Essex Rentals
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does student accommodation in Essex cost?
Student accommodation in Essex typically ranges from £120–£210 per week, depending on whether you choose shared houses, private student halls, or premium studios. Prices may vary based on proximity to the University of Essex and included amenities.
What types of student accommodation are available in Essex?
Students can choose from shared apartments, en-suites, studios, and private university of essex off campus accommodation. Many properties offered by amber provide modern amenities like high-speed Wi-Fi, on-site laundry, gyms, and social spaces.
Is Essex a good place for students to live?
Yes! Essex is known for being safe, affordable, and student-friendly. It offers a great balance of academic opportunities, entertainment, natural spaces, and excellent transport links to London and nearby cities.
Which areas in Essex are best for students?
Popular student areas include Colchester Town Centre, Wivenhoe, and Greenstead—all offering easy access to the University of Essex, supermarkets, cafes, and bus routes.
How do I book private student accommodation in Essex?
You can easily compare, shortlist, and book rooms through amber, which offers verified listings, secure booking support, transparent pricing, and no additional fees. Contact amber for more information.
When should I book my Essex student accommodation?
It’s best to book 3–6 months in advance, especially for September intakes, as the best and cheapest student accommodation Essex gets reserved quickly.
Is it cheaper to live on-campus or off-campus in Essex?
Private student accommodation often provides more affordable options, especially in shared apartments or en-suite rooms. Plus, many private properties offer all-inclusive bills, making budgeting easier.
How safe is Essex for international students?
Essex is generally very safe, with well-lit student neighbourhoods, reliable public transport, and university support services that help international students settle in comfortably.
Are utility bills included in rent?
Most private student accommodations in Essex offer all-inclusive rent, covering electricity, heating, water, and Wi-Fi. Always check the property details to confirm.
Can I get short-term student accommodation Essex?
Yes, some properties offer short-term stays, depending on availability. These are ideal for exchange students, summer programs, or late arrivals.
Student Accommodations in Essex
Essex Student Accommodation
Essex is a well-established student hub in the UK, home to over 70,000 students studying across major institutions and specialist colleges. The region blends academic strength with a welcoming atmosphere, offering everything from historic landmarks to modern cafés, waterfront hangout spots, and extensive green spaces. Universities like Chelmsford College and South Essex College Basildon Campus, are some of the top ones chosen by students. Because on-campus housing at the University of Essex fills up quickly each year, students often prefer choosing off-campus student accommodation in Essex for more independence, comfort, and choice.
Platforms like amber make it easier to compare and book the best Essex student accommodation, whether you're looking for furnished en-suite rooms, contemporary studios with private kitchenettes, or spacious shared apartments. Students can find options close to campuses, libraries, transport links, and key city attractions, ideal for those who want to balance study and social life. Some of the student housing Essex includes fully equipped apartments near popular academic zones, with features like high-speed WiFi, study areas, on-site gyms, and communal lounges. Whether you prefer cheap student accommodation Essex, the range of choices ensures there’s something suitable for every budget and lifestyle.
About Essex
Essex, located in the East of England, is one of the country’s most dynamic regions for students, known for its mix of urban convenience, coastal charm, and strong academic presence. Home to a population of over 1.8 million people, the county offers a diverse environment where students can enjoy everything from bustling town centres to peaceful seaside escapes. Essex is also one of the safest large counties in the region, consistently recording a lower crime rate than major student hubs in the United Kingdom, which makes it an appealing destination for both domestic and international learners.
The academic heart of the region is the University of Essex, a globally recognised institution ranked top 30 in the United Kingdom for research quality and well known for excellence in Social Sciences, Business, Psychology, Data Science, Engineering, and Law. With campuses in Colchester, Southend, and Loughton, students get access to outstanding teaching facilities and an active campus culture. The county also hosts Writtle University College, placing Essex firmly on the UK’s higher-education map. Beyond academics, Essex provides students with a great quality of life. From the historic lanes of Colchester, Britain’s oldest recorded town, to scenic spots like Dedham Vale and beaches at Clacton-on-Sea, the region offers plenty to explore between study sessions. Efficient transport links, including Greater Anglia train services, direct routes to London, and well-connected bus networks, make it easy for students to travel across the county and beyond.
