Student Accommodation in Preston

Yes, Preston can be a good place to live if you want a compact student city where campus, shops, food spots and nightlife are all close together. The University of Lancashire’s Preston Campus is right in the heart of the city, with the library, lecture theatres, cafés, Students’ Union and university accommodation all within easy reach. 

Preston is not as large or fast-paced as cities like Manchester or Liverpool, which can suit students who want somewhere manageable, practical and easier to get around.

Students in Preston can usually choose from university halls, private student halls, shared flats, en-suite rooms, non-en-suite rooms and studios. Shared flats are often a good fit if you want a more social setup, while studios work better if you prefer more privacy and your own kitchen space.

When comparing rooms, think about what you will actually use day to day. A lower-cost shared room may be better for your budget, while an en-suite or studio may be worth considering if privacy is more important to you.

The cost of student accommodation in Preston depends on the room type, location, provider and contract length. The University of Lancashire lists its on-campus accommodation as starting from £87 per person per week, with different prices depending on the hall and room type.

Shared rooms and standard rooms are usually cheaper, while en-suite rooms and studios tend to cost more. Before booking, check whether bills, Wi-Fi, contents insurance, laundry access or other facilities are included in the rent.

Many students live close to the University of Lancashire campus, the city centre, Moor Lane, Friargate, Plungington or nearby residential areas. The right area depends on your budget, your course building and how close you want to be to shops, nightlife and transport.

If you want an easier daily routine, accommodation near campus or the centre can be useful. If you prefer somewhere quieter, areas slightly further out may suit you better, especially if there are good bus or walking routes.

This varies by property, so it’s important to check the listing carefully. Many private student accommodation options include bills such as electricity, water, heating and Wi-Fi, but not every provider includes the same things.

Some properties may also offer extras such as study rooms, laundry facilities, bike storage, social spaces, secure entry, CCTV or on-site support. Compare the full package, not just the weekly rent, so you know what you are actually paying for.

Contract lengths vary depending on the provider and room type. Some student accommodation contracts are designed around the academic year, while others may run closer to a full calendar year.

Before booking, check the exact tenancy dates, payment schedule and cancellation terms. This is especially important if you only need accommodation for one semester, a placement, a summer course or a shorter stay.

Preston is a busy student city, and many students live around the university, the city centre and nearby neighbourhoods. Like any city, safety can vary by area and time of day, so it’s sensible to take normal precautions.

When comparing accommodation, look for practical safety features such as secure entry, good lighting, CCTV where available, on-site staff or support, and clear maintenance reporting. It’s also worth checking your route between your accommodation, campus and the places you expect to use most often.