Best Areas to Live in Edinburgh for Students: Complete 2025 Guide

Hunting for the perfect student spot in Edinburgh? You're in luck. Newington and Marchmont hit that sweet spot, located close to the universities in Edinburgh. If you're all about nightlife and getting around easily, Tollcross and Haymarket are your best bets. Tight on cash? Leith starts at just £350/month. 

Edinburgh is student heaven, with over 50,000 students calling this place home. There is a wide range of student accommodation in Edinburgh with fully furnished rooms. This guide breaks down the best areas for students in 2025. If you think why live in Edinburgh student accommodation? It's simple, you get all the perks of a major city without London's high prices. Plus, everything connects to the universities within 30 minutes. 

Quick Area Comparison Table

Edinburgh is an ideal student destination where they can safely reside in lively neighbourhoods that offer both a supportive student atmosphere and quick access to the city’s top attractions and universities.

What Matters When Picking Where to Live

How Close Are You to Uni?

Let's be honest. Edinburgh's got top universities. There's the University of Edinburgh right in the city centre. Edinburgh Napier University has campuses scattered around. And Heriot-Watt University sits out at Riccarton campus. Based on the preferences, choose wisely and reside with peace of mind.

Getting Around the City

Edinburgh’s transportation system is simply excellent. Buses cost £1.70 per trip, whereas trams cost £1.70-2.00. Students can also opt for trains that connect to other cities. On weekends, you can make the most of this transport network by visiting museums in Edinburgh and exploring the city with ease. 

Staying Safe

Edinburgh ranks among the safest cities in the UK, with areas like Stockbridge and Morningside recognised for their security and community feel. 

The 10 Best Student Areas in Edinburgh

1. Newington - Where Everyone Wants to Be ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rent: £450-600/month
Walk to Uni: 5 minutes to the University of Edinburgh
Transport: Brilliant bus links, walking distance to everything

Why students love living here:

You can roll out of bed and be in lectures at the University of Edinburgh. South Clerk Street has everything you need. Supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury's, and ASDA, are within walking distance. The Meadows Park is right there, which is perfect for football, frisbee, or just hanging out when the weather's decent. If you enjoy reading, there are libraries in Edinburgh nearby where you can spend time with your favourite books.

What you'll pay:

• Shared flat: £450-500/month
• En-suite room: £550-600/month
• Weekly food shop: £40-60 at local supermarkets

2. Marchmont - Victorian Vibes Without the Price Tag ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rent: £400-550/month
Walk to Uni: 10 minutes.
Transport: Multiple bus routes, bike-friendly

What makes it great:

Marchmont gives you that classic Edinburgh experience. Victorian flats, tree-lined streets, and character everywhere you look. You pay less than Newington but get similar perks. Moreover, top restaurants in Edinburgh make it an ideal place for students who appreciate good food and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.

Getting around:

• Bus routes 3, 5, 7, 8, 29, and 31 hit the city centre
• 15-minute bike ride to university
• Night buses run for safe late-night travel

3. Tollcross - Where the Party's At ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rent: £420-580/month
Walk to Uni: 15 minutes
Transport: Major bus hub

Tollcross is party central. If you want to delight in Edinburgh’s nightlife with your studies, this is your perfect spot. Pubs and bars are everywhere, and student nights happen regularly. Live music venues and comedy clubs are within stumbling distance. Before getting into the final choice, it is good to know about the pros and cons of living in Edinburgh to avoid any sudden surprises. 

Reality check:

• Shared place: £420-480/month
• Studio: £580/month upwards
• Tesco Metro and Morrison's for shopping

4. Haymarket - Transport Heaven ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rent: £500-700/month
Travel Time: 20 minutes by bus/tram
Transport: Railway station and tram stop

Haymarket works perfectly if you're studying at different campuses. Or if you want to explore Scotland on weekends.

Transport perks:

Haymarket Station gets you to Glasgow in 50 minutes. The tram runs straight to Edinburgh Airport. Buses connect to all university campuses. Easy access to Edinburgh Park for Heriot-Watt students. 

From Arrival to Graduation: Student Life in Edinburgh for International Students

5. Leith - Budget Winner ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rent: £350-500/month
Travel Time: 25-30 minutes by bus
Transport: Regular buses, good cycle paths

Leith offers the best value in Edinburgh. Sure, it's further out. But you're living by the coast, and your wallet stays happy. 

