Comparing Cardiff Student Accommodation Options – Which Should You Choose?
Due to its welcoming nature, the city of Cardiff is deemed a good place for students and is home to three universities: the University of Cardiff, Cardiff Metropolitan University, and the University of South Wales. All three institutions are ranked highly in annual university rankings, as well as providing a wide range of degrees, internships and future career opportunities. When moving to Cardiff as a student, you may want to consider the different types of accommodation available.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best student accommodation options available in Cardiff, and how to find an ideal place for your needs.
What Features Should I Look for When Choosing Cardiff Student Accommodation?
Choosing where you live during your time at university is an incredibly important step. It can help enhance your student experience so that you have everything you will need throughout the term length – especially if you are new to Cardiff.
Here are some considerations to keep in mind when finding Cardiff student accommodation:
●Location: Look for Cardiff student accommodation that is conveniently placed near the city centre or in popular student neighbourhoods with green spaces, such as Cathays or Roath.
●Proximity to university: Consider the distance from the student accommodation to the specific institution (University of Cardiff, Cardiff Met or University of South Wales campuses).
●Public transport links: Don’t restrict yourself and look for good bus, train, and cycle routes to explore Cardiff or to simplify commuting.
●Nearby amenities: Try to imagine your student life if living at the property and look at the surrounding area for supermarkets, shops, gyms, and buzzing nightlife.
●Facilities: Consider the Cardiff student accommodation’s features, such as laundry rooms, ensuites, study spaces, and communal areas.
●Security features: CCTV, lockable bedrooms, secure fob entry, and onsite maintenance.
●What is included in the rent: To make budgeting easier, consider student accommodation in Cardiff that is all-inclusive of bills.
What Are the Different Cardiff Student Accommodation Options?
When moving to a new city like Cardiff, it’s important to find suitable student accommodation that meets your needs. Typically, there are three types of Cardiff student housing, each with their own advantages and disadvantages:
University Halls of Residence
First year students tend to gravitate toward student accommodation managed by the university. They are great at establishing strong and fast connections with other like-minded students, especially if you are new to the area and have never lived away from home before.
As aforementioned, Cardiff hosts various campuses from three universities. The University of Cardiff provides halls of residence with both catered and self-catered options, such as Gordon Hall and the North and Fate complexes. Based on or close to the campus, these properties are beneficial for building a social circle, and navigating new university life; allowing easy commuting to lectures and resources, such as libraries and labs.
Pros of shared housing:
●Often cheaper than other accommodation types
●Complete independence and flexibility
●Freedom to choose who you live with
●Widely available throughout the city, including popular areas Cathays and Roath
Cons of shared housing:
●Bills are not often included, leading to extra budgeting and sharing bills
●Varying property and room quality
●Reliant on the landlord, which may cause future issues with communication
Private Student Accommodation
Although the most expensive option, there are many benefits to choosing private student accommodation in Cardiff. Modern, purpose-built accommodation is managed with students in mind, often in extremely convenient locations and close to important amenities and university facilities.
Pros of Cardiff private halls:
●Modern facilities available, including ensuite rooms, study areas, and luxury communal spaces
●All-inclusive bills, high-speed Wi-Fi, and contents insurance
●More variety of room types available, including ensuites, studios, and one-bedroom apartments
●Strong security facilities, such as CCTV, onsite staff, and secure fob entry systems
Cons of Cardiff private halls:
●Higher cost compared to other accommodation options
●May feel less like a community depending on the property/provider
At Mansion Student, we provide luxury Cardiff student accommodation within walking distance to the University of Cardiff campus. With rooms varying from standard studios to penthouse apartments, there’s an option for every student type and budget!
Interested? Arrange a viewing at City Heights, based in the centre of Cardiff, to find out more.
Are There Any Cardiff Accommodation Options Tailored to Specific Needs?
As the capital of Wales, Cardiff students may have linguistic needs to be met. Welsh speakers or learners may want to live in student accommodation that focuses on providing Welsh-speaking services or documents.
The University of Cardiff provides specialised housing for this, which can be requested on demand. It’s a great option for Cardiff students who want to preserve and promote the Welsh language, and can help strengthen a cultural identity. If this is something important to your learning, speak to accommodation providers to see if they provide this feature.
Couples may want to look for student accommodation that provides a large space for cohabitation, and get their first taste of what adulthood could look like. Our Cardiff student accommodation, City Heights, offers dual-occupancy options, perfect for couples or friends sharing the space. For an additional £25 per week, you can share the luxurious facilities, including a comfortable lounge area and communal games and study rooms.
Browse the room types available at our Cardiff student accommodation here!
Private Cardiff Student Accommodation Provided by Mansion Student
Since 2007, Mansion Student have acquired, developed, and managed purpose-built student accommodation across the UK. We look for conveniently located properties with students’ best interests as our top priority. With no deposit and all-inclusive bills, our student accommodations contain secure facilities and flexible contracts depending on the location.
Based a short walk from Cardiff city centre, our Cardiff student accommodation on City Road is perfect for students from all Cardiff universities, including the University of Cardiff and Cardiff Met. Balance independence with modern facilities for the ultimate student experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Should I Apply for Cardiff Student Accommodation?
First year students should start searching for student accommodation as soon as possible. Between September and October, consider looking at potential locations and arranging viewings alongside university open days. Finalise your choice from November to book your preferred choice by February.
For more information, read our full guide on when to start looking for student accommodation and book your preferred choice here.
How Much Does Cardiff Student Accommodation Cost?
The cost of Cardiff accommodation varies depending on the location and property type. Typically, university halls start from £130 per week, compared to private student accommodation, which starts from £170 per week and often includes more modern features and all-inclusive bills.
