Student Accommodation in Galway

Student Accommodation in Galway

Galway is located in the West of Ireland, beside Galway Bay. The city is known as a “college town.” According to the Irish Universities Association, Galway is a major student city, with students making up around 20% of the city's population. Besides being a student city, it is also known for its arts festivals, street buskers, and pedestrian streets. Galway is home to the University of Galway and Atlantic Technological University (ATU). Students prefer Galway for its top universities and its part-time job opportunities, especially in hospitality and retail. The Latin Quarter and Westend have many cafés, restaurants and bars, while Eyre Square has several retail jobs.

Finding student accommodation in Galway is difficult because the city has a serious shortage of student housing. On-campus accommodation fills up very quickly, often through lottery systems, and can only take a small part of the student population. Students who want to stay in Galway during the summer also prefer off-campus accommodation, as on-campus housing usually asks students to leave in May. This is especially important for students planning to work during the busy summer tourism season. Private student accommodation is another popular option, with modern, managed properties offering facilities and bills such as Wi-Fi, heating, and electricity in one monthly payment. Students should start looking early, as private PBSA applications can open as early as January or February for the following September intake. Many properties also offer refunds if students do not get their university place.

 

Galway Student Housing in 60 Seconds

 

Why Choose Student Accommodation in Galway?

Students choose Galway because it is a major student city, with around 20% of the population being students. It is home to the University of Galway and ATU, with the city centre close to the university campuses. Students also prefer living in Galway for its part-time job opportunities in hospitality and retail, especially around the Latin Quarter, Westend and Eyre Square. However, finding a room can be difficult because student housing is in short supply and on-campus accommodation fills up quickly. Students often choose private accommodation for more flexibility, especially if they plan to work in Galway during the summer. Private student accommodation also makes budgeting easier, as many properties include Wi-Fi, heating and electricity in the monthly rent. With applications opening as early as January or February, students should start their search early. UniAcco helps students compare accommodation based on rent, location, room type and facilities.

 

Accommodation Types Available in Galway

 

Top Affordable Student Accommodation in Galway

Galway has a tight student housing market, so finding affordable accommodation can be difficult, especially close to the city centre and universities. Affordable student accommodation usually means lower rent, shared facilities, or bills included. UniAcco offers options across different price ranges, with all properties including all utility bills.

• Estrella Taylors
• 3 Linn Bheag 
• 4 Linn Bheag
• 1 Linn Bheag
• 2 Linn Bheag 
• 60 Salthill Road Lower 
• LAUREL PARK
• Upper Newcastle Road 
• 39 GLENVIEW DR RIVERSIDE 
• The Westwood 

 

Best Student Housing in Galway

The best student accommodation in Galway depends on what matters most to you, such as location, room type, facilities and rent. Students can choose from ensuite rooms, non-ensuite rooms, studios and other room types on UniAcco. The best student housing in Galway includes bills, Wi-Fi, and shared facilities, plus top amenities such as a gym, cinema room, and outdoor area.

• The Westwood
• Radical Edward Square
• Laurel Park
• A Lurgan Park
• Upper Newcastle Road
• Queen Street Place
• Canvas Cúirt na Coiribe
• Galway Central
• Hubble Living, Galway
• Swuite Galway

 

Best Areas for Student Accommodation in Galway

• Galway City Centre

Galway City Centre is a great choice if you want to be close to shops, cafés, restaurants and nightlife. The University of Galway is around an 11-minute walk away, so getting to lectures is still easy. It is also a good option for students looking for part-time jobs, with plenty of shops, cafés, pubs and restaurants nearby. The main bus and train stations are also close, which is handy for travelling around Galway or going home.

• Salthill

Salthill is a more relaxed place to live while still being within easy reach of the university. The University of Galway is around 25 minutes away by bus. The area is best known for its seafront, Salthill Promenade, cafés, ice cream shops and pubs. It is a nice place for students who enjoy going for walks, spending time by the sea or taking a break from the busy city centre.

• Newcastle

Newcastle is one of the most convenient areas for students at the University of Galway, with the campus around a 13-minute walk away. The area has a strong student feel, with plenty of student houses and accommodation options nearby. You will also find local shops and everyday essentials close by, making it easy to get around without relying too much on public transport.

• Woodquay

Woodquay is one of the closest areas to the university, with the University of Galway around an 8-minute walk away. It sits close to the River Corrib and the city centre, so you get a good mix of convenience and student life. There are cafés, local shops, pubs and places to eat nearby, while areas like Shop Street and the Latin Quarter are also within easy reach.

