How much is student accommodation in Sheffield?

As the cost of living rises, students everywhere are finding it increasingly difficult to budget for accommodation. Whether you're planning to study in Sheffield or you're already living there, understanding how expensive accommodation is in your city is vital for creating a realistic budget. 

In Sheffield, a city known for its affordability compared to other UK student hubs, rent is still expensive. Therefore, it's important to have a clear idea of the costs and the different accommodation options available to help you budget effectively.

What type of accommodation is there in Sheffield?

There is a wide variety of student accommodation in Sheffield, catering to different preferences, budgets, and lifestyles. The three main types of accommodation you can choose from include halls of residence, shared houses, and private halls or purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA). Each option has its own set of pros and cons, so it’s important to understand which one best suits you and your needs.

Halls of residence

University-owned halls of residence are often the go-to option for first-years. They provide the convenience of being close to campus and the opportunity to meet other students, creating a strong social environment. You’ll have the option of choosing between catered and self-catered halls, ensuite or shared bathrooms, and more.

Pros:

• Convenient location near campus.
• Opportunity to make friends and feel more part of a community.

Cons:

• Can be expensive.
• No choice of flatmates.
• Can be louder and less private than private accommodation.

Shared houses

Shared houses, or houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), are popular among second-year students and above. These are privately rented houses where a group of students share communal areas like kitchens and living rooms while each has their own bedroom. This is one of the most cost-effective ways to live in Sheffield.

Pros:

• Affordable, especially if bills are shared between tenants.
• More independence and space compared to halls.

Cons:

• The potential for disagreements with your housemates can lead to an awkward living situation.
• Less structured support than in university halls.

Private halls (Purpose-built student accommodation)

Private halls, also known as purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), offer a modern, often high-end living experience. These buildings are specifically designed for students and come with amenities like gyms, communal lounges, and study spaces. PBSA tends to attract students who want a combination of independence and luxury.

Pros:

• Often offer high-quality facilities like gyms and social spaces.
• Private and self-contained studio options are available.

Cons:

• More expensive than shared houses.
• Can be less social than university halls.

How much is student accommodation in Sheffield?

The cost of student accommodation in Sheffield varies depending on the type of housing you choose. Shared houses are often the most affordable option, while private halls and university accommodation can be more expensive. Here's a breakdown of average costs:

• Shared houses: The average cost of a shared house in Sheffield is £105.23 per person per week (pppw) without bills, or £106.55pppw including bills.
• Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA): On average, PBSA in Sheffield costs £138.57pppw excluding bills or £152.38pppw including bills.
• University halls of residence: At the University of Sheffield, rent can range from £130 to £209 per week. Sheffield Hallam University offers halls costing between £91 and £191 per week, depending on the type of accommodation.

For more information on living costs in Sheffield, check out our detailed guide on the cost of living for students.

What to do if you can’t afford student accommodation in Sheffield

If the prices of student accommodation in Sheffield feel out of reach, there are several options available to help you manage the cost. Whether it's seeking financial advice or looking for alternative living arrangements, you don’t have to let high rents get in the way of your university experience.

Speak to your university’s money advice team

Most universities, including those in Sheffield, have a dedicated money advice team to help students struggling with their finances. They can help you with budgeting and inform you about bursaries, grants, or other financial support you may be eligible for.

Explore your options

If you’re flexible about where you live, you can consider:

• Living further out: Accommodation on the outskirts of Sheffield tends to be cheaper than in the city centre.
• Choosing a shared house: Opting for an HMO instead of a more expensive PBSA can significantly reduce your rent.
• Living at home: If you're local, living with family can help you save on rent altogether.

Get a part-time job

Many students in Sheffield get part-time jobs to support living costs. The city has numerous opportunities for student-friendly jobs in retail, hospitality, and at the universities themselves.

Consider deferring entry

If none of these options seem viable and you’re worried about affording accommodation, it might be worth considering deferring your university entry by a year. This would give you time to work and save up, potentially easing the financial burden when you start your studies.

Find affordable student accommodation in Sheffield on StuRents

Searching for the right student accommodation in Sheffield doesn’t have to be stressful. With so many options available, you can find something that fits both your needs and your budget. Whether you’re looking for a shared house, private halls, or university accommodation, StuRents can help you filter properties based on your preferences, such as price, location, and amenities.

Start your search on StuRents today to find your ideal home in Sheffield!