Our guide to university halls versus private student housing explains the trade-offs.
How Much Does Student Accommodation in London Cost?
London accommodation prices vary significantly depending on location, room type, property quality, contract length and distance from central London.
As a broad planning guide:
| Accommodation type | Typical weekly range |
|---|---|
| Shared room | £180–£300+ |
| Non-en-suite room | £180–£300+ |
| En-suite room | £250–£400+ |
| Studio | £300–£600+ |
| Premium/central accommodation | £400–£600+ |
These are planning ranges rather than guaranteed prices. Actual rent can change according to the property, location, intake, contract length and availability.
For an independent benchmark, the 2024 Accommodation Costs Survey (HEPI Report 182) found that the average London purpose-built student accommodation rent was £13,595 a year in 2024/25, up from £11,500 in 2022/23. It reported university-owned en-suite rooms at £226 a week over 41 weeks and private providers at £341 a week over 50-week contracts, and found that some private studios in Bloomsbury and King’s Cross cost over £40,000 a year. Those figures are for 2024/25, so check each provider’s current prices.
What affects student accommodation prices in London?
The biggest factors include:
- Central vs outer London location
- Distance to university
- Tube or rail connectivity
- Room type
- Private vs shared bathroom
- Private vs shared kitchen
- Building age and quality
- On-site facilities
- Contract length
- Whether bills are included
A cheaper room is not necessarily the cheapest option overall. Always compare the rent, bills, transport and other mandatory costs together.
Cheapest Student Accommodation in London
Students looking for affordable accommodation should not limit their search to central London.
Areas further from central London can offer lower rents while still providing good transport connections.
Some locations worth considering include:
- Stratford
- Greenwich
- Wembley
- Ealing
- Deptford
- Lewisham
- Finsbury Park
- Whitechapel
- Shepherd’s Bush
- Southall
The key is to balance rent against commuting time.
For example, saving £50 per week on rent may not be worthwhile if your daily commute becomes significantly longer or more expensive.
When comparing affordable accommodation, check:
Weekly rent + bills + transport + contract length = real accommodation cost.
Best Areas for Student Accommodation in London
London has hundreds of neighbourhoods, and each offers a different student experience.
1. Bloomsbury
Bloomsbury is one of the most convenient areas for students attending universities in central London.
It is close to UCL, SOAS and several University of London institutions.
Good for: Students who want a central academic environment.
Watch out for: Higher accommodation costs.
2. Camden
Camden is well known for its markets, music, restaurants and nightlife.
It also provides relatively convenient access to UCL and several central institutions.
Good for: Students who want a lively social environment.
3. King’s Cross
King’s Cross is one of London’s best-connected areas.
It has excellent rail, Underground and bus connections, making it attractive for students who need to travel across the city.
Good for: Students who value transport connectivity.
4. Whitechapel
Whitechapel is popular with students because of its proximity to central London and Queen Mary University of London.
It also offers access to several Underground and rail connections.
Good for: Students looking for a central location with strong transport links.
5. Stratford
Stratford has become an increasingly popular student area in East London.
It offers access to the Central and Jubilee lines, Elizabeth line, DLR and National Rail services.
Good for: Students looking for modern infrastructure and strong transport connections.
6. Greenwich
Greenwich combines a historic environment with good student facilities and transport links.
It is particularly relevant for students studying at the University of Greenwich.
Good for: Students who prefer a quieter environment while remaining connected to central London.
7. South Bank
South Bank is close to the River Thames and several central London universities.
Its location makes it attractive to students who want to be close to cultural attractions and central campuses.
Good for: Students studying around Waterloo, South Bank and central London.
8. Wembley
Wembley offers modern accommodation and strong transport connections to central London.
It can also provide better value than some central neighbourhoods.
Good for: Students looking for modern PBSA and good connections.
9. Shepherd’s Bush
Shepherd’s Bush is popular with students because of its West London location, shopping facilities and transport connections.
It can be convenient for students attending institutions in West London.
Good for: Students studying around West London.
10. Ealing
Ealing offers a more residential environment while maintaining good access to central London.
Good for: Students who prefer a quieter neighbourhood.
Student Accommodation Near Top London Universities
Choosing accommodation based on your university can make your daily routine much easier.
| University | Areas worth considering |
|---|---|
| Imperial College London | South Kensington, White City, Hammersmith, Earl’s Court |
| UCL | Bloomsbury, Camden, King’s Cross, King’s Cross St Pancras |
| LSE | Holborn, Covent Garden, South Bank, King’s Cross |
| King’s College London | Waterloo, South Bank, London Bridge, Strand, Elephant & Castle |
| Queen Mary University of London | Whitechapel, Mile End, Stratford |
| University of Westminster | Marylebone, Fitzrovia, Wembley, Camden |
| University of Greenwich | Greenwich, Deptford, Lewisham |
| City St George’s, University of London | Finsbury Park, Islington, Clerkenwell |
| University of East London | Stratford, Docklands, Beckton |
| London Metropolitan University | Holloway, Finsbury Park, Islington |
Tip: Always check the exact campus rather than searching only by university name. Several London universities operate across multiple campuses.
