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Where to Live as a First-Year Student in London

Where to Live as a First-Year Student in London

So, you’ve been accepted to a university in London. Congratulations! There's nothing quite like the feeling of living in London as a student. There's something about the city that just feels electric.

And as a student, you get to experience this city in a whole new way. You get to explore all the different neighbourhoods, try new foods, and experience new cultures. There's always something new to see and do in London, making it such an exciting place to live.

But before you can start exploring, you’ll need to decide where to live in London. If you’re like most students, you want to find the best place that’s affordable and close to campus. Well, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered.

In this guide, we’ll share some things you can do to decide where you want to live in London. We’ll also share some of the best areas for first-year student accommodation in London. Let’s get stuck in.

5 Things to Consider When Choosing Where to Live in London

Moving to a new city can be both exciting and daunting. If you're planning to relocate to London for university, there are a few things you'll need to take into account before making the big move. Here are five things to consider when choosing where to live in London:

1. Lifestyle

Student lifestyle in London

If you're considering moving to London, one of the first things you'll need to think about is your lifestyle. Do you want to be in the heart of the action, or would you prefer a more peaceful neighbourhood? Are you looking for a vibrant nightlife, or do you like somewhere quiet where you can get a good night's sleep?

London is a huge city, and knowing where to start your search can be tough. However, by considering your priorities and doing your research, you can narrow down your options and find a place that's perfect for you.

With its rich history, diverse culture and endless list of things to see and do, London is a fantastic place to call home. So whether you're looking for excitement or relaxation, there's sure to be a neighbourhood in London that's just right for you and your work/life balance.

2. Cost of Living

The cost of student living in London

When choosing where to live in London, the cost of living is an important consideration. The city can be expensive, and rent prices vary depending on the area you live in. But the cost of living isn't just about rent. It's also important to consider the price of shopping, transportation, and other necessary expenses.

For example, Westminster is one of the more expensive boroughs in London, but it's also home to many of the city's best shops and restaurants. If you're on a budget, you might be better off living in a less expensive neighbourhood like Hampstead.

But remember that these less expensive boroughs are usually a bit farther from the city's centre and may have fewer amenities. Ultimately, it's up to you to decide what's most important when choosing where to live in London. Consider your budget carefully before making a decision.

Check out our guide to student budgeting in London.

3. Transport Links

Transport links in London

If you're planning on moving to London, one of the things you'll need to think about is transport links. London is a big city, and getting around can be tricky if you don't know the public transport system – don’t worry, it’s easier than it looks.

When you’re looking at student accommodation options in London, it's worth considering transport links. After all, you don't want to spend half your life on the tube.

The first thing to consider is which zone you want to live in. If you're studying at one of the Universities in Central London (like UCL or LSE), you'll probably want to be in Zone 1. This will make it much easier and quicker to get to your lectures each day. But bear in mind that rent prices are often higher in Zone 1.

If you're looking for somewhere cheaper, try Zone 2 or 3. You might have a slightly longer commute, but you’ll be able to save some money. Plus, you might be closer to the areas of London you really want to explore.

Read our guide on choosing between living in central London or further out in the city.

4. Safety

Area safety in London

Safety is one of the most important things to consider when choosing where to live in London. London is an incredible place to live, but like any big city, it has its fair share of crime. If this is your first time moving away from home, it’s a good idea to find a safe neighbourhood to live in – at the very least; it’ll put your family’s worries to rest.

So, how can you choose a safe place to live in London as a student? Here are a few tips:

  • Do some research online. Google is your friend here. Check out different sources online and check crime rates to understand which areas are safe and which ones to avoid.
  • Ask around. If you know anyone who's already living in London, reach out and ask for advice. They'll be able to tell you firsthand which areas are safe and which ones to steer clear of.
  • Trust your gut. Once you've narrowed your options, check out the neighbourhoods in person. Walk around, explore, and see how you feel. If something doesn't feel right, check out your other options. Feeling comfortable where you live is a big part of enjoying your time in London.

While you should do your research, it’s important to remember that London is, on the whole, a safe city. Millions of people live there happily and love it.

5. Accommodation Type

First-year Student Accommodation in London

There are many different options for student accommodation in London, so it's worth doing your research before you make a decision. Here are some of the most popular types of student accommodation in London:

University halls of residence

Halls of residence at London universities offer a great way to meet people from all over the world and experience student life in the capital. Most halls are located in central London, so you'll be able to explore the city during your time off. One downside with halls of residence is that they can be pretty noisy and disruptive. They might not be the best choice if you’re looking for something a little quieter.

