How to Find the Best Student Accommodation in Cardiff

19^th June, 2024

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Cardiff, the vibrant capital of Wales, is a fantastic place for students. With its rich cultural scene, lively social life, and top-tier universities like Cardiff University, Cardiff Metropolitan University, and the University of South Wales, students from around the globe choose this city for their studies. Choosing the most suitable student accommodation that meets your requirements is essential to a successful and productive time in university. We'll guide you through the process of locating the best student accommodation in Cardiff in this blog, including everything from housing options to decision-making advice.

Cardiff has a wide variety of housing choices to meet the requirements of every student. There is housing for everyone, ranging from individual renting and shared homes to resident halls run by the university. Exploring the different types of housing that's available will help you make an informed decision about where to live.

Cardiff is a great place for students to study because of its welcoming atmosphere and strong sense of community. With a mix of modern and historic buildings, busy shopping areas, and peaceful parks, the city was developed with students in mind. There are many different types of student housing options, fitting a range of budgets and preferences.

Types of Accommodation Available

University Halls of Residence

Typically located on or near the university campus, these halls provide a convenient and social living environment. Options include catered or self-catered halls, with rooms ranging from single en-suite to shared facilities.

First-year students often choose to live in university halls because they offer a pre-existing community. These residence halls include a range of social events and support networks to ease students' transition to university life. One major benefit is the convenience of being close to academic buildings and other university resources.

Shared Apartments

Ideal for students who prefer a more independent lifestyle. Shared apartments usually consist of multiple bedrooms with a common living area and kitchen, allowing you to share the rent and utility costs with flatmates.

Shared apartments provide a balance of communal interaction and individual freedom. For students who wish to manage their own home while living with friends or making new ones, they are perfect.

Private Rentals

Private rentals are often preferred by second and third-year students who are familiar with the city and have established friendships. These rentals can range from single rooms in shared houses to entire flats or houses. This option provides the most flexibility in terms of location and living conditions.

Home Stays

Homestays offer a unique living experience, particularly for international students. Staying with a local family can provide deeper cultural insights and help improve language skills. It also offers a supportive environment, which can be particularly beneficial for students new to the UK.

Best Locations for Student Accommodation in Cardiff

Cathays

Close to Cardiff University and student-friendly facilities such as Cardiff University Student Union. Known for its vibrant student life.

Cathays is the heart of student life in Cardiff. Its close proximity to Cardiff University makes it a highly populated area. The area is full of cafes, bars, and shops, creating a lively atmosphere. Students can enjoy the convenience of having everything they need within walking distance. It is also close to Cardiff City Centre

Roath

Slightly quieter than Cathays, offering a mix of student housing and residential homes. Home to Roath Park, a great spot for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Roath offers a residential feel. It is popular among students who prefer a quieter environment while still being close to the action. Roath Park is a beautiful green space perfect for jogging, picnics, or simply unwinding after a day of classes.

City Centre

In the heart of Cardiff, with easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. The City Centre has many new apartment complexes designed for student living.

Living in the city center means you are at the heart of everything Cardiff has to offer. With countless shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions on your doorstep, you will never be bored. This area is perfect for students who thrive on the buzz of city life and enjoy modern, well-equipped living spaces. There are many new apartment complexes designed for student living.

Heath

Heath is ideal for students at the University Hospital of Wales. With easy access to medical facilities and associated services.

Heath is the go-to area for students studying the University Hospital of Wales. It offers convenient access to the hospital and associated medical facilities. This location is particularly beneficial for medical students who need to be close to their training grounds.

Considerations When Choosing Student Accommodation

Location

University Proximity: Check that your accommodation is reasonably close to your university.
Local Amenities: Consider public transportation, and stores nearby.

Cost

Budget: Determine your budget, including rent, utilities, and other expenses.

Value for Money: Compare different options to find the best balance between cost and facilities.

Safety and Security

Security Measures: Ensure the accommodation has adequate security features like secure entry systems and surveillance.

Neighbourhood Safety: Research the safety of the surrounding area. This can be done through websites such as CheckMyStreet, UK Crime Statistics and Gwent Police -What’s happening in your area?

How to Find Student Accommodation in Cardiff

Finding the perfect student accommodation requires a mix of research, planning, and leveraging available resources:

University Support Services

Accommodation Office: Most universities have an accommodation office to assist students with housing options.

Recommendations: They can provide information on both university-managed and private accommodation.

Online Platforms

Property Websites: Use websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to explore rental listings.

Filters: Apply filters to narrow down your search by location, price, and accommodation type.