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Pros and Cons of Living in Exeter as a Student: The Complete 2025 Guide
Published by Anagha on 27th Jun, 2025

Pros and Cons of Living in Exeter as a Student: The Complete 2025 Guide


Exeter offers excellent academics, beautiful surroundings, and strong career prospects. Student accommodation in Exeter is a bit expensive, but the quality of services is uncompromised. Moreover, the city offers hilly terrain and growing diversity. Great for outdoor lovers and career-focused students, but consider budget and social preferences carefully.

Choosing where to spend your university years shapes everything from your academic success to lifelong friendships. Exeter's reputation as a top student destination attracts thousands annually, but is it right for you?

This honest breakdown covers every aspect of student life in Exeter. From the steep hills that'll give you calves of steel to the career opportunities that might change your life, here's what you need to know.

The Academic Advantages

World-Class University Reputation

The University of Exeter consistently ranks in the UK's top 15 universities. Your degree carries serious weight with employers globally. The Russell Group membership means you're getting research-led teaching and access to cutting-edge facilities.

Academic Strengths:

  • Strong research reputation across disciplines
  • Excellent graduate employment rates (95% within 6 months)
  • Modern facilities and well-equipped libraries
  • International recognition and partnerships
  • Supportive academic staff with proper office hours

The university's reputation genuinely opens doors. Employers recognise Exeter graduates as well-prepared and capable. This advantage lasts throughout your career, not just your first job.

Diverse Course Options

From traditional subjects to innovative interdisciplinary programs, Exeter offers something for everyone. The flexibility to change directions or add modules keeps your options open.

Course Highlights:

  • Business school with strong industry connections
  • Excellent medical and science programs
  • Innovative sustainability and environmental courses
  • Strong humanities and social sciences
  • Growing tech and digital offerings

Small Class Sizes and Personal Attention

Unlike massive universities where you're just a number, Exeter maintains relatively small seminar groups. You'll get to know your lecturers and receive meaningful feedback.

The Beautiful Setting

Stunning Campus Environment

Streatham Campus genuinely looks like something from a movie. Rolling green spaces, mature trees, and well-maintained buildings create an inspiring study environment.

Campus Benefits:

  • Peaceful study spots outdoors
  • Libraries in Exeter are stocked with essential study material
  • Well-maintained gardens and lakes
  • Historic and modern buildings blend
  • Natural stress relief between classes
  • Instagram-worthy graduation photos

Access to Devon's Natural Beauty

You're 20 minutes from beaches, surrounded by countryside, and have Dartmoor National Park on your doorstep. This isn't just tourism fluff – it genuinely improves your quality of life.

Outdoor Opportunities:

  • Beach trips for study breaks
  • Hiking and cycling trails are everywhere
  • Surfing lessons and water sports
  • National Trust properties nearby
  • Regular outdoor society trips

Strong Career Prospects

Alumni Network Benefits

Exeter graduates populate industries worldwide. The alumni network genuinely helps with internships, job referrals, and career advice.

Career Advantages:

  • Strong graduate employment statistics
  • Active careers service with employer connections
  • Regular recruitment events on campus
  • Graduate scheme partnerships

Location for London Connections

Two and a half hours to London means weekend networking events, internships, and job interviews are manageable. You get countryside living with big city career access.

Local Employer Relationships

Major employers like the Met Office, local hospitals, and growing tech companies provide placement opportunities without leaving the area.

The Social and Cultural Scene

Vibrant Student Community

With over 22,000 students, you'll find your people. The Students' Guild runs 300+ societies covering every interest imaginable.

Social Opportunities:

  • Active society scene
  • Regular social events and festivals
  • Sports clubs for all abilities
  • Cultural activities and arts venues
  • Strong student media organisations

Historic City Atmosphere

Living surrounded by Roman walls, medieval buildings, and a stunning cathedral adds character to daily life. The city centre offers culture and entertainment beyond typical student towns.

Cultural Benefits:

  • Museums and galleries
  • Theatre and live music venues
  • Historic pubs and restaurants
  • Annual festivals and events
  • Rich local history to explore

Safe Environment

Exeter ranks in the top 10 safest major towns in England and Wales. You can walk home from the library at midnight without constant worry.

Now for the Reality Check: The Cons

The Hills Are Real 

Everyone mentions the hills, but they do affect daily life. "Cardiac Hill" isn't just a cute nickname; it's a proper workout getting to campus.

