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

Choosing where to study is massive. It shapes your entire uni experience. Leicester's become increasingly popular with students, but like anywhere, it's got its ups and downs. Plus, there are numerous options for student accommodation in Leicester that can enhance their living. However, on the flip side, there's a downside. Limited job market, less frequent transport, changing weather, etc., are some of the disadvantages of living in Leicester. 

This isn’t another fluffy ‘Leicester is perfect’ blog. This is the real deal - honest pros and cons to help you make the right decision.

TL;DR: Leicester Student Life - The Good and Bad

The Good: Leicester's super affordable (£900-1,400/month), brilliant student community (35,000+ students), excellent transport (1h 25min to London), diverse culture, and safe environment. Great nightlife, authentic food scene, and quality universities.

The Bad: Limited job market, unpredictable weather, some rough areas, smaller city feel might bore some and public transport delays. It is not as internationally recognised as London or Manchester.

Premium accommodation from Best Student Halls helps maximise the pros while minimising accommodation-related cons.

The Major Pros of Living in Leicester as a Student

1. Affordability That Actually Matters

Leicester's affordability isn't just marketing speak. It's genuinely one of the UK's cheapest student cities. This significantly impacts the cost of living in Leicester.

Why this matters:

• Your student loan stretches 30-40% further than London
• More money for experiences, not just survival
• Less financial stress means better academic focus
• Part-time work supplements income rather than just covering basics

Real-world impact:

• Decent accommodation: £85-160/week vs £200-400 in London
• Night out: £20-30 vs £50-80 in London
• Weekly shopping: £15-25 vs £30-50 in London

2. Brilliant Student Community

Leicester has over 35,000 students across two universities such as De Montfort University (DMU) and the University of Leicester. That creates a proper student-city vibe.

What this means:

• Everything caters to students (discounts, events, services)
• Easy to make friends across different universities
• Shared experiences with people in similar situations
• Student-friendly landlords and accommodation providers

Community perks:

• Student nights happen multiple times weekly
• Student societies and clubs in Leicester for literally every interest imaginable
• Inter-university events and collaborations
• Extensive student support networks

3. Incredible Cultural Diversity

Leicester is one of the UK's most multicultural cities. 30% of university students are international.

Cultural benefits:

• Authentic food from everywhere (especially brilliant Asian cuisine)
• Festival calendar that's absolutely mental (Diwali, Caribbean Carnival, etc.)
• Language exchange opportunities
• Global perspectives in every classroom

For international students:

• Never feel like the only outsider
• Easy to find food at home
• Cultural societies for every background
• Strong international student support

4. Excellent Transport Links

Leicester's location is genuinely brilliant for students. For navigating the city, refer to a transport guide for students in Leicester.

Why it matters:

• London: 1h 25min by train (perfect for internships, jobs, visits)
• Manchester: 2 hours
• Birmingham: 1h 15min
• East Midlands Airport: 30 minutes

Student advantages:

• Easy to visit family during holidays
• Weekend trips to other cities
• Access to job opportunities beyond Leicester
• International flights for overseas students

5. Quality Education Without London Costs

These are the top universities in Leicester that punch above their weight academically.

University of Leicester:

• UK top 30 consistently
• Daily Mail University of the Year 2025
• Research excellence (DNA fingerprinting invented here)
• Strong graduate employment rates

De Montfort University:

• Leading creative industries programs
• Excellent fashion and design reputation
• Modern facilities and industry connections
• Strong student satisfaction scores

6. Brilliant Food Scene

Leicester's food scene is seriously underrated. You'll find some of the best restaurants in Leicester here.

Food highlights:

• Golden Mile: Best Indian food outside India
• Authentic cuisine from 70+ cultures
• Student-budget-friendly options everywhere
• Leicester Market: Fresh food at amazing prices

Student benefits:

• Cheap, authentic meals (£5-12 for excellent food)
• Late-night food options for student schedules
• Dietary requirements easily accommodated
• Social dining experiences on every budget

7. Safe Student Environment

Leicester is generally very safe for students. Consult a safety guide for students in Leicester for more detailed information.

Safety facts:

• Low crime rates in student areas
• Well-lit city centre and student neighbourhoods
• University security services
• CCTV coverage throughout main areas

Practical safety:

• 24/7 support in most student accommodation
• Safe walking routes between the university and the city centre
• Reliable night bus services
• Strong police presence in student areas

8. Compact City Size

Leicester's small enough to navigate easily but big enough to stay interesting. This makes exploring things to do in Leicester very convenient. You can also discover some fun facts about Leicester as you see the city.

