Best student areas to live in London - A complete guide for 2025

If you are a parent whose child is ready to move to the UK or a student looking for the best accommodation in London, finding an apartment here can at times feel like The Hunger Games. The rental market is like a battleground and an extremely competitive space.

London attracts thousands of international students annually, thanks to its diverse population and vibrant offerings. However, with so many areas to choose from, the question is, where do you start hunting for something that aligns with your liking?

In this guide, we offer you detailed insights into some of London’s top student areas to live in.

1. Camden

Appealing factors - Affordable, lively and iconic

You’ll be shocked to know that Camden was once a punk haven. However, today, this area has transformed into a buzzing student hotspot. Camden is within proximity to University College London (UCL) and the London School of Economics (LSE), as well as Camden Market, with eclectic food options and music venues.

Surrounding green spaces like Regent’s Park and Hampstead Heath are ideal for when students need a break from studies. With Northern Line connections, the rest of the city is easily accessible.

2. Bethnal Green

Appealing factors - Affordable Central London living

In the heart of East London, Bethnal Green offers students a relaxed community without being too far from central London. The famous Queen Mary University is a stone’s throw away and the Central Line rail connection is at the doorstep. Unwind at the various cosy cafes and lush parks in the vicinity.

3. King’s Cross

Appealing factors - Super-connected and a vibrant cultural hub

All Harry Potter enthusiasts, please note that King’s Cross is not all about Harry Potter’s Platform 9¾. Having undergone massive redevelopment recently, King’s Cross is now one of the most vibrant student areas. Students here are near Central Saint Martins and King's College London. When stepping out, Granary Square, Coal Drops Yard and the British Library are a few minutes away.

4. Finsbury Park

Appealing factors - Affordability, along with convenient transportation

Finsbury Park is a Northeast London area and a popular choice for many due to its affordability and excellent transport. Victoria and Piccadilly Lines serve this area and Finsbury Park and Clissold Park are nearby. The city’s offerings are easily accessible, where students can make the most of the exciting food scenes.

5. Elephant & Castle

Appealing factors - A trendy area, with student-friendly amenities

Elephant & Castle is undergoing rapid transformation. It is an area that seamlessly blends old London charm with urban developments. Students here are moments away from London South Bank University and the University of the Arts London. They can indulge in lively street food markets like Mercato Metropolitano. Transportation is convenient via the Bakerloo and Northern Lines.

6. Whitechapel

Appealing factors - A diverse area with historic elements

In Whitechapel, students will be surrounded by a buzzing melting pot of cultures, fun, lively markets and Shoreditch’s famous nightlife. This area is for Queen Mary University students, especially those in the Dentistry or Medicine faculties. For daily commute, Elizabeth, District and Hammersmith & City lines are nearby.

7. Greenwich

Appealing factors - A historic London area, with a scenic, relaxed feel

Greenwich is home to the renowned University of Greenwich and Goldsmiths. This area is packed with history, including the renowned Greenwich Mean Time clock. Students prefer this area for its riverside markets, scenic parks and hassle-free transportation links via the DLR and Southeastern trains. City access from here is seamless.

8. Bloomsbury

Appealing factors - A classic London area, excellent academic offerings

Bloomsbury is where UCL's main campus and cultural destinations such as the British Museum are situated. This historic area is surrounded by beautiful grand terraces, leafy squares and interesting eateries – ideal for students who prefer a traditional London. This area’s slightly expensive in terms of rent, however, the location and atmosphere here are unrivalled.

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