Bristol Student Accommodation: The Complete 2026 Guide
Bristol is one of the most popular student cities in the UK - and one of the most competitive for housing.
I've analyzed 31 properties to help you navigate the Bristol housing market.
Bristol by the Numbers
| Metric | Bristol | UK Average |
|---|---|---|
| Average weekly rent | £171 | £166 |
| Cheapest room | £108 | £73 |
| Properties available | 31 | - |
| Student population | 60,000+ | - |
The reality: Bristol is competitive. With University of Bristol being a Russell Group university and UWE also being popular, demand outstrips supply. Book early.
The Two Universities
Bristol has two main universities with different student vibes:
University of Bristol
- Russell Group, highly ranked
- Main campus in Clifton
- More traditional student experience
- Students tend to live in Clifton, Redland, Stokes Croft
UWE Bristol (University of the West of England)
- Larger campus in Frenchay
- More modern campus feel
- Students tend to live in Frenchay, Filton, or commute from central Bristol
Where you study matters for where you should live. Don't book central accommodation if you're at UWE Frenchay - that's a 45-minute commute.
Best Areas for Students
Clifton
The classic Bristol student area.
- Rent: £150-220/week
- Vibe: Wealthy, village feel, independent shops
- Best for: University of Bristol students, those who can afford it
- Transport: 15-20 min walk to UoB, 30+ mins to UWE
Beautiful area but expensive. Clifton Village is stunning but you'll pay for it.
Stokes Croft
The edgy, artsy area.
- Rent: £120-160/week
- Vibe: Alternative, street art, diverse
- Best for: Creative students, nightlife lovers
- Transport: 10 min to UoB, buses to UWE
- Safety note: Higher crime area - check specific streets
Lots of character but can feel rough. Look carefully at specific buildings.
Redland
Quieter residential area.
- Rent: £130-170/week
- Vibe: Residential, family-friendly, leafy
- Best for: Students wanting peace and quiet
- Transport: 15-20 min to UoB
Good middle ground between Clifton prices and central location.
Frenchay (UWE Area)
Purpose-built for UWE students.
- Rent: £110-150/week
- Vibe: Campus-focused, newer builds
- Best for: UWE students
- Transport: On UWE campus or very close
Makes sense if you're at UWE. Less social than central Bristol.
City Centre
Close to everything.
- Rent: £140-200/week
- Vibe: Urban, busy, convenient
- Best for: Those wanting bars/clubs/shopping on doorstep
- Transport: Variable depending on which uni
Loud but convenient. Check for noise issues.
The 5 Best Value Properties
Based on our data:
| Property | From | Area |
|---|---|---|
| Westbury House | £108 | Fishponds |
| The Colston | £126 | City Centre |
| iQ Bristol | £135 | City Centre |
| Unite Students Bristol | £145 | Various locations |
| Collegiate Phoenix Court | £155 | City Centre |
Safety in Bristol
Bristol has mixed safety across areas. Overall:
- Safest areas: Clifton, Redland, Westbury-on-Trym
- Average: City Centre, Stokes Croft
- Be careful: Some parts of St Pauls, late night Broadmead
Pro tip: Bristol is generally safe for students, but like any city, stay aware at night and in less busy areas.
Check safety scores for Bristol properties →
Bristol Nightlife & Culture
One of the best in the UK:
- Live music: Bristol is famous for it (Massive Attack, Portishead, Banksy)
- Clubs: Motion, Lakota, The Fleece
- Pubs: Thousands of options
- Food: Excellent independent scene, St Nick's Market
Bristol has genuine culture beyond student bars. You won't get bored.
Transport
Bristol's transport is... okay:
- Buses: First Bus runs most routes. Get a student pass (around £400/year unlimited)
- No tube/tram: Unlike Manchester or Newcastle
- Cycling: Hilly but popular. Bristol has good cycle lanes
Tip: If you're at UWE, factor in bus costs. It's 30-45 mins from city centre by bus.
Cost of Living
Beyond rent, expect:
- Weekly shop: £35-50
- Going out: £30-50/week if you're social
- Transport: £0-15/week depending on location
- Total monthly (inc. rent): £900-1,200
Bristol is mid-range - cheaper than London, pricier than Sheffield.
When to Book
Bristol books out FAST:
- November-January: Best selection for next September
- February-March: Still options but competition increases
- April-June: Slim pickings, you're taking what's left
- July-August: Last-minute gaps only
My advice: If you have an offer from Bristol, start looking in December.
Browse all Bristol properties →
31 properties verified January 2026. Bristol housing market is competitive - these prices and availability may change.