Best Student Accommodation Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a top student city in the UK with diverse accommodation options. From traditional student halls to private flats and shared houses, this city has to offer something for everyone based on their budget and taste.

Comfortable and suitable accommodation can significantly impact a student’s academic journey as an excellent place to live will help students feel relaxed and well-rested, improving their concentration. So, let’s dive in and see the best student accommodation Edinburgh has to offer.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Student Accommodation in Edinburgh

Proximity to Universities and Campuses

While searching for student accommodation in Edinburg, you must consider how close it is to your university campus. It will reduce your travel time and costs. Edinburgh has several universities, including the University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh Napier University, and Heriot-Watt University.

There are several student accommodations near the University of Edinburgh, such as:

• Murano Student Village
• Pollock Halls
• Unite Students Fountainbridge
• Edinburgh Student Accommodation Fountainbridge
• Vita Student Fountainbridge

Types of Accommodation Available

Edinburgh offers various types of student accommodation for students. The most common ones include:

• Dormitories: It is the most affordable accommodation for students with the least privacy. Students generally share a room with several other students. They might also have to share bathroom and kitchen facilities.
• Shared Apartments: Shared apartments are a pretty good and affordable option for students on a budget but want more privacy than dormitories. In this case, students share an apartment with several other students, but each has separate rooms.
• Private Studios: Private studios are the most expensive accommodation for students and offer the most privacy. Students have their own bedrooms, bathroom, kitchen, and other facilities.

Budget Considerations and Cost-Effective Options

You have to consider your budget while searching for accommodation. The cost of student accommodation in Edinburgh depends on various factors, including the type of accommodation, location, and facilities.

However, you must also consider your individual needs and personal preferences. But remember, the cost of accommodation increases during peak seasons. So, try to book your accommodation as early as possible, especially if you are on a budget.

Following are some cost-effective student accommodation options in Edinburgh:

• Student Castle Edinburgh
• Unite Students Edinburgh
• Edinburgh Student Accommodation

Best Areas in Edinburgh for Students Accommodation

Edinburgh is a vibrant city with a large student population, thanks to its prestigious universities and colleges. There are several areas in the city that are popular among students for accommodation, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the best areas in Edinburgh for students:

Marchmont

This is a popular area for students due to its close proximity to the University of Edinburgh’s main campus. It’s a residential area with plenty of shops, cafes, and parks. The rent here can be a bit high, but many students find it worth it for the convenience and atmosphere.

Newington

Located to the south of the city center, Newington is another favorite among students. It has a diverse range of shops, bars, and restaurants, and is within walking distance to the University of Edinburgh. There are also good bus links to other parts of the city.

Bruntsfield and Morningside

These adjacent neighborhoods are located to the southwest of the city center and are known for their trendy vibes and abundance of green spaces. They are popular among students and young professionals alike. The area has a good selection of shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Leith

Situated to the north of the city center, Leith is a bit further away from the main university campuses, but it’s a vibrant area with a lot of character. It has a diverse community, a wide range of affordable accommodation options, and excellent transport links to the rest of the city.

Tollcross

This is a central area that’s well-connected by public transport, making it a convenient choice for students. It has a range of affordable accommodation options, as well as shops, bars, and restaurants.

Cowgate and Grassmarket

These areas are in the heart of the city and are very popular among students. They are bustling with nightlife and are close to many of the city’s main attractions. The accommodation here can be a bit pricier, but the location is unbeatable.

Top Student Accommodation Options in Edinburgh

On-Campus University Residences

On-campus university residences are both convenient and have a supportive environment for students. Living on-campus allows easy access to their classes and university facilities, and other students constantly surround them.

The University of Edinburgh has a couple of residence halls for its students. They are:

• Pollock Halls
• Murano Student Village

Purpose-Built Private Student Housing

Purpose-built private student housing is specially designed for students, offering a modern and comfortable living environment. This type of student accommodation typically offers various amenities, such as en-suite bedrooms, study spaces, and common rooms.

