Best Places to Live in Surrey for Students in 2025

Ever wondered why Surrey is one of the most sought-after student destinations in the UK? Known for its amazing countryside, fun market towns, and close proximity to London, Surrey offers an exceptional mix of popular hangout spots, esteemed universities, and a wholesome environment for students. Whether you’re attending the University of Surrey in Guildford, the University for the Creative Arts (UCA) in Farnham, or Royal Holloway University in Egham, this county provides some of the best places to live in Surrey UK, for a balanced student lifestyle. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to live in Surrey for students, complete with rent averages, safety stats, nearby universities, and more, to help you find your perfect home away from home in one of the most beautiful parts of southern England.

‍Why is Surrey ideal for Students?

Surrey stands out as one of the best areas to live in the UK for students. It has high-quality education with a safe, scenic, and well-connected environment. The best places to live in Surrey are home to globally respected institutions, offering world-class research opportunities and modern campuses surrounded by green landscapes.

Quick Facts about Student Life in Surrey:

Student Population: ~22,000 (including ~7,000 international students)
‍Top Universities: University of Surrey (Guildford), and UCA Farnham
Average Student Rent: £170–£240/week (varies by town)
‍Travel Links: 35–40 minutes to London by train from Guildford or Woking
‍Safety: Crime rate 35% below the national city average
‍Lifestyle: Cafés, music festivals, parks, and shopping streets
‍Cost of Living: Cost of living in even the best places to live in Surrey is lower than in London, moderate compared to Oxford or Cambridge

With its amazing gardens, safe communities, and proximity to London, Surrey is the place to be for international students. The best places to live in Surrey allow students to enjoy all the hangout spots and amenities by placing them close by.

Top 10 Best Areas to Live in Surrey for Students

1. Guildford

Population: ~77,000
Crime Rate: 30% below the national average
Average Rent: £190–£240/week (studio/shared)
Best For: University of Surrey students, international residents
Walkability Score: 85/100
Nearest University: University of Surrey

Guildford is the beating heart of student life in Surrey and undoubtedly the best area to live in Surrey for students. The town combines cobbled streets, riverside walks, and an amazing student environment, which makes your stay wholesome. Students can choose between on-campus student accommodation in Surrey or off-campus student apartments in Surrey near Guildford, making the most of their time. With its safety, nightlife, and convenience, Guildford easily ranks among the best neighborhoods in Surrey for local and international students alike. Guildford has plenty of easy hangout spots, especially around Guildford Castle Grounds, where students chill on the lawns, take photos and catch sunsets. The Boileroom adds a completely different vibe with its indie music nights and intimate live shows that draw in a young crowd.

2. Egham

Population: ~32,000
Crime Rate: 25% below county average
Average Rent: £170–£210/week (studio/shared)
Best For: Royal Holloway University students
Walkability Score: 75/100
Nearest University: Royal Holloway, University of London

Egham is an amazing student town dominated by the stunning Royal Holloway campus, one of the most beautiful in the UK. It’s one of the best areas in Surrey to live in if academic history is your thing. It also offers an amazing social life. The town offers some of the best places to live in Surrey for students, modern residences, and shared flats. With its low crime rate and friendly atmosphere, Egham is a top contender for students seeking apartments for students in the UK that offer both comfort and culture. Egham has a very student-heavy energy thanks to Royal Holloway, and The Happy Man pub is usually the first place people head to for casual evenings and society meetups. 

3. Farnham

Population: ~40,000
Crime Rate: 20% below county average Average Rent: £160–£200/week (shared/studio)
Best For: Art and design students
Walkability Score: 70/100
Nearest University: University for the Creative Arts (UCA) Farnham

Home to one of the UK’s top creative universities, Farnham is the place to be if your thing is for art, film, and design. With amazing views and affordable student accommodation in Surrey, Farnham is ideal for those looking for a more relaxed lifestyle without being far from major transport links. Many student residences in Surrey are located within walking distance of UCA, offering furnished rooms and communal facilities. Farnham’s best hangouts revolve around calm, cosy spaces like Farnham Park, where students come for picnics, morning runs and open-air chill sessions. Lion & Lamb Yard is another favourite with cute cafés and boutique corners that make for slow weekend plans.

4. Woking

Population: ~100,000
Crime Rate: 28% below the national average
Average Rent: £180–£220/week (studio/shared)
Best For: Students commuting to Guildford or London
Walkability Score: 80/100
Nearest Universities: University of Surrey, Royal Holloway University

Woking offers excellent transport connections and affordable housing, making it one of the best neighbourhoods in Surrey for students who prefer city convenience without the expense and stress that London has. It’s just 10-15 minutes by train from Guildford, so many students choose cheap apartments in Surrey here and commute daily. With its excellent connectivity and amazing hangout spots, Woking ranks among the best areas in Surrey to live for students who love a good bargain. Woking is all about convenience and buzz, especially around Victoria Place, where you’ll find shops, cafés and places to linger with friends between errands. Jubilee Square keeps things lively with outdoor seating and regular pop-up events that make it an easy meet-up spot.

5. Godalming

Population: ~23,000
Crime Rate: 40% below the national average
Average Rent: £160–£190/week
Best For: Quiet lifestyles, postgraduate students
Walkability Score: 75/100
Nearest University: University of Surrey

Just a 10-minute train ride from Guildford, Godalming offers Georgian architecture and peaceful living surrounded by nature. It’s popular with postgraduate students or those looking for some peace and quiet. With affordable student apartments in Surrey, Godalming has it all, making it one of the best places to live in Surrey UK, for senior or research-focused students. Down by the Godalming Wharf, the riverside paths offer a peaceful alternative for evening walks and unwinding.

