What is the Cost of Cardiff Student Accommodation? | Comparing Types & Amenities

There is no set cost for student accommodation in Cardiff, as year-to-year averages may fluctuate based on various factors.

Here are some of the most impactful factors that may change the cost of Cardiff student accommodation:

●   Location: expect to pay more in areas close to Cardiff city centre, such as Cathays, and in premium, built-up areas like Cardiff Bay. Roath is often more affordable than Cathays, whilst still within walking distance of key amenities and both the University of and Metropolitan campuses.

For more information, read our complete guide to the best student areas in Cardiff here.

●   Proximity to University: often, accommodation near universities (such as the University of Cardiff, Cardiff Met, the University of South Wales or even the Royal Welsh College) is more expensive than houses further away. However, living closer to these facilities can sometimes offset travel costs and save time in the long run.

●   Accommodation Type: shared houses and flats often have lower weekly rent costs than university halls and PBSA options; however, they may have dated interiors, less effective insulation, greater maintenance needs, and less support.

●   Room Types and Accommodation Features: luxury room styles, such as spacious studios and one-bedroom apartments, will cost more than a standard ensuite room. Also, some private properties come with fantastic extras that add to your living experience, including gym access, cinema rooms, games rooms, and modern communal spaces - designed with students in mind to make your life easier and more enjoyable.

●   Contract Length: university-managed halls often have shorter contract lengths aligned with the academic year (e.g. 39 to 46 weeks), compared to shared HMOs or private options, which may vary more widely (e.g. the full 12 months).

Browse the various types of student accommodation in Cardiff and their average rent costs below:

University Halls of Residence: Uni of & Metropolitan

University halls of residence are a very popular choice, especially for first-year students, as they are a great way to meet new people and are in incredibly convenient locations. With three universities spread across the Welsh city, including the University of Cardiff, Cardiff Metropolitan University, and the University of South Wales (USW), which has a Cardiff campus in the city centre, there are a range of options for an instant campus feel.

The University of Cardiff prioritises a welcoming environment, with specific accommodation for Welsh-language speakers, LGBT+ students and self-catered and catered options. Weekly rents start from £137; Talybont North is the university's largest accommodation, near the Heath Park campus and city centre amenities.

Similarly, Cardiff Metropolitan University provides both self-catered and catered accommodation at both its Llandaff and Cyncoed campuses. Weekly rent costs start at £150 for a self-catered ensuite.

Shared Houses and Flats

Renting a room in a shared house or flat can be one of the most budget-friendly options, with average weekly rents for a room in a house share sitting around £120-£150. The University of Cardiff also manages student houses in the Village, which act the same as those further out of the city centre - starting from £120 per week.

These options tend to be lower-cost per week; however, prices can vary depending on the property's location, quality, and size. Within these properties, expect non-ensuite standard bedrooms with shared bathrooms, as studios and ensuites are rare.

It is also important to remember that most private student accommodations do not include bills, so you will need to budget separately for utilities like gas, electricity, water, and WiFi, which can add significantly to your monthly living costs.

Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)

Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) offers a modern, hassle-free living experience tailored to students. Often conveniently located near the city centre, transport links, and university amenities, these provide stylish student rooms and fantastic communal facilities.

Although PBSA options usually have the highest upfront cost, they typically include all utility bills, WiFii, contents insurance, and beneficial features (study areas, games rooms, laundry facilities, etc.) to offset this.

In Cardiff, expect private student accommodations to cost from  £130 to over  £300 per week, depending on the property, room size, and location.

At Mansion Student, we develop, refurbish, and manage purpose-built student accommodation across major cities in the UK, including Cardiff. Based near Cathays and Roath, our City Heights accommodation consists of luxury ensuites in varying room sizes, including studios and one-bedroom apartments - all of which have access to modern communal spaces, including a roof terrace, a games room and dedicated study areas.

This type of modern student living usually includes all bills in the rent, so you don't have to worry about managing multiple payments.

Our all-inclusive Cardiff student accommodation - prices starting from £241

Interested? Arrange a viewing at our Cardiff student accommodation today!

It's important to check the tenancy agreement before booking any type of student accommodation, as this contract will outline your financial responsibilities throughout your stay. It will also state the tenancy length, payment plan options (a single instalment, three instalments or a monthly direct debit) and whether you will need a guarantor.

Let's break down the costs to expect during your tenancy at Cardiff student accommodation:

What is Included in the Rent

Understanding what your rent covers is crucial for managing your money. With many types of student housing, especially purpose-built student accommodation like City Heights, you will find that the rent is all-inclusive. This is a huge benefit for students.

Seen at most purpose-built accommodation and university halls, an all-inclusive agreement means that your main utility bills are bundled into your single weekly payment. This makes budgeting much simpler, as you won't have any surprise bills to deal with. It also removes the hassle of setting up accounts with different suppliers, which is especially helpful for international students.

Typically, an all-inclusive rent package will cover:

●      Gas and electricity

●      Water

●      High-speed WiFi

●      Contents insurance (in some cases)

What is Not Included in the Rent

Even with an all-inclusive rent package, there are some personal expenses you'll need to cover yourself. These are the day-to-day living costs that are part of your overall student experience.

Forgetting to budget for these extra costs can strain your finances, so it’s wise to plan for them in advance. This ensures you have enough money to enjoy your student living experience to the fullest without any financial stress.

Common expenses not typically included in rent are:

●      Weekly shopping and toiletries

●      A TV Licence if you watch live TV or BBC iPlayer

●      Public transport costs

●      Social activities, nightlife, and entertainment

Opting for shared bills or all-inclusive living can greatly influence your budgeting strategy in Cardiff student accommodation.

Shared bills often reduce upfront costs, allowing you to split utility bills like electricity and WiFi with housemates and giving you more control over monthly expenses. On the other hand, all-inclusive living in purpose-built student accommodation provides a fixed monthly rent covering utilities, internet, and sometimes even amenities.

Compare the pros and cons of all-inclusive accommodation vs sharing bills with housemates below:

Mansion Student provides all-inclusive student accommodation throughout the UK. At our Cardiff property, City Heights, your rent includes all utility bills, high-speed WiFi, contents insurance, WiFi security features (fob entry and CCTV), access to modern communal spaces, and support from an on-site hospitality and maintenance team.

Secure your room at our Cardiff student accommodation here.

If you have any questions, contact the Mansion Student team today!

Does the cost of Cardiff student accommodation include utilities?

It depends on the accommodation type. Purpose-built student accommodation is usually all-inclusive, meaning utility bills are included in the rent. University halls often operate similarly. However, if you rent a room in a private shared house, you will likely have to pay for your bills separately.

Are there affordable student accommodation options for international students?

Yes, Cardiff has many affordable student accommodation options perfect for international students. All-inclusive properties are a great choice as they make budgeting simple and remove the stress of setting up utility accounts in a new country. There is a wide range of student housing available to suit different budgets.

How does Cardiff’s accommodation cost compare to other UK cities?

Cardiff is considered one of the most cost-effective and affordable student cities in the UK. The cost of living and average rent are generally lower than in other large cities, such as Bristol or London. This allows you to enjoy a fantastic student experience in a capital city without the high price tag.

Related Content

Student accommodation near Cardiff University

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