Money-saving benefits:

Availability of affordable student accommodation in central Edinburgh. Students can choose Shared houses that start at £350/month. Also, food and dining cost less here. It is convenient to explore the top cafes in Edinburgh and pamper your taste buds. 

Cultural stuff:

Growing arts scene with galleries and studios. Excellent restaurants, especially for seafood lovers. Saturday farmers market with local produce.

Getting around:

• Buses 1, 6, 10, 11, 16, and 35 to the city centre
• 30-minute cycle to uni via dedicated paths
• Late-night transport is limited (plan ahead)

6. Stockbridge - Peace and Quiet ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rent: £600-800/month
Travel Time: 25 minutes by bus
Transport: Limited but manageable

Stockbridge attracts students who value peace over parties. They are mostly covering luxury student accommodation in Edinburgh, but the quality justifies the cost.

Study environment:

Quiet streets are perfect for concentration. Georgian architecture is everywhere you look. Independent bookshops and calm cafés. The Royal Botanic Garden is nearby for relaxation breaks.

Why the higher cost makes sense:

Better build quality in flats. Fewer students mean less noise. Superior security and maintenance. Local amenities are top-notch.

7. Bruntsfield - Gateway to The Meadows ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rent: £480-650/month
Walk to Uni: 15 minutes
Transport: Good bus connections

Bruntsfield gives you direct Meadows access while keeping rent reasonable. Perfect for students who need outdoor space.

Outdoor benefits:

Experience fun facts in Edinburgh with The Meadows, a vibrant green space perfect for sports, festivals, and relaxing with friends. It features tennis courts, a playground, and hosts regular outdoor events and markets.

Student-friendly features:

Bruntsfield Place has shops and restaurants. Multiple supermarkets are nearby. Regular buses to all campuses. Safe cycling routes through parkland.

8. Morningside - Upmarket Living ⭐⭐⭐

Rent: £550-750/month
Travel Time: 20 minutes by bus
Transport: Excellent bus routes

Morningside works for students with bigger budgets. You get premium living with strong community vibes.

Premium features:

The area offers high-quality flats and houses, excellent local shops and restaurants, and beautiful tree-lined streets throughout. With a strong sense of community, safety, and spirit, it's an ideal environment for students. To explore more features and find the right fit, students can refer to the student accommodation guide for Edinburgh.

Consider this:

Higher rent limits who can afford it. Fewer students around. Need buses to reach the universities. Limited late-night entertainment nearby.

9. Dalry - Up-and-Coming Value ⭐⭐⭐

Rent: £400-550/month
Travel Time: 25 minutes by bus
Transport: Improving connections

Dalry offers great value for students willing to live slightly further out. The area keeps improving with new facilities.

Value benefits:

Lower rent than central areas. Local facilities are improving rapidly. Good bus links to the city centre. More space for your money.

Growth happening:

New developments are improving the area. More restaurants and cafés are opening. Better cycling infrastructure is coming. The student population is growing.

10. Gorgie - Budget with Character ⭐⭐⭐

Rent: £350-480/month
Travel Time: 30 minutes by bus
Transport: Regular bus services

Gorgie gives you authentic Edinburgh living at budget prices. Students love the genuine local character here.

Budget benefits:

Some of Edinburgh's affordable student digs. Traditional pubs with reasonable prices. Independent shops offering good value. Strong local community feel.

Transport reality:

• Buses 1, 34, 35 to the city centre
• Longer journey times need planning
• Limited late-night options
• Cycling is becoming more popular

Student Living Costs Breakdown 2025

What You'll Pay for Accommodation

The cost of living in Edinburgh is relatively affordable compared to other major UK cities, though it can vary based on location and lifestyle. Students can take reference from below and plan their budget accordingly. Additionally, using a cost of living calculator can provide a more accurate estimate of monthly expenses.

Other Monthly Costs

Getting Around Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s transportation system allows convenience, and students don't have to worry about getting to campus and exploring the city. 

