Purpose-Built Student Accommodation: A smarter choice for students in 2025

Rethinking the cost of student housing in the UK

For years, purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) has been seen as a premium option—offering sleek design, modern facilities, and a price tag that seemed higher than renting a room in a shared house.

But in 2025, with the private rental market under pressure, it’s time to take a fresh look at what student residences actually offer—and why they might be the most sensible option for students today.

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The real cost of a shared house in UK university cities

As of mid-2025, the average cost of renting a room in a shared house in UK university cities ranges between £500 and £750 per month, depending on the location, condition of the property, and included amenities.

Here’s a breakdown based on city size:

• Major university cities (e.g., London, Oxford, Cambridge, Bristol, Edinburgh): £650–£850/month
  In London, prices often exceed £900—especially in Zones 1–3.
• Mid-size cities (e.g., Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Nottingham): £550–£700/month
• Smaller university towns (e.g., Lincoln, Hull, Bangor, Aberystwyth): £450–£600/month

And that’s just rent. Most shared housing options come with extra expenses, such as:

• Utility bills (electricity, water, gas, internet)
• Furnishing costs, if the property is unfurnished
• Deposits and agency fees
• Council tax (if you’re living with non-students)
• Higher monthly costs for shorter or more flexible contracts

When you factor in these additional costs—plus the unpredictability of private rentals—it becomes clear that the total price can easily match or even exceed that of purpose-built student accommodation.

What student residences really offer

PBSA is more than just a place to sleep. These modern student communities are designed around how students live, study, and connect.

They offer:

• All-inclusive pricing (no surprise bills)
• Fully furnished rooms with modern amenities
• On-site maintenance and 24/7 support
• Study areas, gyms, lounges, and communal kitchens
• A built-in student community with events and activities

For many students, this structure offers peace of mind, social support, and a stronger sense of stability during the academic year.

More than housing: A better student experience

Today’s students are choosing more than a postcode—they’re choosing a lifestyle that supports their studies and wellbeing. With growing mental health concerns, academic pressure, and the challenges of moving to a new city, the safety and consistency of PBSA can make a real difference.

PBSA providers understand these challenges. That’s why many offer:

• Wellbeing and mental health support
• Flexible tenancy lengths
• Secure entry systems and CCTV
• Community-led design with inclusive spaces

This level of support is rarely found in the traditional rental market.

Value beyond price

While PBSA may look more expensive on paper, the all-in value it provides often outweighs the costs of navigating the private rental sector alone. From transparent pricing to a better quality of life, it’s not just about affordability—it’s about long-term value.

In a time when young people are being priced out of the housing market and struggling to find secure, well-managed places to live, PBSA stands out as a practical, thoughtful solution.

Time to shift the question

Rather than asking, “Why is student accommodation so expensive?”, we should be asking:

“What are students really getting for their money?”

Because in 2025, PBSA isn’t just an alternative to the private rental market—it’s often the smarter, safer, and more supportive choice.

Looking for student accommodation that offers more than just a room? Find your perfect match on Hallbookers—and don’t forget to Rate & review your experience to help others make informed choices.