Discover your perfect student accommodation in Lancaster with Alphaway! Whether searching for a stylish studio, a comfy suite room, or an affordable, shared flat, Lancaster has various options to accommodate your lifestyle and budget. Most of the student homes we list include rent of all costs as part of the accommodation. High-speed Wi-Fi and secure access are standard features offered by most of our accommodations. Some come with additional benefits and amenities like gyms, study areas, and lounges, ensuring a well-rounded student living experience. You can also find student accommodation in Lancaster close to Lancaster University’s leafy campus, close to the city center, or in quieter neighbourhoods, like Bowerham or Scotforth! You're sure to find your ideal student accommodation in Lancaster that will keep your university experience enjoyable and stress-free.
About Lancaster
Lancaster, situated in England's northwest region, combines a rich historical city with a vibrant student life. Once a key center of trade and industry, Lancaster is home to approximately 52,000 people, including a sizeable student population from Lancaster University and the University of Cumbria. The city center is a friendly and lively place for students to explore, with historical buildings such as Lancaster Castle and the Ashton Memorial, along with the many cafés and entertainment venues.
The city’s affordability is one of the best things about it. There are student accommodation options throughout the city, as well as university-managed accommodation on campus. Lancaster is a compact city, meaning students are always within an easy walk of shops, nightlife, and all the essentials, often at a much lower cost than equivalent living in London or Manchester. Lancaster also has a good student safety reputation and is therefore a great place for students to live and study. Lancaster is easy to reach by train from many of the UK's most vibrant cities, including the world-famous Lake District, the lively city of Manchester, and Liverpool. All this makes Lancaster an engaging, dynamic, and well-connected student city.
Why Study in Lancaster?
Lancaster is a fantastic place for students looking for a high-quality education, low costs, and a vibrant community. In larger cities, like Leicester, you may have to compete for student accommodation, but in Lancaster, there are many student accommodation options - university-run halls, private studio apartments, and much more! With the lower cost of living compared to cities like Leicester, student accommodation in Lancaster is a great option for a student budget. The compact nature of Lancaster means students are always near their university, shops, and entertainment, meaning little commuting when you study at Lancaster. Lancaster has a good academic reputation, a great student community, and excellent links with major cities; so, students have the perfect balance of study and social life.
Universities in Lancaster
Lancaster University Lancaster University is a leading university in the UK, acknowledged for its high-quality research, good employability, and new campus facilities. It has persistently been ranked among the top 15 UK universities in multiple university guides. The university is additionally known for its outstanding business, engineering, science, and humanities programs. Lancaster is unique among UK universities in that it is a collegiate university, which firmly gives students a sense of community. Lancaster benefits from world-leading research and its proximity to industry, offering placement opportunities with prestigious firms like BBC, Siemens, and KPMG.
University of Cumbria (Lancaster Campus) The University of Cumbria is situated in the center of Lancaster and is reputable for its undergraduate and postgraduate courses, in particular degrees in health, education, business, and creative arts. The university has a welcoming community on campus and positive associations with local health or education employers. The campus supports modern learning by offering access to libraries, student support services, and sports facilities.
Best Areas for Student Accommodation in Lancaster
You’ll find various affordable and premium student accommodations in Lancaster that are located just a short walk away from the university campus. Here are some of the most popular areas students prefer:
- City Centre: Living in the city center of Lancaster means you will be at the center of the city's buzzing lifestyle, with easy access to shopping, pubs and restaurants, cultural attractions such as Lancaster Castle, and entertainment venues. Lancaster University is approximately a fifteen-minute bus ride away, and the University of Cumbria is within walking distance.
- Bowerham: Located near the University of Cumbria, Bowerham is a quiet residential area preferred by students. It offers local amenities such as small supermarkets, local shops, and cozy cafés. Regular bus services connect Bowerham to Lancaster University, making the journey easy.
- Scotforth: Located to the south of the city center, Scotforth offers a suburban setting with easy bus links to both Lancaster University and the city. Scotforth has convenient facilities such as supermarkets, cafés, and locally owned pubs, making it suitable for an easier life.