Student Accommodation With Bills Included
Bills-included accommodation can make budgeting much easier.
Depending on the property, your rent may include some or all of:
- Electricity
- Gas
- Water
- Heating
- Wi-Fi
- Contents insurance
However, “bills included” does not always mean every possible cost is included.
Before booking, check:
- Which utilities are included?
- Is there a fair usage limit?
- Is Wi-Fi included?
- Is contents insurance included?
- Are laundry costs separate?
- Are there additional administration or service charges?
Always read the property’s contract and terms before paying.
Student Accommodation for International Students in London
London is one of the UK’s most popular destinations for international students.
If you are booking accommodation from outside the UK, the process can feel more complicated because you may not be able to visit the property in person.
International students should pay particular attention to:
- Deposit requirements
- Guarantor requirements
- Payment schedule
- Contract length
- Cancellation policy
- Visa-related cancellation terms
- Bills and utilities
- Check-in arrangements
- Location and transport
- Distance from university
- Whether virtual tours are available
Do not transfer money simply because a property looks attractive online.
Verify the property, landlord or accommodation provider before making payment.
What Is Usually Included in Student Accommodation?
The facilities vary from one property to another.
A typical purpose-built student accommodation may include:
In your room
- Bed
- Desk and chair
- Wardrobe
- Storage
- Private or shared bathroom
Your communal areas
- Kitchen
- Lounge
- Study spaces
- Laundry
- Social areas
- Bicycle storage
In premium properties
- Gym
- Cinema
- Games room
- Rooftop terrace
- Private dining area
- Communal workspaces
- On-site events
Do not choose a property based only on the number of amenities. Think about which facilities you will actually use.
London Transport for Students
One of the biggest advantages of living in London is the public transport network.
Students can use:
- London Underground
- Elizabeth line
- London Overground
- DLR
- Buses
- National Rail
- Santander Cycles
- Walking and cycling routes
Eligible students living in a London borough can apply for an 18+ Student Oyster photocard, which provides a 30% discount on adult-rate Travelcards and Bus & Tram Pass season tickets. Students with eligible Railcards can also receive additional discounts on certain off-peak journeys.
This means a property that is slightly further from your university may still be a practical choice if it is close to a reliable transport connection.
Cost of Living in London for Students
Accommodation is usually one of the largest expenses for students in London.
Your monthly budget may include:
| Expense | Approximate monthly planning range |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | £800–£2,600+ |
| Food & groceries | £250–£450 |
| Transport | £100–£200+ |
| Mobile phone | £15–£40 |
| Entertainment | £50–£200+ |
| Personal expenses | £100–£250+ |
Your actual costs will depend heavily on accommodation, lifestyle and location.
Cooking regularly, using student discounts and choosing accommodation with bills included can help make your budget more predictable.
What to Check Before Booking Student Accommodation in London
Before you pay a deposit or sign a contract, check the following:
1. Total cost
Don’t look only at the advertised weekly rent.
Check rent + bills + deposit + transport + other mandatory charges.
2. Contract length
Some properties offer contracts of around 40, 44, 48 or 51 weeks. Choose a contract that matches your academic and travel plans.
3. Deposit
For many private tenancies in England, a tenancy deposit can generally be up to five weeks’ rent where annual rent is below £50,000. A holding deposit can be up to one week’s rent. Rules can differ depending on the type of accommodation and tenancy, so check the current government guidance before signing.
4. Guarantor requirements
International students may sometimes be asked for a UK-based guarantor or an alternative payment arrangement.
5. Cancellation policy
Read the cancellation and refund terms carefully, especially if your visa or university admission is not yet confirmed.
6. Location
Check the actual commute rather than relying only on the distance shown on a map.
7. Reviews
Look for recent student reviews, but consider multiple sources rather than relying on a single rating.
8. Property verification
Never make a payment until you are satisfied that the property and provider are genuine.
When Should You Book Student Accommodation in London?
For the September intake, it is sensible to begin researching accommodation several months before your course starts.
Starting early gives you more choice of:
- Locations
- Room types
- Contract lengths
- Prices
- Universities nearby
- Facilities
Don’t wait until the last few weeks if you have specific requirements.
This is particularly important if you want accommodation close to a popular central London university or a specific room type such as a studio.
How to Book Student Accommodation in London
Finding accommodation becomes easier when you follow a simple process.
