Best Places to Live in Kent for Students 2025

Ever wondered what makes a place truly great for student life? It’s that perfect mix of community, comfort, and opportunity, and Kent has all of it. With beautiful cities, coastal towns, and a green countryside, it’s not just one of the best places to live in UK, but one of the most inviting regions for students across England. Imagine cycling through the cobbled streets of Canterbury, stopping for coffee by the River Stour, and heading home to a Kent student accommodation that feels like your own space.

Whether you’re searching for the best places to live in Kent, modern studios, or shared student houses Kent, the region has a wide variety of options to fit every preference. From action-filled university areas with an amazing nightlife to quieter villages made for focused study, there’s a home here for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore the best areas to live in Kent, their key features, average rents, local hangouts, and why each one stands out. Whether you study at the University of Kent, Canterbury Christ Church University, or the University for the Creative Arts, the right location can turn your student years into something unforgettable.

Why Kent is Great for Students?

Kent consistently ranks among the best places to live in England thanks to its respected universities, affordability, and balance between modern life and peaceful surroundings. Students enjoy a relaxed lifestyle along with great connectivity to London and coastal escapes for the weekends. Below are a few factors that make Kent an ideal choice for international students.

Student population: ~40,000 (including 25% international students)
‍Top universities: University of Kent, Canterbury Christ Church University, University for the Creative Arts
‍Student satisfaction: ~84% (National Student Survey)
‍Graduate employment: ~90% within six months of graduation
‍Average student rent: £160–£210/week, much lower than in London
Commute & travel: Buses, trains, and cycling routes across major towns
‍Safety: Kent towns like Canterbury and Maidstone are among the safest in South East England

Students exploring student accommodation in UK or student accommodation in England find Kent especially appealing because it has history, academic excellence, and affordable living.

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1. Canterbury

Population: ~60,000
Crime Rate: 20% below Kent average
Average Rent: £170–£220/week (studio/shared)
Best For: University students, history lovers
Walkability Score: 85/100
Nearest Universities: University of Kent, Canterbury Christ Church University

Canterbury is the heart of Kent’s student life, a city that feels both ancient and alive. Nearly 40% of residents are students, giving the area a friendly vibe. Cobblestone streets, indie cafés, and riverside walks define daily life here. Canterbury’s Kent accommodation options range from modern apartments to shared student houses. The University of Kent is within easy reach, and most neighbourhoods are walkable or bike-friendly. With a strong sense of community and high safety levels, Canterbury easily ranks as one of the safest places to live in Kent. Canterbury has an amazing student scene, and most people naturally gravitate toward The Goods Shed, a buzzing market for food, coffee, and weekend brunches. If you want something quieter, Westgate Gardens gives you a chilled riverside escape just minutes from the centre.

2. Maidstone

Population: ~113,000
Crime Rate: 18% below Kent average
Average Rent: £160–£200/week (shared/studio)
Best For: Balance of study and nightlife
Walkability Score: 80/100
Nearest Universities: University for the Creative Arts (Maidstone TV Studios)

Maidstone offers that rare mix of convenience and modernity, making it one of the top places to live in Kent for students. The River Medway runs through the town, surrounded by green parks and shopping districts. The town’s train links make travelling across Kent or to London simple and quick. Rent prices are slightly lower than in Canterbury, ideal for students looking for the best places to live in Kent. For daytime escapes, Mote Park is where students go for walks, picnics, or just to reset between classes. If you’re into music, comedy nights, or casual events, Lockmeadow Entertainment Complex is a favourite meet-up spot.

3. Medway (Chatham, Gillingham, Rochester)

Population: ~280,000 (combined)
Crime Rate: 10% below Kent average
Average Rent: £150–£190/week (shared/studio)
Best For: Creative arts students, budget-conscious renters
Walkability Score: 75/100
Nearest Universities: University of Greenwich (Medway Campus), University for the Creative Arts

Medway is fast becoming a hub for creativity and innovation. Areas like Chatham and Rochester are filled with student-friendly cafés, galleries, and co-working spaces. With a strong creative community and lower rent prices, it’s among the good places to live in Kent for students on a budget. Trains to London take under an hour, and the region has a youthful, active vibe that makes students feel welcome.

4. Folkestone

Population: ~47,000
Crime Rate: 25% below Kent average
Average Rent: £150–£180/week (shared/studio)
Best For: Seaside living, postgraduate students
Walkability Score: 70/100
Nearest Universities: University for the Creative Arts (Canterbury Campus)

For students who want peace, sea views, and creative inspiration, Folkestone is ideal. Known for its beaches, galleries, and vintage shops, it’s one of the best areas to live in Kent if you enjoy coastal life. Folkestone’s community is welcoming, and safety levels are among the highest in the county. Rent is affordable, and the slower pace suits postgraduate and international students seeking calm surroundings near nature.

5. Rochester

Population: ~30,000
Crime Rate: 28% below Kent average
Average Rent: £160–£200/week (shared/studio)
Best For: History enthusiasts, students wanting quiet study time
Walkability Score: 75/100
Nearest Universities: University for the Creative Arts (Rochester Campus)

Rochester has amazing historic architecture with a relaxed student lifestyle. With the castle, cathedral, and cobbled high street, it’s one of the best places in Kent to live for those who love culture. It’s quieter than Canterbury but offers a similar sense of community and safety. Rochester’s charm shines through Rochester High Street, where you’ll find cute cafés, vintage stores, and relaxed student-friendly spots. The Cheese Room is popular for its cosy vibe and unique menu, making it ideal for long convos after class. For quieter afternoons, students head to Rochester Castle Gardens for open-air reading sessions or meet-ups.

