If you’re heading to Edinburgh for uni—you’re very lucky. It’s one of the most stunning cities in the UK. Think cobbled streets, castle views, cute cafés everywhere, and yeah, a bit of rain too. But before you get too swept up in the idea of cozy winters and student pub nights, let’s talk about where you’re going to live.
Finding good student accommodation in Edinburgh can feel like a lot at first—especially if you’re new to the city (or the country). But don’t stress. It’s totally doable, and once you get the basics down, it’s actually kind of fun.
Let’s walk through it, one step at a time.
What makes Edinburgh such a good place to study?
This city has a real charm to it. You feel it the second you arrive.
- It’s home to world-famous universities like Edinburgh University, which is consistently ranked among the top in the world.
- You’ll be surrounded by students—from all over the UK and all over the world.
- It’s small enough to feel manageable, but big enough to never get bored.
- And the views – they’re unreal.
Plus, there’s something about the mix of old stone buildings and modern student energy that just works. You’ll see what it means when you get here.
Where do most students live in Edinburgh?
Depends on your vibe, really. Here’s a quick look at some of the most popular areas:
Newington
- Super close to the main University of Edinburgh buildings.
- Loads of student flats, takeaways, and cafés.
- Can be a bit noisy, but you’ll always feel in the middle of things.
Marchmont
- Pretty Victorian buildings, quiet streets, and still close to campus.
- Perfect if you want somewhere a bit more chilled but not boring.
- Slightly more expensive, but worth it if you like peace and parks.
Bruntsfield & Morningside
- Trendy and slightly posh (in a good way).
- You’ll find some great bakeries, charity shops, and brunch spots.
- Popular with students who don’t want to live right next to the party crowd.
Leith
- A bit further out, but it’s cool, quirky, and definitely more affordable.
- Great for postgrads or students on a tighter budget.
- Plus, it’s got a creative vibe—and the best vegan cafés.
So, what kind of housing can you get?
There’s no one-size-fits-all here. You’ve got a few choices:
- Uni halls – Ideal for first years. You’ll meet people, and it’s super easy to settle in.
- Private halls – A bit fancier, with en-suites, common rooms, sometimes even gyms.
- Shared houses/flats – Most second- and third-years go for this. You split bills, cook together (sometimes), and figure out adulting.
- Studios – Good for postgrads or anyone who needs their own space and peace.
And if you’re not sure where to look, sites like University Living are genuinely helpful. Everything’s listed clearly, and you won’t end up in a random flat with mystery photos from 2009.
What’s rent like in Edinburgh for students?
It depends on where and what you choose. Here’s a rough idea (2025 prices):
- Shared flat in Newington: £600–£750/month
- Private hall room (with en-suite): £700–£900/month
- Studio in the city centre: £1,000–£1,300/month
- Further out (like Leith): £450–£600/month
A lot of places include bills, but not all. Always double check. Heating in winter? Yeah, you will want that covered.
Overall, the cost of living in Edinburgh (excluding rent) can range from £300 to £400/month, depending on how you live. It’s not crazy expensive, but yeah—it adds up fast if you’re not careful.
When should you start looking?
Honestly? As soon as you can.
- Start looking once you accept your offer—March or April is ideal.
- If you want a studio or anything close to uni, don’t wait.
- Private flats and student halls fill up by June or July, usually.
And please—don’t leave it till the last minute and end up couchsurfing. It’s more common than you think.
How to actually find a place?
This part can feel a bit much, but here’s a recommendation:
- Use a trusted platform like University Living student accommodation platform to start your search.
- Compare places based on location, price, and what’s included.
- Check photos, reviews, and if there’s a virtual tour—do it.
- Message landlords early, especially if you’re international.
- Ask if bills are included—some places aren’t super clear about it.
And talk to other students! Reddit, Facebook groups, uni forums—they’re full of people sharing their housing tips (and horror stories too).
Final Thoughts
That’s up to you. If you want to be near uni and love the energy, go for Newington. If you need calm and green parks, check out Marchmont. On a tight budget? Leith is a great shout. Want something modern and all-in-one? Try a private hall.
And hey—don’t stress too much. The first flat might not be perfect, and that’s okay. You’ll settle in, meet people, figure it out as you go. Just make sure you start early, do your research, and use trusted platforms like University Living to avoid any dodgy surprises.
