Best Areas to Live in Aberdeen for Students: Your Complete 2025 Guide

From quiet neighbourhoods to lively student zones, Aberdeen has something for every lifestyle. With two major universities and over 50,000 students, it’s a compact, welcoming city that blends academic life with culture, affordability, and coastal charm.

The best areas to live in Aberdeen for students aren't just about finding somewhere cheap. It's about finding your tribe. Aberdeen consistently ranks as one of the UK's safest cities. Living costs are way cheaper than in London. Plus, you're surrounded by incredible Scottish scenery.

The city perfectly balances urban buzz with natural beauty. Walk to lectures through historic cobblestone streets. Spend weekends hiking in the Cairngorms. Aberdeen gives you the complete student experience without bankrupting you.

When it comes to student accommodation in Aberdeen, there’s something for everyone, whether you prefer buzzing city vibes, peaceful green surroundings, or a place just minutes from campus.

This guide reveals the top areas every student should consider. We'll cover everything from rent prices to where the best nights out happen. By the end, you'll know exactly where to make your home during studies.

Curious about what makes life in Aberdeen so unique beyond just its neighbourhoods? Check out these fun facts about Aberdeen for students that might surprise you — from quirky local traditions to university trivia.

Quick Glance

• Old Aberdeen – Closest to the University of Aberdeen
• Garthdee – Near Robert Gordon University (RGU)
• Ferryhill – Budget-friendly option
• Rosemount – Known for vibrant nightlife
• Bridge of Don – Offers modern amenities
• Average Rent – £400–£700/month
• Safety Ranking – Aberdeen ranks as the 3rd safest city in the UK
• Tips for Choosing – Consider transport links, budget, and proximity to your university when selecting accommodation

Why Location Matters for Aberdeen Students

Picking the wrong area can seriously mess up your uni experience. Aberdeen's huge. Some neighbourhoods are 30+ minutes from campus. Others put you right in the middle of student life.

Key stuff to think about:

• How far to your actual campus
• Transport links and what they cost
• Safety and lighting for walking home late
• Local shops and student services
• Finding flatmates and community vibes
• Your budget and what types of places you can get

Aberdeen has two main universities. The University of Aberdeen sits in Old Aberdeen, north of the city centre. Robert Gordon University (RGU) has its main campus in Garthdee, south of the city centre. Your area choice should match where you're studying.

Aberdeen's Two University Hubs

University of Aberdeen

• Location: Old Aberdeen (northern area)
• Students: ~17,000
• Campus style: Historic, traditional
• Notable: Ancient cobblestone streets, medieval buildings
• Best connected areas: Old Aberdeen, Ferryhill, Rosemount

Robert Gordon University (RGU)

• Location: Garthdee (southern area)
• Students: ~16,500
• Campus style: Modern, riverside
• Notable: Business and engineering focus
• Best connected areas: Garthdee, Bridge of Don, Torry

Understanding this split helps narrow your search immediately.

Top 8 Best Areas for Students in Aberdeen

1. Old Aberdeen - The Historic Heart

• Distance to the University of Aberdeen: 5-minute walk
• Average rent: £450-650/month
• Transport: Walking distance to everything

Old Aberdeen isn't just an area - it's like living in a Harry Potter movie. Cobblestone streets wind between medieval buildings. University of Aberdeen's main campus is literally here. You can roll out of bed for 9 am lectures.

Why students love it:

• Zero commute to the University of Aberdeen
• Historic vibes that look incredible on Instagram
• Loads of other students everywhere
• Independent cafes are perfect for studying
• Safe, well-lit streets

Where you'll live:

• Shared student houses: £400-500/month
• Studio flats: £550-650/month
• University halls nearby

What's around:

• St. Machar's Cathedral (13th century)
• Seaton Park for outdoor study sessions
• The Townhouse Bar (where all students go)
• Corner shops for late-night snacks

If you're considering staying close to campus, explore this guide to student accommodation near the University of Aberdeen, from historic halls to modern flats just minutes from your morning lectures.

