Student Housing Guide Exeter, United Kingdom

15+ optionsUpdated May 2026Expert Reviewed

Find verified student accommodation in Exeter with affordable student rooms, modern studios, en-suite accommodation, shared apartments, PBSA, university halls and private student housing near University of Exeter, Exeter College and major student areas. Compare weekly rent, commute times, neighbourhoods, amenities, student reviews and secure your ideal student home in Exeter.

Written by Ananya Goswami · Reviewed by Mayank Shukla · Fact checked by Admistay Editorial Team

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Best For Budget: Mount Pleasant, Heavitree, Newtown and selected areas outside the immediate city centre usually offer better-value student accommodation in ExeterBest For University Access: Pennsylvania, St James, St Davids, City Centre, Newtown and Heavitree are strong choices for students who want faster access to University of Exeter and Exeter CollegeBest For Premium Living: Exeter City Centre, Queen Street, St Leonard’s and modern PBSA near Sidwell Street or St Davids are popular for premium studios and lifestyle-focused student livingBest For Student Lifestyle: City Centre, St James, Queen Street, Sidwell Street, St Davids and Exeter Quayside offer a strong mix of transport, cafes, nightlife, shopping, study spaces and student communities

Sources: Admistay Property Database · Verified Accommodation Providers · Official University Websites · National Rail / Local UK Transport Authorities

Overview

Exeter is one of the UK’s most attractive student cities, known for its respected university, compact city centre, historic streets, green spaces, riverside lifestyle and strong student community. Students moving to Exeter usually compare accommodation based on distance to University of Exeter Streatham Campus, St Luke’s Campus or Exeter College, weekly rent, walking routes, bus access, safety, included bills and whether they prefer city-centre convenience or quieter residential surroundings. University of Exeter students often prefer Pennsylvania, St James, Mount Pleasant, City Centre, St Davids and areas around Sidwell Street because these locations provide practical access to campus, supermarkets, cafes, libraries and student nightlife. Students studying at St Luke’s Campus often compare Heavitree, Newtown, City Centre and St Leonard’s, while Exeter College students usually prefer City Centre, St Davids, Queen Street and transport-connected areas. Admistay helps students compare verified accommodation in Exeter, including PBSA residences, private studios, en-suite rooms, shared apartments, student halls and private student housing based on budget, university distance, transport access, amenities, safety, contract flexibility and move-in support.

Cost of Living

Student Accommodation

£130–£350+/week

Groceries

£155–£235/month

Transport

£35–£85/month

Utilities

£70–£140/month

Mobile Internet

£15–£35/month

Entertainment

£80–£210/month

Estimated Monthly Total

£950–£1,700+/month depending on rent, area and lifestyle

Trust Signals

Verified student propertiesTransparent pricingNo hidden chargesExpert booking assistanceMove-in supportFlexible contracts24/7 student supportAccommodation options near top universitiesSupport for international studentsBudget, mid-range and premium room optionsPBSA, studio, en-suite and shared apartment choicesGuidance for September and January intake students

Nearby Universities

University of Exeter

5–25 minutes

Best areas: Pennsylvania, St James, City Centre, St Davids

Exeter College

5–20 minutes

Best areas: City Centre, Queen Street, St Davids, Sidwell Street

Plymouth Marjon University

Varies by route

Best areas: City Centre, St Davids, Transport-connected areas, Queen Street

University of Plymouth

Varies by route

Best areas: City Centre, St Davids, Transport-connected areas, Queen Street

Plymouth College of Art

Varies by route

Best areas: City Centre, St Davids, Transport-connected areas, Queen Street

Commute Guide

PennsylvaniaUniversity of Exeter

5–15 minutes • Walking, cycling or bus

St JamesUniversity of Exeter

10–20 minutes • Walking, train, cycling or bus

St DavidsUniversity of Exeter

10–20 minutes • Walking, bus or taxi

City CentreUniversity of Exeter

15–25 minutes • Walking, bus or cycling

NewtownSt Luke’s Campus

5–15 minutes • Walking or cycling

HeavitreeSt Luke’s Campus

10–20 minutes • Walking, bus or cycling

Queen StreetExeter College

5–12 minutes • Walking

Exeter St Davids StationUniversity of Exeter

10–20 minutes • Walking, bus or taxi

Best Areas

Budget Friendly

Mount Pleasant

£135–£210/week • Students looking for better-value accommodation with access to University of Exeter routes and city amenities.

Heavitree

£130–£205/week • Students who want lower rent, local shops, residential surroundings and access to St Luke’s Campus routes.

Newtown

£135–£215/week • Students looking for affordable rooms close to St Luke’s Campus and city centre access.

Mid Range

St James

£160–£260/week • University of Exeter students who want train access, student housing and practical routes to Streatham Campus.

St Davids

£160–£270/week • Students who want railway access, Exeter College proximity and routes to University of Exeter.

Pennsylvania

£165–£280/week • Students who want University of Exeter campus access, quieter streets and practical student housing.

Premium

Exeter City Centre

£190–£340+/week • Students who want modern PBSA, studios, nightlife, shopping, restaurants and short commutes.

