Let’s be real. Finding the right place to live during uni can be as stressful as finals. Suddenly, you are scrolling through endless listings, trying to figure out what matters most: cheap rent, a short commute, or a place that is actually safe.  

Spoiler: You don't need to settle for compromises. This guide helps you figure out how to filter your student accommodation based on what really matters to you. Ones that let you focus on studying, not stressing. 

Where should you even start? 

• Rank your deal-breakers: commute time? vibe? privacy? affordability? If you haven’t written this down, do it now. Seriously, clarity works. 
• Understand trade-offs: proximity to campus = less commuting but higher rent. More space = lower cost, longer travel time. Knowing your priorities helps you swap wisely. 
• Use filters wisely on platforms like UniMelb’s housing portal or universityliving.com: price range, distance, furnished/unfurnished. Save your brain space for uni life, not scrolling. 

What budget lines should you set? 

• Crunch the numbers: factor in rent, bills (internet, water, power), a deposit (usually 4–6 weeks in many student apartments), and transport costs. 
• FYI, surveys show private renting can be cheaper than uni-live options. Some students pay about £523/mo, while university-managed halls can be closer to £592–£596 
• Hot tip: Set a monthly maximum budget and stick to it. You will thank yourself when textbooks and instant noodles become factors. 

How close to campus is close enough? 

• Location is key. If you're groggy at 9 AM, the shortest walk from student accommodation beats a long trek every time. 
• Proximity perks: you spend less on transport, wake up later, and still make it to seminars. 
• But if cheaper rent is a must? Check commute times. Sometimes going a suburb further out can save you hundreds and add only 10 extra minutes. 

What about safety and local amenities? 

• Pick suburbs with well-lit streets, low crime rates, and a student-friendly vibe. Reading local forums or uni resources helps here. 
• Handy local features like nearby grocery stores, bus stops, cafés, or libraries make life easier. Don’t underestimate those 2 AM caffeine runs. 
• And yes, locking doors and windows should not be negotiable. Security matters. 

What amenities should you actually expect? 

• Ask yourself: Will I cook or just snack on takeout? Do I need fast Wi-Fi for late-night research? 
• Stage-built student housing often packs in extras. Gyms, lounges, even events. But they cost more. 
• Make sure the place ticks your comfort boxes: laundry, decent heating, kitchen basics, decent light. Small details = big difference. 

Shared or solo: what's your vibe? 

• Sharing saves big bucks, but living with strangers = potential roommate drama. Make sure you chat about habits before signing. 
• Needing your own space? A private studio or rented student housing may cost more, but your sanity might be worth it. 
• If you want both? Look for shared places where you can score a private bedroom and join social spaces on your terms. 

What should you check before signing? 

• Read the lease. Know what's included, what you're paying, rent frequency, deposit, and cancellation rules. 
• If you're booking remotely, ask for virtual tours and condition reports (or get someone trusted to check in person). 
• Watch for red flags: weird payment methods, vague listings, or e-mails saying "send deposit today." Always verify authenticity first. 

How can I test the waters first? 

• If you're booking long-term from home, consider arriving a week or two early and staying in a budget Airbnb or university dorm. 
• You’ll get a feel for the area, meet potential flatmates, and make smarter decisions long-term. 
• Plus, it’s a great excuse to explore the city before settling in! 

Quick Q&A at a Glance 

Final Thoughts 

Let’s wrap this up. You deserve a place that doesn’t turn finding a room into drama. Think carefully about what means the most, whether that’s walking distance, a strong coffee spot next door, or just enough privacy to keep your sanity. Filter smart, set your priorities, and know what you’re comfortable compromising on. Begin with clarity, not chaos, and you’ll find housing that doesn’t just keep you off the streets. But supports your uni life, too.