6. Reigate

Population: ~50,000
Crime Rate: 32% below county average
Average Rent: £170–£210/week
Best For: Commuting students, professionals
Walkability Score: 70/100
Nearest University: University of Surrey (via train)

Reigate is known for its amazing views of the North Downs and relaxed vibe. While not primarily a student hub, it’s still one of the best areas in Surrey to live for those who prefer staying in a peaceful environment. Affordable shared housing options and student apartments in UK can be found here, with quick train access to both Guildford and London. Students appreciate the small-town feel and amazing student community. Reigate blends nature and social life beautifully, with Priory Park acting as the main hub for picnics, games and lazy weekend afternoons. Those craving views often head up to Reigate Hill or Colley Hill for sunset walks and peaceful breaks from coursework. Later in the day, The Cage Bar offers a quirky underground setting that’s perfect for small groups and low-key nights out.

7. Camberley

Population: ~37,000
Crime Rate: 35% below the national average
Average Rent: £150–£180/week
Best For: Budget students, families
Walkability Score: 65/100
Nearest University: University of Surrey (35 min by train)

Camberley offers some of the best places to live in Surrey and is a favourite among budget-conscious students who don’t mind commuting. It’s well-connected and offers amazing amenities like shopping centres, gyms, and parks. The area’s safety and affordability make it a practical option for those looking for apartments for students in the UK with lower rent costs. Camberley’s social life is centred around The Atrium, where students bounce between restaurants, the cinema and arcade games, making it a go-to weekend spot. For a more relaxed setting, Frimley Lodge Park is ideal with its open gardens and canalside paths.

8. Dorking

Population: ~12,000
Crime Rate: 38% below national average
Average Rent: £160–£200/week
Best For: Nature lovers, remote learners
Walkability Score: 60/100
Nearest University: University of Surrey (Guildford campus)

Surrounded by the Surrey Hills, Dorking is ideal for those who appreciate outdoor living and quiet weekends. With local cafés, art galleries, and cycling routes, it’s one of the best areas to live in Surrey for peace and recreation. Students can find student residences in Surrey and short-term lets that combine countryside peace with modern amenities. Dorking leans into its scenic charm with Denbies Wine Estate, a favourite spot for long walks through the vineyards and golden-hour photos. The high street is dotted with independent cafés that work perfectly for study sessions or slow coffee dates. And if you’re up for fresh air, the short trip to Box Hill pays off with unbeatable views and picnic spots.

9. Leatherhead

Population: ~26,000
Crime Rate: 27% below county average
Average Rent: £160–£210/week
Best For: Commuters, young professionals
Walkability Score: 70/100
Nearest University: University of Surrey, Royal Holloway

Leatherhead’s excellent train links to both Guildford and London make it a convenient location for students looking for student apartments in Surrey outside the busier towns. It’s peaceful, safe, and full of local shops, ideal for students balancing study with part-time work. Leatherhead keeps things simple, with students often settling into the Leatherhead Leisure Centre café for casual chats after classes or gym sessions. Nearby Fetcham Village Pond adds a quiet, countryside-like setting that’s perfect for unwinding or taking a peaceful walk.

10. Haslemere

Population: ~17,000
Crime Rate: 33% below the national average
Average Rent: £150–£190/week
Best For: Budget students, families
Walkability Score: 65/100
Nearest University: University of Surrey

Haslemere is a hidden gem offering cheap apartments in Surrey and a close-knit community that makes you feel at home. Its natural beauty and affordable living make it one of the best neighbourhoods in Surrey for students who want an escape from city noise but still need easy access to campus. If you’re in the mood for nature, Swan Barn Farm provides beautiful trails and open spaces that feel far removed from town noise. The small but serene Haslemere Museum garden rounds things off as a peaceful hideaway for reading or catching up with friends.

‍Student Accommodation Options in Surrey

Finding the right student accommodation in Surrey is simple because of its variety of modern, furnished, and well-managed housing. From shared flats to en-suite studios, every lifestyle and budget is covered.

Most student apartments in Surrey include Wi-Fi, utilities, and access to amenities like gyms, study rooms, and laundry. Choosing student residences in Surrey near Guildford or Egham makes sure that students don’t miss out on all the fun.

Cost of Living in Surrey

Surrey is easy on the pocket. While slightly pricier than smaller towns, it’s still cheaper than London or Oxford for students looking for student apartments in the UK with great facilities.

Students find that living in Surrey allows for comfort, travel, and fun without overspending, especially with cheap apartments in Surrey available in outlying towns.

Top Universities in Surrey

These institutions attract students from around the world, making Surrey a great place for student accommodation in UK that offers education with comfort and community.

Surrey stands out as one of the best places to live in Surrey UK for students, combining safety, beauty, and superb connectivity with quality education. Whether you’re in Guildford, Farnham, or Egham, you’ll find a perfect balance between study, leisure, and comfort.

From modern student apartments in Surrey to cheap apartments in Surrey and well-equipped student residences in Surrey, this county truly offers some of the best apartments for students in the UK. With world-class universities and an environment that opens its heart to students, Surrey continues to attract thousands of students each year looking for a fulfilling, affordable, and memorable student experience.

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