The capital of Wales, Cardiff, is one of the best cities in the UK for international students. The city was a major trading port until the early 19th century until it was formally incorporated as the capital of Wales. The city is also home to some of the top universities in the country including: the Cardiff University and the University of South Wales.
Every year, thousands of students come to the city to pursue higher education in prestigious institutions. Now, one of the main problems that students face before even coming to the city is finding the right student accommodation in Cardiff. Therefore, in this student guide, we shall discuss some of the best properties for students to live in this magnificent city!
Why Living Close to University Matters?
While finding the perfect property for student accommodation, the first thing a student should check is the property’s proximity to their university. This is important because it primarily saves commuting time and money. Apart from this, it gives you better access to campus facilities and services. Staying close to the university also helps students with a better social life and options for networking. Overall, staying close to the university in Cardiff has proven to improve study-life balance for international students.
Best Areas to Live in Cardiff for Students
Cardiff is a gorgeous city and has great public infrastructure and peaceful neighbourhoods. Although students can live in any area they deem fit, it is suggested that new students stay in neighbourhoods that already have an established student community. These areas are located close to major universities in the city. Students also get almost everything from stationery to clothing and food at just a stone’s throw away. Some of the best areas to live in Cardiff are:
- City Centre – Located in the heart of Cardiff, the City Centre offers students a prime location, coupled with central convenience. All major government offices and important institutions are located in the city centre.
- Cathays – Another major area for student accommodation in Cardiff is Cathays. This is one of the most student-dominated neighbourhoods in the city because of its affordability and location.
- Roath – The next best choice for students to live in Cardiff is Roath. This is one of the most vibrant and affordable neighbourhoods in the city. Roath is popular for its greenery and serene stillness that runs through the air!
Top Student Accommodation Near Cardiff University
Cardiff has a plethora of options for students looking for properties in the city. However, choosing the right student property in Cardiff is as difficult as finding a trusted accommodation partner like University Living for accommodation needs in the city! Therefore, here are the top 5 properties for student accommodations near Cardiff University:
The West Wing Residence (0.20 miles)
One of the best properties for students in Cardiff is the West Wing Residence. This property is located just steps away from the university and is the most ideal option for students who wish to stay extremely close to the university. The property has modern rooms and all the important facilities that you might require as a student.
Summit House (0.24 miles)
Located in the heart of Cardiff, the next-best property for students is Summit House. This property offers easy access to major university buildings and study areas in the neighbourhood. There are plenty of social spaces for students around Summit House.
Canvas Cardiff The Parade (0.20 miles)
Located at just 0.25 miles away from Cardiff University, this property is one of the most famous student properties in the city. It offers great community-focused living and has some of the best facilities in a PBSA in Cardiff. This property is designed for both, privacy and shared student experiences.
Vita Student Park Place (0.40 miles)
The next property on our list is Vita Student Park Place. Located just 0.4 miles away from the university, this property offers premium student accommodations at reasonable prices. The rent for the property is proportionate to the comfort and convenience it has to offer.
Lumis Student Living (0.70 miles)
The last property on our list is Lumis Student Living. This property is located just under a mile away from Cardiff University but is easily walkable. To make it even more convenient for students, the property is located near important bus stops that have buses going to the city centre and the university at regular intervals.
Cost of Living in Cardiff
Cardiff, the capital of Wales, is an important city in the United Kingdom. Although it is an expensive city to live in, if students plan their expenses properly and create a good budget, they can expect to spend a month in the city for well under £1200-£1500. The table below highlights some of the major expenses that students have to make while pursuing education in the city:
| Expense | Amount (In £ per month) |
| Rent | 900 – 1200 |
| Food | 100 – 200 |
| Transport | 100 – 150 |
| Leisure | 100 – 200 |
| Total | 1200 – 1750 |
Note: Students must note that these changes are tentative and are subject to change based on your actual consumption, lifestyle, and expenses.
Final Thoughts
Cardiff is definitely one of the top choices for students who wish to pursue higher education in the UK. The primary reason for this is the presence of great institutions in the city and the great career prospects the city has to offer. Cardiff has an abundance of options for students to choose from for student accommodation in Cardiff. Students must make sure to find the right student property and can feel free to take help from accommodation providers like University Living.
