Guides
Best Places to Live in Surrey for Students in 2025
November 25, 2025
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5 min read
Ever catch yourself daydreaming about the perfect student city? The kind that mixes top-tier unis, good vibes, and prices that don’t make your wallet cry? That’s literally Newcastle Upon Tyne. With iconic River Tyne views, insanely friendly locals, and nightlife that never disappoints, it’s no surprise this city is one of the best places to live in the UK for students. From sipping a flat white in Jesmond to rushing to lectures at Newcastle University, every day here feels full of hustle, charm, and “this is where I’m meant to be” energy.
And whether you’re checking out student accommodation in Newcastle Upon Tyne, eyeing modern student apartments in Newcastle Upon Tyne, or leaning toward fully managed student residences in Newcastle Upon Tyne, the city has an option that matches every vibe and every budget.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best neighbourhoods in Newcastle Upon Tyne, highlighting safety stats, rent ranges, local cafés, nightlife, and more. No matter if you’re attending Newcastle University or Northumbria University, finding the best area to live in Newcastle Upon Tyne can make your student experience truly unforgettable.
1. Jesmond
Population: ~12,000
Crime Rate: 25% below city average
Average Rent: £180–£220/week (studio/shared)
Best For: Students, young professionals
Walkability Score: 85/100
Nearest Universities: Newcastle University, Northumbria University
Jesmond is one of the best neighbourhoods in Newcastle Upon Tyne for students, known for its cafés, boutique shops, and tree-lined streets. About 40% of residents are students. Popular cafes in Newcastle include Café 1901 and Cake Stories. It’s close to both major universities, making it perfect for student apartments in Newcastle Upon Tyne and apartments for students in the UK. Jesmond is one of the best neighbourhoods in Newcastle Upon Tyne, packed with cosy cafés and lively social corners perfect for unwinding between lectures. Students often grab brunch at Café 1901. Evenings in Jesmond usually end at Osborne Road, where bars and pubs light up the street with live music.
2. Heaton
Population: ~14,000
Crime Rate: 20% below city average
Average Rent: £140–£180/week (shared)
Best For: Budget-conscious students
Walkability Score: 75/100
Nearest Universities: Northumbria University, Newcastle University
Heaton is among the best areas to live in Newcastle Upon Tyne for students who want affordable rent and a great social life. It’s home to quirky cafés like Heaton Perk and Butterfly Cabinet. With about 35% student residents, Heaton offers plenty of cheap places to live in the UK and shared flats ideal for group living. Heaton has a chilled, artsy feel that students love, making it one of the best areas to live in Newcastle Upon Tyne for those who want great cafés and a community vibe. Many spend afternoons tucked inside Heaton Perk, sipping coffee while working on assignments.
3. Sandyford
Population: ~9,500
Crime Rate: 22% below city average
Average Rent: £160–£200/week (studio/shared)
Best For: Students, international residents
Walkability Score: 80/100
Nearest Universities: Newcastle University
Sandyford is just a 10-minute walk from Newcastle University, making it one of the best areas in Newcastle Upon Tyne to live for convenience. Popular study spots include Ernest Café and The Cluny. With affordable rent and safe streets, it’s ideal for student residences in Newcastle Upon Tyne and apartments for students in Newcastle Upon Tyne. The Cluny in nearby Ouseburn offers great music nights and an indie vibe. Everything here feels walkable and welcoming, making Sandyford a favourite for everyday chilling.
4. Ouseburn
Population: ~6,000
Crime Rate: 30% below city average
Average Rent: £180–£220/week (studio/shared)
Best For: Creative students, music lovers
Walkability Score: 85/100
Nearest Universities: Northumbria University
Ouseburn is one of the best neighbourhoods in Newcastle Upon Tyne for artistic and creative students. Known for its art galleries, street murals, and indie bars, it offers student apartments in Newcastle Upon Tyne. Popular spots include The Tyne Bar, adding to its culture.
5. Shieldfield
Population: ~7,500
Crime Rate: 18% below city average
Average Rent: £170–£210/week (studio/shared)
Best For: Students, young professionals
Walkability Score: 80/100
Nearest Universities: Northumbria University (City Campus)
Shieldfield lies next to Northumbria University and is filled with student residences in Newcastle Upon Tyne. About 45% of residents are students. Rent is reasonable, cafés are abundant, and nightlife is within walking distance. It’s one of the best places to live in Newcastle Upon Tyne UK for convenience and comfort.
6. City Centre
Population: ~20,000
Crime Rate: Average
Average Rent: £190–£240/week (studio)
Best For: Students, nightlife lovers
Walkability Score: 90/100
Nearest Universities: Newcastle University, Northumbria University
The City Centre is one of the most dynamic places to live in Newcastle Upon Tyne. Students enjoy proximity to both universities, shopping, and entertainment. With cafés like Pink Lane Coffee and Laneway & Co., this area offers modern student apartments in UK with gym access, lounges, and study rooms. Pink Lane Coffee and Laneway & Co. are go-to study spots with the best brews in town. Nights out usually revolve around Bigg Market and Grey Street, where bars and clubs stay buzzing till late.