Best and Most Affordable Student Accommodation in Essex
Student accommodation in Essex caters to various needs and preferences, offering students a comfortable and enriching living experience. With numerous room types available, such as en-suite, non-ensuite, shared, and private apartments, and 1-2 bedroom apartments, students can enjoy amenities designed to make life easier and more enjoyable. Amber’s platform simplifies the search for student accommodation Essex, whether you’re interested in Essex student studio flats, ensuite rooms, or shared spaces. There’s a range of Essex student accommodations to support a comfortable transition to university life.
Best Areas to Live in Essex
Essex offers a great mix of neighbourhoods for student accommodation in Essex, each with its own charm, convenience, and community vibe. For affordable Essex student lets, there’s an area suited to every lifestyle. Here are some of the best places students often choose:
1. Colchester Town Centre: With an average monthly cost of living around £800–£1,000, this area is filled with cafés, bookstores, gyms, and quick transport links. Popular hangout spots include Castle Park and Fenwick’s rooftop café. It’s one of the most convenient locations for Essex student accommodation.
2. Wivenhoe: Just a short bus ride or a 20-minute walk from the University of Essex, Wivenhoe is a favourite among students who prefer a cosy, community-driven atmosphere. The monthly cost of living typically ranges from £750–£900. The riverside paths, independent pubs, and weekend markets make it a relaxing yet connected option for private student accommodation Essex.
3. Greenstead: Known for being one of the most affordable areas near the university, Greenstead offers a monthly cost of around £700–£850. This makes it popular among students seeking cheap student accommodation in Essex or those looking to share student houses in Essex with friends. The nearby Greenstead Community Centre is a key social spot for events and activities.
4. Hythe: Hythe is a modern waterside neighbourhood with new developments, making it ideal for students who prefer contemporary living spaces like ensuite rooms and stylish studios. The average cost of living sits around £800–£950. It’s also close to many popular University of Essex private accommodation options.
Room Types Available for Student Accommodation in Essex
Students looking for student accommodation in Essex can choose from several room types, each designed to match different budgets. Essex student accommodation offers plenty of flexibility and convenience.
1. En-suite Rooms
En-suite rooms are popular among students who want privacy without losing the perks of shared living. You get your own bedroom and bathroom while sharing a kitchen and lounge with flatmates. These are widely available in private student accommodation Essex buildings and are ideal for students who enjoy a balance between independence and community.
2. Studio Flats
Studios offer complete privacy with a self-contained setup—your own bedroom, bathroom, and kitchenette all in one space. They’re perfect for postgraduates, couples, or anyone who prefers a quiet, personal environment. Many of the student housing Essex include modern studios with premium amenities.
3. Shared Flats
A budget-friendly option, shared apartments allow you to share bedrooms, bathrooms, or kitchens, depending on the property layout. These are a great choice for students who enjoy living with friends and want cheap student accommodation in Essex without compromising on location or convenience.
4. Non-ensuite Room
Cluster flats function like small shared communities within larger residences. Each person gets a private bedroom, and the group shares a kitchen and living area. Many student apartments in Essex use this format, offering a social yet structured setup with strong security and onsite support.
5. Student Houses
For those seeking a homely and spacious option, student houses in Essex provide entire houses rented jointly with friends. These properties offer maximum freedom, often with large common areas and private gardens—ideal for groups who want a more traditional living experience.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Essex is generally manageable for students, especially compared to major UK hubs like London or Manchester. Depending on your lifestyle and the type of student accommodation in Essex you choose, your monthly expenses will vary. But most students can expect to maintain a comfortable budget without overspending. Below is a clear breakdown of typical monthly costs (excluding rent) to help you plan more confidently:
1. Food & Groceries: £150 – £350 per month
2. Travel & Local Transport: £30 – £120 per month
3. Leisure, Social Life & Entertainment: £60 – £250 per month
4. Stationery, Course Materials & Academic Supplies: £30 – £80 per month
5. Mobile Network & Internet Plans: £25 – £60 per month
6. Miscellaneous Personal Expenses: £40 – £120 per month
7. Average Rent for Student Accommodation Essex: £130 – £220 per week
Student Travel in Essex
Getting around Essex is simple and student-friendly, thanks to its reliable transport network and well-connected routes between campuses, neighbourhoods, and key city spots. Whether you're commuting from your student accommodation Essex to university or exploring nearby towns, the region offers several convenient travel options:
1. Buses: Essex has an extensive bus network operated by First Bus, Arriva, and local services that run frequently through major student areas and university campuses. Students can use discounted travel passes, including weekly and monthly student saver tickets, which make daily commutes easy and affordable. Bus routes connect directly to university hubs, high streets, and popular student neighbourhoods.