6. Margate

Population: ~13,000
‍Crime Rate: 25% below Kent average
‍Average Rent: £150–£190/week (shared/studio)
‍Best For: Creative students, international residents
‍Walkability Score: 80/100
‍Nearest Universities: University of Kent (Canterbury Campus), Canterbury Christ Church University

Margate has evolved into one of the best places to live in Kent, attracting a mix of artists and students. The area’s affordability and access to coastal views make it ideal for those seeking the best places to live in Kent with a relaxed atmosphere. Margate has a cool, artsy vibe, with students spending time at The Old Kent Market, a casual hub for snacks, coffee, and local stalls. The beachside promenade near Margate Main Sands is perfect for unwinding and watching sunsets. If you’re into contemporary art or looking for weekend inspiration, the iconic Turner Contemporary makes for an amazing hangout.

7. Dover

Population: ~12,500Crime Rate: 28% below Kent average
‍Average Rent: £140–£180/week (shared)
‍Best For: International students, nature lovers
‍Walkability Score: 70/100
‍Nearest Universities: University of Kent (Canterbury Campus)

Dover combines affordability with beautiful landscapes, making it one of the safest places to live in Kent. Students enjoy coastal trails, and cafés. The area provides cost-effective Kent student accommodation, ideal for those preferring quiet surroundings and scenic views. Dover’s calm social life often centres around Dover Seafront, where coastal paths and cafés make it ideal for students who love the outdoors. Pencester Gardens offers a relaxing green space for picnics or catch-ups between classes.

8. Deal

Population: ~10,000
‍Crime Rate: 30% below Kent average
‍Average Rent: £150–£190/week (shared/studio)
‍Best For: Postgraduates, quiet living
‍Walkability Score: 75/100
‍Nearest Universities: University of Kent, Canterbury Christ Church University

Deal’s peaceful seafront and welcoming environment make it one of the top places to live in Kent for focused study. Around 20% of residents are students. Accommodation includes shared flats and private student accommodation Kent, suited for those seeking calm and safety. Deal gives students a peaceful yet charming vibe, with Deal Pier being the most popular chill spot, perfect for walks, photos, or coffee with sea views. The historic Deal Castle lawns are great for relaxing on sunny days. For a more lively feel, the indie shops and cafés around Middle Street give you plenty of places to unwind.

‍9. Sevenoaks

Population: ~11,000
‍Crime Rate: 35% below Kent average
‍Average Rent: £180–£230/week (studio/shared)
‍Best For: Postgraduates, professionals, commuters
‍Walkability Score: 85/100
‍Nearest Universities: University of Kent (Medway Campus), University for the Creative Arts

Sevenoaks offers one of the best areas to live in Kent for students who value peace and connectivity. It features excellent public transport links to London and the surrounding campuses. Safety is well above the county average, and student houses Kent are comfortable yet modern. Sevenoaks has a polished, relaxed scene centred around The Vine Gardens, where students enjoy outdoor breaks in a calm setting. When you want fresh air and long walks, Knole Park is one of the most beautiful green escapes in the region.

10. Faversham

Population: ~9,000
‍Crime Rate: 20% below Kent average
‍Average Rent: £160–£200/week (shared/studio)
‍Best For: Budget-conscious students, local commuters
‍Walkability Score: 80/100
‍Nearest Universities: University of Kent, Canterbury Christ Church University

Faversham is one of the good places to live in Kent, combining affordability and character. Around 18% of residents are students. The town’s Kent accommodation options balance comfort and accessibility, appealing to both local and international students. Faversham has a friendly village-style atmosphere, and students often meet at The Hot Tin, a converted church turned creative café and events hub. For weekend markets and local food, Faversham Market is always buzzing. If you're in the mood for a scenic walk, the creekside trails around Faversham Creek make the town even more inviting.

Student Accommodation in Kent

Finding the right place to stay in Kent is easy, thanks to its wide housing range. Whether you prefer independent studios or sociable student flats, there’s something for everyone.

Students looking for the best places to live in Kent often find that cities like Canterbury and Medway offer both comfort and affordability. Whether you want the privacy of a studio or the social life of a shared flat, Kent student accommodation provides a mix of both.

Cost of Living in Kent

Kent offers a more affordable lifestyle than nearby London, without compromising on quality. Here’s a breakdown of the cost of living in Kent:

Students often find Kent’s affordability makes it one of the best areas in England to live for balancing study and leisure.

Top Universities in Kent

Kent is home to some of the UK’s most reputable institutions, offering everything from world-class research to industry-focused creative programs. Whether you’re diving into law, arts, tech, or education, the universities here cater to every academic path.

Proximity to campuses makes Kent accommodation ideal for a smooth student experience, whether you’re in Canterbury, Medway, or Maidstone.

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Kent truly earns its place among the best areas to live in UK for students. Its combination of safety, affordability, and culture makes it ideal for anyone studying in the South East. Whether you’re drawn to Canterbury’s university buzz, Maidstone’s riverside calm, or Medway’s creative energy, Kent offers a lifestyle that feels both grounded and inspiring. For anyone seeking student accommodation in England that balances comfort and connection, Kent is the perfect fit.

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