The Best Student Accommodation Alternatives to Halls

Finding the right place to live is one of the most important…and let’s be honest, stressful, decisions of your student life. Traditional university halls are popular, especially for first years, because they offer convenience and community, but they might not always meet everyone’s needs. With so many great alternatives out there, it’s worth considering a few options that provide more independence, better amenities, and sometimes a better location. Here are some of the best student accommodation alternatives to traditional halls:

Private Student Apartments

Private student apartments are perfect for students who want more space and privacy. These fully self-contained units include everything you need, like kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces. You can choose to live alone or share with friends, making them a great option for students who want more freedom than traditional halls provide.

Private apartments are often located in student-friendly areas, making it easy to access campus, local shops, and transport links. You’ll get that extra sense of independence that on-campus halls can’t offer, along with more flexibility in your living arrangements.

Why choose private apartments?

• More privacy and freedom.
• Fully furnished and located in great spots.
• Flexible living options (solo apartments or shared spaces).
• Often closer to the city centre with easy access to cafes, restaurants, and more.

Co-Living Spaces

Co-living spaces are a fantastic choice for students who want a balance of social life and personal space. You get your own private bedroom but share communal areas like kitchens, living rooms, and sometimes even gyms or cafes. Co-living offers a strong sense of community, like halls, but in a more modern and flexible setup.

Co-living is perfect for students who want a lively yet comfortable living experience.

Why choose co-living?

• Built-in community of like-minded students.
• Modern, spacious designs with flexible lease options.
• Opportunity for networking, socializing, and meeting new friends.
• Extra perks like study rooms, gyms, and lounges in some locations.

Private Student Residences

Private student residences are a great alternative to traditional halls. These residences often offer the same benefits—like all-inclusive rent (covering utilities and internet)—but with much better quality and flexibility. You’ll find modern en-suite rooms, shared kitchens, study spaces, and even gyms or cafes in some residences.

Private residences tend to be more relaxed than halls, with more personal space and a quieter environment. They also tend to have more modern amenities and can be located in prime areas, close to both your campus and the best spots in the city.

Why choose private residences?

• Higher quality than traditional halls with modern designs.
• All-inclusive rent with flexible contract lengths.
• Additional amenities like gyms, social areas, and cafes.
• More privacy and less noise than traditional halls.

House Shares

House shares are ideal for students who want a more homely, relaxed living environment. You’ll have your own room in a shared house or apartment with communal areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and lounges. This type of accommodation offers a great balance of privacy and community and is often more affordable than private apartments.

Living in a house share also gives you flexibility in terms of location, as they are often in quieter residential areas away from the hustle and bustle of the city center, offering a peaceful atmosphere for studying and relaxing.

Why choose house shares?

• Affordable and flexible living options.
• Great for socialising and making lifelong friends.
• More freedom and a home-like environment.
• Perfect for students on a budget who want a balance of personal space and community.

Studio Apartments

Studio apartments are the ultimate choice for students who value privacy and independence. These self-contained units feature everything you need: your own kitchen, bathroom, and living space, all in one. Studio apartments offer complete autonomy, making them perfect for students who prefer to live alone and enjoy peace and quiet for studying.

While they can be a bit pricier than other student accommodation options, studio apartments are ideal for those who want complete control over their living space and a more peaceful environment.

Why choose studio apartments?

• Total privacy and independence.
• Ideal for students who prefer to live alone.
• Fully furnished with all essential amenities.
• Quiet, peaceful environment that’s perfect for studying.

Why Not Just Have It All?

Urban Student is a top choice for students looking for flexible, modern accommodation with a strong sense of community. Whether you’re after a private apartment, a co-living space, or a studio, we have a wide range of living options to suit your lifestyle, so you can simply choose exactly what you want and need!

Our properties are renovated with students in mind, offering stylish designs and all the amenities you need for a great living experience. Located in prime areas, Urban Student accommodation gives you the best of both worlds—independence, comfort, and easy access to campus and the city.

Urban Student perks:

• Round-the-clock support whenever you need it.
• Free laundry and superfast Wi-Fi.
• All bills included with 2-year fixed rent.
• Seasonal care packages and exclusive discounts.
• Study spaces and 24/7 CCTV for security.
• Safe, prime locations near campus and transport links.

The right accommodation can make all the difference in your university journey. While traditional halls have their perks, there are plenty of great alternatives that offer more independence, comfort, and flexibility. Urban Student stands out for offering modern, high-quality living options that cater to your lifestyle and academic needs.

Explore our range of accommodation today and find the perfect place to call home during your time at university. Whether you want privacy, a strong community, or the freedom to live life your way, Urban Student has something for you!

Published: 07.04.25 by Phoebe Clutton