Student Housing Guide: Best Places to Live in Leicester Near University

Choosing where to live as a student can shape your entire university experience, and Leicester has no shortage of great options. From lively neighbourhoods full of social energy to quieter, budget-friendly spots perfect for focused study, the city offers something for everyone.

What makes Leicester stand out is how compact and student-friendly it is. No matter where you live, you're rarely more than 20 minutes from the University of Leicester or De Montfort University. Still, each area has its own unique vibe, price range, and community feel.

Whether you're after buzzing nightlife, peaceful green spaces, cultural diversity, or premium amenities, this guide breaks down the best areas for student accommodation in Leicester, helping you find the perfect match for your lifestyle, budget, and study needs.

TL;DR: Leicester's Best Student Areas

Looking for the best place to live as a student in Leicester? Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Clarendon Park – Trendy, social, and close to campus.
• Highfields – Budget-friendly and multicultural.
• City Centre – Right in the heart of the action.
• Oadby – Peaceful and upmarket, ideal for focused study.

All areas offer good transport links to both the University of Leicester and De Montfort University (DMU). Still deciding which area is right for you? Don’t miss our blog on the pros and cons of living in Leicester student accommodation, it breaks down the key trade-offs to help you choose confidently.

1. Clarendon Park: The Student Favourite

Clarendon Park is where most students want to live. There's a reason for that.

What Makes It Special

Located just south of the city centre. 12-minute walk to the University of Leicester through Victoria Park. Queens Road buzzes with independent shops, cafes, and vintage stores.

The area's got character. Victorian and Edwardian houses line tree-lined streets. It feels like proper student territory but isn't completely overrun.

Student Life Here

• Nightlife: The Cookie, Queens Road Tap, excellent cocktail bars
• Food: The Tiny Bakery, ethnic restaurants, student-friendly cafes
• Shopping: Vintage stores, independent boutiques, and convenient supermarkets
• Green space: Victoria Park is perfect for study sessions and sports

The Reality Check

Pros:

• Walking distance to the University of Leicester
• Vibrant community feel
• Excellent transport links
• Safe area with good street lighting
• Loads of other students around

Cons:

• More expensive than other areas
• It can get noisy during term time
• Parking is a nightmare
• Houses get snapped up quickly

2. Highfields: Budget-Friendly and Diverse

Highfields gets unfairly overlooked. It's brilliant for students watching their money.

The Multicultural Hub

East of the city centre. Incredible diversity creates an amazing food scene. Belgrave Road (the Golden Mile) offers authentic Indian cuisine at student prices.

Why Students Love It

• Transport: Walking distance to both universities. Leicester train station is right here. Bus routes are everywhere.
• Community: Proper multicultural area. International students fit right in. The African Caribbean Centre and Melbourne Centre create strong community vibes.
• Value: Best value for money in Leicester. Your student loan stretches much further here.

What's On Your Doorstep

• Spinney Hill Park for outdoor study
• Victoria Park is a 10-minute walk
• Belgrave Road food scene
• Multiple bus routes to both unis
• 24-hour shops and services

Student reality: You'll save £1,500-2,000 yearly compared to Clarendon Park while still being central.

3. City Centre: In the Heart of Everything

Living in Leicester's city centre puts you at the epicentre of student life.

Why It Works for Students

DMU is a 5-minute walk away.

The University of Leicester is accessible by frequent buses. Everything happens here - shopping, nightlife, culture, jobs.

The City Centre Experience

Nightlife: Republic, Mosh, The Shed - all within walking distance

Shopping: Highcross shopping centre, Leicester Market
Culture: Curve Theatre, galleries, museums.

Work: Part-time job opportunities everywhere

Accommodation Options

Modern student developments dominate the area. Purpose-built accommodation offers hotel-style amenities with student-friendly pricing.

Weekly costs: £120-180 for en-suite rooms in quality developments

The Trade-offs

Advantages:

• Zero commute to DMU
• Everything walkable
• Best nightlife access
• Job opportunities
• Modern accommodation

Disadvantages:

• Can be noisy at night
• More expensive than the outer areas
• Less green space
• Busier streets

4. Oadby: Upmarket and Quiet

Oadby's where students go for a more mature living experience.

The Suburban Option

Just 10 minutes south of Leicester city centre. Feels like a proper market town rather than a city suburb.

What You Get

Quality of life: Quiet streets, excellent schools, family-friendly atmosphere
Transport: Regular buses to both universities, easy parking

Amenities: Upmarket shops, good restaurants, peaceful environment
Green space: Brockhill Country Park, peaceful walking routes

Student Demographics

Popular with:

• Postgraduate students
• Mature students
• International students wanting a quieter area
• Students with cars
• Those prioritising study over social life

5. West End (Narborough Road Area)

The West End's become massively popular with students and young professionals.

