Best Student Accommodation in London, United Kingdom

Here are some of the top universities in London:

Imperial College London

Imperial College London is a consistently top-rated university in London, a founding member of the Russell Group. It’s particularly known for its strength in science, technology, engineering, medicine, and business (STEMB). The university offers a highly competitive range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, including Computer Science, Medicine, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Life Sciences, and Business. 

Imperial consistently ranks among the world’s leading universities, including a #1 ranking in the QS World University Rankings 2027, and is also placed among the top universities in both the UK and Europe according to QS. 

University College London (UCL)

University College London (UCL) is a leading Russell Group university located in the heart of London and widely known as London’s first university. It is recognised for its multidisciplinary approach across subjects such as law, economics, the humanities, architecture through The Bartlett School of Architecture, and medical sciences in partnership with UCLH. The university also has strong academic strengths in Computer Science, Engineering, Politics and International Relations, and the Social and Historical Sciences.

UCL offers one of the most diverse programme portfolios in the UK, attracting a large international student population and fostering a strong research-driven learning environment. It is consistently ranked among the world's top universities in the QS World University Rankings. 

King’s College London (KCL)

King’s College London (KCL)  is a prestigious Russell Group university with campuses across central London, including the Strand, Guy’s, Waterloo, and Denmark Hill. It’s best known for excellence in health sciences, neuroscience, psychiatry, and medical research through the IoPPN alongside close partnerships with major NHS hospitals including Guy’s, King’s College Hospital, and St Thomas’.

KCL offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, including Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, Law, International Relations and War Studies, Biomedical Sciences, Business and Management, Economics, and Computer Science. It’s also consistently ranked among the top universities globally in the QS World University Rankings.

Private student housing in London includes en-suites, studios, and flats with prices starting from £200 per week, with penthouses available for premium living. Shared accommodation options are also available. 

• Academic House

• Gardiner Street

• Mannequin House Roost

• Victoria Hall King’s Cross

• iQ The Arcade

• Rochester Student Village

• Pavilion Court

• Wellington Lodge Unite

• Arden Street

• Grand Felda House (Wembley)

• Rahere Court Unite

London offers a wide variety of student neighbourhoods, ranging from historic academic districts and prestigious university areas to well-connected transport hubs and more affordable residential communities. 

Bloomsbury

Bloomsbury is one of London's most popular student areas, especially among University College London (UCL) students, thanks to its central location and strong academic atmosphere. Home to renowned libraries, museums, and historic institutions, the neighbourhood has long been associated with education and research. Students benefit from being within walking distance of many university buildings, as well as cultural attractions such as the British Museum, Cartwright Gardens, and the historic Woburn Walk.

South Kensington

South Kensington is a prestigious student area and home to Imperial College London's main campus. It offers a more refined residential environment while remaining within easy reach of university facilities. Known for its elegant streets and world-famous cultural attractions, the neighbourhood is home to the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. With Hyde Park nearby and a wide range of cafés and restaurants, South Kensington offers students a unique blend of academic excellence, culture, and city living.

King's Cross

King's Cross has transformed into one of London's leading student accommodation hubs, combining modern developments with exceptional connectivity. Students from UCL, King's College London, and other central institutions are drawn to the area for its easy access to campuses across the capital via King's Cross and St Pancras stations. King’s Cross is also home to student spots such as Granary Square and Camley Street Natural Park, adding to its shops, restaurants, public spaces, and employment opportunities. The area appeals to students who prefer convenience and a fast-paced city lifestyle. 

Camden

Camden is one of London's most distinctive student neighbourhoods, particularly among students attending UCL and other central London universities. The area is ideal for students looking for a more creative and alternative side of London, with a mix of independent cafés, restaurants, and music venues. Camden Market also creates a strong student and creative community. Camden provides excellent transport links through Camden Town and nearby King's Cross stations, making it easy to travel across London. Students living in Camden seek a social and energetic lifestyle while remaining close to university campuses and central London amenities.

The cost of living in London depends on your lifestyle habits, accommodation type, and your choice of student area. As a global capital, it’s also one of the most expensive cities in the UK, so students should plan their budget when considering accommodation and daily living costs. 

Student Accommodation Costs

According to Numbeo, the estimated monthly cost of living for a single person in London is £1,103.7, excluding rent. Here’s an average monthly breakdown for expenses in London:

Groceries

Utilities

Transportation

Student Transport Discounts & Passes 

Note: Eligible students may qualify for an 18+ Student Oyster Photocard, offering 30% off eligible Travelcards and Bus & Tram Pass season tickets. Additional savings may be available by linking the 16-25 Railcard or 26-30 Railcard to an Oyster card. 

London has one of the world's most extensive public transport networks, making it easy for students to travel between universities, accommodation, and attractions across the city. The network includes the London Underground, buses, trains, trams, and cycling infrastructure, all connected through the Transport for London (TfL) system. 

Most students in London rely on a combination of the Underground and buses, with railcards and Oyster discounts helping to significantly reduce weekly travel costs. 

London Underground (Tube)

The London Underground is the fastest way to travel across the capital and connects most major university campuses and student neighbourhoods. With 11 lines serving Greater London, the Tube provides convenient access to areas such as Bloomsbury, South Kensington, King's Cross, and Camden. Services generally operate from early morning until around midnight, with selected lines offering Night Tube services on weekends. 

Buses

London's bus network operates across the city 24 hours a day on many routes, providing an affordable and convenient alternative to the Tube. Buses are particularly useful for shorter journeys and areas not directly served by Underground stations. Students can also benefit from Hopper Fare transfers, allowing unlimited bus and tram transfers within one hour of their first journey.

National Rail, London Overground & Elizabeth Line

National Rail services, the London Overground, and the Elizabeth Line provide fast connections between central London and outer boroughs. These services are particularly useful for students living further from campus or commuting between different parts of the city. Major transport hubs such as King's Cross St Pancras, Liverpool Street, and Paddington offer connections across London and beyond.

Trams

London's tram network operates primarily in South London, connecting areas including Croydon, Wimbledon, and Beckenham. Trams provide a convenient transport option for those living or studying in the south of the capital.

Cycling

Cycling is becoming increasingly popular among students in London thanks to the city's growing network of cycle lanes and bike-sharing schemes.

• Tower of London: A historic fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for housing the Crown Jewels and nearly 1,000 years of royal history.

• British Museum: One of the world's leading museums, featuring millions of artefacts from ancient civilisations across the globe.

• Hyde Park: One of London's largest and most famous parks, offering green space for relaxation, sports, and outdoor events.

• London Eye: An observation wheel providing panoramic views of London's skyline and major landmarks.

• Camden Market: Known for its street food, independent shops, live music, and creative atmosphere.

• Covent Garden: Features boutiques, restaurants, street performers, and entertainment in the heart of the West End.