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How To Find Student Accommodation In Birmingham

  • Writer: Nicole So
    Nicole So
  • Mar 16
  • 4 min read

Updated: Mar 20

Woman at desk in modern room with large window, teal curtains, and city view. White bed with colorful pillows; calm, bright ambiance.

Written by Nicole So


Birmingham is one of the UK’s biggest student cities, with over 80,000 students studying across universities like the University of Birmingham, Birmingham City University, and Aston University.


The city offers a huge range of student housing options, from shared houses in lively student neighbourhoods to modern private halls in the city centre.


Compared to places like London, student accommodation in Birmingham can be relatively affordable, but popular areas and good-value houses still get taken quickly.


If you’re planning to study in Birmingham, this guide explains where students live, how much accommodation costs, and how to find a place without overspending.


Jump to:

  • When to start looking for student accommodation in Birmingham

  • How much student accommodation costs in Birmingham

  • Best areas for student accommodation in Birmingham

  • Best websites to find student housing in Birmingham

  • Shared student houses vs private halls

  • Tips for finding cheap student accommodation in Birmingham

  • What to check before signing a tenancy agreement


When to start looking for student accommodation in Birmingham


Aerial view of a university campus with red-brick buildings and a clock tower, surrounded by greenery and a distant city skyline.

Many students underestimate how early the housing search starts.


In popular student areas, houses for the following academic year can start appearing as early as October or November. By the time spring arrives, the most affordable and well-located properties are often already taken.


If you’re planning to live with friends in a shared house, it’s best to start looking during the winter term.


Private student halls tend to have more availability later in the year, which can make them a good option if you’re searching closer to summer.


How much student accommodation costs in Birmingham


Compared to many UK cities, Birmingham offers relatively good value for student housing.


Typical weekly rent looks something like this:


  • Shared student houses: £90–£140 per week

  • Private student halls: £140–£200 per week

  • Studio apartments: £180+ per week


Shared houses in popular student neighbourhoods usually fall around £110–£130 per week depending on the property and whether bills are included.


Best areas for student accommodation in Birmingham


Street lined with cars and red-brick houses, leading to a tall clock tower under a blue sky with clouds. A "To Let" sign is visible.

Where you live can shape your entire student experience. Birmingham has several neighbourhoods that are particularly popular with students.


Selly Oak


Selly Oak is the main student area for the University of Birmingham.


It’s within walking distance of campus and packed with student houses, cafes, takeaways, and supermarkets. The area has a strong student atmosphere and is one of the most convenient places to live if you study at the University of Birmingham.


Average rent is around £110–£130 per week including bills.


Edgbaston


Edgbaston is a quieter and slightly more residential area close to the University of Birmingham.


You’ll find a mix of student houses and apartments here, along with green spaces and good transport links.


Average rent is usually £120–£140 per week.


Birmingham city centre


Living in the city centre means easy access to shops, restaurants, nightlife, and transport.


Most accommodation here consists of modern apartments or private student halls. It’s convenient but tends to be slightly more expensive than traditional student areas.


Average rent is around £160–£220 per week.


Harborne


Harborne is a popular neighbourhood just outside Selly Oak.


It has a lively high street with cafes, restaurants, and pubs, making it a great option for students who want a slightly more relaxed atmosphere while still being close to campus.


Average rent is roughly £120–£140 per week.


Best websites to find student housing in Birmingham


If you're starting your search, these websites are some of the most useful places to look:



These platforms allow you to compare student houses, private halls, and shared accommodation across Birmingham.


Shared student houses vs private halls


One of the biggest decisions you’ll make is whether to live in a shared student house or private accommodation.


Shared student houses


Pros:

  • Usually cheaper

  • More living space

  • Living with friends


Cons:

  • Bills may not be included

  • Maintenance depends on the landlord


Private student halls


Pros:

  • Bills usually included

  • On-site security

  • Modern facilities such as gyms and study spaces


Cons:

  • Higher rent

  • Smaller living spaces


Many students choose university halls in first year and shared houses with friends in later years.


Tips for finding cheap student accommodation in Birmingham


Five people smiling and interacting with phones and a tablet outside a house. Casual attire, sunny day, friendly and collaborative mood.

A few simple strategies can help you save money when searching for student housing.


Start your search early


The earlier you start looking, the more options you’ll have. Popular areas like Selly Oak can fill up quickly.


Look slightly outside the main student areas


Neighbourhoods a little further from campus may offer lower rent while still being well connected by public transport.


Check if bills are included


Bills-included properties can make budgeting easier and sometimes work out cheaper overall.


Utilities can add £30–£50 per month if they aren’t included in the rent.


View the property before signing


Photos don’t always show the full picture. When viewing a property, check things like heating, kitchen condition, water pressure, and whether bedrooms have secure locks.


What to check before signing a tenancy agreement


Before committing to a student property, make sure you understand the details of the tenancy agreement.


Important things to check include:

  • Deposit amount

  • Contract length

  • Whether bills are included

  • Maintenance responsibilities


Your deposit should also be protected in a government tenancy deposit scheme, which is required by UK law.


Final thoughts


Birmingham is a fantastic city for students. It’s lively, diverse, and offers relatively affordable housing compared to many other major UK cities.


If you start your search early, explore a few different neighbourhoods, and compare multiple options, finding good student accommodation in Birmingham becomes much easier.



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