- Hala: Near to Scotforth, Hala is known for its affordability and located near to Lancaster University. The area includes local convenience stores and is close to larger supermarkets. Its surroundings offer peaceful settings for relaxation and study.
- Galgate: A charming village situated a little South of the university, Galgate has a clam atmosphere with local shops, cafés and pubs. The village is about a 10-minute bus ride to Lancaster University which attracts people who would like to live in a more rural location whilst still being close to the main campus.
- Freehold: Located near the historic Lancaster Canal; Freehold is a desirable area among students. It offers local services including a post office, a chemist, and the Gregson Community and Arts Centre. The area is within walking distance of the city center, providing easy access to shops and entertainment.
- Moorlands: Moorlands provide an ideal blend of urban environment and a peaceful residential setting. You can walk to the University of Cumbria, and there are supermarkets and restaurants nearby. There is also Williamson Park, which has green spaces available for outdoor activities.
Different Types of Student Accommodation in Lancaster
Students in Lancaster have a variety of student accommodation options to choose from, including student studios, en-suite rooms, university halls, and shared student housing. Each type of accommodation offers unique benefits depending on budget, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Here are the types of student accommodation in Lancaster for you to choose from:
University Halls of Residence
In Lancaster University, you’ll find various types of halls of residence located either on campus or near campus. These are university-managed accommodations that offer fully furnished rooms for students. Halls are popular with first-year students as they offer a social environment to assist student acclimatization. These types of student accommodation in Lancaster also provides security and maintenance, creating a convenient option that does not require students to complete additional tasks. One downside to hall residences is that some of these accommodations may include a shared kitchen and bathroom. They may also have restrictions on guests, while further restrictions on availability may restrict the available accommodation in your area, which is often an issue of demand.
Private Student Halls
Private student housing in Lancaster is run by private companies. This housing includes studio flats with a kitchen and bathroom of their own (ensuite), shared apartments with fully furnished twin and deluxe studios, and fully furnished en suite rooms. These types of student accommodation in Lancaster have all-inclusive rent which means utility bills are included in the rent. Many private student halls in Lancaster have luxurious features such as social areas, study lounges, gym lounges, and cinema rooms. Many students prefer these housing accommodations because they provide modern and comfortable living standards. While private accommodation is secure and convenient, it is often much more expensive and may require students to sign a fixed-term tenancy.
Shared Student Housing
In Lancaster, private landlords or letting agencies are usually in charge of shared student housing. These student houses and flats are popular for second and third-year students seeking more independence. Students can share a house or rent a 1-bedroom flat with friends, which may help reduce the typical university halls or private student housing costs for Lancaster. The The difference with unmanaged accommodation is students must organize and pay utility bills each month, and maintenance may take longer.
Cost of Living in Lancaster
Lancaster is known for its affordability, making it a great option for students, including international students looking for budget-friendly living. Compared to larger cities like London, the cost of living in Lancaster is significantly lower, allowing students to manage expenses without financial strain.
Average Accommodation Costs in Lancaster
- University Halls: £400–£750 per month
- Private PBSA (Purpose-Built Student Accommodation): £550–£950 per month
- Shared Private Rental: £300–£650 per month
- Studio Apartment: £650–£1,100 per month
Many student rooms in Lancaster include bills, making budgeting easier for students. However, additional costs such as deposits and utilities may apply, depending on the type of accommodation chosen.
Hidden Costs to Consider
- Deposit: Usually one month’s rent, protected under the UK Tenancy Deposit Scheme.
- Summer Storage:£50–£120 if you need to store belongings between rental agreements.
- Utilities (for private rentals): £40–£80 per month, depending on usage.
Food and Grocery Expenses in Lancaster
- Supermarket Groceries: £25–£40 per week
- Eating Out: £10–£18 per meal
Cost of Living for International Students in Lancaster
International students in Lancaster have various living expenses to consider, but the city remains more affordable than major UK cities like London.
- Accommodation: £400–£900 per month (depending on university halls, private accommodation, or shared housing)
- Food & Groceries: £25–£40 per week (supermarkets like Tesco, Aldi, and Sainsbury’s offer budget-friendly options)
- Transport: £15–£60 per month (student bus passes and discounted rail tickets available).
