Best Student Accommodations in Durham 2025-26

When searching for student accommodation in Durham, students are often seeking a balance between affordability, convenience, and quality. Durham is slightly more expensive than some other cities, but it offers a wide range of accommodation options that are designed to meet the diverse needs of students.

University Living is a reliable platform offering an impressive selection of student apartments in Durham, making it easier for students to find suitable housing with several key features, such as bills included. Here's what you can expect when searching for accommodation in Durham:

1. Affordable Options
2. Comprehensive Packages
3. Variety of Room Types
4. Ideal for International Students

When renting student accommodation in Durham, consider factors like budget, location, safety, facilities, and personal preferences. Here's a quick breakdown of popular student housing options:

1. Student Housing: Off-campus accommodation near universities, offering options like studios, suites, and ensuites. These are fully furnished and include utility bills.
2. Studios: Ideal for single occupancy or couples, providing a private living space with essential amenities.
3. Suites: Includes a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and common area—perfect for those who prefer independent living without room partitions.
4. Ensuites: A student room with an attached bathroom, offering convenience and privacy, making it one of the top choices for students.
5. Private Student Apartments: Furnished, independent apartments, ideal for those who want a more personal and spacious living space.
6. Shared Accommodations: Great for friends or family members, these feature twin or double beds, built-in storage, and shared facilities.
7. Home Stays: Experience local life by staying with Durham locals and immersing yourself in the culture.
8. University Halls: Offer rooms with planned meals and limited roommate choices. Great for social students but may lack peace and privacy.

If you're looking for affordable and quality student accommodation in Durham, here are some of the top options to consider:

1. Chapel Heights Durham: Known for its great location and modern amenities, Chapel Heights offers affordable, comfortable living spaces for students.
2. Elvet Studios Durham: A popular choice for students who prefer a private living experience, Elvet Studios provides well-equipped studios with all-inclusive bills.
3. Duresme Court Durham: This accommodation is known for its friendly atmosphere and variety of room options, from ensuites to shared flats, at budget-friendly rates.

Each of these options provides great value, combining convenience, affordability, and high-quality amenities to enhance the student living experience in Durham.

Durham is a charming, historic city known for its world-class universities and vibrant student life. The city offers a unique blend of academic excellence, rich cultural heritage, and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular choice for international students. With efficient transport links to nearby cities like Newcastle and York, Durham provides easy access to broader opportunities while maintaining a cozy, small-town vibe.

What Is the History of Durham?

1. Durham’s history spans over 1,000 years.
2. The city is home to the Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
3. Durham evolved from its medieval roots into a modern academic hub.
4. A thriving student population now contributes to the city's vibrant charm.

Interesting Facts About Durham

1. Durham is home to one of the UK’s most prestigious universities, Durham University.
2. The city boasts an impressive medieval skyline, with Durham Castle and Cathedral standing as iconic landmarks.
3. Durham’s population is small, but it’s a vibrant student community that makes it come alive.

Finding the best student accommodation in Durham involves considering affordability, safety, and proximity to top universities. Here are the best areas for students to live in Durham, each offering convenient access to essential services and a vibrant student atmosphere:

City Centre – The Heart of Durham

1. Central location with easy access to Durham University and local amenities.
2. A lively area offering shops, cafes, and transport links, ideal for students who enjoy city life.

Claypath – Affordable and Accessible

1. A quiet, student-friendly area with affordable housing options.
2. Close to Durham University and the town centre, offering great convenience.

Whinney Hill – Perfect for University Proximity

1. Located near Durham University’s main campus, making it ideal for students.
2. Offers a mix of affordable shared houses and private accommodations.

Gilesgate – Budget-Friendly Living

1. A popular area for students looking for budget-friendly options.
2. Close to university facilities and has a variety of public transport options.

The Sands – Modern Student Living

1. A newly developed area with modern student accommodations and amenities.
2. Close to Durham City Centre and all the action, with access to social spots and transport.

These areas provide safe, affordable, and well-equipped student housing, ensuring a balanced university experience in Durham. Looking for the best student accommodation? Explore your options with University Living today!

The cost of living in Durham can be higher compared to other northern cities, though it is generally more affordable than cities like London. To live comfortably in Durham, students typically need between £1200 to £1350 per month. This amount covers essential expenses such as rent, food, travel, and other day-to-day costs. Please note, this estimate doesn’t include tuition fees, and living expenses will vary depending on your lifestyle.

Here’s a breakdown of common student costs in Durham:

1. Off-Campus Student Accommodation Rent: Starts from £620/month onwards
2. Food and Groceries: Around £380/month
3. Public Transport: Approximately £70/month
4. Clothing: About £50/month

These figures offer a general idea of the monthly living expenses for students in Durham. Keep in mind, costs can fluctuate based on individual spending habits and lifestyle choices.

Durham offers several convenient travel and transportation options for students, making it easy to get around the city and beyond. While Durham is a walkable city, some areas can be hilly, so walking may not always be the easiest choice. Here are the best transportation options available for students in Durham:

1. Buses: Local buses are operated by Arriva and Go North East, covering Durham and its surrounding areas. Additionally, the Cathedral Bus is a student-friendly service with stops at key locations such as the university, park, cathedral, and marketplace.
2. Trains: Durham is well-connected by rail, with the train station located on the East Coast Main Line. Students can reach London in under three hours and Edinburgh in less than two hours, making it ideal for traveling to major cities.

Durham is home to several must-visit tourist attractions, offering a mix of nature, culture, and entertainment. Here are some of the top places to check out:

1. Durham Botanical Gardens: Located in the suburb of Durham, the Durham Botanical Gardens cover 10 hectares of woodlands and gardens. It’s a peaceful place to explore, offering beautiful landscapes and a relaxing environment for nature lovers.
2. Gala Theatre: If you enjoy arts and entertainment, the Gala Theatre is the place to be. From music and comedy performances to cinema, the theatre offers something for everyone. Plus, you can enjoy a drink at the cafe and bar inside the venue.
3. Durham Riverside Walk: Take a picturesque stroll along the Durham Riverside Walk, located in the city center. This natural park features a small waterfall and provides a refreshing experience. It’s perfect for a relaxing walk or even a quick dip in the natural water.