Oxford is a charming and historic city, well-known around the world for its famous university, beautiful architecture, and peaceful green spaces. But it’s not just for students or tourists—many people choose to live here because of its mix of culture, convenience, and community life.
Whether you’re moving here for work, studies, or a fresh start, choosing the right neighbourhood is very important. The best areas to live in Oxford offer good transport links, local shops, cafes, parks, and a safe and friendly environment. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the best areas to live in Oxford and what makes each one special, so you can find the perfect place to call home.
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6 Best Areas to Live in Oxford
If you’re planning to move to this beautiful city, here are the 6 best areas to live in Oxford—each offering a great mix of comfort, convenience, and community to match different needs and lifestyles.
1. City Centre
Oxford City Centre is a top choice for students who love being in the middle of the action. As one of the best areas to live in Oxford, it’s packed with restaurants, cafes, and retail stores, offering everything you need within walking distance. Besides being close to the City Center, Oxford University offers a great nightlife with close bars and pubs. No doubt there in selecting best student accommodation in Oxford University. The crime rate is low, so it’s a safe place for students to live. City Centre is one of the top choices for living in Oxford for students.
Check Out some Restaurants in the City Centre
| Restaurants | Google Ratings |
| Pizza Express | 4.1/5 |
| Chiang Mai Kitchen | 4.4/5 |
Check Out some Markets in the City Centre
| Markets | Google Ratings |
| Sainsbury’s Local | 3.8/5 |
| Chango Empanadas | 4.4/5 |
Also Read: If You Are Living In Oxford, Don’t Miss To Check Out Our Blog On 5 Cheapest Student Accommodation in Oxford!
2. Jericho
Jericho is one of the best areas to live in Oxford, especially for students who enjoy a lively and diverse atmosphere. Located near the Oxford University Press, this well-known neighbourhood is famous for its mix of cultures, historic charm, and beautiful architecture. Jericho is one of the famous places to choose from best student housing options in United Kingdom. Oxford’s best architecture may be found in Jericho, which also has a tonne of restaurants, cafes, pubs, and markets.
Check Out some Restaurants in the Jericho
| Restaurants | Google Ratings |
| The Victoria | 4.5/5 |
| Peppers Burgers | 4.8/5 |
Check Out some Markets in the Jericho
| Markets | Google Ratings |
| Gloucester Green Market | 4.4/5 |
| Lung Wah Chong | 4.1/5 |
3. Summertown (North Oxford)
Situated somewhat north of Oxford’s city centre, Summertown is one of the most sought-after neighbourhoods because it possesses the charm of the city core at a slightly reduced cost of living. The location is especially well-liked by Oxford University students since it offers access to St. Hugh’s, Wolfson, and Lady Margaret Hall. This place can be reached in a short bus ride from Oxford Parkway Railway Station. Summertown is full of stores, pubs, eateries, and supermarkets.
Check Out some Restaurants in the Summertown
| Restaurants | Google Ratings |
| Mamma Mia Pizzeria Summertown | 4.5/5 |
| Pompette | 4.5/5 |
Check Out some Markets in the Summertown
| Markets | Google Ratings |
| Summertown Farmers Market | 4.2/5 |
| North Parade Market | 4.7/5 |
Also Read: While going through these best areas to live in Oxford, check out our blog on 5 Exciting Weekend giveaways from Oxford for Students!
4. Grandpoint & Abingdon Road
Grandpont and Abingdon Road are among the best areas to live in Oxford for students who prefer a quieter, more relaxed environment without being too far from the city centre. This area offers a peaceful, almost countryside feel while still being just a short walk or bus ride away from central Oxford. It’s close to local markets, pubs, and hospitals, providing easy access to daily essentials. Set alongside the river and surrounded by green parks, it’s ideal for students who own cars and want a calm place to live with a touch of nature.
Check Out some Restaurants in the Grandpoint & Abingdon Road
| Restaurants | Google Ratings |
| The Folly Restaurant | 4.5/5 |
| Caffè Ethos | 4.1/5 |
Check Out some Markets in the Grandpoint & Abingdon Road
| Markets | Google Ratings |
| Sainsbury’s Local | 3.8/5 |
| North’s Market | 4.1/5 |
5. Headington
Located on the eastern side of the city, Cowley is one of the best areas to live in Oxford, especially for students who enjoy a vibrant social scene. This lively neighbourhood is home to many popular student bars and pubs, creating a fun and welcoming atmosphere. The student housing mainly consists of spacious Victorian terrace houses, which are perfect for larger groups. With Oxford University just a short walk away, Cowley remains a top choice for students looking for convenience, comfort, and a buzzing community.