Public Transport

Bus Services:

• Single trip: £1.70
• Day ticket: £4.50
• Weekly pass: £21
• Monthly pass: £58
• Student discounts with a valid ID

Tram Network:

• Airport to city centre: £6.50
• Single journey: £1.70-2.00
• Day ticket: £4.50

Train Connections:

• Edinburgh Waverley (city centre)
• Edinburgh Haymarket (west side)
• Regular services to Glasgow, Stirling, and Dundee

Cycling in Edinburgh

Edinburgh's cycling network keeps expanding. Here are the main routes:

• Water of Leith pathway (no traffic)
• Meadows to Leith cycle route
• Union Canal towpath
• Dedicated lanes on major roads

Bike costs:

• Second-hand: £80-200
• New bikes: £200-500
• Insurance: £50-100/year
• Upkeep: £50-100/year

Safety Breakdown by Area

Edinburgh is generally safe, but safety varies by area. Stick to well-lit areas and stay aware of your surroundings. Students can also opt for a safety guide in Edinburgh to stay informed and prepared. 

Safest Areas (8-9/10)

• Stockbridge: Great lighting, very low crime
• Morningside: Strong community watch, well-maintained
• Bruntsfield: Regular police presence, safe cycling

Pretty Safe Areas (6-7/10)

• Newington: Busy streets help safety, occasional trouble
• Marchmont: Generally safe, be careful late at night
• Tollcross: Well-lit main roads, avoid quiet side streets after dark

Need to Be Careful (5-6/10)

• Old Town: Tourist-heavy, pickpocketing happens, don't walk alone late
• Leith: Getting better, but varies by street; research your specific area

Safety Tips for Everyone

• Download Edinburgh City Council's safety app
• Sign up for local police alerts
• Join WhatsApp safety groups for your area
• Get good bike locks and lights
• Keep emergency contacts handy

Money-Saving Hacks

Accommodation Savings

1. Share with mates: Cut costs by 30-40%
2. Book early: Get better rates and locations
3. Consider outer areas: Save £200+ monthly choosing Leith over Newington
4. Negotiate: Long-term leases often get discounts
5. Check what's included: Calculate total costs properly

Transport Savings

1. Student bus passes: Save 40% on monthly costs
2. Cycle when possible: Free after buying the bike
3. Walk short distances: Save money and get fit
4. Share taxis: Split costs for late-night journeys
5. Off-peak travel: Use cheaper train tickets

Food and Fun

1. Cook at home: Save £400+ monthly versus eating out
2. Student discount cards: UNiDAYS, TOTUM, NUS Extra
3. Happy hour dining: Many places offer student discounts
4. Free uni events: Use campus entertainment
5. Shop smart: Lidl and Aldi cut grocery costs by 30%

Tech and Services

1. Student broadband deals: Often include streaming
2. Share streaming accounts: Split Netflix, Spotify costs
3. Free uni software: Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite
4. Second-hand textbooks: Save 60-80% on materials
5. Student mobile contracts: Get significant discounts

Purpose-Built Student Accommodation

What PBSA Offers

The best student accommodation in Edinburgh is purpose-built to meet the specific needs of university students. They provide a comfortable, secure, and community-focused environment. 

These modern housing options offer 

• All bills are included in the rent
• 24/7 security and staff
• Study spaces and social areas
• Fast internet throughout
• Modern gym facilities
• Regular social events
• Contents insurance included

Where to find the best PBSA:

• Newington: Multiple new developments near the university
• Tollcross: Modern complexes with great transport
• Haymarket: Premium options with airport tram access
• City Centre: Limited but high-quality choices

Final Recommendations

From arrival to graduation, student life in Edinburgh is a journey full of opportunities, vibrant communities, and memorable experiences.

Best Overall Choice: Newington

Perfect balance of everything. Close to uni, great amenities, strong community. Ideal for first-year students wanting easy university access and vibrant student life.

Best Budget Option: Leith

Serious cost savings with unique coastal living. Perfect for budget-conscious students who don't mind longer commutes.

Best for Nightlife: Tollcross

Central location with excellent entertainment and transport. Ideal for socially active students who prioritise evening activities.

Best for Peace: Stockbridge

Premium choice for students wanting quiet study environments and beautiful surroundings. Higher costs are justified by quality and atmosphere.

Best Transport Links: Haymarket

Perfect for students at multiple campuses or planning regular travel. Excellent for Heriot-Watt University's Edinburgh Park campus.

Final Words

Edinburgh is one of the UK’s most student-friendly cities, blending rich history, vibrant culture, and top-tier education. Whether you’re after budget living, buzzing nightlife, or peaceful study spots, there’s an area here that fits your needs.