Student Accommodation in Portsmouth

Student Accommodation in Portsmouth

Portsmouth is a port city located on the southern coast of England in Hampshire. Built mainly on Portsea Island, it is the United Kingdom's only island city. The city has a rich naval history and a mix of historic and modern architecture after being rebuilt following the Second World War. Student accommodation in Portsmouth is popular among students because of its lower cost of living. According to Numbeo (2025), living in Portsmouth costs around 54% less than London and 25% less than Brighton. The University of Portsmouth is the only major university in the city. It is known for courses in Business & Management, Engineering & Technology, and Science & Healthcare. According to HESA 2024/25 data, the city has 23,995 students, including 18,115 domestic and 5,880 international students.

The University of Portsmouth's strong academic reputation and TEF Gold rating continue to attract students from across the UK and around the world, creating high demand for student accommodation in Portsmouth. The accommodation market is highly competitive, especially before the September intake. Average student rent is £199 per week, with rents increasing by over 6% year-on-year. Students should book their accommodation at least 3-4 months in advance to get a property that matches their budget and preferred location. At UniAcco, students can compare verified student accommodation in Portsmouth, explore different room types and prices, and receive 24/7 support to find the right student home.

 

Portsmouth in 60 Seconds

Note: Average rent is based on live UniAcco listings and may change by room type, availability, and intake season.

Why Choose Student Accommodation in Portsmouth?

Students choose accommodation in Portsmouth for its convenient location, affordability, modern amenities and safe living environment. As one of the UK's most walkable student cities, popular areas like Southsea, City Centre and Fratton are close to the University of Portsmouth, making it easy to reach campus, shops, cafés and the seafront. Student accommodation in Portsmouth typically ranges from £199 to £250 per week, offering ensuite rooms, non-ensuite rooms and studios to suit different budgets. Most purpose-built student accommodation comes fully furnished, with utility bills included, and offers modern amenities such as high-speed WiFi, study spaces, gyms, communal lounges, games areas, bike storage, and laundry facilities. Secure key-fob entry, CCTV, on-site management teams and 24/7 maintenance support help create a safe and comfortable environment for students. 

UniAcco Insights

• Average weekly rent: £199.
• 46% of students choose studios, averaging £219/week — the most popular option in the city. 
• 42% choose ensuite rooms, averaging £184/week. 
• A rare UK city where studios slightly outsell ensuite as the top choice. 

 

Accommodation Types Available in Portsmouth

 

Top 10 Affordable Student Accommodation in Portsmouth 

The UK is one of the most expensive countries in the world. The quality of life is high, and the education system is excellent. This is what makes students choose UK universities for their higher education. Unlike London, Manchester, and Edinburgh, Portsmouth is very affordable. The average rent for student accommodation in Portsmouth is £199 a week. But the rent isn’t the only part of budgeting, which is why it’s important to find student accommodation that fits your budget and doesn’t take 60%-70% of your pocket. Below are some of the most affordable student accommodations in Portsmouth. They not only fit your budget but also come with fully furnished rooms, top amenities and all-inclusive bills.

• 276 Fawcett Road
• Rosalind Franklin Halls
• Margaret Rule Hall
• Greetham Street
• Chaucer House
• Catherine House, Portsmouth
• Europa House, Portsmouth
• St James Street
• Stanhope House, Portsmouth 
• Crown Place - Portsmouth

 

 

Best Student Housing in Portsmouth

What makes the student accommodation in Portsmouth the best? The city is affordable, and it has a student population. But finding the best student housing in Portsmouth involves more than that. The fully furnished rooms, proximity to not only the campus but also to daily necessities, all-inclusive bills, and modern amenities with good security systems make the student accommodation Portsmouth the best. Below are the student accommodations in Portsmouth; they are not randomly picked. These accommodations were the most booked on UniAcco and were rated highly by students; they are students’ lived experiences. 

