Best Student Accommodation in Reading, United Kingdom

University of Reading

The University of Reading is a world-class, research-intensive institution ranked 196th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2027. With a diverse student population of approximately 17,000, the university has strong global outreach, with roughly 29% of its student body being international students from more than 150 countries.

It’s highly celebrated for its pioneering advancements in climate science, agriculture, and food science, while its renowned Henley Business School maintains an elite triple-accredited status. The institution was originally founded in the 19th century as an extension college of the University of Oxford before receiving its own Royal Charter in 1926.

University of West London

The University of West London, which operates its prestigious Berkshire Institute for Health in the heart of Reading, is an award-winning modern institution. The university serves a vibrant collective of over 17,000 students, with international students making up a significant portion of its diverse campus network.

The Reading campus specialises heavily in healthcare, nursing, and midwifery courses, providing students with state-of-the-art simulation labs and direct placement opportunities within local medical networks. The university is widely praised for its high employment outcomes, ranking outstandingly for student satisfaction and practical, career-focused teaching.

Reading College

Reading College, part of the Activate Learning group, is a prominent higher and further education provider in Berkshire, highly regarded for its vocational excellence and undergraduate pathways. While it does not appear on global university league tables because of its structure, its undergraduate courses are fully validated by major UK institutions such as Oxford Brookes University and the University of Reading, and it holds a strong local standing.

The college accommodates several thousand students across various technical disciplines, with a growing cohort of international learners seeking practical degrees. It excels in fields such as engineering, creative arts, and digital technologies, offering a tight-knit community feel with smaller class sizes.

The best student accommodation in Reading offers a large selection, from shared apartments to studios. The properties offer flexible pricing tiers designed to fit different student budgets while providing the best amenities.

• Kendrick Hall
• Crown House
• Student Castle Reading
• Royal Heights

Prioritising your safety and affordability is essential when looking for the right property in Reading. These options combine competitive rates with strong security measures, including 24/7 CCTV surveillance, secure keycard entry, and on-site management teams.

• The Apple & Plum Cottage
• Berkshire House
• Mustill Manor
• Central Studios

Ensuite

Ensuite rooms provide a private bedroom with an attached bathroom, while kitchen and living areas are shared with flatmates.

Studio

Studio apartments provide completely independent living with your own private bed, a study zone, a kitchenette, and a private bathroom all in one space.

Shared Apartment

Shared apartments feature private bedrooms with shared communal spaces like kitchens, dining areas, and living rooms.

Non Ensuite

Non-ensuite options offer a private bedroom while sharing bathroom and kitchen facilities with other residents, providing a budget-friendly option.

Private Rooms

Private rooms give students their own secure personal bedroom within a larger house or shared housing facility.

Choosing the right neighbourhood can completely transform your university experience by keeping you close to both your lectures and local amenities. Here are the top three areas favoured by scholars looking for student accommodation in Reading, Berkshire, each offering a unique community vibe.

Earley / Whiteknights

Positioned south-east of the town centre, this area is highly popular for its tranquil suburban atmosphere and beautiful green open spaces. It is best known for housing the scenic Whiteknights Lake and the picturesque Harris Garden, offering an idyllic setting for students attending the main University of Reading campus.

Reading Town Centre

Situated right in the urban core, this lively neighbourhood is known for its incredible connectivity, major retail hubs, and bustling pedestrian avenues. Students can easily explore the historic Reading Abbey Ruins and utilise the sprawling Reading Central Library, with both the University of West London campus and Reading College located just moments away.

Newtown

Located just east of the town centre, this area is widely celebrated for its budget-friendly accommodation options and rich multicultural community feel. It features the massive sports facilities at Palmer Park and is within walking distance of the Reading Museum, making it a highly convenient base for scholars at the University of Reading.

Securing the right Reading student accommodation requires balancing several practical factors to ensure a smooth university experience.

Distance from University: Check travel times to campus. Living within walking or cycling distance of the University of Reading or the University of West London will save you both time and daily transport fees.

Budget: Set a realistic weekly budget for rent and living costs to avoid financial strain.

Transport Links: Choose locations with direct bus stops to campus, local train stations, and supermarkets.

Bills Included: Look for accommodations that package water, gas, electricity, and high-speed Wi-Fi into one fixed payment.

Safety: Prioritise properties equipped with keycard entry, CCTV, secure bike storage, and on-site support staff.

Living in this vibrant town is relatively cost-effective compared to major metropolitan centres like London. According to Numbeo, the estimated monthly living expenses for a single person are budget-friendly, providing a comfortable time for students.

Student Accommodation

Groceries

Utilities

Transportation

Everyday Lifestyle

Prices are subject to change over time depending on economic conditions and local market rates.

