Moving to Brighton for your studies? That’s exciting! Brighton is a lively, student-friendly city with beautiful beaches, buzzing nightlife, and great transport links. But choosing the right area to live in can be tricky.
You want a place that’s affordable, safe, close to your university, and well-connected to shops, transport, and social spots. Whether you prefer a quiet neighbourhood or somewhere more vibrant, this guide will help you find the best areas to live in Brighton as a student. Let’s explore the top student areas, what they offer, and how to find the perfect place to call home!
Table of contents
- 10 Best Areas to Live in Brighton as a Student
- Kemptown
- Hove Park
- Brighton City Centre
- Hanover
- Elm Grove
- Seven Dials
- Preston Park
- North Laine
- Hollingdean
- Moulsecoomb
- 10 Areas to Avoid Living in Brighton as a Student
- Cost of Living in Brighton for Students
- Factors to Consider While Choosing the Best Areas to Live in Brighton
- Tips for Finding the Right Accommodation
- FAQs
10 Best Areas to Live in Brighton as a Student
Brighton is a vibrant coastal city known for its student-friendly atmosphere, lively nightlife, and welcoming community. But with so many neighbourhoods to choose from, how do you decide where to stay?
In this guide, we’ll explore the 10 best areas to live in Brighton as a student. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodation, a peaceful neighbourhood, or a buzzing social scene, this list will help you find the perfect spot. Let’s dive in!
- Kemptown
- Hove Park
- Brighton City Centre
- Hanover
- Elm Grove
- Seven Dials
- Preston Park
- North Laine
- Hollingdean
- Moulecoomb
Kemptown
Embed from Getty ImagesKemptown is one of the best areas for students to live in Brighton. It is located on the city’s east side and extends along the beautiful seaside. This area will be ideal for students who want to enjoy the LGBTQ lifestyle. You can enjoy beach days in summer due to the ocean located just in front of this neighbourhood. You can enjoy it in winter too.
This housing for students in United Kingdom is located near the best shopping area in the city. It is also near to many famous restaurants, pubs, bars, etc. Also, this area is near to bus stand and train station. The University of Brighton is accessible by foot from Kemptown.
Distance From Places of Interest
| Place | ETA |
| Nanima Asian Kitchen & Café | 3 minutes walk |
| Brighton Flea Market | 4 minutes drive |
| The Kemp | 1 minutes drive |
Hove Park
Embed from Getty ImagesHove Park is ideal for those who want a peaceful environment. It is one of the most beautiful and peaceful destinations in Brighton. Rail stations, bus stands, restaurants, pubs, universities, and colleges are near Hove Park. At night you can enjoy programmes at Hove Park. A picnic with family and friends is a perfect way to spend a summer afternoon at Hove Park, where you can run in the park or enjoy a picnic with a picnic basket. You can find cheap student accommodations in Hove Park.
Distance From Places of Interest
| Place | ETA |
| Coral Brighton & Hove Greyhound Stadium | 11 minutes walk |
| Trakya market | 20 minutes drive |
| The Nevill Pub | 16 minutes drive |
Also, check out this blog, if you are planning to live in Brighton:
Top 5 Weekend Getaways from Brighton You Must Visit
Brighton City Centre
Embed from Getty ImagesOne of the famous student neighbourhoods is Brighton City Centre. This place is a hub for students with many famous schools and colleges. Brighton City Centre has great access to rail station, bus stand, restaurants, pubs, etc. Also, this area has a beautiful scenic beauty. The University of Brighton and the University of Sussex is only about half an hour from Brighton City Centre.
Some of the famous most visited things in Brighton City Centre are Brighton Dome, Brighton Museum & Art Gallery, and the Royal Pavilion which are just 5 minutes from the city centre.
Distance From Places of Interest
| Place | ETA |
| The Lion & Lobster Pub | 2 minutes walk |
| Fortune Supermarket Brighton | 7 minutes drive |
| SEO College | 3 minutes drive |
Hanover
Embed from Getty ImagesHanover always offers students a great accommodation option. Hanover is close to many areas like rail stations, famous markets, universities, colleges, etc. This place is only about 20 minutes walk from the University of Brighton’s Falmer Campus and 30 minutes from the University of Sussex. Furthermore, Hanover has free parking in the area and has well-sized properties, what more could you ask for? Other famous student neighbourhoods are also nearby, so you’ll be living next to your classmates too.
Distance From Places of Interest
| Place | ETA |
| MEAT Liquor Restaurant Brighton | 12 minutes walk |
| Brighton Toy and Model Museum | 17 minutes drive |
| Ye Olde King & Queen Brighton | 13 minutes drive |
Elm Grove
Definitely the best student accommodation option in Brighton. Elm Grove is the ultimate destination for any student in Brighton. You can find famous restaurants and pubs nearby as well as rail stations, bus stops too. This area is perfect for both nightlife and study, with a good balance between the two. It’s only a small walk from Elm Grove to the University of Brighton and 30 minutes from the University of Sussex. Getting around Brighton is super easy thanks to these factors, which contribute to the popularity of Elm Grove among students.