• Crown Place - Portsmouth
• Earlsdon Street
• Greetham Street
• Stanhope House, Portsmouth
• Middle Street, Portsmouth
• Chaucer House
• Europa House, Portsmouth
• Stanley Studios - Portsmouth
• 276 Fawcett Road
• Catherine House, Portsmouth

 

Best Areas for Student Accommodation in Portsmouth

• Southsea

As the name suggests, this area has the classic “student city by the sea” vibe. It's about a 23 minute walk from the University of Portsmouth. There's a lively, artsy, coastal vibe, with students gathering along the seafront or on Southsea Common at weekends. However, being the most scenic area also means it's one of the pricier options, particularly right on the water. 

• City Centre - Arundel Street

This area is known for its busy, student-oriented atmosphere. Unlike Southsea, this has less coastal charm and more practical energy. It’s one of the most convenient areas in Portsmouth for students. Major universities, including the University of Portsmouth and libraries, are within an 11-minute walking distance. And the best part is, most of the big and affordable student accommodation Portsmouth is located in this area.

• Fratton

After the first year, students usually move to Fratton for cheap student accommodation Portsmouth and to save extra money. It’s not directly within walking distance to the University of Portsmouth, but still close to the university by bicycle, which is an 11-minute ride and has easy access to the train and bus. Because of its less-touristy vibe, the area has many large shared houses and accommodations. It’s more residential. 

• Old Portsmouth

This area in Portsmouth screams old money. Old Portsmouth is the historic waterfront part of the city. It’s calmer and beautiful, with good historic architecture. The University of Portsmouth is 13 minutes from this student area. This is what makes it more expensive than other areas, but the environment makes up for it all. It’s popular among postgraduate and PhD students who don’t want loud nightlife. 

• Eastney

This area is a lot like Southsea; it’s near the beach, has a more relaxed, quieter atmosphere, but the rent is a little cheaper than in Southsea. It is calmer, slower and residential. But the major universities are not easily accessible within walking distance. The University of Portsmouth is a 39-minute walk and an 11-minute bicycle ride from this location, so students in this area need a bicycle to reach campus. 

 

Student Accommodation Near Top Universities

 

Getting Around Portsmouth — Student Travel Guide

Portsmouth is one of the easiest cities in the UK to travel around. Students here don’t need a car to drive around. The city is already compact, so most places are easily accessible on foot. But if students ever want to go a little further, they can use the buses. Buses are the main public transportation in Portsmouth. Below is a clear breakdown of how students travel around the city and how much they spend. 

Transport options and costs:

 

Student Life in Portsmouth

• Outdoor Hangouts

Southsea Common is one of Portsmouth's favourite student hangout spots. This large green space sits right beside the seafront and is perfect for beach walks, weekend picnics, sunset views or simply unwinding after lectures. Whether it's a coffee catch-up with friends or a casual date, students often head here whenever they want a break from campus.

• Food & Shopping

Gunwharf Quays is Portsmouth's go-to destination for shopping, dining and socialising. Home to brands like Nike, Adidas, Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein, it also offers a wide choice of restaurants including The Alchemist, Bella Italia, All Bar One and Slug & Lettuce. 

• Live Music & Entertainment

Known locally as "The Wedge," Wedgewood Rooms is one of Portsmouth's best live entertainment venues. From concerts and DJ nights to comedy shows and open mic events, it's a favourite among students looking for an affordable night out. Over the years, artists like Oasis, Muse and The Strokes have performed here.

• Seaside Escapes

South Parade Pier offers a classic British seaside experience with arcades, cafés, bars and stunning sea views. Students often visit after lectures for a relaxing walk along the pier, enjoy fish and chips by the water, or spend an inexpensive evening with friends by the coast.

 

When Should You Book Student Accommodation in Portsmouth

The best student accommodation Portsmouth comes to those who book before the rush. The best-located, most affordable properties in areas like Southsea, City Centre and Old Portsmouth tend to sell out early, especially for the September intake. Check out the recommended booking period below: 

 

How to Book Your Student Accommodation in Portsmouth 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 7 verified listings, shortlist the accommodation that suits 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 the 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.