Manchester is a vibrant city that attracts students from all over the world. With a variety of affordable student accommodation options available, finding a place to live on a budget can be a challenge. Understanding the different types of cheap accommodation in Manchester will help you make the right choice for your needs and budget.
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Top 5 Cheap Student Accommodation in Manchester
Looking for affordable student accommodation in Manchester? With its vibrant student life, excellent universities, and diverse cultural scene, Manchester is a top choice for students. However, finding budget-friendly living options can be a challenge. To help you out, we’ve rounded up the top 5 cheap student accommodation options in Manchester.
1. The Green (GBP 72/week)
If you’re looking for student accommodation in Bradford, The Green offers a great living space that combines comfort, convenience, and security. Located close to the city centre, it provides easy access to essential amenities and public transportation. For Leeds students, The Green offers a cost-effective option that’s still within reach of Leeds Trinity University.
The Green provides a variety of rooms within shared flats, and upper-year students can enjoy the option of living in townhouses with friends. Each apartment includes six en-suite bedrooms, a shared kitchen, dining, and living spaces. The accommodation is well-equipped with essentials. Designed with accessibility in mind, The Green also accommodates individuals with disabilities.
| Feature | Details |
| Room Types | En-suite bedrooms in shared flats; townhouses for second/third-year students. |
| Amenities | High-speed Wi-Fi, fully equipped kitchen, student lounge with PS4, table football, and a smart TV. |
| Security | 24/7 on-site security with CCTV monitoring, and bike storage. |
| Accessibility | Accommodations designed for individuals with disabilities, and easy access to public transportation. |
| Additional Services | Free contents insurance, and on-site laundry facilities. |
2. Horton House (GBP 74/week)
Bradford, a city renowned for its prestigious academic institutions, attracts a large number of international students every year. As a result, the demand for affordable and comfortable student accommodation has grown. Horton House, a prominent student accommodation in Bradford, provides a luxurious yet budget-friendly living experience for students.
Horton House offers a range of en-suite rooms, including deluxe and platinum options, within 5-bedroom apartments. Each room is equipped with a private bathroom, study area, and kitchen facilities, ensuring students have all the essentials for a convenient stay.
| Feature | Details |
| Room Types | Deluxe, platinum, and standard en-suite rooms in 5-bedroom apartments. |
| Amenities | High-speed internet, central heating, on-site laundry, cooker, microwave, washing machine, tumble dryer, vacuum cleaner. |
| Security | 24/7 CCTV surveillance, security services, and maintenance support. |
| Accessibility | 7-minute walk to the University of Bradford & 9-minute walk to Bradford College. |
| Additional Services | All-inclusive utility bills, proximity to museums, art galleries, eateries, entertainment venues, and cultural attractions. |
3. Longside House (GBP 74/week)
Longside House, located in the vibrant college town of Bradford, provides modern, affordable, and luxurious student accommodation. With a variety of essential amenities and its prime location near numerous supermarkets and eateries, students will find it convenient for everyday living. Ideal for students attending the University of Bradford, this property is just 10 minutes away from the university.
The accommodation is fully equipped with essential features. Longside House offers amenities including high-speed Wi-Fi, on-site laundry facilities, communal social areas with a TV, and a range of kitchen appliances. Its convenient location ensures easy access to various transport links, including nearby bus stations and train stations.
| Feature | Details |
| Room Types | Deluxe studios and premier/deluxe ensuites. |
| Amenities | Heater, mini-fridge, washing machine, tumble dryer, cooker, microwave, communal TV area, and secure bike storage. |
| Security | 24/7 CCTV surveillance, security services, and 24/7 maintenance support. |
| Accessibility | 9-minute car drive to the University of Bradford and 30-minute car drive to the University of Leeds |
| Additional Services | High-speed Wi-Fi, on-site laundry, all-inclusive utility bills, parking space, recycling facilities, and on-site administration. |
4. Queensland Place (GBP 74/week)
Queensland Place offers a mix of ensuite rooms and studios, catering to over 300 students. Ensuite rooms are arranged in clusters of 4 to 7 students and come with a ¾ bed, a large wardrobe, a desk and chair, and a private bathroom. Studios, on the other hand, offer greater privacy with a private kitchenette and ensuite bathroom.
