How much should I expect to pay for a room in London?

How much should I expect to pay in London?

This is our most frequently asked question, so here at Hallbookers, we’ve done a little research to give you the best answer.

We have been helping students book into London private student halls for over four years, and we are happy to offer you our insights into this great city.

We have spoken to thousands of students and know that expectations can be high – finding a place in Chelsea for £150 per week is the dream! However, unless you’re looking to live in a cardboard box, this might not be possible.

To help you find the best place to live, here is a map that details a range of prices in different locations across London. It’s all about managing your expectations.

These are the prices this year, and although they may vary in the future, they can help you determine how much you are likely to spend if you choose to book into private student halls. You don’t want to end up with a shared toilet when there is an en-suite for the same price just around the corner!

You really cannot treat London as just one city, as 15 minutes down the road and it’s a different price. This map will help you compare the locations and prices, so you can find the best option for you.

How should I start looking and comparing?

First, look at the map and find your university, then see which student accommodations are nearby. Is one area more appealing than the other?

Once you have picked a location or two, consider which type of room you are interested in. Each section has a variety of prices for shared, en-suite and studio rooms, which each offer different things:

• Shared accommodation can be either a private room with a shared bathroom and kitchen, or a twin room which you share with someone. This is a great way to meet new people and make friends from other courses. It’s also the most common choice for first years, so if that’s you, shared accommodation might be the perfect option for a great university experience.
• En-suite rooms are a little more private – you get your own bathroom, but still share a kitchen, meaning you can make group meals and socialise. These rooms are especially good value if your university is not in central London, as they only cost a bit more than shared.
• Studios are all-inclusive rooms and the best option if you prefer your own space. They are perfect for students who dislike sharing, or for mature students who want some quiet away from the loud parties that can happen in shared halls.

Lastly, while making your choice, consider the cost of travelling between your accommodation and the university campus. London is huge, and tubes are quite expensive, so it’s worth calculating whether it’s cheaper to travel further or pay a little more to live closer to campus.

For example, to travel with an Oyster Card within zone 1–4, a day ticket costs £6.80. If you travel three times a week that’s another £20.40 to add to your living costs.

And that’s the basics! Private student halls are perfect for every type of student: they offer modern rooms with bills included in the price, and a chance to enjoy a great university experience.

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This post was published in 2018. For up-to-date London accommodation prices, click here