Hill Challenges:

  • Daily cardio, whether you want it or not
  • Sweating before lectures in summer
  • Harder cycling than expected
  • Walking everywhere takes longer
  • Shopping trips become mini expeditions

The fitness benefits are real, but factor this into your daily planning. Allow extra time for everything.

High Cost of Living

Exeter's popularity drives up prices significantly. You'll pay more for everything from accommodation to nights out.

Expense Category

Weekly Cost

Annual Impact

Accommodation

£155-350

£6,200-14,000

Food Shopping

£25-40

£1,000-1,600

Nights Out

£30-50

£1,200-2,000

Transport

£10-25

£400-1,000

Total

£220-465

£8,800-18,600

Also read:

Cost of Living in Exeter for Students - A Complete Guide

Limited Diversity

Devon is one of the whitest counties in the UK. While the university works to increase diversity, the local population remains quite homogeneous.

Diversity Considerations:

  • Limited ethnic diversity in the local community
  • Growing international student population
  • Active efforts to improve inclusion
  • Smaller communities for minority groups
  • Fewer diverse cultural food options locally

Accommodation Shortage 

Finding decent, affordable accommodation is genuinely challenging. Students can avoid these costly mistakes and make informed decisions by thoroughly researching options. 

Housing Realities:

  • Limited availability forces early decisions
  • Quality varies dramatically
  • Competition drives up prices
  • Many houses are tired and basic
  • Landlords can be choosy about tenants

Transport Limitations

While the city is compact, getting beyond Exeter requires planning. Since the regional transport isn’t always reliable, students need to study the transportation system in Exeter for better convenience. 

Transport Challenges:

  • Limited late-night public transport
  • Rail disruptions during storms 
  • Bus services are reduced on weekends
  • Expensive taxis for groups
  • Cycling infrastructure could be better

Academic and Social Drawbacks

Perceived Elitism

Exeter has a reputation for attracting privately educated students. While changing, this can create social dynamics some find challenging.

Social Considerations:

  • Income disparities among students
  • Different cultural expectations
  • Varying social confidence levels
  • Some students feel out of place initially
  • Competition rather than collaboration

Limited Job Market Locally

Outside the university, local job opportunities for students are limited. Part-time work often involves competing with many other students.

Employment Challenges:

  • Limited part-time work variety
  • High competition for student jobs
  • Lower wages than in major cities
  • Seasonal tourism employment
  • Few internship opportunities locally

Weather Unpredictability

Devon weather changes rapidly. Rain gear is essential, and outdoor plans need backup options.

Weather Reality:

  • Frequent rain even in summer
  • Strong winds from a coastal location
  • Sudden weather changes
  • Limited indoor alternatives during bad weather
  • Affects outdoor society activities

Academic Pressure

The high academic standards create competitive environments. Some students struggle with pressure and comparison.

Academic Stress Factors:

  • High-achieving student body
  • Grade inflation makes distinctions harder
  • Research expectations for undergraduates
  • Graduate school competition
  • Career pressure from university reputation

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Financial Deep Dive

Accommodation Costs Breakdown

Accommodation Type

Weekly Range

What's Included

Best For

University Halls

£155-200

Utilities, basic furniture

First years

Private Halls

£200-350

All amenities, social spaces

Those wanting luxury

Shared Houses

£120-180

Basic amenities

Budget-conscious

Studio Apartments

£180-250

Complete independence

Privacy seekers

Hidden Costs Nobody Mentions

If you are wondering why live in an Exeter student accommodation, here are a few insights to know:

Unexpected Expenses:

  • Higher food costs due to limited competition
  • Transport for job interviews in other cities
  • Warm clothing for a damp climate
  • Storage costs during holidays
  • Higher car insurance in rural areas

Money-Saving Strategies

Budget Tips:

  • Shop at Lidl/Aldi instead of Waitrose
  • Cook meals together with housemates
  • Use student discount apps religiously
  • Walk or cycle instead of taking buses
  • Buy textbooks second-hand from older students

There are countless student housing options available, studio rooms for independent living, ensuite rooms for communal experience and shared accommodation for budget-friendly options. Top picks include The Kingfisher, The City Arcade, and Exeter One. These student accommodations are conveniently located near top restaurants in Exeter and other local amenities, making it easy for students to plan their weekends and enjoy time with friends. 