2. Garthdee - RGU's Riverside Campus

• Distance to RGU: On campus
• Average rent: £475-600/month
• Transport: You're already there

Garthdee's perfect for RGU students. The area wraps around the uni campus. Modern student flats mix with family homes. The River Dee gives you gorgeous walking routes when you need a study break.

Why RGU students pick it:

• Live basically on campus
• Modern everything
• Loads of other RGU students
• River walks for clearing your head
• Easy buses to the city centre

Where you'll stay:

• RGU student halls: £450-550/month
• Private student flats: £500-600/month
• Shared houses near campus: £400-500/month

What's nearby:

• Garthdee Shopping Centre
• River Dee walks
• Buses to the city centre every 10 minutes
• Campus food and social spaces

Premium student accommodation offers modern facilities in Garthdee. Think study spaces, gyms, and communities designed specifically for university life.

3. Ferryhill - Budget-Friendly Favourite

• Distance to University of Aberdeen: 15-minute walk
• Distance to city centre: 10-minute walk
• Average rent: £350-500/month
• Transport: Regular buses, totally walkable

Ferryhill hits the sweet spot. Close enough to campus. Near enough to nightlife. Cheap enough for broke students. This south-of-centre area pulls students from both universities.

What you'll actually pay:

• Shared houses: £350-450/month
• One-bedroom flats: £450-500/month
• Bills usually add £50-80/month

Why students love it here:

• Duthie Park (perfect for study breaks and stress relief)
• ASDA and other big supermarkets
• Buses every few minutes to both campuses
• Mix of students and families (not too mental)

Cool spots nearby:

• Ferryhill House (looks amazing on Instagram)
• Duthie Park Winter Gardens
• Loads of takeaway options for lazy nights
• Corner shops for emergency supplies

Looking for more affordable housing options across Aberdeen? Our guide on affordable student accommodation in Aberdeen reveals hidden gems and value-for-money neighbourhoods students swear by.

4. Rosemount - The Social Hub

• Distance to the University of Aberdeen: 20-minute walk
• Distance to city centre: 10-minute walk
• Average rent: £400-550/month
• Transport: Excellent bus links

Rosemount buzzes with student energy. This northwest area perfectly balances residential calm with social excitement. Victorian architecture creates Instagram-worthy streetscapes. The nightlife scene thrives here.

Why social students love it:

• Close to Union Street nightlife
• Strong student pub scene
• Independent shops and cafes
• Victorian character buildings
• Great community atmosphere

Nightlife within walking distance:

• Multiple student-friendly pubs
• Easy access to Union Street clubs
• Regular student nights and events
• Safe late-night walking routes

Accommodation style:

• Victorian converted flats
• Modern apartment developments
• Traditional tenement buildings
• Good mix of shared and private options

5. Bridge of Don - Modern Comfort

• Distance to the University of Aberdeen: 25-minute bus
• Distance to RGU: 20-minute bus
• Average rent: £450-650/month
• Transport: Regular bus services

The Bridge of Don represents modern Aberdeen living. Purpose-built developments offer contemporary amenities. Shopping centres provide one-stop convenience. The area appeals to students wanting hotel-style comfort.

Modern amenities include:

• Bridge of Don Shopping Centre
• Vue Cinema complex
• Multiple chain restaurants
• Modern gym facilities
• Excellent parking availability

Transport connections:

• Regular buses to both universities
• Easy access to Aberdeen Airport
• Good road links to the city centre
• Cycling routes available

Perfect for students who want:

• Modern, comfortable living
• Shopping and entertainment are nearby
• Good transport links
• Quieter environment for studying

6. City Centre - Urban Excitement

• Distance to both universities: 10-15 minutes by bus
• Average rent: £500-750/month
• Transport: Central hub for all routes

Living in Aberdeen's city centre puts everything at your fingertips. Union Street runs through the heart, offering shopping, dining, and entertainment. Higher costs reflect the premium location.