- Utilities (if not included in the rent): £40–£80 per month (electricity, water, internet).
- Entertainment & Leisure: £30–£100 per month (nightlife, cinema, and gym memberships).
Working Opportunities for International Students
- Part-time Work: International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time.
- Full-time Work: Allowed during holidays (check your BRP for specific visa restrictions).
Popular Student Jobs in Lancaster:
- Hospitality (cafés, restaurants, pubs) – £9–£12/hour
- Retail (St. Nicholas Arcades, supermarkets)—£9.50–£11/hour
- University jobs (student ambassador, library assistant) – £10–£15/hour
Transportation in Lancaster
For the students who regularly commute between the accommodation and universities Lancaster is having a variety of options
- Buses: Stagecoach provides regular bus services that connect Lancaster University, the University of Cumbria, and key areas around the city. The 1/1A and 100 routes are regular routes taken by the university students. Also, there are discounted student bus passes available, which makes it an affordable choice.
- Cycling: Lancaster is a cycle-friendly city with many cycle lanes and routes. The bike hire option is very affordable for students.
- Trains: Lancaster Railway Station is located in the city centre,or cities. It's used by the students for frequent travel.
- Airports: International students have easy access to Manchester Airport (around 1 hour 15 minutes by train) and Liverpool John Lennon Airport (around 1 hour 30 minutes by car or train). Both airports offer a wide range of domestic and international flights.
Student Life in Lancaster
Lancaster provides a welcoming environment for the students, creating a rich multicultural atmosphere. Both Lancaster University and the University of Cumbria have many international offices and events that help students to settle in and make connections quickly.
Social Life, Cafés, Restaurants & Nightlife
- Cafés: Independent coffee shops like Brew, Atkinsons, and The Hall are popular among students.
- Restaurants: there is affordable food and different international cuisines available.
- Nightlife: Lancaster has a lively but student-friendly nightlife, with pubs like The Crafty Scholar and clubs like Sugarhouse (run by the SU) offering entertaining student nights.
Clubs, Societies & Sports Both universities offer a huge range of clubs and societies — from sports teams to cultural groups, debating societies, gaming clubs, and volunteering opportunities.
- Lancaster University Sports Centre includes a gym, swimming pool, climbing wall, and courts.
- College system (Lancaster Uni): Each student is a member of a college, which hosts social events, sports competitions, and support services.
Safety Tips for International Students:
- It's always good to stay aware.
- Walk in well-lit areas at night and travel in groups when possible.
- Keep valuable items secure and avoid displaying expensive items
- Save emergency contact numbers and university support lines.
- Use registered taxis or student shuttle services at night.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Scholarships and Bursaries at Lancaster University
- Lancaster Scholarship: Up to £2,000 in the first year for home students, which is based on their academic achievement.
- Lancaster Opportunity Scholarship: Up to £1,000 per year for local students who have received a relatively lower offer.
- Lancaster Global Scholarship: For high-achieving international applicants, awarded as a tuition fee for undergraduate and master's programmes.
UK Government and Private Financial Aid Options
- Tuition Fee Loans: Cover the full cost of tuition fees and are paid directly to the university.
- Maintenance Loans: Assist with living costs, and the amount depends on household income and living arrangements.
Applications for these loans can be made through the official UK government student finance website.
International students can explore scholarships offered by a range of organisations and NGOs. The UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) is a helpful resource for information about available funding opportunities. Part-Time Job Opportunities in Lancaster
Engaging in part-time work can help manage living expenses and gain valuable experience:
- On-Campus Employment: Lancaster University's Employment and Recruitment Service (ERS) offers part-time, casual, and temporary positions both on campus and within the local community.
- Off-Campus Employment: Websites like Indeed and StudentJob feature various part-time roles in Lancaster.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Historical Sites
- Lancaster Castle: this mediaeval castle has over 1,000 years of history and even served as a working prison until 2011.
- Ashton Memorial: Known as the "Taj Mahal of the North", this Edwardian monument in Williamson Park offers stunning views over Lancaster. Parks & Nature
- Williamson Park: Home to 54 acres of gardens, woodland walks, and the Butterfly House, which is perfect for a study break or a picnic.