7. Spital Tongues
Population: ~5,000
Crime Rate: 28% below city average
Average Rent: £150–£180/week (shared/studio)
Best For: Medical and postgraduate students
Walkability Score: 70/100
Nearest Universities: Newcastle University (Medical School)
Spital Tongues is peaceful and close to campus, making it one of the best areas in Newcastle Upon Tyne to live for focused students. It’s home to affordable student accommodation in Newcastle Upon Tyne, with easy access to cafés and hospitals. Students often relax at The Trent House, a cosy pub that’s perfect for conversations and comfort food. With Leazes Park just a short walk away, it’s easy to spend afternoons strolling, studying, or just getting some air between lectures.
8. Fenham
Population: ~11,000
Crime Rate: 26% below city average
Average Rent: £130–£170/week (shared)
Best For: Budget students, families
Walkability Score: 65/100
Nearest Universities: Newcastle University
Fenham offers some cheap apartments in Newcastle Upon Tyne and is ideal for international students looking for quiet surroundings. Rent is lower than Jesmond, and the area has excellent bus links to both universities. Fenham offers affordable living with relaxed, low-key hangout spots. Students generally head to Fenham Library for quiet study time. Nuns Moor Park offers green space and jogging paths. It’s a simple, peaceful neighbourhood where you can unwind without the city chaos.
9. Gosforth
Population: ~23,000
Crime Rate: 35% below city average
Average Rent: £180–£230/week (studio/shared)
Best For: Postgraduates, professionals
Walkability Score: 75/100
Nearest Universities: Newcastle University
Gosforth is one of the best areas to live in Newcastle Upon Tyne UK for postgraduates or those who prefer peace. It’s well-connected by metro and features cosy cafés like Brinkburn Brewery and Caffè Nero. Safety and comfort make it ideal for apartments for students in the UK.
10. Walker
Population: ~10,000
Crime Rate: 30% below city average
Average Rent: £130–£160/week (shared)
Best For: Budget students, quiet lifestyles
Walkability Score: 60/100
Nearest Universities: Northumbria University
Walker is among the most affordable places to live in Newcastle Upon Tyne, perfect for students seeking value. It’s peaceful and well-connected by bus routes to the city centre. Many student apartments in Newcastle Upon Tyne offer river views and great affordability. Walker offers budget-friendly living and surprisingly scenic places to hang out. Many students head down to Walker Riverside Park for fresh air, river views, and walking trails that make the perfect study break.
Student Accommodation Options in Newcastle Upon Tyne
Finding the right place to live as a student in Newcastle Upon Tyne is easy, the city offers modern, affordable, and well-managed spaces across all its popular neighbourhoods. Whether you’re after student accommodation in Newcastle Upon Tyne, sleek student apartments in Newcastle Upon Tyne, or social student residences in Newcastle Upon Tyne, you’ll find options suited to every budget and lifestyle.
From studios with city views to budget-friendly shared flats, these apartments for students in the UK come fully furnished with utilities, Wi-Fi, and access to gyms and study areas. Here’s an overview:
Tip: Choosing student apartments in Newcastle Upon Tyne near Jesmond or Sandyford offers quick access to both campuses and cafés, while cheap apartments in Newcastle Upon Tyne in areas like Fenham or Walker keep costs low without compromising comfort.
Cost of Living in Newcastle Upon Tyne
Newcastle is known for being one of the most affordable university cities in the UK. Students searching for cheap apartments in Newcastle Upon Tyne or affordable apartments for students in the UK will find excellent value for money here.
Here’s a monthly breakdown of typical student expenses:
Students find Newcastle easy to budget for, thanks to its affordable lifestyle and wide variety of student accommodation in UK options that don’t break the bank.
Top Universities in Newcastle Upon Tyne
Newcastle is home to two globally recognised institutions, making it one of the best areas in Newcastle Upon Tyne to live for academic excellence and innovation.
Most student apartments in Newcastle Upon Tyne and student residences in Newcastle Upon Tyne are located near these universities, allowing students to walk or bike to campus easily. Whether you’re sipping coffee at Café 1901 in Jesmond or studying at the Robinson Library, living near your university can make student life much smoother.
Student Life in Newcastle Upon Tyne
Student life in Newcastle Upon Tyne is all about community, culture, and connection. The city’s blend of history, modernity, and warmth makes it one of the best places to live in Newcastle Upon Tyne UK. Whether you prefer studying in cosy cafés, exploring music venues in Ouseburn, or enjoying nights out on Osborne Road, there’s something for every personality.
Students often spend weekends exploring Quayside markets, watching matches at St James’ Park, or attending live gigs in Ouseburn, all within walking distance of their student apartments in Newcastle Upon Tyne. It’s this has accessibility, affordability, and fun that makes Newcastle one of the best places to live in Newcastle Upon Tyne UK.
In a nutshell, Newcastle Upon Tyne stands out as one of the best places to live in Newcastle Upon Tyne UK for students, offering affordable rent, safe neighbourhoods, and a student lifestyle that has study and fun effortlessly. Whether you’re moving into modern student apartments in Newcastle Upon Tyne or seeking cheap apartments in Newcastle Upon Tyne, this city promises an enriching experience in one of the UK’s most welcoming student destinations.
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