Student accommodation in Reading
Reading is a lively, student-friendly town that makes settling in feel easy. If you're heading to the University of Reading or another nearby institution, this town has just the right mix of calm, culture, and community.
At Casita, we know how important it is to feel at home while you study. That’s why we offer a wide range of student accommodation in the UK, and Reading is no exception. A variety of options are available, from quiet studios to en-suite rooms with shared spaces or flats that can be shared with friends, ensuring that every lifestyle and budget is accommodated. And if you're not sure where to start, don’t worry! Our team is here for you 24/7 to help you find the perfect place, every step of the way.
About Reading
Reading is very popular among students. According to the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), students enjoy staying in Reading. International students in Reading make up 13% of undergraduates and 23% of postgraduates.
The proportion of international students in Reading has been increasing steadily over the past few years due to several factors, including the growing reputation of Reading’s universities, the increasing globalisation of higher education, and the UK government's policy of encouraging international students to study in the UK.
Popular Student Areas in Reading
Reading has several student-friendly areas and plenty of accommodations. They all offer a vibrant and diverse life for students to explore and get used to different cultures. These neighbourhoods usually affect the cost of public transportation fares. The further you travel from the city centre, the higher the fare.
Popular Reading areas among university students are Cemetery Junction, Coley, and Newton. There are a few things to keep in mind while searching for the perfect student area to stay in, including transportation, cost, and amenities.
Cemetery Junction:
Cemetery Junction is a well-known student area in Reading. Student accommodations here cost between £150 and £200 per week.
Students living in Reading in Cemetery Junction will be near the University of Reading and Reading College.
Student studios in Reading near Cemetery Junction:
Coley:
In Coley, student accommodations range from approximately £150 to £200 per week.
Students living in Reading in Coley will be near the University of Reading and Reading College.
Student apartments in Reading near Coley:
Newton:
Newton offers affordable student accommodations, with rates between £120 and £200 per week.
Students living in Reading in Newton will be near the University of Reading and Reading College.
Affordable student housing options in Reading near Newton:
Less Popular Yet Student-Recommended Areas Near Universities in Reading
Kings Road:
A vibrant road in a lively part of Reading.
Student Rooms in Reading near Kings Road:
Berkshire House
London Road:
A bustling road near many great places to visit.
Student Halls in Reading near London Road:
Kendrick Hall
Best Student Housing in Reading
Reading has various student room options, and students can explore different areas in Reading near their universities and budgets.
1) Top-rated student housing in Reading among students with USPs:
You can also check the top-rated student accommodation in Reading and cheap and affordable student accommodation in Reading to explore more options!
Reading student housing near the city centre:
Aparto Queens Court (7 Mins walk)
Crown House (11 Mins walk)
79 Silver Street (12 Mins walk)
Royal Heights (12 Mins walk)
Kendrick Hall (13 Mins walk)
Berkshire House (16 Mins walk)
Explore student accommodation in Reading city centre for more options.
Student Life in Reading
Being a student in Reading means enjoying a lively university town with plenty to offer. The town is home to the University of Reading, a top-ranked UK university known for its research and beautiful 320-acre Whiteknights campus. Culture lovers can visit the Reading Museum, which houses the full-size replica of the Bayeux Tapestry, or catch a show at The Hexagon, the town’s leading performance venue.
Reading also hosts the annual Reading Festival, one of the UK’s biggest and most iconic music events. For nature and downtime, students can relax in Forbury Gardens or enjoy scenic walks along the River Thames and Kennet.
Why Parents Trust Casita for Student Housing in London
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.
Cost of Living in Reading for Students
Living in Reading offers a more affordable lifestyle compared to London, but students should still consider various expenses, apart from accommodation.
Item | Average Cost per week |
Rent (with bills) | £450–£650 |
Groceries | £70–£100 |
Transport (student pass) | £25–£35 |
Eating out | £8–£12 per meal |
Gym membership | £15–£25 |
Students can save money by renting at a more affordable price and using cheaper transport options. Still, it's important to plan for essential costs like groceries, eating out, and leisure activities.
Universities in Reading
Reading is home to one of the UK's well-established universities and offers a safe, student-friendly environment. The city is ideal for students looking for quality education with easy access to London.
University of Reading
A well-known institution that has a strong focus on research and innovation.
Awarded the Queen’s Anniversary Prize for research excellence.
Popular courses: Agriculture, Business, Environmental Science, Law, and Architecture.