Step 1: Confirm your university
Know your university and campus before choosing an area.
Step 2: Set your budget
Decide the maximum amount you can comfortably spend each week or month.
Step 3: Choose your preferred room type
Decide between shared, non-en-suite, en-suite, studio or private accommodation.
Step 4: Compare locations
Look at distance to university and public transport connections.
Step 5: Compare total costs
Check rent, bills, deposit and other charges.
Step 6: Check the contract
Read the tenancy or licence agreement carefully.
Step 7: Verify the property
Use photographs, reviews, virtual tours and official property information.
Step 8: Book securely
Only make payments through a verified and secure booking process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Student Accommodation London
How much does student accommodation cost in London?
Student accommodation prices vary widely. As a broad planning range, students may find rooms from around £180-£300 per week at the lower end, while en-suite rooms, studios and premium central properties can cost £300-£600+ per week. Actual prices depend on location, room type, contract and availability. Current listings demonstrate the wide range of prices available across London.
What is the cheapest area for student accommodation in London?
More affordable options can often be found outside the most central neighbourhoods. Areas such as Stratford, Greenwich, Deptford, Lewisham, Wembley, Southall and parts of East and North London can offer different price points while retaining good transport connections.
Is student accommodation in London expensive?
Compared with many UK cities, London is expensive. However, students can reduce accommodation costs by choosing shared rooms, living further from central London, sharing a flat and comparing properties carefully.
What is the best area for students in London?
There is no single best area. Bloomsbury and Camden can suit students who want central locations, Stratford can be attractive for transport connectivity, Greenwich can suit students seeking a more residential environment, while Wembley and some outer London locations may offer better value.
Is it better to live near university?
Living near university can save commuting time, but it usually costs more in central London. A property further away may offer better value if it has a fast and reliable public transport connection.
Are bills included in London student accommodation?
Many purpose-built student accommodations include some utilities in the rent, but this varies by property. Always check exactly which bills are included before booking.
Can international students book student accommodation in London?
Yes. International students can book university halls, PBSA, private student rooms, studios and other accommodation options. Requirements can vary, particularly around deposits, guarantors and payment schedules.
Do I need a UK guarantor?
It depends on the property and provider. Some accommodation providers accept international students without a UK guarantor, while private landlords may have different requirements.
How early should I book student accommodation in London?
Start researching as soon as your university plans are reasonably clear. For September intake, several months of advance planning can give you a much wider choice of properties and room types.
Can I find student accommodation near my university?
Yes. Student accommodation is available across many London neighbourhoods. When searching, compare both distance and actual travel time to your university campus.
Is student accommodation in London safe?
Safety varies by property and neighbourhood. Before booking, check secure entry, CCTV, on-site staff, lighting, local transport and recent student reviews. Never assume that every property offers the same level of security.
Can I view accommodation before booking?
Many providers offer physical or virtual tours. If you cannot visit London before your arrival, ask for a virtual tour and request current photographs or videos of the room and communal facilities.
What documents are needed to book student accommodation?
Requirements vary, but international students may commonly be asked for identification, university admission or enrolment information, visa information where applicable, and financial or guarantor information.
Can I pay my student accommodation rent in instalments?
Some properties allow instalment payments while others require different payment schedules. Always check the payment terms before booking.
What should I do if I think a student accommodation listing is a scam?
Do not transfer money immediately. Verify the property, provider, address, contract and payment details. Be particularly cautious if someone pressures you to pay quickly, requests payment through unusual methods or refuses to provide proper documentation.
Can I find student accommodation in London with a private bathroom?
Yes. En-suite rooms and studios normally provide private bathrooms. Studios generally also offer a private kitchenette or kitchen.
Is student accommodation near central London worth the extra cost?
It depends on your priorities. Central accommodation can reduce commuting time, but properties further out may provide more space or lower rent. Compare the total cost and travel time before deciding.
How can I find affordable student accommodation in London?
Compare several areas rather than searching only around your university. Shared rooms, non-en-suite rooms and properties outside central London can offer lower accommodation costs.
Related student accommodation guides
- Best student accommodation in London: areas and options
- Student accommodation checklist: what to look for before you sign
- Budgeting tips for students
- Student accommodation safety guide
- Other UK cities: Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh and all UK city guides
Find Your Student Accommodation in London
London offers thousands of accommodation options, but the right property is not necessarily the most expensive or the closest to your university.
The best choice is one that fits your budget, university location, lifestyle and long-term plans.
Explore student accommodation in London by area, university, price and room type to find a place where you can study comfortably and enjoy your time in one of the world’s most diverse student cities.
Start your London accommodation search today.
Prices, availability, facilities and contract terms can change. Always check the individual property listing and agreement before booking.