Reading has an exceptionally well-integrated and reliable public transport network that makes commuting across town effortless for students. The primary system relies on award-winning, eco-friendly buses and excellent national rail links managed through the central station.

Metro

Reading does not operate a local underground metro network due to its compact town layout. However, Reading is served by both Great Western Railway and Elizabeth Line services, offering direct rail connections to central London with contactless payment available.

Bus

Reading Buses runs the local bus network, providing frequent services across all major university campuses. Eligible students can access discounted Boost fares, including single journeys from approximately £2.40 and annual travel passes from around £555.

Trains

Operating from Reading Station, the rail network offers incredibly fast links to major UK destinations, including a 22-minute journey to London Paddington. Students aged 16–25 can apply for a 16–25 Railcard, which costs £35 for one year and provides one-third off most eligible rail fares, subject to restrictions. The discount also applies to PlusBus day tickets.

Walking

The town's compact, flat geography makes walking one of the most practical and free ways to get around. Well-maintained pedestrian paths and scenic riverside trails link the town centre directly to the university campus grounds.

Finding engaging, comfortable activities and study spaces across town is simple for students seeking culture, nature, and relaxation. Exploring options near Reading student housing reveals a welcoming community.

Libraries

• Reading Central Library: Located at the Civic Centre on Bridge Street, the library offers study space, free Wi-Fi, computers, printing and digital resources.
• University of Reading Library: Located on the Whiteknights campus, offering multi-floor 24/7 study spaces, group work rooms, and digital learning resources.

Cafés

• Café YOLK: Located near student accommodation on Erleigh Road, serving generous brunch dishes, hot drinks, and a lively social atmosphere.
• Workhouse Coffee: A renowned independent coffee shop in the town centre, known for speciality brews and relaxed seating.

Study Spaces

• Edith Morley Building Hub: A dedicated modern workspace on the Whiteknights campus offering charging ports, flexible group seating, and quiet focus areas.
• Culture & Entertainment South Street Arts Centre: An intimate community arts venue hosting live theatre, stand-up comedy, and acoustic music performances.

Student Discounts

• The Oracle: A major shopping and leisure centre where individual retailers and restaurants offer student discounts, depending on the business and current offer.

Parks

• Forbury Gardens: A historic town-centre park featuring landscaped flower gardens, open lawns, and the iconic Maiwand Lion monument.
• The Harris Garden: A peaceful botanical garden set within the university's Whiteknights campus, providing scenic walking paths and quiet greenery.

Events

• Reading Waterfest: An annual event celebrating the Kennet and Avon Canal and Reading's waterways, held around Forbury Gardens, Reading Abbey Ruins, Chestnut Walk and Riverside Walk.
• Reading Farmers' Market: A twice-monthly farmers' market where local producers sell their own produce.

Finding the right student accommodation isn’t just about safety. It’s about making sure students feel comfortable and supported. Among the several reasons and things parents should know about Casita, here are a few more reasons why parents trust Casita:

• Safe & Secure Housing: Casita offers student accommodations with 24/7 security, CCTV, and secure access to keep students safe.

• Trusted & Verified Properties: Our properties are highly rated, ensuring student satisfaction.

• Close to Universities & Services: Casita provides accommodation with easy access to London’s universities and services.

• Study Spaces: We offer quiet study areas to help students focus.

• Communal areas: Casita has plenty of social spaces for students to relax and meet others.

• On-site Teams: Our on-site staff is always available to support students with any issues.

• 24/7 Support for Students & Parents: Our dedicated multilingual team is available around the clock to assist both students and parents.

At Casita, we do more than provide housing. We create a safe, comfortable, and welcoming environment for students. Check out Casita.com: Expectations vs. Reality.

Top Rated Student Accommodation in Reading

This blog showcases top-rated student accommodation in Reading, highlighting premium properties with modern amenities, all-inclusive bills, and excellent social and study spaces. Located conveniently near Reading City Centre and university campuses, these options offer seamless access to the University of Reading.

Related Buildings

• Student Castle Reading

• Aparto Queens Court

• Crown House

• Kendrick Hall

• Royal Heights

• Berkshire House

Cheap Affordable Student Living Options in Reading

This blog highlights cheap and affordable student accommodation in Reading, Berkshire, featuring budget-friendly properties with modern amenities and all-inclusive bills. These options provide cost-effective living without sacrificing quality or comfort, keeping you close to the University of Reading, University College of Estate Management, and Reading College.

Related Buildings

• Crown House

• Aparto Queens Court

• Kendrick Hall

• Berkshire House

• Student Castle Reading

• 79 Silver Street