2. Trains: The county’s rail links are excellent, offering quick connections between towns like Colchester, Chelmsford, Southend, and London. Students commuting from areas outside the city centre often rely on Greater Anglia trains, which provide fast and reliable services. A 16–25 Railcard or student railcard can help reduce travel costs for intercity trips or weekend getaways.
3. Cycling: Cycling is very popular among students, especially around the University of Essex campuses, thanks to dedicated cycle lanes, bike parking zones, and scenic nature routes. Many accommodation providers offer secure bike storage, making it even easier for students to choose an eco-friendly and low-cost commute.
Student Lifestyle and Tourist Attractions in Essex
Essex offers a balanced and enjoyable lifestyle for students living in the off-campus student accommodation in Essex. Areas like Colchester Town Centre and Wivenhoe are especially popular, thanks to their cafés, bookstores, riverside trails, and social hangout spots that make day-to-day student life enjoyable. Whether you're grabbing coffee before class or finding a quiet space to revise, the city offers plenty of comfortable and convenient options near your Essex student accommodation.
When it comes to food, Essex has something for every taste. Students can explore favourites like Caffe Nero on Colchester High Street, The Old Siege House Bar & Brasserie, and Trotters Café, known for generous breakfasts and budget-friendly meals. For weekend hangouts, the Wivenhoe waterfront, Castle Park, and Firstsite Gallery are well-loved spots for meeting friends, picnicking, or enjoying open-air events. Everything sits within easy reach of major campuses, making it simple to balance social life and academics.
Essex also has a collection of major attractions that draw both students and tourists. Popular places to explore include Colchester Castle, Beth Chatto’s Plants & Gardens, the stunning Mersea Island, and Clacton Pier, perfect for beach days and funfair rides. Students also enjoy visiting the Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a beautiful countryside escape ideal for walks, cycling, and study breaks. Annual events like the Colchester Food & Drink Festival and Essex Book Festival add even more excitement to the student experience. With so much to do close to campus and around the city, student life in Essex is eventful, approachable, and full of opportunity, whether you’re studying, relaxing, or exploring a new corner of the county.
Top Universities in Essex
Essex is home to some of the greatest universities. The campuses are easily accessible from the student accommodations in Essex provided by amber. Students can easily go back and forth from their accommodation and campus.
1. University of Essex: The University of Essex is one of the UK’s most respected research universities, known for its strong global outlook and high academic standards. Its campuses in Colchester, Southend, and Loughton offer a wide variety of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, including Law, Social Sciences, Computer Science, Business, and Psychology. Many students living in student accommodation Essex choose to stay in amber-listed properties, ensuring they remain well-connected to their studies.
2. University Centre South Essex (UCSE): University Centre South Essex (UCSE) offers vocational and degree-level education specialising in Business, Engineering, Health & Social Care, and Computing. It is highly regarded for its practical, career-focused curriculum. Students often look for Essex student lets, or affordable flats near the UCSE campuses in Basildon and Southend, balancing access to hands-on learning with comfortable, supportive accommodation.
3. Writtle University College: Writtle University College, located just outside Essex in Chelmsford, is well-known for its courses in Horticulture, Animal Science, Agriculture, and Environmental Design. Its smaller, focused campus attracts students who appreciate a tight-knit academic community. Many students living in cheap student accommodation in Essex find options close enough to commute from Chelmsford, benefiting from amber’s verified listings and flexible tenancy plans.