- Lancaster Canal: Great for peaceful walks, jogs, or cycling along with countryside views.
Shopping & Entertainment
- St Nicholas Arcades and Marketgate Shopping Centre: These central hubs offer popular high street brands, independent shops, cafés, and regular student discounts.
- Catch a film or a live performance at The Dukes Theatre or Vue Cinema.
Sports & Outdoor Activities
- Join local or university football teams or enjoy sports facilities on campus.
- Lancaster’s proximity to the Lake District makes it easy to plan hiking or kayaking adventures in one of the UK’s most beautiful national parks.
Day Trips
- Morecambe Bay: Just 15 minutes away by bus or train—great for beach strolls and sunset views.
- Yorkshire Dales: Ideal for hiking, caving, or simply soaking up rural English landscapes.
- Manchester: About an hour away by train, perfect for a dose of big-city shopping, nightlife, and cultural events.
Career & Job Opportunities
Part-Time Jobs
Many students work part-time to support their living expenses and build employable skills. Popular sectors include:
- Retail: Shops in St Nicholas Arcades and Marketgate Shopping Centre often hire students for customer service roles.
- Hospitality: Local cafés, bars, and restaurants have openings for waiting staff, baristas, or kitchen assistants.
- University Services: On-campus roles through Lancaster University’s Employment and Recruitment Service (ERS) include student ambassadors, research assistants, library staff, and admin roles.
Internships & Graduate Jobs
Lancaster is a growing hub for sectors like:
- Business: Opportunities in marketing, finance, logistics, and consulting with local firms and start-ups.
- Healthcare: NHS placements and partnerships with local hospitals offer experience in medical, administrative, and research roles.
- Technology: Internships and grad schemes with IT services, digital marketing agencies, and tech start-ups.
Many companies in Lancaster and the wider Northwest region are open to student interns, especially over summer or as part of industrial placement programs.
University Career Services
Both Lancaster University and the University of Cumbria offer excellent career support:
- CV and cover letter workshops
- One-on-one career coaching
- Job fairs and networking events
- Internship and graduate scheme listings
- Interview preparation tools
How to Apply to Lancaster Universities
- Choose Your Course and University
- Start by browsing the undergraduate or postgraduate courses offered at:
- University of Cumbria (Lancaster Campus)
Submit Your Application
- Apply through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service)
- You can choose up to 5 universities
- Deadline: Usually in January for September entry
- Apply directly through the university’s website
- Most courses have rolling admissions, but early application is advised
Prepare Supporting Documents
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- One or more academic references
- Proof of English language proficiency (see below)
- CV/resume (for postgraduate or work-based courses)
Meet English Language Requirements
- If English is not your first language, you’ll need to submit test scores:
- IELTS Academic: Typically, a minimum of 6.5 overall (with no sub-score below 5.5)
- TOEFL iBT: Generally, 87–100 depending on the program
- Cambridge, PTE, or Duolingo scores may also be accepted
Receive Your Offer
You may get: - Unconditional Offer – you've met all the requirements
- Conditional Offer – pending results or documents
Accept the offer through UCAS or directly through the university portal. Apply for a UK Student Visa
Once you accept your offer and receive a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies), you can apply for your student visa.
Visa Application Steps:
- Apply online through the UK Government Website
- Pay the visa fee (~£490) and the Immigration Health Surcharge (around £776/year)
- Schedule a biometric appointment (fingerprints and photo)
Submit your documents, including: - Proof of finances (to cover tuition + living expenses)
Lancaster is a fantastic place for a student who wants a high level of affordable education with all the benefits that come with being a part of student life. The history, warmth, and transport links of this university city, plus the proximity to beautiful rural areas, make it the ideal setting for national and international students to balance city life with living in a stunning natural environment. With a multitude of choices for student accommodation, from university halls, private residences, or communal houses to a variety of affordable living costs and part-time hours, Lancaster promotes a conducive environment for educational and personal development. As international students adapt to life in Lancaster, they must consider a few important details: visa requirements, banking options, and costs. Lancaster, with its fantastic universities, welcoming environment, and exciting experiences for students, offers a great place to study and live.