• Westside

Westside is a practical choice for students who want a quieter residential area with good access to everyday essentials. The University of Galway is around an 18-minute walk away, so you can still get to campus without a long commute. The area has supermarkets, local shops and the Westside Shopping Centre, making grocery shopping and daily errands easier. It is also close to University Hospital Galway, which can be useful for medical and healthcare students.

 

Student Accommodation Near Top Universities in Galway

 

Getting Around Galway — Student Travel Guide

Getting around Galway is quite easy for students, especially if you choose accommodation close to the University of Galway. Areas like Woodquay, Galway City Centre, Newcastle and Westside are all within an 8-18 minute walk of the university. Walking and cycling work well for shorter trips, while buses are the main option for travelling across the city. Students who use public transport regularly can get a TFI Leap Card, which offers cheaper fares on Bus Éireann and City Direct services, with Young Adult/Student fares starting from €0.65. You can also use the Leap Card for discounted Irish Rail journeys, making trains useful for weekend trips and travel to other cities.

 

Transport options and costs:

 

Student Life in Galway

• Cafés and Study Spaces

Galway has a good mix of university study spaces and independent cafés where you can work on assignments or catch up with friends. James Hardiman Library is the main study spot on campus, with fast Wi-Fi, plenty of charging points, group study rooms and a MakerSpace for creative projects. For a more relaxed setting, The Lane Café is popular with students and has power outlets near most indoor seats. An Tobar Nua combines a café and bookshop beside the canal, with free Wi-Fi, affordable student meals and a quiet setting. Urban Grind in the Westend is another student-friendly option, with reliable Wi-Fi and a bright outdoor courtyard.

• Student Societies

Joining a society is one of the easiest ways to meet people and make friends at the University of Galway, which has more than 115 active societies. Students can get involved in everything from music and theatre to culture, sustainability and social causes. GUMS and Dramsoc are popular with students interested in performing arts, while Trad Soc brings students together for Irish music sessions. The International Student Society organises social events and trips around Ireland, and GIG Soc offers social events and advocacy activities. Students interested in the environment can also join the Organic Gardening Society or Environmental Society.

• Shopping

The city has a mix of familiar high-street shops and smaller local markets, so students can find both everyday essentials and something a little different. Eyre Square Centre is the main indoor shopping centre, with stores such as Penneys, JD Sports, New Look and Dunnes Stores. Shop Street and the Latin Quarter are great for a day of browsing, with fashion stores, Eason, Boots, independent shops and thrift stores along the pedestrian streets. For something more local, Galway Market runs on Saturdays and has street food, fresh produce and handmade goods.

• Sports and Fitness

Students in Galway have plenty of ways to stay active, whether they prefer the gym, team sports or being outdoors. Kingfisher Club on the University of Galway campus has a gym, 25-metre swimming pool, squash courts and indoor sports halls, with discounted membership for students. The university also offers rowing and kayaking on the River Corrib, giving students the chance to try water sports close to campus. If you prefer something outdoors, the Salthill Promenade is a popular place for walking, running and cycling. Some students also take part in the local tradition of walking to the Blackrock diving boards and “kicking the wall”, while others brave a swim in the sea.

• Nightlife and Entertainment

Galway is well known for its nightlife, with plenty of options for students who enjoy live music, pubs, clubs and social events. Róisín Dubh is one of the city's best-known student venues, with silent discos, live bands, comedy and other events. Electric Galway is a multi-room nightclub that is popular for late-night clubbing. Sult, the university's student bar and café, hosts theme nights, karaoke and student events. Massimo is another popular choice, with open mic nights and karaoke. Beyond the nightlife, Galway's live music scene, traditional pubs and regular cultural events give students plenty to do throughout the week.

 

When Should You Book Student Accommodation in Galway

Students who book the best student accommodation in Galway before the rush get the best deal. The most affordable properties in areas like Galway City Centre, Salthill, and Newcastle tend to sell out early, especially for the September intake. Check out the recommended booking period below: 

 

Why Book Student Accommodation in Galway with UniAcco?

Follow the steps below and get your favourite student accommodation abroad.

Step 1: Compare prices and properties

First, choose the destination where you want to book the accommodation. Then, from 15 verified listings, shortlist accommodations that suit your needs and lifestyle by comparing prices and properties.

Step 2: Fill in your details 

Once you have shortlisted your accommodation, fill in your basic details, such as your name, mobile number, and email address. Make sure the information you put in is correct.

Step 3: Talk to our expert and get confirmation

Once you fill in the information, our student expert team will reach out to you within hours. They will guide you through contracts, deposits and rental agreements. Basically, they will be there for you 24/7 till you move into your accommodation.