Student Accommodation in Plymouth

Student Accommodation In Plymouth

Located nearly 36 miles southwest of Exeter, England, Plymouth is a major port city known as Britain’s Ocean City. With a student population of over 23,000, it is sandwiched between the famous English Channel and Dartmoor National Park. Its largest institution, the University of Plymouth, is renowned for its marine and maritime programmes, given its rich naval history and deep maritime roots. Despite its global significance, it remains one of the most affordable UK cities for students. Being a major student hub, the primary challenge remains–finding suitable accommodation Plymouth has to offer. 

 

Worry not, we have your back. UniAcco provides access to premium student accommodation, Plymouth options fully optimised for your budget. It recommends properties based on your needs and convenience. Whether it’s for 50 weeks or just 4 weeks, ensuite or studio; budget less than £120 or more than £200, all your needs are optimised to give you the best recommendation. It’s 24/7 assistance and 150+ agents smooth out your entire process of finding your place of stay. 

 

Top 10 Affordable Student Accommodation in Plymouth

The hunt for the best place doesn’t cease at the property type; a safe and student-friendly neighbourhood adds to the experience of living in an unfamiliar city. To help you navigate, there are 10 most suitable neighbourhoods for student accommodation Plymouth properties: 

 

1. Saltwater Place
2. St Thomas Court
3. Alexandra Works, Plymouth
4. Plymouth Cross House
5. iQ Astor House
6. Discovery Heights
7. Central Point
8. Beckley Point
9. Mary Parker House
10. Frobisher House

 

Best Student Housing in Plymouth

Choosing the right location in Plymouth isn’t just a matter of proximity to campus; it’s about finding a secure community and convenient access to everyday amenities. Here are 10 popular accommodations that Plymouth students return to year after year, and all are easily accessible and close to the university: 

1. The Old Dairy
2. The Reservoir -Plymouth
3. 1 Chedworth Street
4. Alexandra Works, Plymouth
5. Plymouth Cross House
6. iQ Astor House
7. Mary Parker House
8. Discovery Heights
9. Central Point
10. Beckley Point

 

Best Areas To Live In Plymouth For Students

1. Greenbank

At a distance of just an 8-minute walk from the University of Plymouth and a few minutes away from Drake Circus, this is the most preferred neighbourhood for high-quality student accommodation Plymouth undergraduates choose. It offers a lively, vibrant residential area with access to a number of resources. The average rent here typically ranges between £120 – £180 per week, making it affordable and student-centric. 

2. Lipson

While located a bit far from the campus, this area is actually cheaper than even Greenbank. A 15-20 minute walk (or a quick 10-15 minute bus ride) from the University of Plymouth and Arts University Plymouth saves £20 per week in rent. At an average rental price ranging from £100 - £160, it provides 20-30% more space and better value for money. Unlike the vibrant Greenbank neighbourhood, it's a fairly quieter neighbourhood perfect for student accommodation, with Plymouth transit routes linking it seamlessly to campus. 

3. Mutley

For those of you who like a bustling, high energy neighbourhood, Mutley is for you. Not only its proximity to the University of Plymouth, but also the epicentre of student social life in Plymouth. You can find the best cafes, bars and fast-food joints brimming with people and vibe. It even has parks, Thorn Park and Mutley Park, nearby for refreshing morning or evening walks. The catch here is: it can be a bit tight on your budget, depending on the type of accommodation you choose. Shared houses range £110 to £130 per week compared to more expensive private studios or apartments that can cost £150 - £300 per week. The Victorian terraced houses are a peak attraction for private student accommodation that Plymouth students look for. 

4. City Centre

Even closer to the University of Plymouth, the city centre is located adjacent to it. If you prefer the nightlife and historic charm of Ocean City, this will be your favourite neighbourhood. Access to groceries, Drake Circus and The Barcode is quick. All you need to have is a rent budget of around £160 - £250 per week. Certainly not as cheap as Lipson, but worth the scenic beauty and quick access to almost everything. 

5. St. Jude’s

Reddit describes St. Jude as a safe, peaceful and traditional suburban area located east of the City Centre. Besides Lipson, this is one of the cheaper residential areas that requires a rent budget of £115 - £135 per week. You can even have the luxury of a relaxing outdoor space, Beaumont Park, next to St. Jude Church in the area. 

Monthly Cost Of Living In Plymouth

Living in Plymouth is 26% cheaper than in London. Students require a monthly budget of  £900 - £1400 to live a comfortable and accessible student life. The table below presents an estimated breakdown of expenses according to their category type. 

 

 

Getting Around Plymouth - Student Travel Guide

Plymouth offers an efficient transport system that is completely cost-effective. It has a bus network, rail network and even ferry rides. Students in Plymouth can avail of exclusive discounts on bus rides or apply for specialised council-funded travel. All your concerns about travel budget is addressed in the table below:

 

 

Student Life In Plymouth: Lifestyle & Attractions

Securing your student accommodation at Plymouth base early means you have plenty of time to step outside and explore Britain's ocean city. Beyond lectures and assignments, the city offers plenty of spots to relax, study or explore without hurting your budget. 

1. Plymouth Hoe

The Hoe is the central social hub of the city and a massive green space overlooking the sea. It is as famous as the historic spot where Sir Francis Drake finished his game of bowls before facing the Spanish Armada. Today, it has transformed into a student attraction spot to sunbathe, relax or share a picnic with friends. It also features a quirky Beatles artwork installation where you can sit in copper moulds of the band for a photo. 

2. Smeaton’s Tower

You cannot miss this striking red-and-white striped lighthouse standing right on Plymouth Hoe. Originally built on the Eddystone reef, it was removed to the Hoe piece by piece in the 19th century. They charge £8 for a walk-up ticket to the lantern room at the top for a mesmerising 360-degree view of the city and the waterfront. 

3. The BOX

Located right near the main university campus and the city centre, the Box is Plymouth’s major cultural hub, museum and art gallery. It hosts a mix of local historical archives, contemporary art and popular permanent exhibits, including life-sized mammoth replicas. It's a quiet place to wander around on a rainy afternoon with a nice cafe on-site. 

4. Plymouth Central Library

While university students already have access to their campus library, the city’s Central Library on Armada Way is an excellent alternative space for independent study. It is a bright, modern building equipped with free high-speed Wi-Fi, public computers and dedicated quiet desks. A highly functional backup workspace for students during exam seasons. 

5. National Marine Aquarium

Living up to its name, Plymouth has the largest aquarium in the UK. It is home to over 4,000 marine animals–sharks, stingrays, and a green sea turtle- distributed across several massive tanks. While a single ticket charges £16 - £23, for you as a student, it automatically upgrades to a one-year pass for free visits. So pay once, visit all year. 

 

Top Universities in Plymouth

The city of Plymouth is home to 3 major institutions. The University of Plymouth, which is known for its strong industry links. Plymouth Marjon University, which consistently ranks in the top 3 in the UK for student satisfaction and Arts University Plymouth, which is an independent specialist art university that offers great courses in Fine Arts, Media, and Design.

 

How to Book Student Accommodation in Plymouth

Finding the right student accommodation in Plymouth is not easy, but booking is even tougher. The procedure is lengthy; it involves signing complex documents, verifying properties and paying a deposit, but with UniAcco, it’s effortless. 

At UniAcco, students can compare prices and get personalised recommendations from our experts. Once you finalise the property, our team will help you with everything from filling out the forms to moving into the property.