Explore Student Accommodation in Birmingham
Student Accommodation in Birmingham
If you’re interested in finding student accommodation in Birmingham specifically, Casita can help you. Student accommodation in the UK and in Birmingham is plentiful, and you’ll be able to search through and compare a wide variety of accommodation options in Birmingham, which are near the best universities it has, such as the University of Birmingham and Aston University. Our expert team is available 24/7 to assist you with finding the right accommodation for you, and our flexible booking options will guarantee that you find your ideal student home in this beloved student city.
About Birmingham
With 26.6% of its student population being international, Birmingham offers high-quality education through its renowned universities: the University of Birmingham, Aston University, Birmingham City University, University College Birmingham, and Newman University. It’s also one of the most affordable cities for students to live in, compared to other major cities in the UK, like London.
Top Universities in Birmingham
University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham has a large main campus in Edgbaston that is surrounded by student-friendly areas like Selly Oak, Harborne, and the city centre. The university has more than 35,000 students, and the community feels lively and diverse.
Nearby accommodation options vary: some students prefer Bentley House to be close to Cannon Hill Park for easy access to green space, while others look for houses near Harborne High Street, like Oak Brook Park, to be close to shops. There are also private halls in the city centre, like Calthorpe Court, for those who like modern facilities.
Moreover, the weekly rents range from £150 for shared houses to £300 for studios. Transport links are strong, with regular buses, trains, and a university station nearby.
Birmingham City University
Birmingham City University has multiple campuses. Each one is designed to suit different academic needs, which means students should consider travel times and nearby amenities when choosing where to live. The City South Campus, home to health, education, and life sciences courses, offers a more focused, community-driven environment compared to the busier City Centre.
When it comes to living arrangements, Moseley stands out as a student-friendly area known for its cultural scene, while the City Centre keeps you at the heart of Birmingham’s energy with easy access to both study and leisure. For those watching their expenses, budget-friendly options include Beech Gardens, Calthorpe Court, and B16 Studios, for affordability without compromising on comfort or connectivity.
Aston University
Aston University sits right in Birmingham’s city centre, which offers students quick access to shops, cafes, and excellent transport links. Living around Aston Street is very convenient, as it has plenty of student housing, supermarkets, and study spots close by.
The university has built a reputation as a go-to place for students who want to excel in professional fields. Its pharmacy and construction-related courses are among the best in the UK, both ranked in the top five by the Complete University Guide in 2026. For graduates or postgraduates, ensuite rooms at The Old Fire Station and studios and flats at Chamberlain Place are nearby, which provide more privacy and independence. They are also while keeping students within walking distance of campus and the city’s opportunities.
University College Birmingham
University College Birmingham is well known for its hands-on, vocational courses that attract students aiming to move quickly into their chosen careers. The campus sits in Birmingham’s Westside, an area packed with restaurants, cultural venues, and green spaces that make student life lively but manageable.
A big advantage here is how close the university is to major industry partners like Visit Birmingham and Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, which offer students easy access to placements in hospitality, business, and healthcare. Moreover, many students choose accommodation that supports their studies and prioritise convenience and quiet spaces to focus on both training and academic work.
Newman University
Newman University’s Bartley Green campus sits outside Birmingham’s busy centre, so students often look for accommodation that keeps them within easy reach of lectures and university facilities. Such accommodation options include Candam Hall, Bentley House, and Oak Brook Park.
The transport links to the main campus are convenient and reliable, so daily commutes are stress-free. At the same time, budget remains a key factor, so make sure you choose affordable housing and get student discounts to help you balance quality living with financial comfort.
Popular Student Accommodation Areas in Birmingham
Popular Birmingham areas among modern university students are Selly Oak, Birmingham City Centre, Moseley, and Edgbaston. There are a few things to keep in mind while searching for the best areas to live in Birmingham and accommodation to stay in, including its location, transportation, cost, and amenities.