Size advantages:

• Walk anywhere in 20-30 minutes max
• Everything students need within easy reach
• Never feel isolated or cut off
• Easy to explore and get to know quickly

The Honest Cons of Living in Leicester as a Student

1. Limited Job Market

Leicester's job market isn't as diverse as bigger cities. Finding part-time jobs in Leicester for students can be competitive.

Employment challenges:

• Fewer internship opportunities than in London/Manchester
• Limited high-paying part-time work
• Graduate job options are more restricted
• Competitive market due to high student numbers

Real impact:

• May need to look elsewhere for graduate jobs
• Part-time work is often retail/hospitality-focused
• Fewer prestigious internship opportunities
• Career networking is more limited

2. Weather That Tests Your Patience

Leicester weather is proper British weather - unpredictable and often grim.

Weather reality:

• Frequent rain throughout the year
• Limited sunshine compared to southern England
• Cold, grey winters can affect mental health
• Seasonal Affective Disorder common

Student impact:

• Outdoor activities are limited by the weather
• Higher heating costs in winter
• Mood affected by constant grey skies
• International students from sunny climates struggle

3. Some Rough Areas Exist

Not all of Leicester is student-friendly. 

Areas to avoid:

• Some parts of Highfields (though many areas are fine)
• Certain estates on the city outskirts
• Late-night solo walking in less populated areas
• Some bus routes through rougher neighbourhoods

However, you must know about the best areas in Leicester while confirming your student accommodation. Having the nicest neighbourhoods is a blessing as a student. 

Safety considerations:

• Need to research accommodation areas carefully
• Stick to well-known student areas
• Avoid certain areas after dark
• Some streets have higher crime rates

4. Public Transport Reliability Issues

Leicester's public transport works but isn't always reliable.

Transport problems:

• Bus delays during peak times
• Limited night bus services
• Some routes don't run frequently enough
• Train delays affect London connections

Student frustrations:

• Missing lectures due to bus delays
• Expensive taxis when buses don't show
• Weekend transport can be patchy
• Limited options for getting home late

5. Smaller City Limitations

As a student, you must know the pros and cons of living in Leicester. 

Small city drawbacks:

• Limited big-name concerts and events
• Fewer entertainment options than in major cities
• Can feel repetitive after 2-3 years
• Less variety in shopping and dining

Cultural limitations:

• The arts scene is smaller than in London/Manchester
• Fewer museums and galleries
• Limited theatre and performance options
• It may feel boring for students from major cities

6. Town vs Gown Tensions

Sometimes there's friction between students and locals.

Community tensions:

• Some areas are dominated by student housing
• Noise complaints in residential areas
• Local frustration with student behaviour
• Property prices affected by student demand

Practical impact:

• Some landlords prefer non-students
• Locals may be less welcoming in certain areas
• End-of-term cleanup expectations
• Deposit issues are more common

7. International Recognition Issues

Leicester isn't as globally recognized as other UK cities.

Recognition problems:

• Employers abroad may not know Leicester universities
• Less prestigious than Russell Group alternatives
• International student visa complications
• Parents may prefer "famous" university cities

Career implications:

• May need to explain Leicester's quality to employers
• Networking less internationally focused
• Alumni networks are smaller globally
• Graduate opportunities are more UK-focused

Accommodation Pros and Cons

Pros of Leicester Student Accommodation

Affordability: Way cheaper than London or southern cities, making affordable student accommodation in Leicester readily available.

Variety: From shared houses to luxury studios. 

Availability: Plenty of options across all price ranges. 

Quality: Modern PBSA developments offer excellent facilities, including options for luxury student accommodation in Leicester.

Location: Most accommodation within walking distance of universities

Cons of Leicester Student Accommodation

Competition: Best properties get snapped up quickly. 

Standards vary: Some private rental properties are below par 

Bills confusion: Private rental often excludes utilities. 

Deposit issues: Some landlords are having difficulty with deposits. 

Area research needed: Need to choose the location carefully

Social Life: The Good and Bad

Social Life Pros

Student nights: Multiple clubs offer student events weekly. 

Diversity: Social scenes for every interest and background. 

Affordability: Cheap drinks and entry compared to major cities. 

Variety: From cocktail bars to traditional pubs 

Events: Constant festivals and cultural celebrations

Social Life Cons

Limited club scene: Fewer top-tier venues than bigger cities, though the best clubs in Leicester still offer a good range.