Shared private accommodation

In a shared student flat or house, you'll have your own private bedroom, but you'll share common areas like the kitchen, living room, and bathroom with other tenants. Shared private accommodation is a popular choice for second and third-year students. While it’s a popular choice, it’s difficult to find in your first year as you probably won’t know many people to live with. That means if you choose shared private accommodation, you may live with people you don’t know.

Private student accommodation

Private student accommodation in London is almost the best of both worlds for first-year students. There are private student studio flats near almost every university in London, and each one is self-contained, meaning you won’t need to share a bathroom with anyone. Alongside that, most are all-inclusive, so you won’t need to worry about paying your bills separately. Many first-year students choose private student accommodation as they’re often in better condition than university halls and offer more privacy.

The Best Places to live as a First Year Student in London

Choosing where to live in London is a big decision. If it’s your first time moving to London or even the UK, knowing where to start is tricky. Even after considering the five things above, you might still be a bit in the dark.

We’re here to help.

We’ve put together some of the best places to live as a first-year student in London so you can find the best student accommodation for you.

West Kensington

West Kensington Student Accommodation

As a student in London, you'll find that West Kensington is the perfect base for exploring all the city has to offer. This vibrant and diverse neighbourhood is home to several world-class museums and galleries, as well as a host of excellent shops, restaurants, and bars. What's more, West Kensington is well connected to the rest of the city, making it easy to get around. And if you're looking for a little green space, you'll find it right on your doorstep in Hyde Park.

Universities near West Kensington: 

  • Imperial College London
  • Boston University
  • Royal College of Art

Find student accommodation in West Kensington. 

Hampstead

Hampstead Student Accommodation

Hampstead is an excellent spot for those on a budget. Rent in the area is usually less expensive than in other parts of London, and it offers a unique London experience. Hampstead is a beautiful, quiet neighbourhood with lots of green space. It's perfect for students who want to escape the hustle and bustle of central London without paying a fortune. But it's just a short tube ride away from all the action if you want to head into the city.

Universities near Hampstead:

  • London Metropolitan University
  • University of London
  • University of Westminster

Find student accommodation in Hampstead. 

Pimlico

Pimlico Student Accommodation

Pimlico is a great area to live in when you're a student in London. It's close to many universities, so you can quickly get to your classes, and it's also close to some of the best shopping and nightlife in the city. The Tube station is right in the middle of Pimlico, so you can be anywhere in London in no time at all. And if you're looking for a cheap place to eat, there are plenty of places to grab a bite. Pimlico is also a great place to meet people. There are always people out and about, and plenty of pubs and clubs to choose from if you want to go out on the town.

Universities near Pimlico:

  • Boston University
  • London South Bank University
  • University College London

Find student accommodation in Pimlico.

Bloomsbury

Bloomsbury Student Accommodation

Bloomsbury is a great neighbourhood to live in when you're a student in London! It's centrally located so you can get anywhere easily, and there are lots of things to do nearby. The museums and art galleries are great when you need a break from studying, and new bars and restaurants are constantly popping up. Plus, the people who live in Bloomsbury are friendly, and there's a real sense of community.

Universities near Bloomsbury:

  • University College London
  • University of London
  • SOAS University of London

Find student accommodation in Bloomsbury. 

Euston

Euston Student Accommodation

Euston is an ideal place to live for students studying in London. It's centrally located, so you can easily access all the major tourist attractions. And it's close to several tube stations, so you can easily get around the city. But the best part about living in Euston is the community. There are plenty of cafes, bars and restaurants to keep you entertained, and the people are friendly and welcoming. Plus, it's a great place to meet other students from all over the world.

Universities near Euston:

  • King’s College London
  • University College London
  • University of London

Find student accommodation in Euston. 

Find London Student Accommodation That Suits You with StudentStudios2Let

Student Accommodation in London

If you're looking for somewhere to live during your studies in London, you'll want to find a comfortable, affordable, and well-located place. With so many options available, it can be tough to know where to start. That's where StudentStudios2Let can help.

To help you out, we’ve put together accommodation guides for specific universities in London, including:

We specialise in finding student accommodation in London that meets your specific needs and preferences. We'll help you find a place close to your campus with the amenities you're looking for. Whatever you’re looking for, we'll make sure you find somewhere that's just right for you.

So if you're ready to start your search for the perfect London student accommodation, explore our range of private studio flats now or get in touch with StudentStudios2Let today.

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