Selly Oak
If you’re studying at the University of Birmingham, chances are you’ll hear about Selly Oak within your first week. This neighbourhood is a top choice for students because it’s within walking distance of the main campus, so it saves you time and transport costs. It’s lively, and it has everything you might need, like the Battery Retail Park, which has supermarkets and high-street shops, cosy coffee spots, and late-night takeaways. It also has green spaces and walking paths if you enjoy being outdoors.
Selly Oak offers a convenient and welcoming base for student life. There are regular buses and trains at Selly Oak station, which makes getting around very easy. The area is student-friendly and affordable; student accommodation here will cost you between £150 and £220 weekly. Some of the best student accommodation options in Selly Oak include Selly Oak Court and 24 Dale Road.
City Centre
Birmingham’s city centre is where the city’s energy is at its best. The Bullring is perfect for a quick bite or a browse after lectures, and the canals will always keep you amused, from comedy nights to live music by the canals.
All the universities are close when you're in the city centre, so getting to class is easy. Moreover, living here will cost you around £200-£300 a week for a PBSA. The New Street station is minutes away, which means weekends away are simple to plan. If you like being surrounded by life, noise, and plenty of options, the city centre is suitable for you.
Moseley
Moseley has a reputation for being one of Birmingham’s more creative neighbourhoods. There are numerous bookshops, cafés that feel homely, and the odd street market at weekends. Cannon Hill Park and the arts centre nearby make it easy to spend an afternoon outdoors or catch something cultural without heading into town.
Moseley is calmer than Selly Oak, so some students pick it when they want a break from the usual busy areas. The bus into the city takes around 15 minutes, and cycling is pretty standard too. Cost for student accommodation here usually falls somewhere between £160 and £250 a week, and top options include Belgrave View and Calthorpe Court.
Edgbaston
Edgbaston is often seen as one of Birmingham’s more premium student areas. It sits right next to the University of Birmingham, so getting to campus on foot or by bike doesn’t take long. The neighbourhood itself is leafy and calm, with large houses, small cafés, and green spaces like Winterbourne Gardens close by.
Because it’s quieter than Selly Oak or the city centre, many students choose it for a more relaxed lifestyle. Rent can be on the higher side, usually £180-£250 a week, but the area’s reputation and steady demand also make it attractive from an investment point of view.
Less Popular Yet Student-Recommended Areas Near Universities in Birmingham
Selly Park
Selly Park is a luxurious residential suburb in south-west Birmingham, and a popular area for residents. Suitable for students of the University of Birmingham, as it’s quite close. Student Rooms in Birmingham near Selly Park:
Cannon Hill
The most popular park in Birmingham and a popular destination for all visitors. Suitable for students of Birmingham City University, City South Campus.
Student Halls in Birmingham near Cannon Hill:
Aston Street
Aston Street is a vibrant and lively area in the West Midlands region. Suitable for students attending Aston University, as the area is very close to the university.
Student Apartments in Birmingham near Aston Street:
Staniforth St
Staniforth St is a lovely and vibrant area in Birmingham with many interesting qualities. The area is suitable for those attending Aston University. Student Flats in Birmingham near Staniforth St:
Westside
Westside is a wealthy district with luxury warehouse apartments and posh restaurants. Westside is suitable for students attending University College Birmingham. Student Rooms in Birmingham near Westside:
Bristol Rd
Bristol Rd is a bustling and lively part of Birmingham. Bristol Rd is a popular destination for students attending the University of Birmingham, due to its close proximity.
Student Apartments in Birmingham near Bristol Rd:
Best Recommended Student Accommodation in Birmingham
Birmingham is a city filled with various student room options, and students looking to live there can explore different areas in Birmingham near their preferred universities and budgets.
Top-Rated Student Housing in Birmingham Among Students:
Cheap and Best Student Accommodation Options with Student-Friendly Budgets in Birmingham:
Birmingham Student Housing near City Centre:
Harriet Martineau Unite - 1 min walk to Central Birmingham
Unite students Mary Sturge - 2 mins walk to Central Birmingham
Unite Students James Watt - 4 mins walk to Central Birmingham
Onyx - 4 mins walk to Central Birmingham
iQ Penworks House - 6 mins walk to Central Birmingham
iQ Studios 51 - 6 mins walk to Central Birmingham
Jennens Court - 9 mins walk to Central Birmingham
homes for students Canalside - 9 mins walk to Central Birmingham
Student Life in Birmingham
Life as a student in Birmingham is full of opportunities. The city is lively and multicultural and has a diverse student population. This makes it an exciting place to live and study.