Distance From Places of Interest
| Place | ETA |
| The Vital Ingredient | 8 minutes walk |
| SS Food and Wine | 5 minutes drive |
| University of Brighton International College | 21 minutes drive |
Seven Dials
Seven Dials is a lovely and flexible Brighton neighbourhood known for its combination of convenience and peace. It has a charming variety of tiny stores, exquisite bakeries, and cosy eateries, making it a student favourite. Its proximity to popular destinations such as Brighton Station, Churchill Square Shopping Centre, and Preston Park ensures quick access while maintaining a peaceful residential atmosphere. Seven Dials provides a diverse range of options for a well-rounded student experience.
Distance From Places of Interest
| Place | ETA |
| Brighton Station | 5 minutes walk |
| Churchill Square Shopping Centre | 15 minutes walk |
| Preston Park | 15 minutes walk |
Preston Park
Preston Park is Brighton’s largest green space, making it perfect for students who like outdoor activities such as jogging or picnics. It is surrounded by cafes and well-connected by transportation, allowing for quick access to the rest of the city. Preston Park, with its peaceful ambience and closeness to significant landmarks, is the perfect combination of nature and convenience for student life. is one of Brighton’s largest green spaces, making it ideal for students who enjoy outdoor activities. The neighbourhood is very well connected by transportation options.
Distance From Places of Interest
| Place | ETA |
| University of Brighton | 15 minutes bus ride |
| Brighton Station | 10-minute bus ride |
| Preston Park | 3 minutes walk |
North Laine
North Laine is the perfect place for students, offering a vibrant and lively atmosphere. With its quirky shops, cosy cafes, and artistic vibe, it’s a great spot to hang out, study, or just relax. The area is full of character, making it ideal for students looking for a creative and inspiring environment. Whether you’re shopping, enjoying street art, or grabbing coffee, North Laine truly feels like home for students.
Distance From Places of Interest
| Place | ETA |
| University of Brighton | 5 minutes walk |
| The Royal Pavilion | 10 minutes walk |
| Brighton Beach | 12 minutes walk |
Hollingdean
Hollingdean is a quiet and affordable area, perfect for students looking for a peaceful place to stay while being well-connected to the city. The neighbourhood offers a mix of student houses and shared accommodations, with plenty of local amenities, including supermarkets, cafes, and parks. It is particularly popular among University of Brighton students due to its closeness to the Moulsecoomb campus.
Distance From Places of Interest
| Place | ETA |
|---|---|
| University of Brighton | 10-minute walk |
| Brighton Station | 15-minute bus ride |
| City Centre | 20-minute bus ride |
Moulsecoomb
Moulsecoomb is one of the most student-friendly areas in Brighton, thanks to its proximity to the University of Brighton’s main campus. The area offers affordable student housing, including university-managed halls and private accommodations. Moulsecoomb has good local amenities, including supermarkets, cafes, and study-friendly spots. It makes it a convenient choice for students who want to balance their studies and social life.
Distance From Places of Interest
| Place | ETA |
|---|---|
| University of Brighton | 5-minute walk |
| Brighton Station | 10-minute bus ride |
| City Centre | 15-minute bus ride |
10 Areas to Avoid Living in Brighton as a Student
There are various factors that determine the best places to live in Brighton as a student. Some places are distant, have higher costs of living, increased crime rates and lack facilities for international students making them the least preferred to live in. Here we have mentioned some of the places to avoid to live in for international students as they can have a negative impact on the studies and lives of the students.
1. Whitehawk
- Higher crime rates compared to other parts of Brighton.
- Limited student-friendly amenities and social spaces.
2. Bevendean
- Public transport is not as frequent, making travel difficult.
- Fewer shops and entertainment options nearby.
3. East Brighton
- Higher crime rates and reports of thefts.
- Can feel isolated, especially for students without a car.
4. Coldean (Some Parts)
- Some streets have limited street lighting, making night walks unsafe.
- Not many entertainment options for students.
5. Hanover (Near the Hills)
- Rent can be expensive, and the steep hills can be exhausting.
- Limited parking and small roads make commuting tricky.
6. Portslade (Far End)
- Quite far from Brighton’s city centre and universities.
- Public transport options are not very frequent.
7. Mile Oak
- Very far from Brighton’s main student hubs.
- Long travel times to universities and nightlife areas.
8. Hangleton
- A family-oriented area with fewer student-friendly spaces.
- Not the best choice for those who enjoy a lively social life.
9. Patcham (Some Areas)
- Feels more suburban and isolated from student activities.
- Limited student housing and entertainment options.
10. Woodingdean
- Poor transport links, make it hard to travel to universities.
- Not much to do for students in terms of nightlife and activities.
Cost of Living in Brighton for Students
Brighton is a vibrant and student-friendly city, but living here can be expensive. If you’re planning to study in Brighton, it’s important to budget wisely and understand how much you’ll need for rent, food, transport, and daily expenses.
