Picking where to live is huge for students. When looking for Leicester student accommodation, you’ll find two main choices. University halls or private housing. Both have good points and bad points.
Leicester is brilliant for students. It’s way cheaper than London – about 40% less expensive. The University of Leicester and De Montfort University are both here. That means loads of students need to make this choice every year.
What is University Accommodation?
University halls are owned by your uni. They include old-style halls and new modern blocks. The University of Leicester promises rooms to first-year students. You just need to apply before September 1st. This takes the stress away from finding somewhere to live.
Good Things About University Halls:
Uni halls are great for new students. You apply through your university. No separate housing hunt needed. Your rent covers everything. No surprise bills for gas, electric, water, or wifi.
Making friends is so much easier. You’ll meet other students right away. Study groups happen naturally. Most halls run social events too. This helps if you’re moving away from home for the first time.
Location is brilliant. University accommodation sits on campus or very close by. No long walks to lectures. No bus fares either. This helps in saving time and money. This set-up is also perfect for early morning classes or late-night study sessions.
Not So Good Things:
University halls have downsides too. Getting a room can be tough. Second and third-year students don’t get guarantees. The rooms are often small and basic. Private places usually have better facilities.
Rules can be strict in halls. Visitor policies are tight. Noise rules are firm. Alcohol rules exist too. Some students find this annoying.
Exploring Private Student Accommodation Options
Private student accommodation includes purpose-built student accommodation, shared houses, and studio apartments managed by private companies or landlords. Private student halls in Leicester typically range from £90 to £200 per week and also include utility bills, offering various price points to suit different budgets.
Advantages of Private Housing:
Private accommodation options are known to provide more modern facilities and amenities. Several private student developments feature gyms, cinema rooms, study areas, and communal spaces designed with student life in mind. These properties also include fully furnished en-suite and studio rooms with all bills included and on-site maintenance teams.
You get more space and privacy in private accommodation, with many options offering en-suite bathrooms and private kitchens. You also have greater flexibility as sometimes, you can often choose your housemates, have more freedom with decorating, and face fewer restrictions on lifestyle choices.
Private providers frequently offer year-round contracts, which is particularly beneficial for international students or those staying in Leicester during holidays. The booking process also enables you to view properties virtually and select specific rooms, thereby giving you more control over your living environment.
Potential Challenges:
The main drawback is often cost. While Leicester remains affordable compared to major cities, private accommodation can be more expensive than basic university halls. You’ll need to navigate contracts, deposits, and potentially deal with multiple providers when comparing options.
Location varies significantly with private accommodation. While some accommodation options are close to universities, others may require longer commutes to reach universities or the city centre. This is where researching the best student accommodation marketplace becomes crucial for comparing options efficiently.
How to Choose: What Matters Most
Money Matters:
Average rent in Leicester starts from £100 per week. This is set to change based on your location and type of accommodation. So, make a realistic budget. Include rent, food, transport, and fun money in this. Private places might cost more upfront. But they could offer better value through superior facilities.
Your Lifestyle:
Think about your personality. Do you love being around people? Want to dive into uni culture? Halls might be perfect. Prefer quiet study time? Value your privacy? Private accommodation could suit you better.
Your Course Needs:
Consider what your studies demand. Irregular hours? Need quiet spaces? Want specific facilities? Private housing offers more flexibility. Want easy access to uni resources and support? Halls provide unbeatable convenience.
Location Importance:
Walking distance to campus is amazing and Leicester has great spots near both universities. But weigh this against modern facilities or social opportunities.
Smart Tips for Students
Start looking early. Ideally the year before you need housing. Popular places fill up fast. September starts are especially competitive. A list of must-haves versus nice-to-haves will help you narrow down your choices.
Visit places in person when you can. Virtual tours are good too. Photos can lie. Seeing the real space matters. Check the neighborhood. Look at the facilities. Know what’s included in rent. Understand contract terms fully.
Talk to current students. Use social media or uni forums. Get honest opinions about different places. Their real experiences beat marketing materials. They’ll tell you the truth about pros and cons.
Think about the whole Leicester experience. It’s not just about accommodation. The city has great shopping, dining, and entertainment. Average cost of living is £775 per month excluding tuition. This makes Leicester affordable for students.
Final Thoughts
The choice between private and university accommodation depends on you. Your circumstances matter. Your preferences count. Your priorities are key.
University halls offer security, community, and convenience. They’re brilliant for first-year students. You’ll integrate into uni life quickly. Private accommodation gives more freedom. The facilities are often better. You have more options. But it needs more research and planning.
Leicester is known as student-friendly. You’ll find quality options within your budget. Take time to research properly. Visit places when you can. Ask loads of questions. Your accommodation choice affects your whole uni experience. Invest time to get it right.
Many students change accommodation types during university. Your first choice doesn’t have to be forever. Focus on what works now. Keep future flexibility in mind. The right choice is out there waiting for you.