Birmingham is one of the UK’s biggest student cities, with over 80,000 students studying across universities like the University of Birmingham, Birmingham City University, and Aston University.
The city offers a huge range of student housing options, from shared houses in lively student neighbourhoods to modern private halls in the city centre.
Compared to places like London, student accommodation in Birmingham can be relatively affordable, but popular areas and good-value houses still get taken quickly.
If you’re planning to study in Birmingham, this guide explains where students live, how much accommodation costs, and how to find a place without overspending.
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Many students underestimate how early the housing search starts.
In popular student areas, houses for the following academic year can start appearing as early as October or November. By the time spring arrives, the most affordable and well-located properties are often already taken.
If you’re planning to live with friends in a shared house, it’s best to start looking during the winter term.
Private student halls tend to have more availability later in the year, which can make them a good option if you’re searching closer to summer.
Compared to many UK cities, Birmingham offers relatively good value for student housing.
Typical weekly rent looks something like this:
When to start looking for student accommodation in Birmingham
How much student accommodation costs in Birmingham
Best areas for student accommodation in Birmingham
Best websites to find student housing in Birmingham
Shared student houses vs private halls
Tips for finding cheap student accommodation in Birmingham
What to check before signing a tenancy agreement
Shared student houses:
Private student halls:
Studio apartments:
Shared houses in popular student neighbourhoods usually fall around £110–£130 per week depending on the property and whether bills are included.
Where you live can shape your entire student experience. Birmingham has several neighbourhoods that are particularly popular with students.
Selly Oak
Selly Oak is the main student area for the University of Birmingham.
It’s within walking distance of campus and packed with student houses, cafes, takeaways, and supermarkets. The area has a strong student atmosphere and is one of the most convenient places to live if you study at the University of Birmingham.
Average rent is around £110–£130 per week including bills.
Average rent is around £110–£130 per week including bills
Edgbaston
Edgbaston is a quieter and slightly more residential area close to the University of Birmingham.
You’ll find a mix of student houses and apartments here, along with green spaces and good transport links.
Average rent is usually £120–£140 per week.
Average rent is usually £120–£140 per week
Birmingham city centre
Living in the city centre means easy access to shops, restaurants, nightlife, and transport.
Most accommodation here consists of modern apartments or private student halls. It’s convenient but tends to be slightly more expensive than traditional student areas.
Average rent is around £160–£220 per week.
£160–£220 per week
Harborne
Harborne is a popular neighbourhood just outside Selly Oak.
It has a lively high street with cafes, restaurants, and pubs, making it a great option for students who want a slightly more relaxed atmosphere while still being close to campus.
Average rent is roughly £120–£140 per week.
If you're starting your search, these websites are some of the most useful places to look:
Shared student houses: £90–£140 per week
Private student halls: £140–£200 per week
Studio apartments: £180+ per week
Shared student houses
Rightmove
SpareRoom
UniHomes
Studentpad
Usually cheaper
More living space
Living with friends
Private student halls
Bills may not be included
Maintenance depends on the landlord
Bills usually included
On-site security
Modern facilities such as gyms and study spaces
Start your search early
The earlier you start looking, the more options you’ll have. Popular areas like Selly Oak can fill up quickly.
Look slightly outside the main student areas
Neighbourhoods a little further from campus may offer lower rent while still being well connected by public transport.
Check if bills are included
Bills-included properties can make budgeting easier and sometimes work out cheaper overall.
Utilities can add £30–£50 per month if they aren’t included in the rent.
View the property before signing
Photos don’t always show the full picture. When viewing a property, check things like heating, kitchen condition, water pressure, and whether bedrooms have secure locks.
Before committing to a student property, make sure you understand the details of the tenancy agreement.
Important things to check include:
Higher rent
Smaller living spaces
Final thoughts
Birmingham is a fantastic city for students. It’s lively, diverse, and offers relatively affordable housing compared to many other major UK cities.
If you start your search early, explore a few different neighbourhoods, and compare multiple options, finding good student accommodation in Birmingham becomes much easier.
Deposit amount
Contract length
Whether bills are included
Maintenance responsibilities