Student accommodation in Reading near the University of Reading:
Henley Business School (part of the University of Reading)
One of the most respected business schools in the world.
Triple-accredited by AMBA, EQUIS, and AACSB.
Known for its global executive MBA, finance, and real estate programmes.
Student flats near Henley Business School, Reading:
University College of Estate Management (UCEM)
A leading provider of online education for the built environment.
Degrees and diplomas in real estate, construction, and surveying.
Ideal for flexible, career-focused learning.
Student accommodation near UCEM, Reading:
Reading College
A further and higher education college run by Activate Learning.
Offers vocational training, HNCs, HNDs, and university-level courses.
Popular areas: Business, Computing, Health & Social Care, and Creative Arts.
Student housing near Reading College:
Part-Time Jobs & Work Opportunities in Reading for Students
According to official guidance from the UK Government and UK Council for International Student Affairs, international students with a student visa are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. These rules apply to degree-level students enrolled in full-time courses at higher education institutions.
If the course is below degree level or at a private college, students may have different (often more limited) working rights, such as 10 hours per week or none at all.
It’s important to note that these work rules apply to all types of paid work, including part-time jobs, internships, and freelance opportunities.
Common part-time jobs for students:
Retail Assistant: Working in shops, supermarkets, or department stores.
Hospitality Staff: Roles in cafes, restaurants, or fast-food outlets, such as waitstaff or kitchen assistants.
University Roles: On-campus jobs like library assistants, campus ambassadors, or admin helpers.
Tutoring: Private tutoring (in subjects they are proficient in) is allowed, provided it is not classed as self-employment.
Customer Service Representative: Often in call centres or front-desk positions.
Internships and Placements: These are permitted if they’re part of your course, though unpaid roles are common.
Working part-time not only helps students support themselves financially but also offers valuable work experience, improved language skills, and networking opportunities. However, students should ensure that work commitments do not affect their academic performance.
For the most accurate and updated information, students should always refer to the UK Council for International Student Affairs website and the official UK government immigration pages. They can also check StudentJob UK and Indeed.
Transportation in Reading
Train in Reading
Trains in Reading are a fast and easy way to travel around the UK.
Great for getting to places like London, Oxford, Bristol, or Bath.
Main train station: Reading Railway Station.
Tickets start from about £4 – much cheaper if you have a Railcard.
Student tip: Get a 16–25 Railcard to save 1/3 on train fares.
Bus in Reading
Buses run across the city and nearby towns – perfect for uni, work, or shopping.
A low-cost and convenient way to get around every day.
Most buses are run by Reading Buses.
A single ticket starts from around £1.70. Day passes and weekly tickets are also available.
Buses connect well with the University of Reading and the city centre.
Student tip: Check for student bus passes on the Reading Buses app to save more.
Cycling in Reading
Reading is great for cyclists, with more bike paths and riverside routes being added.
Cycling is a budget-friendly, healthy way to travel to uni, parks, and cafés.
Although the city no longer has a bike-sharing scheme, you can still use your own bike or rent from local shops.
Plan your route using the National Cycle Network or cycle apps.
Student tip: Use CycleStreets to find quiet, student-safe bike routes around Reading.
Top Attractions in Reading for Students
Reading Museum: A place where you can learn about the history, art, and culture of Reading through different exhibitions.
Abbey Ruins: These evocative mediaeval remains offer a glimpse into Reading’s royal and monastic past.
The Museum of English Rural Life (The MERL): An engaging museum exploring England’s rural traditions and countryside heritage.
Forbury Gardens: A peaceful Victorian park in the town centre that’s perfect for relaxing and enjoying fresh air.
TeamSport Go Karting: A high-energy indoor track where friends can race and compete in a fun setting.
TimeTrap Escape Rooms: This place brings history to life with immersive settings, detailed stories, and puzzles.
The Oracle Shopping Centre: A lively riverside complex packed with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
The Climbing Hangar Reading: A friendly indoor bouldering gym that’s great for exercise and meeting new people.
Basildon Park: A grand Georgian mansion surrounded by scenic parkland and woodlands.
Stanlake Park Wine Estate: A picturesque vineyard offering a taste of English winemaking tradition.
Greys Court: A charming Tudor manor house with beautiful gardens and a rich family history.
Beale Wildlife Park: A riverside wildlife park home to animals, gardens, and adventure play areas.
Purple Turtle: A quirky, beloved bar known for its eclectic vibe and live music.
