Finding suitable student accommodation in Birmingham can be a daunting task, given the size of the city. However, using our guide to find the right information and guidance can make it a much smoother process. Read on to find the best areas in Birmingham to live as a student, which type of accommodation is most suitable and how to find it.
Where are the best areas to live in Birmingham for students?
There are several areas in Birmingham that are popular among students. Some of the best areas include Selly Oak, which is close to the University of Birmingham and has a variety of shops, restaurants and pubs. Edgbaston is another popular area, known for its leafy streets and proximity to the University of Birmingham and Queen Elizabeth Hospital. Harborne is another great option, with a village feel and easy access to the city centre.
Selly Oak
Selly Oak is a popular student area located in the south of Birmingham. It is known for its variety of shops, restaurants and pubs, as well as its proximity to the University of Birmingham. The university’s main campus is located just a short bus ride away, making it a convenient option for students.
One of the main attractions of Selly Oak is the high street, which has a variety of shops, cafes, and takeaway restaurants. There are also several supermarkets, including a large Tesco and Aldi, which makes it easy for students to buy groceries and other essentials. The area also has a number of pubs and bars, including the Bristol Pear and the Goose, which draws in students.
Selly Oak also has a number of parks, including Bournbrook Park, which is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. It is also home to the Selly Oak parkrun, a free weekly 5k timed run which takes place every Saturday.
Housing in Selly Oak is mainly made up of terraced houses, which are often rented out to students. There are also some student halls of residence, such as the University of Birmingham’s Selly Oak campus. These halls provide a safe and secure environment for students and are a great option for first-year students.
Edgbaston
Edgbaston is a well-established and affluent area in Birmingham, known for its leafy streets, prestigious schools and proximity to the University of Birmingham and Queen Elizabeth Hospital. It is an attractive option for students looking for accommodation in the city.
The area is home to the famous Mailbox shopping centre, which features high-end shops and restaurants, including Harvey Nichols and Tom’s Kitchen. There are also several independent shops, cafes, and restaurants in the area, such as The Plough and Harborne Kitchen.
Edgbaston is also known for having several parks and green spaces, including Cannon Hill Park, which is a popular spot for picnics, sports and music events. It also hosts the Edgbaston Cricket Ground, which is home to Warwickshire County Cricket Club and one of the most famous cricket grounds in the world.
In terms of accommodation, Edgbaston offers a mix of options for students. There are several student halls of residence, such as the University of Birmingham’s Edgbaston campus, which provides a safe and secure environment for students. Additionally, there are a number of private rental options available, including apartments and houses, although these tend to be more expensive than other areas of Birmingham.
Harborne
Harborne is a suburb of Birmingham, located to the southwest of the city centre. It is known for its village-like feel, with a mix of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as its proximity to the University of Birmingham and the city centre. This area is a great option for students looking for a more peaceful and residential area to live in.
The area is particularly well known for its food scene, with a range of options from traditional British fare to international cuisine. There are also several supermarkets in the area, including a large Sainsbury’s, as well as cafes and restaurants.
You can also find Harborne Walkway, which is a beautiful nature reserve in the suburb. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, providing a break from city life. Additionally, Harborne Pool and Fitness Centre is a great option for students looking to stay active and healthy.
Like Edgbaston, Harborne offers a mix of options for student accommodation in Birmingham. It’s four miles from the University’s city centre campus, making it easy to commute to and from the suburb.
Find out more about where to live in Birmingham as a student here.
What type of student accommodation should I choose?
Fortunately, Birmingham is a city with lots of different types of student accommodation. This makes it easy to find one that best fits your individual needs.
Student halls
These are on-campus accommodation that are typically owned and managed by the university or college. They offer a safe and secure environment, which will likely provide peace of mind for first-year students. They usually include a private bedroom with shared facilities such as kitchens, bathrooms and common areas. Some halls also offer en-suite rooms and apartments.
One of the main benefits of student halls of residence is convenience. Halls are typically located on or near the university campus, making it easy for students to attend classes and access other university facilities. This can save students time and effort. They won’t have to commute long distances or spend time and money on transportation.
Student halls of residence are also great for getting to know people when you’re new to the city. They host students from different backgrounds and cultures living and studying together, which creates a nice environment to be in. Some popular ones include Mary Sturge – Aston Street and Selly Oak Court. Find out more about the best student halls in Birmingham here.
Student houses
Student houses in Birmingham offer a number of benefits over other types of student accommodation. One of the main advantages of student houses is independence and privacy. Student houses provide students with more independence and privacy than other types of student accommodation, such as halls of residence. This can be especially beneficial for students who are looking for a more mature and independent living experience.
Another benefit of student houses is cost-effectiveness. This can be especially beneficial for students who are on a tight budget, as they can save money on rent and bills by sharing the costs with other students.
Additionally, Birmingham’s student houses often offer more space than other types of student accommodation. Student houses often have larger bedrooms, living rooms and kitchens, which can provide students with a more comfortable living environment. This can be especially beneficial for students who are looking for a more spacious and comfortable place to live.
Luxury student accommodation
Luxury student accommodation in Birmingham offers students a high-end and comfortable living experience. These types of accommodation typically include private bedrooms and bathrooms, fully-equipped kitchens, and high-speed internet access. Many also include on-site amenities such as gyms, swimming pools, study rooms, and common areas. These types of accommodation are perfect for students who are looking for a more comfortable and upscale living experience during their time at university.
Luxury student accommodation can be found in a variety of locations around the city, including the city centre and popular student areas such as Selly Oak and Edgbaston. They often come with a higher price tag than traditional student accommodation options, but offer additional comfort and amenities. It’s important to research and compare different options to find the one that best suits your needs, budget and lifestyle.
How can I find student accommodation in Birmingham?
To find student accommodation in Birmingham, it’s important to start early. Do your research online, visit open days and fairs, and reach out. You could check with your university, or try contacting some of the best letting agencies in Birmingham. They will be able to provide advice, as well as show you some options.
It’s important to consider different areas and neighbourhoods, and compare the different options in terms of price and facilities to find the best value for your money. Once you have found the accommodation that you want to book, make sure to read the terms and conditions carefully, and pay the deposit or rent to secure your place.
What to do if I can’t find any student accommodation?
The best course of action is to speak to you university’s accommodation team. The University of Birmingham Accommodation Department can be contacted through their website at www.birmingham.ac.uk/accommodation. On the website, you can find information about the different types of accommodation available, including halls of residence, apartments, and houses. You can also find information about the application process, fees, and terms and conditions. You can also contact the department via email at accommodation@contacts.bham.ac.uk or by phone at +44 (0)121 414 3344 (Monday to Friday 9am-5pm GMT).
The Aston University Accommodation Department can be contacted through their website at www.aston.ac.uk/accommodation. Or contact via email at accommodation@aston.ac.uk or by phone at +44 (0)121 204 3000.
You can also contact the Birmingham City University department via email at accommodation@bcu.ac.uk or by phone at +44 (0)121 331 5595.
Last Updated on October 17, 2024
Published on January 23, 2023