The Gentrification Story

Used to be rough. Now it's trendy. Still affordable, but getting more expensive each year.

Why Students Choose It

Location: Central, but not city centre, busy 

Community: 12,000 residents create a proper neighbourhood feel
Value: Still affordable compared to Clarendon Park

Transport: Excellent bus links, cycling friendly

The Area's Character

Narborough Road runs through the heart. A mix of Victorian terraces and new developments. Westcotes Gardens provides green space.

Student life: Good mix of chain and independent venues. Fewer students than Clarendon Park, but still plenty of young people.

6. Stoneygate: The Posh Option

Stoneygate is Leicester's most expensive area. But there are reasons students still choose it.

The Upmarket Choice

Beautiful Victorian and Edwardian houses. Tree-lined streets. Feels like you're living somewhere special.

Student Appeal

Safety: Extremely safe area

Transport: Good bus connections to both universities

Amenities: Quality shops, restaurants, services

Prestige: Address that impresses parents and employers

The Reality

Who lives here: Usually final-year students, postgraduates, or students with family financial support.

7. Evington: The Hidden Gem

Evington doesn't get enough credit. It's brilliant for students wanting a suburban feel without suburban prices.

What Makes It Work

Location: 3 miles east of the city centre

Character: A Former village that kept a community feel

Diversity: Multiple places of worship, international community

Green space: Evington Park, Shady Lane Arboretum

Student Life

Transport: Bus routes to both universities

Shopping: Local shops plus 24-hour Spar

Community: Strong local feel, international students welcomed

Costs: Much cheaper than central areas

Practical Details

• Bus to uni: £3-4 return
• Local amenities: Excellent for international students
• Safety: Very safe, family area

8. Bede Park: The Riverside Option

Bede Park's perfect for students wanting something different.

The Riverside Experience

Close to the River Soar. Modern development area. Popular with DMU students, especially.

What You Get

Location: Minutes from DMU campus

Environment: Riverside walks, peaceful setting

Accommodation: Modern apartments and houses

Nightlife: Close to city centre venues

9. Knighton: Family-Friendly Budget Option

Knighton offers great value for students wanting more space.

The Suburban Student Choice

Character: Residential suburb, originally a separate village

Schools: Excellent local schools (useful for student teachers)

Transport: Bus connections to universities

Green space: Large parks and open areas

Why Students Choose It

• Cheapest rents in Leicester
• Spacious houses
• Quiet study environment
• Good transport links
• Safe area

10. North Evington: The International Hub

North Evington's brilliant for international students.

Cultural Diversity

Community: Large Asian population, international restaurants

Food: Authentic cuisines from across Asia and Africa
Support: Community centres, cultural organisations

Value: Excellent value for money

Student Practicalities

Universities: Bus routes to both

Shopping: International food stores, halal options

Community: International student support networks

11. Westcotes: The Up-and-Coming Area

Westcotes is changing fast. Students are getting in early.

The Transformation

Past: Industrial area

Present: Mix of students and young professionals

Future: Increasing investment and development

Student Appeal

Value: Still affordable

Location: Central but not crowded

Community: Growing student population

Potential: Area improving rapidly

12. Aylestone: The Scenic Option

Aylestone offers something completely different.

The Village Feel

Character: Former village with medieval architecture

River: Close to the River Soar, beautiful walks

Nature: Aylestone Meadows nature reserve

Community: Village feel within the city

Student Considerations

Transport: Longer commute to universities

Lifestyle: Peaceful, perfect for focused study 

Social: Less student nightlife, more rural pubs

Transport and Accessibility

Getting to Universities

University of Leicester:

• Clarendon Park: 12-minute walk
• Highfields: 15-minute bus ride
• City Centre: 20-minute bus ride
• Oadby: 25-minute bus ride

De Montfort University:

• City Centre: 5-minute walk
• Bede Park: 8-minute walk
• West End: 15-minute bus ride
• Highfields: 20-minute bus ride

Transport Costs

Safety and Student Life

Crime Statistics (per 1000 residents)

Night Safety Tips

Well-lit areas: Clarendon Park, Stoneygate, Oadby

University escort services: Available from both universities

Student areas: Generally safe due to high student population

Transport: Night buses are available on weekends

Want to know more about safety from an international student’s perspective? Read our full guide on safety in Leicester for practical tips, insights, and local advice to help you feel secure and confident while studying in the city.

Food Scene and Cultural Life

International Cuisine by Area

Highfields/Belgrave Road:

• Authentic Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi
• Student prices: £5-8 for excellent meals

City Centre:

• International chains and independent restaurants
• Prices: £8-15 for meals

Clarendon Park:

• Trendy independent restaurants
• Prices: £10-18 for meals

Looking for top spots to try? Check out our curated list of the best restaurants in Leicester for students, perfect for every budget and craving.