The student accommodation offers a wide range of amenities designed to meet the needs of students. Additional conveniences include laundry facilities, on-site staff for assistance, and a study room. All bills, including Wi-Fi, are included in the accommodation, ensuring a hassle-free living experience for students.
| Feature | Details |
| Room Types | Ensuite rooms in clusters (4-7 students) and self-contained studios with private kitchenettes. |
| Amenities | Lounge area, gym, games room, cinema room, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi throughout, study room, on-site staff. |
| Security | On-site staff for assistance, secure building. |
| Accessibility | 14-minute public transport ride to Liverpool city centre. Close to Tesco Superstore and Williamson Tunnels Heritage Centre. |
| Additional Services | All-inclusive bills (including Wi-Fi), close to campuses, and nearby cultural attractions. |
5. The Warehouse Apartments (GBP 90/week)
Warehouse Apartments is one of the best-rated student accommodations in the UK, offering a comfortable, well-equipped environment for students. Surrounded by lush greenery, the apartments are designed to provide a serene and motivating atmosphere with contemporary and well-lit rooms that help students stay energized.
The rooms at Warehouse Apartments are fully equipped with everything students need. The fully furnished kitchens allow students to cook their own meals, making it a home-like experience. The location is also highly convenient, with Preston Train Station just a 17-minute walk away, offering easy access to major cities like Glasgow and London.
| Feature | Details |
| Room Types | Fully furnished rooms with comfortable beds, study areas, ensuite bathrooms, and fully equipped kitchens. |
| Amenities | High-speed Wi-Fi, on-site maintenance, laundry facilities, 24/7 CCTV security, games room, communal lounge. |
| Security | 24/7 CCTV security and on-site maintenance for peace of mind. |
| Accessibility | 3-minute walk to the University of Central Lancashire and a 17-minute walk to Preston Train Station. |
| Additional Services | Convenient location near retail centres, public transport, and nearby cultural attractions. |
Types of Cheap Student Accommodation in Manchester
Manchester offers a variety of affordable student accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some types of budget-friendly student housing in Manchester:
1. Shared Houses and Flats: Sharing a house or flat is a cost-effective way to live in Manchester. These properties typically feature multiple bedrooms, a shared bathroom, and a communal kitchen. Areas like Fallowfield, Rusholme, and Hulme are popular among students.
2. Private Halls of Residence: Private student accommodations offer various room types, including en-suite rooms, studios, and shared apartments. These halls often provide amenities such as Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and common areas.
3. University-Owned Accommodation: Universities like The University of Manchester offer on-campus housing options, including catered and self-catered halls. These accommodations are typically within walking distance of university buildings and include utilities like Wi-Fi and personal possessions insurance. For the 2024/25 academic year, fees for a single self-catering room with shared facilities range from GBP 113 to GBP 127 per week.
4. Studio Apartments: For students seeking more privacy, studio apartments provide a private bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen. While they are generally more expensive, some options are available at reasonable rates. For instance, a studio apartment in Hulme averages around GBP 500 per month.
5. Twin and Double Rooms: Twin rooms accommodate two students sharing a room, while double rooms offer more space with a double bed. These rooms are often more affordable than single occupancy rooms. For example, a twin room in Fallowfield averages around GBP 375 per month.
6. Short-Term and Summer Accommodation: Some accommodations offer short-term or summer-only contracts, which can be ideal for international students or those on exchange programs. Availability and pricing vary, so it’s advisable to check with individual providers.
Tips for Finding Cheap Student Accommodation in Manchester
Finding cheap student accommodation in Manchester requires strategic planning and research. From choosing the right location to negotiating rental agreements, there are various ways to secure budget-friendly options. Here are some practical and detailed tips to help you find the perfect place without overspending.
1. Start Early
- Why It’s Important: Starting your search early allows you to have a wider selection of available options. Popular student areas like Fallowfield or Rusholme tend to get fully booked quickly, especially during peak times like summer and the beginning of the academic year.
- How to Do It: Aim to begin your accommodation search at least 2-3 months before your preferred moving-in date. This gives you time to compare prices, visit properties, and consider your options without feeling rushed.
- Tip: Many accommodation providers offer early bird discounts or incentives for students who book well in advance.
2. Consider Location
- Why It’s Important: The location of your accommodation can significantly affect the rent you pay. Areas that are closer to universities or the city centre tend to be more expensive.