On average, students spend between GBP 800 – GBP 1,500 per month, depending on their lifestyle and accommodation choice. Here’s a quick breakdown of the main expenses you’ll have as a student in Brighton:
| Expense | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent (Shared Flat) | GBP 500 – GBP 900 per month |
| Rent (Studio) | GBP 900 – GBP 1,500 per month |
| Groceries | GBP 150 – GBP 200 per month |
| Transport (Bus Pass) | GBP 60 – GBP 80 per month |
Factors to Consider While Choosing the Best Areas to Live in Brighton
Finding the right place to live in Brighton as a student is a big decision. You want an area that is safe, affordable, and well-connected to your university. Plus, you’ll need easy access to transport, markets, and social spaces. Some neighbourhoods may look great on paper, but they might be too expensive or far from your campus. To help you make the best choice, here are five key factors to consider when choosing where to live in Brighton:
- Budget & Rent Prices: Brighton is known for its high rent prices, so your budget will play a big role in where you can live.
- Shared flats are cheaper, costing GBP 500 – GBP 900 per month.
- Studios and one-bedroom apartments can go up to GBP 1,500 per month.
- Areas closer to the city centre are more expensive than those further out.
Safety & Crime Rates: As a student, you need to feel safe where you live. Some areas in Brighton have lower crime rates, while others may have more reports of theft and anti-social behaviour.
- Check local crime maps and ask students who already live there.
- Consider areas like Hove, Preston Park, and Kemptown for a safer living environment.
Transport & Connectivity: You don’t want to spend too much time or money commuting. Choose an area with good public transport options:
- Look for places with regular bus routes to your university.
- If you have a bicycle, check if the area has safe bike lanes.
- Living near Brighton Train Station is useful if you plan to travel frequently.
Proximity to Universities & Amenities: Living close to your university can save you money and time. Also, check for nearby supermarkets, pharmacies, libraries, and restaurants.
- The closer you are to your university, the higher the rent might be.
- Areas like Lewes Road and Elm Grove have a good balance of affordability and proximity to universities.
Social Life & Student Community: University life isn’t just about studies! Living in an area with an active student community makes it easier to make friends and socialize.
- Hove and North Laine are great for students who enjoy a vibrant social scene.
- Check if the area has cafés, bars, and student-friendly hangout spots.
Tips for Finding the Right Accommodation
Finding the perfect student accommodation can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can secure a safe, affordable, and comfortable place to live. Whether you’re looking for a private rental or student halls, it’s important to plan ahead and consider key factors like transport, bills, and safety. Here are some essential tips to help you find the right accommodation in Brighton:
- Start Early – Student housing fills up quickly, especially in popular areas. Begin your search at least 3-6 months before your move to get the best options.
- Check Public Transport – If you’re not living near your university, make sure your area has good bus or train connections to avoid long and expensive commutes.
- Consider Bills – Some rentals include utilities (water, electricity, Wi-Fi), while others don’t. Check before signing the lease to avoid unexpected costs.
- Visit if Possible – Pictures can be misleading. If you can, visit the property in person to check for any issues like dampness, security, or noisy surroundings.
- Look for Student-Friendly Landlords – Some landlords understand student needs better than others. Ask previous tenants or check online reviews to see if they’re responsive, fair, and easy to deal with. A good landlord can make your living experience much smoother!
FAQs
The best Brighton Neighbourhoods are Hanover, Kemptown, Elm Grove, etc.
Most students live in the City centre of Brighton, Hanover, Kemptown, etc.
Some of the safest places in Brighton are Preston Park, Kemptown, Hanover, Hove, etc.
Yes, Elm Grove is an excellent option for students. It offers a peaceful atmosphere for studying while being close to bars, restaurants, and transport links. It’s also within walking distance of the University of Brighton.
Kemptown offers easy access to the beach, lively nightlife, and a great mix of pubs and cafes. It’s a popular spot for students at both the University of Brighton and the University of Sussex, providing a balance of study and leisure.
es, Hove has great transport links, including frequent bus and train services to Brighton city centre. While it’s a little quieter than central Brighton, it’s still close enough for students to enjoy both peace and easy access to university and nightlife.
North Laine can be more expensive than other areas of Brighton due to its central location and cultural appeal. However, the proximity to the University of Brighton and the area’s vibrant atmosphere make it a popular choice for many students.
Moulsecoomb is ideal for students studying at the University of Brighton since it’s close to the main campus. It offers affordable housing but can be less vibrant than other areas, with fewer nightlife options.
Hanover offers more affordable housing compared to some other central areas, making it an appealing choice for budget-conscious students. While it’s a little hilly, its community feel and proximity to the city centre provide good value for money.
Preston Park is about a 10-minute bus ride from Brighton city centre, making it a convenient option for students. It offers more green space, a quieter atmosphere, and easy access to the city’s amenities and university campuses.
This blog was all about the best areas to live in Brighton for students. For booking the best accommodation abroad to start your study abroad experience you can contact Fly Homes at 1800572118.
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