An elegant flat in St Albans very close to the town center. Spacious with a large bedroom with standard sized double bed, and a cook-ready kitchen. Plenty of space and sunlight. Comes with free basement parking - Next to St Albans Abbey station and 1 mile from St Albans City Station (or £5 on uber)
Finding the right student accommodation in Watford plays a major role in shaping a student’s academic routine, budget planning, and overall living experience. With a wide variety of housing options across the town and nearby areas, students can choose accommodation based on rent, room type, amenities, and proximity to their university campus. Amber simplifies this process by offering verified listings, flexible booking options, and expert guidance, helping students secure reliable accommodation for the academic year without unnecessary stress.
As university-managed halls are often limited, many students opt for off-campus Watford student accommodation, particularly properties with strong transport links to London and Hertfordshire campuses. Popular student apartments near Watford include Canvas Student Arthur House and GoBritanya Sterling Court, both recognised for modern facilities, communal study areas, and convenient access to public transport. These student residences allow students to live comfortably while staying well connected to universities, supermarkets, and city centres.
Watford is a well-connected town in Hertfordshire, United Kingdom, with a population of approximately 96,000 residents. It supports a steady and growing student population due to its proximity to institutions such as the University of Hertfordshire, Middlesex University London, and several specialist colleges in Greater London. This makes Watford a popular base for students who want access to top universities while living outside central London.
Watford is considered a safe and student-friendly town with strong local infrastructure. It records a safety index of around 77-79 and an estimated happiness score of 7.5, reflecting a good overall quality of life. With reliable transport links, modern amenities, and living costs lower than inner London, Watford appeals to students comparing options across the best UK universities and those planning long-term studying in the UK.
The best student accommodation Watford options are designed for students who prioritise privacy, premium amenities, and high-quality living spaces. These properties often offer studio apartments or modern en-suite rooms, alongside gyms, social lounges, and enhanced security. Premium accommodation is especially popular among postgraduate and international students. Top-rated student apartments for rent in Watford include:
1. Landsby - From £502 per week
2. Madison - From £485 per week
3. Luna - From £484 per week
4. Canada Gardens - From £475 per week
5. Ferrum - From £468 per week
Affordable student accommodation in Watford suits students who want functional living spaces without the premium price tag of central London. Budget-friendly properties usually include furnished rooms, shared kitchens, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and sometimes bills included for utilities. These options are particularly popular with first-year students and those commuting daily to nearby campuses. Well-known affordable student apartments in Watford include:
1. Southall And Soul - From £196 per week
2. Arch View House - From £216 per week - ★★★★☆ (4.7/5) - “Great flats for students, loads of storage in their rooms, 3/4 beds, large windows with varying views, kitchens are well stocked, comfy living area. Everything a student needs during their time at University.”
3. Luna Hatfield - From £230 per week - ★★★★☆ (4.7/5) - “Luna is a great place to stay; the staff are really accommodating and very nice and helpful with any problems we have. They take action immediately. The facilities are great, and good information is provided via email.”
4. Portobello Garrow House - From £233 per week - ★★★★☆ (4.8/5) - “My stay at Garrow House has been a pleasant one, with the staff being welcoming. The social life may be lacking due to the regulations of the state. However, the general life and enjoyment at Garrow House are how they have been since I arrived.”
5. Chapter Portobello - From £246 per week - ★★★★★ (5/5) - “Wonderful place to live! The Gym is spacious and tidy. With a lot of events and parties, people can enjoy social life. The reception staff is friendly and patient, as are other staff who have helped me with different issues.”
Watford has several student-friendly neighbourhoods that suit different budgets and lifestyle preferences. Rent levels vary depending on proximity to campus, transport links, and the type of housing available.
1. Cassiobury
Cassiobury is a popular area close to large green spaces and Watford town centre. It offers a mix of shared houses and apartments, making it ideal for students who prefer a quieter residential setting. The apartments for rent in Watford typically range from £650 to £850 per month.
2. Hempstead Road
Hempstead Road is well known for its transport connectivity and access to shops, supermarkets, and everyday services. The area has a strong supply of shared housing and private rentals. The average rent for apartments in Watford ranges from £600 to £800 per month.