Repetitive after time: The same venues get boring. 

Early closing: Many places close earlier than London. 

Transport home: Limited late-night transport options 

Weather dependent: Outdoor socializing is limited by the climate

Academic Experience Breakdown

Academic Pros

• Small class sizes: More personal attention from lecturers. 
• Modern facilities: Both universities have invested heavily 
• Research opportunities: Easier to get involved in research projects. 
• Support services: Excellent student support due to the smaller scale. 
• Industry connections: Strong links with local and national employers

The best part is that students have access to the best libraries in Leicester.

Academic Cons

Less prestigious: Not Russell Group Recognition 

Limited research funding: Smaller budgets than top-tier universities 

Faculty size: Fewer world-renowned academics 

International profile: Less globally recognized programs  

Competition: High achievers may prefer more prestigious options

Cost Breakdown: Financial Pros and Cons

Financial Pros

Financial Cons

Limited earning potential: Fewer high-paying part-time jobs 

Travel costs: More expensive to visit other cities 

Career limitations: May need to relocate for better graduate jobs 

Social pressure: Temptation to spend saved money unnecessarily

Pro Tip: If you want to reduce your expenses, you can refer to the blog on money-saving tips for students in Leicester. 

International Student Perspective

Pros for International Students

Welcoming community: Large international student population 

Cultural familiarity: Diverse city with familiar foods and customs 

Support services: Excellent international student support 

Cost-effectiveness: Great value education and living costs 

English immersion: Smaller city means more interaction with locals

Cons for International Students

Global recognition: Universities are less known internationally 

Career opportunities: Limited global companies for internships 

Weather shock: Difficult adjustment for students from warm climates 

Cultural limitations: Smaller arts and cultural scene 

Isolation potential: Further from London's international connections

Seasonal Considerations

Term Time Pros and Cons

Pros:

• A city buzzing with student energy
• Constant events and activities
• Easy to make friends and socialize
• Everything geared toward student schedules

Cons:

• Higher accommodation costs
• Crowded venues and transport
• Noise levels are higher in student areas
• Competition for part-time jobs

Holiday Period Pros and Cons

Pros:

• The quieter, more peaceful atmosphere
• Lower accommodation costs (some contracts)
• Easier to find work
• Better access to local attractions

Cons:

• A much quieter social scene
• Many student-focused venues closed
• Public transport reduced
• Can feel isolated

Making the Decision: Is Leicester Right for You?

Leicester is Perfect If You:

• Want excellent value for money
• Prefer smaller, manageable city size
• Value diverse, multicultural environment
• Need easy access to London and other cities
• Want a strong student community feel
• Prefer practical over Prestigious
• Are budget-conscious but want quality

Leicester Might Not Suit You If:

• Prestige and global recognition matter most
• You need major city entertainment options
• Weather significantly affects your mood
• You prefer larger, more anonymous cities
• The graduate job market is a crucial consideration
• You want cutting-edge research opportunities
• Family pressure for "famous" university cities

Tips for Maximizing Leicester's Pros

Accommodation Strategy

• Choose wisely: Research areas thoroughly before committing 
• Consider PBSA: All-inclusive options from Best Student Halls are often better value 
• Location matters: Balance cost vs convenience carefully 
• Bills planning: Factor in utilities if not included 
• Contract timing: Understand academic year vs calendar year contracts

Social Integration

Join societies early: The best way to meet like-minded people 

Embrace diversity: Attend cultural events and festivals 

Explore beyond campus: Get to know the whole city 

Build local connections: Don't just socialise with students 

Take advantage of student discounts: Use your student status

Academic Success

Use support services: Both universities offer excellent student support 

Get involved: Research opportunities, societies, and student unions 

Network locally: Build connections with local professionals 

Plan ahead: Consider graduate opportunities early 

Make the most of a smaller scale: Personal attention from staff

The Bottom Line

Leicester offers brilliant value for money and a genuine student city experience. The city is much better for students who are looking for educational opportunities in smaller cities. It is affordable and the community is safe. The city is small and has a limited job market. Plus, it has weirdly changing weather. Though Leicester has disadvantages in its own way, the pros highlight its brighter side. 

For international students, Leicester provides an authentic British university experience without London costs. For UK students, it offers independence and excellent education at realistic prices.

The key is honest expectations. Leicester isn't London or Manchester. It's something different - a city that prioritizes student experience over prestige, value over status, community over anonymity.

If you can embrace Leicester's character rather than compare it to bigger cities, you'll likely love your time here. Your bank account definitely will.