- How to Do It: Look for student-friendly neighbourhoods that are a little farther from the main university buildings but are still well connected by public transport. Areas like Hulme, Withington, and Levenshulme may offer cheaper rents while still providing easy access to campus via bus or tram.
- Tip: Check out the transport routes and times from potential accommodations to your university. A longer commute might cost less in rent but can add extra transport costs and time.
3. Check Inclusions
- Why It’s Important: Some rental agreements may include utilities (such as electricity, water, gas, and Wi-Fi), while others may not. These additional costs can quickly add up, so it’s important to know what’s covered.
- How to Do It: When you find a property, always confirm what’s included in the rent. Properties that include bills (often referred to as “all-inclusive” rents) can be more convenient and may work out cheaper overall.
- Tip: If the rent is cheaper but doesn’t include bills, factor the cost of utilities into your overall budget. Check if the landlord offers package deals for services like internet and TV, as this can sometimes save you money.
4. Use University Resources
- Why It’s Important: Many universities offer accommodation services that can help you find affordable housing, whether it’s university-run halls or off-campus properties. They often partner with reliable landlords and give priority to students for finding accommodation.
- How to Do It: Visit the accommodation office or check your university’s website for resources like accommodation lists, advice on finding affordable housing, and trusted accommodation providers.
- Tip: Some universities also have private accommodation search portals where students can connect directly with landlords offering properties at competitive rates.
5. Consider Shared Accommodation
- Why It’s Important: Sharing a house or flat with other students is one of the most affordable options available. This can significantly reduce your living costs by dividing rent, utility bills, and other expenses between multiple people.
- How to Do It: Look for shared housing in popular student areas. Be clear about how many roommates you are comfortable with (e.g., a 2-bedroom flat vs. a 5-bedroom house) and the facilities provided (e.g., bathroom, kitchen, living areas).
- Tip: Use student-focused websites or university noticeboards to find flatmates, and ensure that you establish clear agreements with your roommates regarding shared expenses and responsibilities.
Top Areas for Cheap Student Accommodation in Manchester
Looking for affordable places to stay in Manchester? Here’s a guide to the top areas offering the cheapest student accommodations. These locations combine budget-friendly living with convenience, ensuring students have easy access to universities and essential amenities.
- Fallowfield
A popular student hub known for its vibrant social scene, Fallowfield offers a range of affordable shared flats, houses, and university halls, with easy access to the University of Manchester. - Rusholme
Famous for the “Curry Mile,” Rusholme is a budget-friendly area with plenty of student housing options, excellent eateries, and convenient public transport links to city universities. - Hulme
Close to Manchester Metropolitan University and the city centre, Hulme features reasonably priced accommodations, from modern apartments to shared houses, ideal for students on a budget. - Victoria Park
A quieter residential area with affordable housing, Victoria Park is ideal for students seeking a balance between cost and tranquillity while still being close to the universities. - Ardwick
Located near the University of Manchester, Ardwick offers cost-effective living options with excellent transport connectivity, making it a top choice for students.
Finding cheap student accommodation in Manchester is entirely possible with the right approach and research. By considering various options, such as shared flats or university-managed halls, and understanding factors like location and included amenities, students can secure affordable housing while making the most of their university experience.
Starting early and utilising available resources can also make a significant difference in finding the best deals. For booking the best student accommodation abroad to start your study abroad experience you can contact Fly Homes at 1800572118.
FAQs
Affordable areas include Fallowfield, Rusholme, and Hulme, which are popular for their budget-friendly housing options and proximity to universities.
The average cost ranges from GBP 90 to GBP 200 per week, depending on the type of accommodation and its location.
Many budget accommodations include utility bills like electricity, water, and Wi-Fi in the rent, but it’s best to confirm with the provider.
Options include shared flats, ensuite rooms, studio apartments, and university halls of residence.
Most cheap accommodations are located within 10–30 minutes of major universities, either by walking or public transport.
Yes, there are many options catering to international students, with flexible leases and furnished rooms.
Start searching early, compare options online, and consider booking through student accommodation platforms or directly with property managers.
Many budget accommodations offer security features like CCTV, key card access, and on-site staff for student safety.
While rare, some accommodations may allow pets. Check with the property management for their policies.
Some accommodations may charge extra for laundry, parking, or upgraded Wi-Fi. Always review the contract to understand any additional fees.
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