Best Areas to Live in Plymouth for Students: Complete Guide (2025)

TL;DR:

• Greenbank wins for convenience, but costs more.

• Mutley offers the best nightlife and student community.

• Lipson provides great value for money. 

• City Centre suits international students. 

• Stoke is perfect for a quieter study life. Choose based on budget, social life needs, and commute preferences.

Looking for the best place to live as a student in Plymouth? Whether you're starting at the University of Plymouth or Plymouth Marjon University, choosing the right area can make a big difference to your student life. 

From buzzing city-centre spots to quieter neighbourhoods, Plymouth has something for every type of student. The city offers a mix of modern apartments and shared housing options that cater to various lifestyles and budgets. With plenty of neighbourhoods to choose from, it may seem a bit difficult to choose the best. This guide breaks down the top student-friendly areas to help you decide where to call home. Get ready to secure student accommodation in Plymouth in an area that promises convenience, security, and comfort.

The Student Area Champions

Greenbank

Greenbank consistently ranks as Plymouth's top student area. The reason is affordable living, vibrant culture, and easy access to campus. 

Location perks:

• 8-minute walk to the University of Plymouth

• 5-minute walk to Drake Circus shopping centre

• Heart of the student social scene

• Perfect for lectures, shopping, and socialising

Why it works for students: Everything you need is within walking distance: university, shops, pubs and some of the top Plymouth restaurants. Students can enjoy fresh seafood, including fish, lobster, and crab. Plus, you're surrounded by other students, making it easy to make friends. There are plenty of purpose-built student accommodation that comes with an all-inclusive bill, and strong security. Discovery Heights and Alexandra Works are phenomenal options for student housing. 

Downsides: More expensive than other areas and can get noisy during term time. 

Mutley

Mutley is where Plymouth's student social scene happens. If you want to experience proper student life in Plymouth, this is your spot. Mutley is known for its lively and vibrant student community. The University of Plymouth and the city centre are located within walking distance. There are supermarkets, cafes, and pubs like The Hyde Park and The Mannamead.

For students seeking affordable housing, Mutley offers great value, letting you enjoy all the benefits of city living without the high costs.

Transport links:

• 15-minute walk to the university

• Regular buses every 10 minutes

• Night buses run on weekends

• Easy cycle routes

Lipson

Lipson offers the best bang for your buck in Plymouth. It provides several financial benefits, most notably, it's around 20–30% more affordable than Greenbank. On top of that, you get larger rooms for the money. The student accommodation here also comes with more amenities, making it a smart choice for value-conscious students. 

Lipson has a large student community. While it’s denser than Mutley, there are still plenty of students around, so you won’t miss out on the social side of student life

Location details:

• 20-minute walk to the university

• 15-minute bus journey

• Easy cycling distance

• Close to Freedom Fields Park

Why students love it: Lipson offers more space for less money. It’s quieter, making it ideal for studying, but still well-connected to both the campus and the city.

City Centre

City centre living suits international students particularly well. Everything's accessible, and it feels truly urban. In the heart of the city, things to do in Plymouth include visiting the historic Barbican, enjoying the views from Plymouth Hoe, and exploring local markets. 

International student benefits:

• Close to shops, banks, and services

• Easy airport connections

• Better public transport links

Perfect for: International students, those who prefer modern amenities, and students who like urban living.

Potential drawbacks: Most expensive option. It can feel less community-focused, with limited green space.

Stoke

Stoke is Plymouth's best-kept secret for students who want character without chaos. It offers a historic village feel within the city, with leafy streets and Devonport Park right on your doorstep. 

There's a growing arts and culture scene, making it even more appealing. It's perfect for students who want quieter living but still want to stay connected to everything.

Plymouth facts include its role where the Mayflower ship began its trip to America, and it has been an important place for the British Navy for many years. 

Transport connections:

• 25-minute walk to the university

• Regular bus services

• Easy cycling routes

Ideal for: Students who prioritise character, space, and relative quiet while staying connected to university life.

Area Comparison: At a Glance

Transport and Commute Reality

Walking vs Public Transport

Walking times from popular areas:

• Greenbank to campus: 8 minutes

• Mutley to campus: 15 minutes

• Lipson to campus: 20 minutes

• City Centre to campus: 18 minutes

• Stoke to campus: 25 minutes

Bus services: All major student areas have regular bus services to campus. Services run every 10-15 minutes during peak times. The transportation system in Plymouth is reliable and student-friendly, making it easy to get to lectures on time and move around the city without any hassle.

Cycling infrastructure: Plymouth is cycle-friendly, with dedicated lanes, and most student areas are within easy cycling distance of campus. 

Student transport costs:

• Monthly bus pass: £55-65

• Bike maintenance: £20-30 per year

• Walking: Free (plus fitness benefits)

Night Transport

Weekend night buses: Runs until 3 am on Friday and Saturday nights, covering all major student areas.

Taxi sharing: Common between areas, and the typical cost includes:

• Greenbank to Mutley: £4-6

• City Centre to Lipson: £6-8

• Stoke to campus: £5-7

Social Life and Student Culture

Nightlife by Area

Nightlife in Plymouth is lively and student-focused, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Students can enjoy live music, have fun, and create great memories with friends.

Mutley: This is student pub central. The Hyde Park, Fortescue, and Goodbody lead the way. They offer affordable drinks, student nights, and are all within walking distance of each other.

