Student Accommodation in Manchester

Manchester is a vibrant and lively city in the UK offers opportunities of cultural immersion while deep diving into your regular studies. As you prepare your higher education journey you will have to find the right student accommodation in Manchester. This article shares details on the best accommodations in Manchester for international students.

Finding the right student accommodation in Manchester is one of the first big step to preparing for student life in this beautiful city in the UK. With a 1,00,000 student population and the presence of multiple world-class universities in the city, Manchester offers a variety of student housing options to choose from. These include choosing from the university halls and private purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) to shared houses and short-term lets. This article contains details on the student accommodation in Manchester, UK. Check out the guide to studying in the UK for international students.

Types of Student Accommodation in Manchester

There are three main types of student accommodations in Manchester tailored to the different preferences and budgets of the students. These are:

1. University Halls of Residence/Dormitories

These are often the go-to accommodation option for most first-year students. The university halls of residence offer various facilities and a comfortable haven for students. Students can choose from the catered and self-catered options, which range from the basic sharing room to ensuite options. If you opt for a university dormitory, you get great community support, remain surrounded by fellow students, stay close to college, and even get assured placement if you apply on time. 

These types of student accommodations in Manchester are directly managed by institutions like the University of Manchester or Manchester Metropolitan University (abbreviated as MMU and Man Met). So you don’t have to worry about your safety and security in a foreign country, and also the fees that you pay are inclusive of all the bills, such as covering utilities, Wi-Fi, and sometimes even insurance. However, university halls can sometimes be more expensive than private options and offer less independence (due to stricter rules). They also often come with fixed and specific contract lengths (10-12 months), which can be renewed the next year. Check out how to find the best student accommodations for studying abroad.

2. Private Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)

PBSAs are modern purpose-built student flats in Manchester, designed specifically for students only. These flats are often located near the campus or the city centre and are usually built in either an ensuite or studio style. Managed by private companies, these flats have all the facilities required for students, including high-quality, contemporary living spaces, high-speed internet, communal study spaces, gyms, social lounges, cinema rooms, and 24/7 security. The most well-known PBSA providers in Manchester city are Unite Students, iQ, and Host. 

PBSAs are more expensive than the university halls but usually provide more personal space and amenities. PBSAs also often provide an all-inclusive bill which covers all the rent for all basic facilities. Check out the 5 tips for choosing student accommodations abroad. 

3. Private Rented Accommodation (Shared Houses/Flats)

This option involves students renting a house or flat directly from a private landlord or through an agency, and living with their friends or other students. This is a common choice for second-year onwards students who seek more autonomy. These accommodations can sometimes be cheaper than the other private renting student accommodations in Manchester, especially when students living in the property split bills among themselves. 

The limitations of choosing private rented accommodations in Manchester, however, are that the bills are not all-inclusive, which means that you pay for your groceries and other utilities separately. There's also more responsibility for property maintenance and dealing with landlords/agencies. 

Also check: Best Universities in Manchester

Where to Get your Student Accommodation in Manchester City?

This section suggests the best possible areas for students to live in Manchester. Here are some of the most suitable and accessible locations to live for international students in Manchester:

1. Near the city centre: Often the more expensive options, these student accommodations in Manchester are modern and located close to universities, libraries and the local markets. Student accommodations in the city centre are perfect for postgraduates or students who want nightlife and the convenience of commuting to and from college on a daily basis.
2. Fallowfield & Withington: These are lively and social areas, packed with student houses, bars, and takeaways. Getting a student accommodation in these locations can be great if you want a typical “student life” experience. It must be noted that the main campus of the University of Manchester is located in Fallowfield & Withington, which is also a reason for the area being more of student-centric.
3. Victoria Park, Ardwick & Hulme: The University of Manchester has many of its university halls located in this location, along with one of its campuses here. This location provides a quieter neighbourhood and options for private renting as well. 
4. Rusholme: The University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) are both located very close to Rusholme, with their campuses being a short walk or bus ride away.

Cost of Student Accommodations in Manchester

Check the general costs involved in getting student accommodations in Manchester below:

1. The prices of university halls start at around £119 per week for shared rooms and can go up to £175+ per week for ensuite halls. Remember that the bills are usually included.
2. The costs of the major attraction of the PBSAs in Manchester, i.e. Studios and en-suites, may range between £180 and £250 per week. However, students must be at ease as the bill is all-inclusive, including all utilities (internet, electricity, water, heating).
3. These can be the cheapest option of all student accommodations in Manchester, costing between £100 and £140 per week,  as they usually do not include any bills.  

Check: Best Placement Universities in the UK 2025-26

How to Choose the Right Student Accommodation in Manchester

Before signing any deal, make sure to check the following points:

1. Consider how far the concerned student housing in Manchester is from your campus.
2. The standard contract length for most student accommodations, whether private, university halls or PBSAs, is 40–51 weeks. If the contract is shorter than this, make sure to check the exact length of your course and when your final exams of the semester will conclude before you sign the deal.
3. Check if bills are included in your rent or not. It’s always good to ask what’s covered to avoid any disagreements later.
4. Before submitting a deposit, ensure that the deposits go into a government-protected scheme only.
5. Use accredited services like the Manchester Student Homes or other trusted platforms to get the real reviews and feedback on the property from previous students.

This was all about student accommodation in Manchester. For more assistance on studying abroad, reach out to Shiksha’s Counselling Services for free.