Check Out some Restaurants in the Headington
| Restaurants | Google Ratings |
| McDonald’s | 3.8/5 |
| Caprinos Pizza Oxford – Headington | 4.2/5 |
Check Out some Markets in the Headington
| Markets | Google Ratings |
| Thong Heng | 4.4/5 |
| Headington Market | 4.6/5 |
6. Marston
Marston, which is a little further east and backs onto the University grounds, is a popular neighbourhood among students due to its relative quietness. However, you can quickly get to the city core and markets thanks to the bike and pedestrian pathways. Although Marston is well-liked by students from both universities, academics, and post-graduate students tend to favour it more because it’s a more tranquil neighbourhood.
Check Out some Restaurants in the City Centre
| Restaurants | Google Ratings |
| The Red Lion, Old Marston, Oxford | 4.5/5 |
| Joe’s Bar & Grill | 4.3/5 |
Check Out some Markets in the City Centre
| Markets | Google Ratings |
| South Oxford Farmers Market | 5/5 |
| Your Coop Food Market | 4.6/5 |
How to Find the Best Areas to Live in Oxford
Choosing where to live in a city like Oxford can feel overwhelming, especially with so many unique and student-friendly neighbourhoods to consider. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to focus on your studies or a lively area full of cafes and social spots, finding the best areas to live in Oxford requires careful planning and research. Here are some tips to help you make the right decision:
- Set Your Priorities: Decide what matters most—distance from university, public transport, local amenities, budget, or social life.
- Research Online: Use trusted websites, student forums, and property platforms to explore different neighbourhoods in Oxford.
- Check Safety and Accessibility: Look for areas with low crime rates and good access to buses, cycle paths, or walking routes to campus.
- Visit the Area (If Possible): Walking around a neighbourhood can help you get a feel for its atmosphere, facilities, and student presence.
- Ask Current Students or Locals: Speak to people who already live there for honest opinions on what it’s like to stay in that area.
- Compare Housing Options: Look into the types of accommodation available—shared flats, student halls, or private rentals—and see what fits your needs.
- Consider the Social Environment: Some areas are quieter while others are lively with cafes, bars, and student events—choose what suits your lifestyle.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Areas to Live in Oxford
When deciding where to live, it’s important to think beyond just the location. The best areas to live in Oxford offer more than just a roof over your head—they should match your lifestyle, needs, and daily routine. Here are the key factors to keep in mind while choosing the right neighbourhood:
- Proximity to University or Workplace: Living close to Oxford University or your place of work can save time and travel costs.
- Safety and Security: Always check the safety ratings of the area. Low-crime neighbourhoods are especially important for students and first-time residents.
- Budget and Rental Costs: Consider whether the area fits your budget. Some places may offer better value with shared housing or student deals.
- Transport Links: Easy access to buses, cycle paths, or walking routes makes daily travel more convenient.
- Shops and Essential Services: Being near grocery stores, pharmacies, and other daily needs can make life much easier.
- Social and Cultural Life: If you enjoy a lively environment, choose areas with cafes, pubs, events, or student hangouts.
- Green Spaces and Parks: Having access to nearby parks can be great for relaxing, studying outdoors, or exercising.
- Type of Accommodation Available: Some areas offer more shared flats or student housing, while others may have private rentals or family homes.
FAQs
Oxford City Centre, Jericho and Summertown (North Oxford) are among the best areas to live in Oxford for students in 2025 due to their proximity to the university, vibrant student life, and good transport links.
Marston and Headington are the cheapest places to live for students.
It is about 4 minutes’ drive from Oxford University and the City centre.
Yes, Headington is a good place for students with great nightlife and markets nearby.
Yes, Oxford City Centre is one of the best areas to live in Oxford for students in 2025 because of its convenience, nightlife, and closeness to university facilities.
Yes, areas slightly away from the city centre, like Cowley and Abingdon Road, offer more affordable rent while still being among the best areas to live in Oxford for students in 2025.
Cowley and Jericho are known for their lively atmosphere, making them two of the best areas to live in Oxford for students in 2025 who enjoy socialising, nightlife, and cultural diversity.
Absolutely. Most of the best areas to live in Oxford for students are well connected by buses and cycle paths, making it easy to get around the city.
You can search on student housing platforms, university accommodation services, or rental websites. Visiting local agents and joining student forums can also help you find accommodation in the best areas to live in Oxford.
It depends on the property. Some student accommodations in the best areas to live in Oxford include utilities, while others require separate payments for electricity, water, and internet.
Some of the greatest neighbourhoods in Oxford to reside in are those listed above. Make sure you know the costs and facilities available in the selected area. Also, Don’t forget to know the available transportation options from your university. Make sure to know the distance between the residence and the college.
For booking the best accommodation abroad to start your study abroad experience you can contact Fly Homes at 1800572118.
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