Edinburgh has many private purpose-built student housing options. Some of the best ones are:

• iQ Elliott House
• Vita Student Fountainbridge
• The Bridge House

Homestays and Private Rentals

Private rentals and homestays offer a more home-like living environment for students. In this type of property, students have their own room in a family or a private flat. Students share other facilities with the families they are living with. It is especially a good option for students who need to stay near a specific location.

Casita

Casita is an online-based platform that helps students find accommodation in different cities in the UK, including Edinburgh. It offers various accommodation options for local and international students, including on-campus residences, purpose-built student housing, homestays, shared flats, etc.

Not only does Casita help students find accommodations, but it also helps with the booking process. A student can choose a suitable housing option from Casita using its search filters. They can also book accommodation from this platform and pay the fees using Casita’s safe payment options.

Amenities, Services, and Affordability

Amenities

In searching for the best student accommodation in Edinburgh, you must consider the amenities, services, and affordability a place offers. Different property comes with different sets of amenities. However, some of the most crucial amenities for students include:

• High-speed Internet: In this era of the Internet, it is now an essential commodity for students who need to complete their coursework and research online. It is also a source of entertainment for many students who binge-watch television shows and other content.
• Study spaces: Students often need a quiet place to concentrate and study. So, study spaces are very crucial for students that every good accommodation provides.
• Communal Kitchens: Communal kitchens are an excellent way to get meals conveniently and save money on food. It is also a place for socializing with their peers.

Fitness Facilities and Common Areas

Most good student accommodation providers now offer fitness facilities like gyms and common areas in their properties. Fitness facilities allow fitness-conscious students to work out on the property. On the other hand, common spaces provide students with a space to socialize and relax.

So, if you are a student who loves going to gyms, you can search for accommodation that provides this facility. Edinburgh has many university accommodations offering fitness facilities and common areas. The best ones include:

• Vita Students Fountainbridge
• The Bridge House
• iQ Elliott House
• Portsburgh Court
• iQ Fountainbridge

Emphasize Affordability

Edinburgh has a number of cheap and affordable housing options for students. Although the cost of student accommodation depends on factors like accommodation type, location, and facilities, you will find many providers who can offer accommodation at an affordable, cheap price.

Here are some of the best cheap student accommodation in Edinburgh:

• Student Castle Edinburgh
• Unite Students Edinburgh
• Edinburgh Student Accommodation

However, when searching for an affordable option, you must compare the amenities, services, and affordability of different providers and make your decision accordingly. It is also important to note that the cheaper options might not offer all the modern facilities. So, you must make some compromises in this case.

University-Specific Accommodation Considerations

The University of Edinburgh students have several accommodation options. Some of these options are:

• Edinburgh University Accommodation: The University of Edinburgh manages several student accommodations. Students from outside Edinburgh city are provided with university-managed accommodation. However, students have to apply for it as soon as they accept the offer to study at the university. It is a safe and convenient housing option for local and international students.
• Pollock Halls: Pollock Halls is a traditional student residential complex on the University of Edinburgh’s main campus. These residence halls offer students various types of options, including en-suite rooms and flats with multiple bedrooms.
• Murano Student Village: Murano Student Village is a purpose-built student accommodation complex near the University of Edinburgh’s main campus. So students can stay very close to their campus. It offers various types of rooms for students, such as shared apartments, single en-suite rooms, studio flats, etc.

Postgraduate Accommodation Options

The University of Edinburgh also offers several postgraduate accommodation options for its postgraduate students. Here are some of them:

• Edinburgh University Postgraduate Accommodation: It offers various accommodation options for postgraduate local and international university students. Most of these properties are located very close to the university campus. These properties have several single en-suite rooms, shared apartments, and studio flats.
• Holyrood Apartments: Holyrood Apartments is a purpose-built accommodation complex for postgraduate students located close to the university’s main campus. It offers a number of self-catered flats, such as en-suite rooms and flats with multiple bedrooms.
• Vita Student Fountainbridge: It is a popular student accommodation option among postgraduate students from the University of Edinburgh. This purpose-built student accommodation complex is also located near the university’s main campus. Its room variations include single en-suite rooms, shared apartments, and studio flats.

