Newcastle, a vibrant city in the UK, is a popular destination for students, drawn by its diverse population, lively nightlife, and wide range of accommodation options. However, moving to Newcastle and finding affordable student accommodation can be challenging, especially for those on a tight budget. 

For students at Newcastle University, finding affordable accommodation is crucial. With rising living costs and limited budgets, exploring various options to find affordable housing that meets their needs is essential.

In this article, we will delve into several avenues where you can find economical options for the best places to live in Newcastle. Let’s get right into it!

Best Neighbourhoods in Newcastle for Students

Before telling you all about our recommendations for the best places to live in Newcastle, we’ll walk you through the best neighbourhoods to stay in and find accommodation near the university. The top areas to live in the city include:

Newcastle City Centre

Living in the city centre is the most convenient option for students, especially those who prefer a vibrant city life, offering easy access to the university campus, shops, restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions. However, rent prices can be higher than in other city areas. So, if you’re on a budget, we’d recommend you keep the city centre out of your list of options.

Jesmond

Jesmond is a popular area for students in Newcastle and young professionals, known for its vibrant student community, trendy atmosphere, and proximity to both the university and the city centre. It offers a range of accommodation options, as well as student-friendly pubs, clubs, restaurants, parks, and green spaces, like the popular Jesmond Dene Park.

Heaton

Heaton is a popular student area located a little further from the city centre than Jesmond, but with lower rent prices and a quieter, more residential environment. It is well-connected to both the university campus and the city centre via metro stations and public transport links. It has a lively student community and a range of amenities, making it an attractive area for student living.

Sandyford

Sandyford is a student-friendly neighbourhood located halfway between the city centre and Jesmond. It is smaller and more affordable than Jesmond, but offers a similar range of amenities and is convenient for walking to classes. Sandyford is a good option for students seeking a balance between convenient, easily accessible amenities and a quieter residential area.

Ouseburn Valley

Ouseburn Valley, a vibrant neighbourhood within walking distance of Newcastle's city centre, offers a unique living experience for students and other residents alike. Its creative atmosphere and cultural events, along with special accommodation options such as converted industrial buildings and purpose-built student apartments, have made it one of the best places to live in Newcastle for those seeking a dynamic and exciting place to live.

Casita's Top Picks for Students in Newcastle

So, now that we’re done chatting about the best areas to stay in Newcastle for students, it’s about time we discussed some of the best private student accommodation in Newcastle for those who prefer to live off-campus. 

Private student halls are an excellent alternative to university accommodation. Purpose-built for students, these halls provide a range of amenities such as communal areas, study spaces, laundry facilities, and 24/7 security. So, here are our top picks:

1. Newcastle City Aparthotel

Located just a 17-minute walk from the centre of the city, Newcastle City Aparthotel Student Accommodation offers students fully-furnished shared apartments and studios. It also provides a variety of amenities and services, including Wi-Fi, CCTV, parking, laundry facilities, and a grab-and-go breakfast service. It’s perfect for those looking for Newcastle University accommodation.

2. The View Downing

If you want student accommodation that’s only a short ride from the University of Newcastle, this is the place for you. The View Downing offers studios and en-suite rooms that are fully-equipped with everything you might need during your stay. Wi-Fi, laundry, CCTV, entertainment areas, and study areas are provided in this student housing.

3. The Foundry

Offering ensuites and studios, The Foundry is the perfect pick for students looking for Northumbria University accommodation. It’s also a short walk away from Newcastle city centre, making the vibrant city life quite accessible for students. The property offers plenty of facilities and services, like content insurance, social events, Wi-Fi, CCTV, a courtyard, and a laundry room.

4. Newcastle City

Offering fully-furnished, self-contained studios, Newcastle City is quite the choice for students who prefer privacy. The universities of Newcastle and Northumbria are just a short walking distance from the property, making its location very convenient. The amenities provided by Newcastle City include Wi-Fi, laundry, storage space, and cleaning services.

5. True Newcastle Opto

Close to both Newcastle and Northumbria universities, True Newcastle Opto is a gem for students. It offers self-contained studios that are fully furnished for your convenience. Also, it provides a plethora of facilities, including Wi-Fi, 24/7 security, a gym, a rooftop sky garden, and social events, to name a few.

6. Vita Student Westgate

Vita Student Westgate is one of the most popular Newcastle student accommodation options. It offers private studios and single rooms in shared apartments. The premises have plenty of amenities and services, including all-inclusive bills, Wi-Fi, a gym, laundry facilities, and quiet study rooms.

7. Oxford House

Last but not least on our list of the best places to live in Newcastle, Oxford House. Located just a 12-minute walk from the centre of the city and a ten-minute walk from Newcastle University, it’s perfectly situated for students who don’t like commuting. It offers a variety of ensuites and studios, and the amenities and services provided are plentiful. These include all-inclusive bills, security, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, communal spaces, and a cinema room, among others.

Tips to Find Cheapest Place to Live in Newcastle

Here are some of our tips and tricks to find affordable accommodation in Newcastle upon Tyne as a student:

• Start your search early. The best accommodation options tend to go quickly, so starting your search as early as possible is essential. This is especially true if you are looking for accommodation for the start of the academic year.

• Look for shared accommodation. Sharing a house or apartment with other students is a great way to save money on rent and bills.

• Take advantage of student discounts. Many landlords and accommodation providers offer discounts to students. Be sure to ask about student discounts when you are viewing properties.

• Ask about bills. When you are viewing properties, be sure to ask about the cost of bills, such as gas, electricity, and water. This will help you budget for your accommodation costs. 

Bonus tip: Go for a Newcastle student accommodation that offers all-inclusive bills.

• Consider location. If you are living off-campus, you will need to factor in the cost of transportation to and from university. Consider choosing an accommodation option close to public transportation or with a good cycle network.

And there you have it! Finding the best places to live in Newcastle can be challenging, but it is possible with careful planning and research. Consider all the options available, compare prices, and factor in location and amenities to determine the best fit for your needs. 

Newcastle is a city that welcomes students with open arms, and with the right accommodation, you can fully immerse yourself in the vibrant student life and academic opportunities it offers!