Best Places to Live in York for Students
The fabulous view of York Minster
Choosing the best places to live in York for students can make a huge difference to university life. Whether you are studying at the University of York or York St John University, where you live affects your budget, social life, commuting time and overall student experience.
York is one of the UK’s most popular student cities thanks to its historic charm, excellent nightlife, strong transport links and growing student population. From lively city-centre apartments to quieter residential neighbourhoods, there are plenty of student-friendly areas to choose from.
At A&M Removals, we regularly help students move throughout York and North Yorkshire, so we understand which locations are most popular for student living.
As Nick, owner of A&M Removals, explains:
“York has become one of the best university cities in the UK. We help students move into all kinds of accommodation across the city, and some areas consistently stand out because they offer the right balance of affordability, convenience and student atmosphere.”
Below are the 10 best places to live in York for students in 2026.
1. Heslington – Best for University of York Students
Heslington is widely considered one of the best places to live in York for students attending the University of York.
Located close to both Campus East and Campus West, it offers:
- easy walking and cycling routes
- student houses
- modern flats
- excellent bus connections
The area has a strong student community and plenty of amenities nearby including supermarkets, cafes and takeaways.
York University Heslington Campus
2. Hull Road – Popular Student Housing Area
Hull Road is one of York’s most established student neighbourhoods.
Many students choose Hull Road because:
- rent is often more affordable
- it is close to campus
- there are plenty of shared student houses
- nightlife and shops are nearby
It is particularly popular with second and third-year students looking for larger shared properties.
3. York City Centre – Best for Nightlife & Convenience
For students wanting the full city experience, York city centre is one of the best places to live in York for students.
Living centrally means:
- restaurants and bars are nearby
- easy train access
- strong social scene
- close proximity to York St John University
However, city-centre rents are usually higher.
Best For
- postgraduate students
- mature students
- students without cars
Fulford High Street. Photo Wikipedia
4. Fulford – Quiet but Well Connected
Fulford is ideal for students wanting a quieter lifestyle while remaining close to campus and the city centre.
Benefits include:
- safer residential feel
- riverside walks
- good bus routes
- supermarkets and local shops
Fulford is increasingly popular with postgraduate and international students.
5. Clifton – Great for York St John Students
Clifton is one of the best areas for students attending York St John University.
The area offers:
- easy city-centre access
- cheaper rents than central York
- good public transport
- local pubs and cafes
Clifton has become a popular balance between affordability and convenience.
6. Fishergate – Popular with Postgraduates
Fishergate combines city-centre convenience with a more relaxed atmosphere.
Students choose Fishergate because:
- it is close to the university
- quieter than the centre
- excellent transport links
- good range of apartments
It is especially attractive to mature and postgraduate students.
7. South Bank – Trendy & Social
South Bank has become one of York’s trendiest neighbourhoods.
Known for:
- independent cafes
- bars
- community feel
- Victorian housing
it appeals strongly to creative students and young professionals.
8. Acomb – Affordable Student Living
Acomb is ideal for students on tighter budgets.
While further from the universities, it offers:
- lower rental prices
- larger houses
- strong bus links
- supermarkets and shopping areas
Many students choose Acomb to reduce living costs.
9. Lawrence Street – Excellent Student Location
Lawrence Street remains one of the most practical locations for students.
Its biggest advantages include:
- direct university access
- nearby supermarkets
- regular buses
- strong student population
The area has a mix of:
- student flats
- terraced houses
- private accommodation
10. Tang Hall – Budget-Friendly & Growing
Tang Hall is becoming increasingly popular with students looking for affordable housing near campus.
Benefits include:
- lower rents
- easy cycle routes
- proximity to supermarkets
- quieter environment
As York rental prices continue rising, Tang Hall is attracting more student renters every year.
Why York Is One of the Best Student Cities in the UK
York continues to attract thousands of students each year because it offers:
- strong university reputation
- beautiful historic setting
- vibrant nightlife
- excellent transport links
- safe student environment
Students also benefit from:
- direct rail links to Leeds, Manchester and London
- plenty of part-time job opportunities
- a strong independent food and cafe scene
York University students – A&M Removals are here to help!
Student Removals in York
Moving between student accommodation can be stressful, especially during busy university periods.
At A&M Removals, we help students with:
- house removals
- student moves
- flat moves
- furniture transport
- local York removals
- long-distance student relocations
Whether moving into halls, a shared house or private accommodation, our team provides reliable student removals throughout York. And we also offer a packing service!
Student Living in York FAQs
What is the best area to live in York for students?
Heslington is often considered the best overall area for students because it is close to the University of York and has a strong student community.
Is York expensive for students?
York can be more expensive than some northern cities, but areas like Acomb and Tang Hall offer more affordable student accommodation options.
Where do most University of York students live?
Many University of York students live in Heslington, Hull Road, Lawrence Street and Fulford.
Is York safe for students?
York is generally considered one of the safer university cities in the UK, making it popular with both UK and international students.
Do A&M Removals offer student removals?
Yes. A&M Removals provides student removals, house removals and flat removals across York and surrounding areas. We also offer long distance removals – we move students from both ends of the country!
Contact us at A&M Removals here – or fill in the form below… 🙂