Greenbank: Mix of student pubs and more upmarket bars. It offers easy access to the city centre nightlife.

City Centre: Proper clubs and cocktail bars. They are more expensive but come with a better variety and are perfect for special occasions.

Student Community Features

Social integration:

• Mutley: Instant student community

• Greenbank: University-focused social life

• Lipson: Growing student presence

• City Centre: Mix of students and professionals

• Stoke: Quieter, close-knit community

Study environments: All areas offer a mix of social and quiet study options. Most student houses have designated study spaces.

Cost Breakdown by Area

Total Monthly Living Costs

The cost of living in Plymouth is generally affordable for students, with reasonable prices for housing, food, and transport.

Students can use the cost of living calculator and estimate their budget.  This tool helps plan expenses that include rent, food, transport, and leisure, making it easier to manage finances and avoid surprises during the semester.

Safety and Security Considerations

Plymouth consistently ranks as one of the safer cities in the UK with a lower crime rate. Students don't have to worry much about safety since they are generally living in well-populated, secure areas with good community support.

In case of an emergency, students can opt for a safety guide in Plymouth that provides important tips, emergency contacts, and advice on staying alert around the city.

 Safety Rankings by Area

1. Greenbank (high student presence)

2. City Centre (CCTV coverage)

3. Stoke (low crime rates)

4. Mutley (busy streets, good lighting)

5. Lipson (residential, quiet)

Safety features to look for:

• Well-lit streets

• Regular foot traffic

• CCTV coverage

• Secure building entry

• Close to university security

Student Safety Tips

Area-specific advice:

• Mutley: Stick to main roads after midnight

• Lipson: Use buses for late-night travel

• City Centre: Be aware of weekend crowds

• Stoke: Plan routes through busy areas

Accommodation Types 

Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)

Purpose-built student accommodation focuses on modern design that suits students' needs and lifestyle. There is enhanced safety and comprehensive amenities, making students' lives comfortable. It supports an all-bill inclusive policy, which means students don't have to pay extra for utilities. Costs are usually 20-30% more than shared houses, but they include everything.

Where to find:

• City Centre: Multiple high-rise options

• Greenbank: Several modern complexes

• Limited options in Mutley, Lipson, Stoke

Shared Student Houses

If you’re looking for affordable options, shared accommodation is an ideal choice. Communal living means sharing the rent and common spaces like the kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom.

Studio Apartments

Studio rooms are perfect for independent living, with a private bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom. Students can enjoy a quiet environment and focus better on their studies.

Availability:

• Mainly the city centre

• Some options in Greenbank

• Limited elsewhere

International Student Specific Considerations

Cultural Integration

Best areas for international students:

1. City Centre: Most diverse, services in multiple languages

2. Greenbank: Large international student population

3. Mutley: Easy integration with UK students

Practical Considerations

City Centre offers the easiest access to major banks, post offices, and government services. Looking for the top UK bank accounts for international students? Check out our blog for a full breakdown and helpful tips.

Shopping for familiar foods:

• City Centre: Multiple international supermarkets

• All areas: Access to Tesco, ASDA for international aisles

• Asian grocery stores are mainly in the city centre

Language Support

English practice opportunities:

• Mutley: High UK student density for language practice

• Greenbank: Mix of international and domestic students

• City Centre: Customer service practice opportunities

Choosing Your Perfect Area: Decision Framework

Questions to Ask Yourself

Lifestyle preferences:

• Do you prefer walking or don't mind buses?

• Important to be surrounded by students?

• Need a quiet space for studying?

• Want modern or character accommodation?

Academic needs:

• Early morning lectures requiring proximity?

• Group projects needing easy meetup locations?

• Is library access important for your course?

Seasonal Considerations

Term Time vs Holidays

Summer benefits:

• Some areas offer reduced rents

• Less competition for viewing properties

• Quieter environment in student areas

Term-time reality:

• Higher energy in student areas

• Better public transport frequency

• More social opportunities

Weather Impact

Winter considerations:

• Longer walks feel harder in the rain/cold

• Bus services are more appealing

• Higher heating costs in older properties

Summer advantages:

• Walking/cycling is more enjoyable

• Outdoor spaces are more valuable

• Lower utility bills

Practical Steps

Before You Visit

Research preparation:

• Set a realistic budget, including hidden costs

• List your priority factors (cost, convenience, social life)

• Research specific properties in the shortlisted areas

• Check the university semester dates

Virtual viewing tips:

• Request video tours if possible

• Ask about the surrounding area's noise levels

• Confirm what's included in the rent

• Check public transport links

During Property Visits

What to check:

• Actual travel time to campus

• Safety of walking routes

• Noise levels at different times

• Quality of internet connection

• Storage space and room sizes

Questions to ask:

• What bills are included?

• How responsive is maintenance?

• What's the policy on guests/parties?

• Are there study spaces available?

Looking for more questions to help you choose housing? Don’t miss our blog on the essential questions to ask during a student accommodation viewing.

Final Words

Choosing the right area to live in Plymouth can shape your entire student experience. Whether you want vibrant social scenes in Mutley, affordable comfort in Lipson, or modern convenience in the City Centre, Plymouth has a neighbourhood for you. 

Based on their preferences, students can weigh the pros and cons of each area and choose the perfect place to live. Prioritise your budget, lifestyle, and study needs to find your perfect fit. Start planning early to secure the best student accommodation and enjoy a smooth, exciting university life.