International Student Perspective

Cultural Integration Challenges

Common Difficulties:

  • Local accent and expressions take adjustment
  • Different social customs around drinking
  • Higher cost of living than expected
  • Limited international food options
  • Weather adaptation for warmer climate students

Support Systems Available

International Support:

  • Dedicated international student services
  • Cultural societies for most countries
  • Language exchange programs
  • International student mentorship
  • Regular cultural events and celebrations

Brexit Implications

EU Students:

  • Higher fee structure now applies
  • More complex visa requirements
  • Limited work rights during studies
  • Healthcare arrangements changed
  • Bank account setup is more difficult

Career and Future Considerations

Graduate Outcomes Reality

Employment Statistics:

  • 95% employment rate within 6 months
  • Average starting salary: £25,000-£30,000
  • Strong postgraduate studies
  • International career opportunities
  • Alumni network extends globally

Industry Connections

Sector Strengths:

  • Environmental and sustainability jobs
  • Medical and healthcare careers
  • Business and finance connections
  • Education and research opportunities
  • Government and public sector links

Location Impact on Careers

Geographic Considerations:

  • The London commute is possible but expensive
  • Strong Southwest regional connections
  • Limited local corporate headquarters
  • Growing tech and startup scene
  • Research and academic career paths

Social Life Reality Check

Nightlife Scene

Clubs and nightlife in Exeter:

  • Limited club options compared to major cities
  • Many venues close early
  • Expensive drinks with student discounts
  • Heavy focus on pub culture
  • Seasonal variation in entertainment

Society and Club Life

Why join clubs and societies in Exeter?

  • Excellent way to make friends
  • Skill development opportunities
  • Leadership experience available
  • Regular social events
  • Travel opportunities with clubs

Potential Drawbacks:

  • Can be cliquey in some societies
  • Committee politics in larger groups
  • Time commitment expectations
  • Additional costs for activities
  • Competition for leadership roles

Practical Daily Life Issues

Shopping and Amenities

What's Available:

  • Good supermarket coverage
  • Decent city centre shopping
  • Limited late-night food options
  • Expensive convenience stores
  • Growing online delivery services

Healthcare Access

Medical Services:

  • NHS GP registration is straightforward
  • The university health centre is available
  • Hospital services adequate
  • Mental health support is improving
  • Pharmacy access convenient

Internet and Technology

Digital Infrastructure:

  • Good broadband in most areas
  • Mobile coverage is generally reliable
  • University WiFi extensive
  • Tech support available
  • Digital services well-developed

Seasonal Experience Variations

Academic Year Changes

Autumn Term:

  • Exciting freshers' atmosphere
  • Beautiful autumn colours
  • Societies recruitment active
  • Weather still decent
  • Optimistic energy

Spring Term:

  • Colder, damper weather
  • Post-holiday blues common
  • Exam pressure building
  • Fewer outdoor activities
  • Midyear adjustments

Summer Term:

  • Best weather for outdoor life
  • Exam stress peaks
  • End-of-year celebrations
  • Planning for next year
  • Tourist season begins

Holiday Periods

Vacation Challenges:

  • City becomes much quieter
  • Many venues close or reduce hours
  • Accommodation contracts continue
  • Limited summer employment
  • Storage needs for belongings

Final Words

Exeter offers an exceptional university experience for students who appreciate academic excellence, natural beauty, and strong career prospects. The combination of Russell Group education, stunning surroundings, and vibrant student life creates something special.

However, it's not for everyone. The higher costs, limited diversity, physical demands, and smaller city limitations genuinely affect daily life. The hills are real, the expenses add up, and the social scene has boundaries.

Your success and happiness in Exeter depend largely on alignment between your expectations, budget, and lifestyle preferences. Students who research thoroughly, budget realistically, and embrace the outdoor lifestyle tend to thrive.

Remember, university is just three years, but the experience, friendships, and qualifications last forever. Choose based on what matters most for your future, not just what sounds appealing now.

Ready to experience student life in Exeter? Explore premium accommodation options perfectly located near campus and city amenities with Best Student Halls, where comfort meets convenience in one of the UK's most beautiful student cities.
Anagha Student Accommodation Expert

Anagha

Anagha is a dynamic content writer with over three years of experience. She is best known for her detailed pieces on student accommodation in top cities in the UK. Her open mind and thirst for knowledge mean she is constantly developing new ideas for navigating life as a student in the UK. Her focus on accuracy ensures that students gain a holistic and authentic view of student housing abroad. In her spare time, Anagha likes to play chess, read non-fiction books and travel.

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