City centre advantages:

• Walking distance to all major amenities
• Best nightlife and restaurant scene
• Excellent transport links everywhere
• Cultural attractions nearby
• 24/7 convenience

What you'll pay for convenience:

• Higher rent costs
• More noise from traffic
• Busy, fast-paced environment
• Limited parking options

Craving stylish living and premium amenities? Dive into the best luxury student accommodation in Aberdeen that offers gyms, social lounges, and more, perfect for students who want comfort and convenience.

7. Powis - Hidden Gem

• Distance to University of Aberdeen: 25-minute walk
• Average rent: £400-550/month
• Transport: Regular bus services

Powis flies under the radar but offers excellent value. This area sits between Rosemount and the city centre. Students discover a perfect balance of accessibility and affordability.

Hidden advantages:

• Close to Bon Accord Shopping Centre
• Easy walk to the city centre
• Quieter than central areas
• Good selection of accommodations
• Strong transport links

8. Johnston Gardens Area - Green Living

• Distance to the University of Aberdeen: 20-minute walk
• Average rent: £425-575/month
• Transport: Bus links to both universities

Named after the beautiful Johnston Gardens, this area offers green space living. Perfect for students who want nature nearby while maintaining city access.

Green space benefits:

• Johnston Gardens for outdoor study
• Peaceful environment
• Good family neighbourhood feel
• Walking routes to campus
• Fresh air and natural surroundings

Transport and Getting Around Aberdeen

Bus System Basics

Aberdeen's bus network connects all student areas effectively. First Bus operates most routes. Student discounts make transport affordable.

Key bus routes for students:

• Route 1/2: City centre to Bridge of Don
• Route 4: Connects RGU to the city centre
• Route 20: Links the University of Aberdeen to the city centre
• Route 7: Serves Ferryhill and surrounding areas

Student Transport Costs

Walking vs. Bus Transport

Walking advantages:

• Free daily exercise
• No weather dependencies
• Flexible timing
• Better for short distances

Bus advantages:

• Weather protection
• Longer distance comfort
• Social time with friends
• Safety for night travel

Want a deeper dive into getting around the Granite City? Read the ultimate guide on the Aberdeen transport system for students, for the best routes, passes, and travel hacks that will help every student.

Cost of Living Breakdown by Area

What You'll Actually Spend Each Month

For a complete breakdown of your monthly expenses beyond rent, don't miss the cost of living in Aberdeen for students, packed with budgeting tips for food, transport, utilities, and more. Also, keep track of your spending by using our cost of living calculator. 

How to Save Money in Each Area

Old Aberdeen money hacks:

• Walk everywhere (save on bus fares)
• Eat at uni facilities (way cheaper than restaurants)
• Go to student society events (free food and drinks)

You can also save more on food, with multiple student-friendly restaurants and cafes in Aberdeen. Explore more culinary delights at the top restaurants in Aberdeen.

Garthdee budget tips:

• Use campus dining (decent prices, convenient)
• Share flats with other RGU students
• Use the campus gym (no external membership needed)

Ferryhill saving tricks:

• Shop at ASDA for bulk groceries
• Use those brilliant bus links
• Hang out in Duthie Park instead of paying for entertainment

Safety and Security Guide

Aberdeen consistently ranks among the UK's safest cities. The crime index sits at just 36.62, well below national averages. Students report feeling secure walking alone, even late at night.

Area-by-Area Safety Analysis

Safest student areas:

1. Old Aberdeen: A Historic area with good lighting and regular patrols
2. Ferryhill: Family-friendly with low crime rates
3. Rosemount: Well-lit streets and a busy student population
4. Bridge of Don: Modern area with good security features

Areas requiring extra caution:

• Torry: Avoid walking alone late at night
• Tillydrone: Choose well-lit routes after dark
• Northfield: Use transport rather than walking

Safety Tips for Students

General safety practices:

• Travel in groups after 10 pm
• Use well-lit main roads
• Keep emergency contacts handy
• Register with the local police if living off-campus

Emergency contacts:

• Police: 101 (non-emergency) or 999 (emergency)
• University security: Available 24/7
• NHS non-emergency: 111

Still wondering how safe the city really is? Read the Aberdeen student safety guide for honest insights, safety stats, and tips from current students navigating the city day and night.

