Student Accommodation in Leicester

How Much Does Student Accommodation in Leicester Cost?

Leicester is one of the most cost-effective places to study in the UK, with rental prices about 50% lower compared to London, and almost all PBSAs come with their bills included. The following table provides the verified price ranges per week for different rooms and locations based on 2025–26 data.

The majority of PBSAs in Leicester offer free Wi-Fi, water, gas, and electricity as part of your weekly payment, which makes it much easier for you to budget right away. In private shared accommodations, the utilities are generally not included, so expect to pay an extra £15-30 per week. Each listing mentioned on Gradding Homes clearly specifies whether student accommodation Leicester bills are included or not.

Types of Student Accommodation in Leicester

Leicester has a great choice for all budgets and lifestyles, be it budget-friendly HMOs to top-notch PBSAs in the heart of the city. Below is a short list to guide you in deciding your ideal place before starting your search.

1. En-suite Rooms– A private bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, but shared kitchen. Popular PBSA accommodation in Leicester that is a combination of privacy and affordability.
2. Non En-suite rooms— A private bedroom with a shared bathroom and shared kitchen. Cost-effective accommodation is the most common form of student housing in Leicester.
3. Studio Flats– These consist of fully self-contained units having a separate kitchenette and bathrooms. These are generally private student accommodation Leicester and are ideal for postgraduate students or individuals who wish to lead a more independent life.
4. Shared houses (HMOs)— Sharing rooms in a private accommodation with other housemates. This is generally the least expensive form of Leicester student accommodation, with no bills included.
5. University halls— These are managed directly by the University of Leicester or De Montfort University. The universities ensure that all their first-year students have accommodations in university halls, provided their applications are received before the deadline.

Best Areas for Student Accommodation in Leicester

Leicester is quite a small city and, no matter which part you are in, you are always within 20 minutes of either university campus. The following places are those that are most favoured by students in 2026.

The cheapest areas of homes for students Leicester in terms of weekly rental rates are Highfields and West End. The Clarendon Park area is a much sought-after area because it caters to the requirements of University of Leicester students, who prefer an active and social environment.

Student Accommodation Near Top Leicester Universities

Leicester is home to two universities, namely the University of Leicester and De Montfort University (DMU). These two universities host over 45,000 students. Given below are the top properties where these students live around these universities.

1. Near University of Leicester (UoL)

The University of Leicester campus is located just south of the city centre, close to Victoria Park. The highly sought-after neighborhoods for student housing near the University of Leicester are Clarendon Park, Highfields, and the city center, which can be reached within 10-20 minutes walking distance. The most recommended places to stay in the vicinity of the UoL include iQ Opal Court, CODE Leicester, and Regents Court, which are all fully furnished places without any bills.

2. Near De Montfort University (DMU)

DMU University is situated at the heart of the city of Leicester, which means that the university is among the most centrally situated university institutions in the entire UK. Students of DMU generally reside either in the heart of the city, West End, or Narborough Road, all within walking distance from the university. Some of the highly recommended housing options Leicester near DMU include iQ Grosvenor House, Queens Court, and Lumis Leicester.

Student Accommodation in Leicester for International Students

Finding the right place before you arrive is one of the most practical challenges for international students in Leicester. Here's what you need to know before you book.

1. No UK Guarantor Required - The majority of student accommodation properties in Leicester generally require a UK guarantor for booking a room. A deposit of two or three months of rent upfront is normally acceptable as an alternative, or the accommodation provider would arrange an international guarantor.
2. When to Book - If you are planning on starting your course in September, then you should begin your search from November or even January, as accommodation close to both universities is generally booked up by spring. Generally, all accommodations offer an opportunity to make a provisional booking, which means you receive a full refund of your deposit if your place at university is not finalised.
3. Documents Needed to Book - Passport, National ID, a UK Student Visa or a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies), an offer from your university and proof of financial support are usually among the essential documents that you need to have ready prior to the application process.
4. Leicester's Affordability Advantage - The cost of living in Leicester is far more affordable compared to other cities like London or Manchester because of the lower rent rates, which are approximately 50% less than that of London and even less than the national average in the UK. This makes Leicester one of the most realistic options for an international student on a budget.