Accommodation Types Explained

Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)

Modern developments are designed specifically for students. Usually include:

• En-suite bathrooms
• Communal kitchens and living areas
• Study spaces and gyms
• 24/7 security and support
• All bills included
• Social events and activities

Available through: beststudenthalls.com properties across Leicester

Costs: £120-220/week depending on area and facilities

Want to learn more? Check out our full guide on purpose-built student accommodation and see why it’s a top choice for comfort, convenience, and community.

Shared Houses

Traditional student choice. Usually 3-6 students sharing:

• Individual bedrooms
• Shared kitchen, living room, and bathrooms
• More independence and space
• Bills are separate from rent

Costs: £80-160/week plus bills

Studios and One-Bed Flats

For students wanting complete independence:

• Private kitchen and bathroom
• No housemate issues
• More expensive but total privacy
• Popular with postgraduates

Costs: £150-250/week all-inclusive

Discover why students love the lifestyle in our blog on why live in Leicester student accommodation, from local perks to top-rated student areas.

Practical Tips for International Students

Before You Arrive

Research online: Virtual tours, Google Street View, student forums

Contact current students: The University's international offices can connect you

Book temporary accommodation: First few weeks, while you explore the areas

Currency considerations: Set up a UK bank account quickly

Planning your move? Don’t miss our student checklist for moving to the UK, it covers everything from travel docs to SIM cards, so you’re fully prepared.

First Week Priorities

1. Visit multiple areas during different times of day
2. Use public transport to test commute times
3. Check local amenities - shops, banks, healthcare
4. Meet current students in your chosen area
5. Understand contract terms before signing anything

Cultural Integration Tips

Highfields: Perfect for students from South Asian backgrounds

City Centre: Best for students wanting UK cultural immersion
Clarendon Park: Great mix of UK and international students

Oadby: Quieter integration with the local British community

Making Your Decision

Questions to Ask Yourself

1. What's your priority: Social life, study environment, or budget?
2. How important is commute time: Walking distance or happy to travel?
3. Do you have a car: Changes your area options significantly
4. What's your budget: Be realistic about total monthly costs
5. University preference: Closer to the University of Leicester or DMU?

Before you commit, check out our expert guide on things to consider when booking student accommodation in the UK to make a smart, stress-free choice.

Red Flags to Avoid

Accommodation hunting:

• Prices are significantly below the market rate
• Landlords are asking for full-year rent up front
• No viewing allowed before signing
• Unclear contract terms
• No deposit protection scheme

Area concerns:

• No other students around
• Poor transport links to universities
• Limited local amenities
• Safety concerns at night
• Far from emergency services

New to student housing? Avoid common pitfalls by reading our blog on mistakes to avoid when choosing student accommodation.

The Future of Leicester Student Areas

Upcoming Developments

City Centre: Major regeneration projects increasing student accommodation

Waterside: New business district creating jobs and accommodation

Transport: £70 million investment in buses and cycling infrastructure

Digital: 5G coverage and fibre broadband improvements across all areas

Investment Trends

Areas seeing the most development:

1. City Centre: Major PBSA developments
2. Bede Park: Riverside regeneration
3. West End: Gentrification continuing
4. Highfields: Community investment and improvements

Final Recommendations

For Different Student Types

First-year students: Clarendon Park or City Centre for social opportunities

Budget-conscious: Highfields or North Evington for value

Postgraduates: Oadby or Stoneygate for a quieter environment
International students: Highfields for cultural diversity

Party lovers: City Centre or Clarendon Park for nightlife and easy access to Leicester’s best student clubs

Study-focused: Oadby or Evington for a peaceful environment

Best Overall Value

Winner: Highfields offers the best combination of:

• Affordable rents
• Central location
• Transport links
• Cultural diversity
• Student community
• Local amenities

Runner-up: West End for students wanting a trendy area without Clarendon Park prices

Your Guide to Leicester Student Areas Ends Here: Now It’s Your Turn

Choosing the right area to live in is more than just a logistical decision; it’s the foundation for your entire university experience. Thanks to Leicester’s compact and well-connected layout, no matter where you live, you're never far from the University of Leicester, De Montfort University (DMU), or the city’s dynamic cultural life.

The key is finding a neighbourhood that matches your lifestyle, budget, and personal priorities. Whether it’s Clarendon Park with its vibrant student energy, Highfields for its cultural richness and affordability, or Oadby for a quieter, suburban feel, Leicester has the perfect fit for every kind of student.

Leicester isn’t just where you’ll study, it’s where you’ll grow, build connections, and create lifelong memories. Make the smart choice, match your area to your goals, and start your student journey with confidence.