Finding Your Perfect Student Home

Questions to Ask Yourself

Before choosing an area, consider these key questions:

1. Which university do you attend? This determines your optimal locations.
2. What's your monthly budget? Include rent, bills, and transport.
3. Do you prefer social or quiet environments? This affects area choice significantly.
4. How important is walking distance? Weather can impact daily commutes.
5. What amenities matter most? Consider shopping, nightlife, and recreation.

Accommodation Hunting Timeline

6 months before: Start researching areas and accommodation types. 

4 months before: Begin serious searching and viewing. 

3 months before: Submit applications and secure deposits. 

2 months before: Arrange utilities and council tax exemptions. 

1 month before: Coordinate move-in dates and transportation

Red Flags to Avoid

Accommodation red flags:

• Unusually low rent (often indicates problems)
• Landlords are demanding cash-only payments
• Properties with no proper tenancy agreements
• Accommodations with poor maintenance standards
• Areas with consistently bad reviews

Want to avoid common pitfalls while house-hunting? Don’t miss our guide on mistakes students make when looking for accommodation in UK, a quick read that could save you time, money, and stress.

Student Life by Area

Old Aberdeen Student Scene

The University of Aberdeen dominates daily life here. Students frequent The Townhouse Bar and Café Society. Study groups often meet in Seaton Park. The atmosphere feels collegiate and academic.

Popular student hangouts:

• The Townhouse Bar (traditional student pub)
• Café Society (coffee and light meals)
• Seaton Park (outdoor study and relaxation)
• Various university society meeting spots

Want to get involved outside the lecture hall?  Explore the student societies in Aberdeen to meet like-minded people, pick up hobbies, and truly make the most of uni life.

Garthdee RGU Community

RGU students create a tight-knit community around campus. The Students' Union building serves as the social hub. River walks provide study break destinations.

RGU social hotspots:

• RGU Students' Union building
• Campus café and dining areas
• Riverside walking paths
• Garthdee Shopping Centre meetup spots

Ferryhill Mixed Community

Ferryhill attracts students from both universities. This creates a diverse, energetic atmosphere. Local pubs welcome both student groups.

There is always more to explore and do in Aberdeen. Beyond your university and studies, you can do sports, pursue performing arts or explore the city. You can learn more in our guide on things to do in Aberdeen.

Rosemount Nightlife Scene

Rosemount's proximity to Union Street creates the best nightlife access. Students enjoy pub crawls and late-night entertainment options.

Nightlife fan? Don't miss our best clubs in Aberdeen guide, featuring top-rated student nights, DJ sets, and where the real party happens every week.

Practical Moving Tips

Essential First Steps

Before arriving:

1. Set up a bank account with a local branch
2. Register for the council tax student exemption
3. Arrange utility transfers or connections
4. Research local GP and dental services
5. Download the Aberdeen bus apps

During the first week:

1. Register the address with the university
2. Get a local library card
3. Explore local grocery options
4. Meet neighbours and flatmates
5. Locate the nearest medical services

Packing for your big move? Our complete packing guide for Aberdeen students ensures you won’t forget a thing — from essentials to quirky items you didn’t know you'd need in Scottish weather.

University-Specific Considerations

University of Aberdeen students:

• Register with Old Aberdeen Community Centre
• Join student societies based in the area
• Utilise Seaton Park for outdoor activities
• Connect with the Aberdeen Student Housing Office

To better understand your future campus, read our guide to the University of Aberdeen. It covers everything from departments and societies to student support services.

RGU students:

• Engage with RGU Students' Union services
• Explore Riverside walks for recreation
• Use campus facilities for social activities
• Connect with Garthdee area student groups

Still choosing between institutions or just curious? Our top universities of Aberdeen: courses, ranking and student living guide gives you a side-by-side look at what each university offers.