Queen Street

£190–£330+/week • Students looking for central convenience, Exeter College access, restaurants and transport.

St Leonard’s

£190–£350+/week • Students who want premium residential surroundings, green spaces and access to St Luke’s Campus.

Safest Areas

Pennsylvania

Popular with students because of its residential feel and practical access to University of Exeter Streatham Campus.

St Leonard’s

Known for quieter residential surroundings, green spaces and access to St Luke’s Campus.

St James

A well-established student area with train access, regular student movement and university routes.

City Centre

Preferred by students who want regular public activity, transport, shops and short commutes.

Nearby Places

Libraries

University of Exeter Forum LibraryExeter LibraryExeter College Learning Resource Centre

Transport Hubs

Exeter St Davids StationExeter Central StationSt James Park StationExeter Bus StationSidwell Street routes

Student Hotspots

Exeter City CentreSidwell StreetQueen StreetSt JamesSt DavidsExeter QuaysidePrincesshayGandy StreetHigh StreetNorthernhay Gardens

Tourist Places

Exeter CathedralExeter QuaysideRoyal Albert Memorial MuseumUnderground PassagesNorthernhay GardensRougemont GardensGandy StreetPrincesshayExeter Historic GuildhallRiver Exe

Daily Essentials

supermarketspharmaciesgymsstudent cafeslaundretteshealth clinicsbanksstudy spaceslibrariesbudget grocery storespublic transport stopsstudent-friendly restaurants

Featured Properties

Exeter Elm Exeter

Students looking for verified Exeter student accommodation with access to University of Exeter routes and city amenities.

Exeter One Exeter

Students who want well-connected student housing near Exeter city centre, transport and university access.

Renslade House Exeter

Students looking for modern Exeter accommodation with practical access to Exeter College, city centre and transport.

Average Rent Guide

Student accommodation in Exeter is in steady demand because of University of Exeter’s strong reputation, the city’s compact layout and limited premium central housing. Budget-friendly shared rooms and private student housing in Heavitree, Mount Pleasant, Newtown and selected residential areas can usually start from around £130–£215 per week. Mid-range en-suite rooms and shared apartments in St James, St Davids, Pennsylvania and areas near campus routes generally range from £160–£280 per week. Premium studios and modern PBSA properties in Exeter City Centre, Queen Street, Sidwell Street and St Leonard’s can range from £190–£350+ per week depending on amenities, included bills, building quality and tenancy flexibility. Students should compare rent with walking time, hills, bus access, included bills, heating, maintenance, security and distance to University of Exeter, Exeter College or key city-centre transport hubs. For September intake, students should shortlist early because en-suite rooms, studios and central PBSA near University of Exeter often fill quickly.

Student Life

Student life in Exeter is compact, academic and highly student-friendly. University of Exeter students often spend time around Streatham Campus, Pennsylvania, St James, St Davids and city centre because these areas provide lecture access, cafes, supermarkets, libraries and student nightlife. Students studying at St Luke’s Campus often compare Newtown, Heavitree and St Leonard’s for shorter commutes. Exeter City Centre gives students access to Princesshay, Gandy Street, Queen Street, Sidwell Street, restaurants, gyms, shops and transport. Exeter Quayside is popular for riverside walks, cafes and social life, while St James and St Davids are useful for rail access and student housing. International students often prefer Exeter because it offers a respected academic environment, manageable city size, green spaces, reliable transport and verified student accommodation close to campuses and daily essentials.

Transport Information

Exeter has a practical student transport network built around walking, cycling, buses and rail. Many students can walk between city centre, Exeter College, St Davids, St James and University of Exeter, although some routes involve hills and should be checked before booking. Exeter St Davids Station supports national rail and student arrivals, while Exeter Central Station and St James Park Station help with city and campus access. Local buses connect Heavitree, Newtown, Pennsylvania, St Luke’s Campus, city centre and residential areas. When comparing accommodation, students should check actual walking time, bus frequency, hill routes, late-night travel, proximity to supermarkets, included bills and whether the property is close to campus or reliable transport.

Booking Support

Book your verified student accommodation in Exeter with Admistay today. Compare trusted student rooms, studios, en-suite housing, shared apartments, PBSA and private student homes near University of Exeter and Exeter College with expert booking guidance, flexible contracts, move-in support and complete transparency.

Student Questions

Where should students live in Exeter?

Students should choose their Exeter area based on campus location, budget and lifestyle. Pennsylvania, St James and St Davids are strong for University of Exeter Streatham Campus. Newtown, Heavitree and St Leonard’s work well for St Luke’s Campus. City Centre and Queen Street are practical for Exeter College.

What are the cheapest areas for student accommodation in Exeter?

Mount Pleasant, Heavitree, Newtown and selected residential areas outside the immediate city centre usually offer more affordable student accommodation compared with premium city-centre studios. Students should compare rent with walking time, bills, hills, transport and property security before booking.

What are the safest student areas in Exeter?

Pennsylvania, St Leonard’s, St James and central Exeter are often preferred by students looking for campus-connected, residential or well-connected surroundings. Students should still check property security, lighting, transport access and late-night routes before booking.

