Top Student-Friendly Areas in Birmingham with Affordable Rent Options
Last Updated on February 26, 2026 by Ghazanfar Ali
Picking the right accommodation to call home is one of the most overwhelming tasks students have to do when planning to study abroad. The United Kingdom’s “Second City”, or Birmingham, is one of the most popular student cities worldwide. It is home to some of the best and leading universities in the world, welcoming more than 1,00,000 students every year.
If you are exploring student accommodation Birmingham options, then this guide is for you. Here, you will find student-friendly neighborhoods in Birmingham, their affordability, lifestyle, and more. So, let’s dig in!
Where do Students Stay in Birmingham, UK?
While the city has a plethora of student accommodation options, choosing the right one that aligns with your personality is a big task. Housing needs can differ from student to student, depending on what they’re looking for. Given below are some popular student areas in Birmingham that are affordable to live in. Let’s explore!
Selly Oak: A Classic Student Village
One of the most popular and chosen neighborhoods in Birmingham, Selly Oak is a student favorite. It is right next to the University of Birmingham, offering a strong student community, quick walk to campus, and student-friendly rents.
- Local amenities and the University of Birmingham are within walking distance.
- Shared student accommodation is easily available.
- Student rooms are available for all budgets.
- Student hangout spots, supermarkets, and cafes are available nearby.
Edgbaston: Peaceful Living Near Universities
If you are someone who prefers quiet residential areas that are also near universities, then this is your answer. Edgbaston offers green surroundings and a relaxed environment that is perfect for students’ study sessions and nature breaks.
- City Centre Bus routes and the University of Birmingham are in proximity.
- Cannon Hill Park, and other green spaces are easily accessible.
- International and Postgraduate students usually choose to live here.
- The surroundings are calm, therefore offering a balanced lifestyle.
Digbeth: Affordable and Creative Urban Hub
Also often referred to as Birmingham’s Creative Quarter, this area is ideal for students who are into music, art, and vibrant social scene. Modern student apartments are easily available for rent, with rents that are much more affordable than in central districts.
- In proximity to Birmingham City University campuses.
- Live music, vibrant cafes, and street art venues are all around.
- Constant demand and supply of modern student apartments.
- Birmingham city centre is within walking distance.
Jewellery Quarter: Historic Charm
Ideal for students who prefer a balance between the historic atmosphere and modern student life. This area offers students a mature atmosphere for living, and academic institutions are also nearby.
- University College Birmingham and Birmingham City Centre are in proximity.
- Streets are quieter, with independent cafes all around.
- For travelling, tram and rail connections are nearby.
- Student apartments in Jewellery Quarter offer a unique community feel.
Birmingham City Centre: Most Convenient
Perfect for students who want to be where the party is! From shopping centres, transport hubs, nightlife, and universities, you will find everything at Birmingham City Centre.
- Aston University and Birmingham City University are in proximity.
- Variety of Purpose-Built Student Accommodation options are available.
- Libraries, restaurants, and entertainment options are easily accessible from here.
- Slightly higher rents, but urban living makes it all worth it.
How to Find Affordable Student Accommodation in Birmingham?
One of the biggest challenges international students face is exploring accommodation abroad. While there are endless platforms that offer student rooms in Birmingham, the question is which one to choose. Many students suggest University Living, which is a global marketplace that offers a wide variety of student accommodation in Birmingham.
Some of the most booked student housing in Birmingham are mentioned below:
- The Heights Residence
- Jennens Court Residence
- Canvas The Heights
- Vita Student Pebble Mill
- The Emporium
- Brook Studios
- IQ Broderick House
- Lakeside
The student apartments mentioned above are student favorites, which means they get sold out quickly. So, if you are searching for a home away from home in Birmingham, then this is your cue to book safe and affordable housing now!
Final Thoughts
Every student who dreams of studying abroad thinks of Birmingham as the destination at least once. The diverse neighborhoods, budget-friendly lifestyle, buzzing student community, and affordable student accommodation makes it one of the favorite student cities across the globe.
Whether you choose to pick the nightlife that City Centre offers, or the peace that Edgbaston offers, student life in Birmingham is worth it everywhere. In the end, the ‘right neighborhood’ is where you feel at home. So, what are you waiting for? Start your search for affordable housing in Birmingham today!