International Student Considerations

Aberdeen welcomes students from around the world. Over 120 nationalities study here. Certain areas better serve international students' needs.

Best areas for international students:

City Centre advantages:

• Easy access to international food shops
• Better transport links to the airport
• More diverse community feel
• International student support services nearby

Cultural amenities by area:

• City Centre: International restaurants and shops
• Old Aberdeen: The University's international office is nearby
• Rosemount: Diverse student population
• Bridge of Don: Modern amenities familiar to international students

Moving from abroad? Student life in Aberdeen outlines everything from cultural tips to community networks that help you feel at home in no time.

International student support:

• University international offices
• Cultural societies and groups
• International food markets
• Language exchange programs

Seasonal Considerations

Aberdeen's weather significantly impacts daily student life. Consider seasonal factors when choosing accommodation.

Winter Considerations (October-March)

• Heating costs: Budget extra £30-50/month
• Daylight hours: Limited, affecting walking routes
• Weather protection: Indoor study spaces become crucial
• Transport reliance: Bus services become more important

Best winter areas:

• Old Aberdeen (covered walkways to campus)
• City Centre (indoor shopping and entertainment)
• Areas with good bus links

Summer Benefits (April-September)

• Outdoor activities: Parks and riverside walks
• Lower heating costs: Significant utility savings
• Extended daylight: Safer evening activities
• Festival season: Increased cultural activities

Future Development and Investment

Aberdeen continues to develop student-friendly areas. Understanding upcoming changes helps inform long-term accommodation decisions.

Planned Developments

• City Centre: New student accommodation complexes planned
• Bridge of Don: Ongoing residential expansion
• Transport: Bus route improvements and cycling infrastructure
• University campuses: Facility upgrades and expansions

Investment Considerations

Aberdeen's property market offers good value compared to other UK cities. Students considering buying rather than renting should focus on areas with:

• Consistent student demand
• Good transport links
• Planned infrastructure improvements
• Strong rental yield potential

Making Your Final Decision

Choosing the best areas to live in Aberdeen for students depends on your individual priorities. Use this decision framework:

Priority Matrix

High Priority Factors:

1. University proximity and transport links
2. Monthly budget including all costs
3. Safety and security levels
4. Community feel and social opportunities

Medium Priority Factors:

1. Specific amenities and facilities
2. Future development potential
3. Accommodation type preferences
4. Weather and seasonal considerations

Low Priority Factors:

1. Perfect Instagram aesthetic
2. Proximity to specific shops
3. Minor transport time differences
4. Trendy neighbourhood status

Decision-Making Steps

1. List your top 3 priorities from the framework above
2. Set your realistic budget, including contingencies
3. Visit your shortlisted areas virtually or in person
4. Speak with current students in those areas
5. Make your decision and start the application process

If you're still on the fence about living in student housing, check out why live in Aberdeen student accommodation for honest pros and cons from current residents.

Conclusion: Your Aberdeen Student Journey Starts Here

Aberdeen offers incredible opportunities for student life. The best areas to live in Aberdeen for students provide more than just accommodation - they offer communities where you'll grow, learn, and create lasting memories. It's important to assess the pros and cons of living in Aberdeen before moving here.

Whether you choose the historic charm of Old Aberdeen, the modern convenience of Bridge of Don, or the budget-friendly appeal of Ferryhill, you're setting yourself up for success. Aberdeen's combination of safety, affordability, and opportunity makes it one of the UK's top student destinations.

Start your search early. Consider all factors carefully. Don't just choose a place to sleep - choose a place to thrive. Your Aberdeen adventure begins with finding the perfect neighbourhood to call home.

Still exploring your accommodation options? Aberdeen student accommodation complete guide breaks down every type of student housing, whether you're on a budget or seeking something more private.

Bookmark the ultimate Aberdeen student guide for everything from housing and food to academics and social life — your all-in-one resource.