Tips for Securing Ideal Student Accommodation

Starting the Search Early

Generally, the best student accommodation deals fill up quickly. So, you must start your search as early as possible. It is even more important when you are looking for accommodation in the peak season. To get cheap student accommodation Edinburgh University, start your search as soon as you accept the offer.

Reading Reviews & Considering Lease Terms

Make sure to read reviews from other students about the accommodation options you like. It might give you a clear picture of them. Most importantly, go through the lease terms while you read reviews of the properties. This way, you can learn about the common terms and conditions and compare the housing options.

Visiting Accommodation In Person

When you have a few options in hand, try to visit the properties in person before finalizing a deal. It’ll give you an opportunity to see the property for yourself and ask any questions you have.

You may also like the following:

• How to Apply Dependent Visa For the UK?
• Acceptable Bank Statement For UK Visa
• Chances of Getting a UK Visa After Refusal
• Cheap Accommodation In London for International Students

Safety, Security, and Proximity to the University

Secure Entry Systems and Safe Neighborhoods

While choosing an accommodation, you must make sure that it has a secure entry system and is located in a safe neighborhood. It will make sure that you are safe and secure during your stay. You can look at the neighborhood’s crime rate and prepare accordingly.

Student accommodation near the University of Edinburgh

If you are a student of the University of Edinburgh, it is convenient for you to choose an accommodation that is located near the university campus. It will save both your time and money on travel. Moreover, you can quickly attend your classes and other events on campus.

Support, Assistance, and Community

On-site staff, Maintenance Support, and Academic Assistance

The good student accommodations in Edinburgh offer various support services for students to make their stay more comfortable and convenient. On-site staff provide students support on various issues like accommodation problems and personal issues. Maintenance support is also crucial to carry out the repairs.

Some accommodation also helps students with their studies by offering tutors. So, make sure you look into these factors and choose an accommodation that has these benefits.

Sense of Community

Generally, a student accommodation houses a large number of students. Living together creates a sense of community among students. Again, many accommodation providers offer various activities and events that also foster socialization among students and build a sense of community. It can be important for many students away from their homes and families.

Transportation Accessibility and Lifestyle

Students without a car should focus on public transportation proximity and walking-friendly neighborhoods while searching for accommodations in Edinburgh. The city has an excellent public transport system with buses and trains covering all parts of the city.

A lot of student accommodation options are located near public transport stoppages. On the other hand, Edinburgh is a very much walkable city where you can quickly get around on foot. It is an excellent option for students who want to save money or get some exercise.

Bike Storage Options

Edinburgh is also a bike-friendly city with many bike lanes and paths. Many student accommodation providers in the city have bike storage options, which is excellent for students who want to bike to class or around the city. So, if you want to bike, make sure you choose an accommodation that has bike storage facilities.

Real Student Experiences and Testimonials

Many students who are currently studying at different universities in Edinburgh or already graduated have expressed their feelings about the student accommodation environment in Edinburgh.

For example, Sarah of the University of Edinburgh says, “I love living in student accommodation. It’s so great to be surrounded by other students, and there’s always something going on. The on-site staff are really helpful, and the maintenance team is always quick to respond to any problems.”

John from Heriot-Watt University says, “I was really nervous about moving to student accommodation at first, but it’s turned out to be the best decision I ever made. I’ve made so many great friends, and I love the sense of community here. The accommodation is also really good value for money.”

Conclusion

A well-suited accommodation is very crucial for students as it can provide a comfortable and supportive environment where they can study and relax. So, make sure to prioritize your individual needs while searching for accommodation. To aid you in your quest for the best student accommodation Edinburgh offers, resources such as Casita are invaluable, ensuring you make an informed decision that aligns with your needs.