Is Exeter good for international students?

Yes, Exeter is a strong option for international students because it offers a respected university, compact city layout, green surroundings, student-friendly areas, reliable transport and verified accommodation near campuses.

When should students book accommodation in Exeter?

Students planning for September intake should start shortlisting between January and June because rooms near University of Exeter, St James, Pennsylvania, St Davids and city centre can fill quickly.

Which Exeter areas are best for postgraduate students?

Postgraduate students often prefer Pennsylvania, St Leonard’s, St James, St Davids and quieter parts of the city centre because these areas offer study-friendly surroundings, campus access and practical daily convenience.

Is PBSA better than private rented housing in Exeter?

PBSA can be easier for international students because bills, maintenance, internet, security, study spaces and support are often included. Private rented housing may suit students who want more independence, but deposits, bills, guarantor requirements and contract terms should be checked carefully.

Which Exeter areas are better for Indian students?

Indian students often compare City Centre, St James, Pennsylvania, St Davids, Heavitree and Newtown depending on university location, furnished room availability, supermarkets, transport, budget and access to student-friendly restaurants.

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Exeter, located in the picturesque county of Devon in South West England, is one of the UK’s most vibrant, green, and academically respected university cities. Known for its rich Roman heritage, beautiful landscapes, friendly student culture, and modern city amenities, Exeter provides the ideal environment for higher education. The prestigious University of Exeter attracts thousands of students from around the world due to its high academic rankings, research excellence, and exceptional student satisfaction.

The University of Exeter is consistently ranked among the top UK universities and is celebrated for outstanding programmes in Business, Economics, Engineering, Biological Sciences, Medicine, Law, Computer Science, Psychology, Environmental Sciences, and Humanities. Its stunning campus, located on Streatham Hill, features beautiful green spaces, lakes, modern libraries, research labs, sports complexes, and world-class academic facilities.

Students searching for high-quality, safe, and modern student accommodation in Exeter can find a wide selection of verified properties on Admistay. The city offers Purpose-Built Student Accommodations (PBSA), shared apartments, ensuite rooms, non-ensuite rooms, and premium private studios. PBSAs in Exeter are equipped with amenities such as 24/7 CCTV, secure access, high-speed Wi-Fi, onsite gyms, dedicated study areas, cinema rooms, laundry facilities, bike storage, and social lounges for community events.

Popular student neighbourhoods in Exeter include Streatham, St. David’s, City Centre, Mount Pleasant, Heavitree, Pennsylvania Road, and Newtown. Streatham is the top choice among students due to its close proximity to the University of Exeter campus. St. David’s is ideal for those who want easy access to Exeter St. David’s Railway Station and good bus routes. The City Centre is perfect for students who prefer being close to shops, restaurants, cafés, nightlife, and supermarkets.

Exeter is known for offering a balanced lifestyle that blends academic focus with outdoor living and cultural exploration. Students enjoy exploring historic landmarks such as Exeter Cathedral, the Historic Quayside, Rougemont Castle, Northernhay Gardens, and Exeter’s Roman walls. The nearby Devon countryside and coastal areas — including Exmouth, Dawlish, and Sidmouth — make weekend trips refreshing and popular among students.

The food culture in Exeter is diverse, student-friendly, and affordable. Popular dining spots and cafés are located across the High Street, Sidwell Street, Queen Street, and the City Centre. Students enjoy a mix of Indian, Thai, Chinese, Japanese, Mediterranean, Italian, and British cuisine along with vegan options, brunch cafés, and bakery-style eateries. The Quayside area hosts riverside bars, cafés, and restaurants overlooking the scenic River Exe.

Nightlife in Exeter is lively and well-suited to students. Hotspots include the City Centre, Queen Street, Gandy Street, and the quayside. Students enjoy pubs, cocktail bars, live music venues, student club nights, themed SU events, karaoke nights, and college society gatherings. The University of Exeter Students’ Guild hosts hundreds of events throughout the year — including fairs, cultural evenings, club nights, sports events, and outdoor festivals.

Exeter is one of the safest university cities in England. Student neighbourhoods like Pennsylvania Road, Mount Pleasant, and Heavitree are peaceful and secure. Most PBSAs offer 24/7 CCTV security, secure electronic entry, onsite wardens, and staff support. The University of Exeter provides additional safety through 24/7 campus security, wellbeing services, international student teams, mental health support, and emergency assistance.

Transportation in Exeter is extremely convenient. The city has excellent bus routes connecting student areas with the university, city centre, and neighbouring regions. Exeter St. David’s and Exeter Central Stations offer direct services to London, Bristol, Cardiff, Birmingham, Plymouth, and Cornwall. Cycling is popular due to scenic bike-friendly routes and riverside paths. Many students live close enough to campus to walk, thanks to the compact nature of the city.

In conclusion, student accommodation in Exeter offers the ideal mix of comfort, convenience, safety, and academic excellence. Whether you are looking for University of Exeter student halls, modern studios in the City Centre, ensuite rooms near Streatham Campus, or the most affordable PBSA options in Exeter, Admistay ensures that students find trusted and verified accommodation suited to their preferences and lifestyle.

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