The Ultimate Guide to Renting Student Housing in Manchester
Whether you're heading to Manchester for your first year of university or you're an international student relocating to this vibrant city, finding a suitable student housing option is crucial. This guide will offer you insider tips and essential information on renting a student housing in Manchester, from the best neighborhoods to local facts that will make your stay more enjoyable.
Why Manchester is a Great Place for Students
One of the major cities in the heart of the UK, Manchester is renowned for its rich industrial history, thriving music scene, and prestigious universities. With more than 99,000 students across the University of Manchester, Manchester Metropolitan University, and the Royal Northern College of Music, it's no surprise that the city's student culture is buzzing and dynamic.
Manchester offers a perfect blend of city living, historical charm, and green spaces. It's home to a multitude of galleries, museums, independent shops, and a diverse food scene. In short, Manchester has everything a student could wish for in terms of culture, entertainment, and lifestyle.
Overview of Student Housing in Manchester
The city is well-equipped to accommodate its large student population, offering a wide range of student housing options. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose from university dormitories, private student halls, shared houses, or apartments.
Many students opt for private rented accommodation after their first year in university halls, frequently sharing with fellow students to split costs. The majority of student houses in Manchester come fully furnished, with some even including utility bills in the rent, which can make managing your budget much easier.
Manchester's Best Neighborhoods for Student Housing
Manchester has several student-friendly neighborhoods, each offering a unique living experience.
Fallowfield
Known as the student village, Fallowfield is the most popular choice among students due to its vibrant atmosphere and proximity to the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University. The area boasts numerous student bars, cafes, and shops, and has plenty of affordable student housing options.
Victoria Park
If you prefer a quieter environment, Victoria Park is an excellent choice. It's within walking distance of the University of Manchester, with a range of terraced houses popular among students.
City Centre
Living in Manchester City Centre puts you right in the heart of all the action. There are several luxury student apartments here, offering fantastic facilities like gyms, cinema rooms, and communal lounges. While this area is slightly more expensive, it's perfect for students who want to be close to city centre attractions and nightlife.
Rusholme
Rusholme is famous for "The Curry Mile", a stretch of road teeming with restaurants and takeaways. It's a multicultural neighborhood offering affordable student housing and is located close to both the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University.
Local Facts for Students in Manchester
To make the most of your time in Manchester, here are some helpful local facts:
Manchester is an incredibly bike-friendly city. It has numerous dedicated cycle lanes, so consider investing in a bike for a cheap and healthy way to get around.
The city’s public transport is excellent. With an extensive bus network and the Metrolink tram system, you can get almost anywhere in the city and its suburbs.
Manchester is known as the birthplace of the industrial revolution, but did you know it’s also the home of the world's first professional football league? The National Football Museum, located right in the city centre, is a must-visit for any sports fan.
Manchester takes pride in its music scene. Legendary bands like Oasis, The Smiths, and Joy Division all started their careers here. Don't miss the chance to catch live gigs in venues across the city.
Final Thoughts
Manchester is a city that welcomes students with open arms, offering a vibrant student culture, excellent academic opportunities, and a wide range of student housing options. Hopefully, this guide will help you navigate the process of finding your perfect student home in Manchester and make your stay in the city a memorable one.