
The Benefits of Living in Shared Accommodation vs. Solo Living
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When it comes to Student Accommodation in Bristol, or anywhere for that matter, one of the decisions you’ll make is whether to live in shared accommodation or choose a place all to yourself. Both options have their perks, but we’re here to help you find out which is right for YOU.
Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of shared accommodation versus solo housing, to help you better make a decision.
Shared Accommodation: The Social Advantage
- Lower Rent Costs
One of the biggest draws of shared accommodation is the cost savings. Renting a room in a shared house or flat is usually cheaper than renting an entire place on your own. Bristol is an exciting city, but it can also be expensive. By sharing the rent with others, you can free up more money.
- Built-In Social Life
In shared accommodation, you get the built-in benefit of living with your friends, or meeting new people, especially if you’re new to the city or university. Living with other students means you’ll have built-in company for dinners, outings, or just hanging out after a long day of classes. It’s a great way to make new friends and build a support network—something that’s especially valuable when adjusting to life away from home.
P.S. at Urban Student, you can choose who you live with!
- Shared Responsibilities
In a shared house, household chores like cleaning, shopping, and food bills can be divided between housemates. This can be a relief when juggling university work, social life, and personal time. Plus, having housemates means you’ll never be alone in dealing with any issues that may arise! At Urban Student, we’re also always on hand for any queries you may have!
- Access to Larger Spaces
When living with others, you’re often be in a bigger apartment space than if you were living alone. Larger kitchen spaces and communal lounges are often part of shared accommodation, giving you more space to enjoy while still splitting the rent.
P.S. at Urban Student you get your own double bed, en-suite and workspaces with ANY apartment, so you’ll always get your own private space.
Solo Living: The Independence Factor
- More Privacy
Living alone gives you complete control over your space and your time. You don’t have to worry about housemates playing music late, leaving dishes in the sink, or interrupting your study sessions. If privacy and peace are a top priority, solo living might be the best option for you.
- Freedom to Customise Your Space
When you live on your own, you can decorate and organise your accommodation exactly how you like. You have the freedom to make your space, your own without compromising with others.
- Quiet for Study and Relaxation
One of the biggest advantages of solo housing is the quiet environment. As a student, you’ll need a good amount of focus and concentration, and living alone can provide the perfect environment for studying and relaxing without distractions. This is especially important during exam periods when you need a calm, stress-free space to prepare.
- Flexibility
Living alone means you have more control over your schedule. Whether it’s cooking, cleaning, or deciding when to have people over, there are no compromises. If you want to host a movie night or invite friends for dinner, it’s all on your terms.
So…Which One is Right for You?
The decision between shared accommodation and solo housing ultimately depends on what you value most as a student.
- If you enjoy socialising and want to make new friends while keeping costs down, shared accommodation could be the way to go.
- If you crave privacy, independence, and flexibility, then living on your own might better suit your lifestyle.
Some students even opt for a combination—maybe starting in shared accommodation to meet new people, and then moving to a solo space once they’ve settled into university life and know exactly what they want from their living situation. At Urban Student, we offer apartments from studios all the way to 6 beds, so we can help you through your accommodation journey.
At the end of the day, your ideal living arrangement depends on your personality, budget, and priorities. No matter which option you choose, Bristol’s student life will ensure your time here is memorable.
Ready to find your perfect accommodation? Get in touch with us today and let’s help you find a place that feels like home! 🏠✨
Published: 27.01.25 by Phoebe Clutton
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