3. Nascot Wood
Nascot Wood appeals to students who want quick rail access to London while living in a more residential neighbourhood. Watford student accommodation is slightly more premium, with average rent ranging from £700 to £900 per month.
Watford offers a wide range of accommodation types designed to suit different budgets and living preferences. Most student accommodation in Watford is fully furnished and includes internet access, storage, and kitchen facilities.
1. En-suite Rooms
En-suite rooms provide a private bedroom with an attached bathroom, while kitchen and living spaces are shared. They are common in private halls and purpose-built student accommodation.
2. Non-en-suite Rooms
Non-en-suite rooms are more affordable and include a private bedroom with shared bathroom and kitchen facilities. They are ideal for students who want to keep rent low while still living in a social environment.
3. Studio Apartments
Studio apartments are fully self-contained units with private kitchens and bathrooms. They offer maximum privacy and independence and are typically the most expensive option.
4. Shared Houses and Flatshares
Shared houses and flatshares provide private bedrooms with communal kitchens and lounges. This is one of the most cost-effective options and popular with groups of friends.
The cost of living in Watford is moderate compared to central London but higher than in some regional towns. On average, students can expect total monthly expenses between £800 and £1,200, depending on lifestyle and accommodation type. Many student residences include utility bills, helping students manage budgets more effectively.
1. Accommodation: £600-£1000 per month
2. Food & Groceries: £150-£250 per month
3. TV & Subscriptions: £15-£30 per month
4. Mobile Phone: £15-£35 per month
5. Clothes: £25-£50 per month
6. Leisure: £20-£50 per month
7. Books & Stationery: £20-£40 per month
8. Travel: £40-£80 per month
Watford’s excellent transport links make it a practical base for students commuting to London and nearby university campuses. Easy access to rail and bus services is one of the town’s biggest advantages for off-campus living.
1. Bus
Local bus services operate throughout Watford and the surrounding areas. Single fares generally range from £1.80 to £2.50, while monthly student bus passes typically cost £45 to £70. Discounted student tickets are widely available, providing further savings for daily travel.
2. Train
Watford Junction offers fast connections to central London and surrounding towns. Single fares usually range from £5 to £10, depending on destination and time. Monthly rail passes generally cost £90 to £150, with 16-25 Railcards reducing fares by around one-third.
3. Walking and Cycling
Many student areas are walkable, and cycling is popular for short commutes. These options help students save on travel costs while staying active.
Watford offers an active yet balanced student lifestyle supported by its proximity to major universities and a strong local community. Student life is shaped by organisations such as the University of Hertfordshire Students’ Union and Middlesex University Students’ Union, which organise events, societies, volunteering opportunities, and wellbeing initiatives throughout the academic year. These student unions help foster a welcoming social environment and make it easier for students to build friendships and settle into life in Watford.
Students enjoy dining at L’Artista and Blue Check Restaurant, socialising at pubs like The Moon Under Water and The Estcourt Arms, and enjoying nightlife at PRYZM Watford and Popworld Watford. Cafés such as Caffè Nero and Coffee Lab are popular study spots, while Cassiobury Park and Oxhey Park offer outdoor relaxation. Cultural and everyday needs are supported by Watford Central Library, Atria Watford, Watford Palace Theatre, Watford General Hospital, Spire Bushey Hospital, Watford Museum, and Bushey Museum.
Watford is a convenient residential base for students due to its strong transport links and range of housing options.
1. University of Hertfordshire
The University of Hertfordshire has a student population of over 36,000 students, including a large international cohort. It is known for courses in business, computer science, engineering, psychology, media, and life sciences, with an emphasis on employability. The average tuition fees typically range between £15,500 and £17,500 per academic year, depending on the programme.
2. Middlesex University London
Middlesex University London supports approximately 15,800 students across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Popular courses include law, business management, psychology, media and communications, health, and education. The average academic year fees generally fall between £17,000 and £18,000, and many students choose Watford for its more affordable living options. Multiple options for student accommodation near Middlesex University London, help in order to reach the university with a short commute.
3. London School of Theology
The London School of Theology is a specialist institution with a smaller student population in the low thousands. It is particularly recognised for theology, biblical studies, ministry training, and postgraduate theological programmes. The average tuition fees are approximately £9,000 to £11,000 per academic year.