There are plenty of affordable options available for students at Birmingham. At the same time, students are encouraged to manage their budget wisely. Birmingham also provides part-time job opportunities for those looking to gain work experience alongside their studies.
Part-Time Jobs & Work Opportunities for Students in Birmingham
Birmingham offers numerous part-time job opportunities for students both on and off campus, including:
On-Campus Jobs: Some of the on-campus jobs you can find include student ambassador, content creator, photographer, mentor, admin assistant, and Students' Union staff.
Off-Campus Jobs: Some of the off-campus jobs you can find include retail, hospitality (waiting staff, bar staff), customer service, delivery services, the care sector, tutoring, and event and entertainment staff.
You can also check StudentJob UK and Indeed for more info.
Monthly Student Budget in Birmingham:
According to Numbeo, the monthly cost of living for a single person will be as follows:
Item | Cost |
Accommodation | £600-£1000 |
Food & Groceries | £280-£320 |
Transportation | £60 |
Entertainment | £100-£150 |
Utilities (if not included) | £150-£200 |
Study Materials | £40-£80 |
Total | £1,400-£1,600 |
Why Parents Trust Casita for Student Housing in Birmingham
Parents think about more than just rent when their children head off to university. Casita gives them peace of mind by offering properties that are safe and well-checked, many with CCTV and on-site staff. The buildings are in convenient locations, close to universities and everyday essentials to make life smoother for students. Study areas and shared spaces also give them the chance to focus on work while still building friendships. This balance of safety, ease, and community is what makes parents trust Casita in Birmingham.
At Casita, we do more than provide housing; we help students feel safe, comfortable, and at home. Check Things Parents Should Know About Casita and Casita.com: Expectations vs. Reality.
Transportation Guide
Bus System
National Express West Midlands is a main bus system.
A single bus journey costs £2.90 (as of January 2025).
Weekly passes range from £21 to £37, and this depends on the travel zone and If Metro services are included.
Students can save money by using the Swift card. It allows easy top-ups, fare capping, and discounted student passes.
The key routes serve popular student areas such as Selly Oak, the city centre, and areas around Aston University, which is very practical and provides direct links to campus.
Train Network
New Street Station is the city’s main hub, so students can get anywhere fast from there.
A lot of students grab a West Midlands Network card. It makes travel cheaper and easier to top up.
Trains usually cost about £30-40 a week, but with student discounts it’s more like £20-30.
There’s an on-campus bus station at the University of Birmingham, so no long walks for its students.
Tram System
The West Midlands Metro (Line 1) runs from Edgbaston Village through Birmingham city centre and out to Wolverhampton Station.
A single tram journey costs about £2.40-£4.50. However, a Swift card will give you cheaper fares.
Grand Central (New Street Station), Five Ways, and Library/Centenary Square are the most useful key stops for students.
Cycling Infrastructure
The A38 cycleway is the main student-friendly route. It’s heavily used for commuting between the campus and the town.
The A38 cycleway gives students a safe and direct route from Selly Oak to the city centre.
West Midlands Cycle Hire (Beryl) bikes cost £1 to unlock + 8p per minute, and offer passes for frequent riders.
Attractions in Birmingham
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery (BMAG): A multi-purpose museum with a broad-based collection encompassing fine art, archaeology, ethnography, local history, and the Pre-Raphaelite collection.
Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum: A hands-on science museum, with displays on topics including science and the natural world, technology, and a range of scientific principles. Discounts for students may be applicable.
Birmingham Town Hall: An old concert hall of neoclassical style, where an array of events and performances are carried out.
Ikon Gallery: A modern art gallery in a neo-Gothic schoolhouse with a varied program of contemporary art exhibitions by international artists. Free entrance is often possible.
If you want to explore the nightlife in the city, then you need to check the Best Clubs in Birmingham.
