Choosing Cardiff Private Student Accommodation | Shared Houses vs PBSA
As you begin your student life in the vibrant Welsh capital city, you may be drawn to university halls at one of the Cardiff institutions - the University of Cardiff, Cardiff Metropolitan University, or the University of South Wales (USW) – which has a campus near Cardiff city centre.
First-year students often prioritise halls of residence as places to meet like-minded tenants and build connections. Afterwards, second- and third-year students tend to book alternative housing, such as shared flats, houses, or Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA).
In the guide, we will explore and compare private student accommodation options in Cardiff and help you choose the best housing for your needs.
What Cardiff Private Student Accommodation Options Are Available?
Throughout Cardiff, there are many student accommodation options outside of university management. These primarily fall into two categories: traditional shared houses or flats, or modern, purpose-built student accommodation.
There are many reasons why a student may thrive in Cardiff private student accommodation over other options. International students who have just moved to the United Kingdom, or mature students, may prefer to live in an all-inclusive, social environment away from the university campus – especially if they would rather avoid noisy freshers.
Let’s explore the main private options for Cardiff student accommodation, and their pros and cons:
Shared Houses and Flats
Throughout Cardiff, there is a large selection of shared student flats and houses, with varying degrees of quality, amenities, and proximity to popular student areas. Shared houses and flats often attract tenants looking for a ”traditional student experience” - sharing a place (and bills) with fellow housemates.
While weekly rent is typically lower than for other accommodation options, some tenants may struggle with the added responsibility of bill sharing.
| Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
| ● Often lower weekly rent costs compared with premium PBSA options | ● Shared responsibilities may cause potential disputes amongst housemates |
| ● May be possible to negotiate on bills and furnishings | ● Quality of accommodation varies depending on the property’s age |
| ● Typically has a strong sense of “traditional student living” | ● Less built-in support, such as 24/7 maintenance, CCTV or an on-site hospitality team |
| ● Joint tenants may be liable for housemates’ actions | |
| ● May be further away from the city centre and university amenities |
For more information, read our expert guide comparing student shared flats vs houses to determine which is the right choice for you here.
Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)
This type of Cardiff private student accommodation is chosen by providers with a student’s wellbeing in mind. PBSA options tend to attract mature, international, and second- and third-year students who are looking for a quieter place to live and study – a great combination of the independence of shared houses with all-inclusive bills and convenient amenities.
While this option is often more expensive than shared housing or university halls, the facilities, security, and high quality can offer excellent value for money.
| Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
| ● Modern accommodation designed with students in mind | ● Often a higher cost, however, this may be offset by quality, amenities, and all-inclusive bills |
| ● All-inclusive bills for added convenience | ● Depending on the room type (one-bedroom apartment/studio), there may be less of a “student dynamic” |
| ● Excellent amenities, including study spaces, gym access, laundry facilities and communal spaces | ● May have less choice over housemates |
| ● Security features, like CCTV and on-site hospitality and maintenance teams | |
| ● Convenient location |
Make sure to view your Cardiff student accommodation options for complete clarity.
Arrange a viewing at our Cardiff student accommodation, City Heights, today!
Which Cardiff Neighbourhood is Best for Students?
Choosing the right neighbourhood in Cardiff is just as important as choosing your accommodation. For many, the city centre is the top choice, placing you in the heart of Cardiff and close to everything you need. Popular areas of private student accommodation include:
● Cathays: the largest student neighbourhood in Cardiff, and is packed with shared houses, HMOs, and student flats. Perfect for students of the University of Cardiff.
● Roath: popular with second- and third-year students, with shared houses and PBSA options. A mix of quieter streets and lively pockets on City Road.
● Heath – shared houses for healthcare students, with proximity to the University Hospital of Wales.
● Adamsdown – a growing student area within walking distance of Cardiff University and USW, with a good mix of PBSA and private flats.
● Cardiff Bay – a scenic waterfront with premium PBSA options.
For more information, read our guide to comparing the most popular student areas in Cardiff here.
Often, PBSA options are located nearer to the city centre and university amenities as these properties are chosen specifically for a student’s convenience. In Cardiff, this includes the popular areas of Cathays and Roath. Saving time and money, students may find it more favourable to live close to their university and have easy access to Cardiff’s nightlife and shops.
| Feature | Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) | Shared House |
|---|---|---|
| Bills | Usually all-inclusive (water, gas, electricity, WiFi) | Separately managed by tenants |
| Amenities | Gym, cinema, study rooms, games areas, and on-site laundry | Basic living spaces (kitchen, living room) |
| Security | On-site staff, secure entry, CCTV | Standard door locks |
| Maintenance | On-site team handles all repairs | Tenants report issues to a landlord or agency |
Preparing to Move into Your Cardiff Private Student Accommodation
Getting ready to move into your new student home in Cardiff? Make sure to consider the following:
● Check what’s already included: does your tenancy contract feature all-inclusive bills? Or, will you need to split bills with your new housemates? Often, purpose-built student accommodation will consist of bills, high-speed WiFi, and support services (e.g., mental health first-aiders, on-site hospitality/maintenance teams).
● Get your paperwork sorted early: make sure your tenancy contract is signed and, if you’re in a shared house, whether you are liable for your housemates’ actions (joint tenancy). Check your move-in date, when you collect your new keys, and what documents you should bring – this often includes a form of ID.
● Follow your move-in checklist & document everything: you should have a checklist provided by your accommodation provider if moving into private student accommodation. Note any marks, faults or issues immediately and report them to the maintenance team.
● Explore your new neighbourhood: familiarise yourself with your new surroundings. Find out your nearest GP, transport links (bus stops/train stations), supermarket, nightlife options, and university amenities.
City Heights – Our Cardiff Private Student Accommodation
If you’re looking for modern, all-inclusive student living in one of Cardiff’s most convenient locations, City Heights by Mansion Student offers:
● Private studios and one-bedroom apartments
● Based in the heart of the city
● On-site gym
● Quiet study areas and social lounges
● Secure entry and CCTV
● On-site hospitality and maintenance teams
● A short walk to Cardiff University, the University of Wales and the city centre
● Short bus ride to Cardiff Met
Arrange a viewing at City Heights to explore the features, amenities, and surrounding area, today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can international students easily find Cardiff private student housing?
Absolutely - Cardiff is a welcoming city for international students, with plenty of private student accommodation options available. Many providers in the city centre cater specifically to students from the United Kingdom and abroad, offering a straightforward booking process and supportive communities to help you settle in.
Is it safer to choose private student accommodation over university halls in Cardiff?
Both university halls and PBSA options often include security features, such as CCTV, on-site maintenance and lockable bedrooms and flats.
