Yes, Colchester is generally considered a good place to live for students. Home to the University of Essex's largest campus, Colchester combines Roman ruins, green spaces, and a thriving cultural scene.

What is the cost of living for students in Colchester?

Students can expect to spend anywhere between £1,300–£1,600 per month. However, this average doesn’t take into consideration the student accommodation Colchester, which often requires a deposit to secure a place. However, the daily average costs in the city are lower compared to other cities, which can make it easy for you to save up. Visit amber for more information.

What's the process for securing student lets in Colchester through amber?

Watch our step-by-step video guide to help you shortlist from our extensive catalogue of options for Colchester off-campus housing options. Once you've made your selections, our experienced team will provide free assistance throughout the entire process.

Which is one of the cheapest student lets in Colchester?

The Maltings is one of the most cost-effective student accommodation in Colchester for international students.

Can I sort my student flats Colchester based on my preferences?

Absolutely! Your preference is our priority, and options for student accommodation Colchester are abundant. Our housing options cater to your expectations and needs. Click here to know for more support. Since student apartments in Colchester tend to sell out quickly, be sure to book yours at the earliest. Most students look for shared housing in Colchester starting in October because of long waiting lists. Ensure that you get the best according to your choice.

View all Questions (5)

What varieties of Colchester student accommodation are available at amber?

Numerous flexible student housing in Colchester await you. Among the prevalent options are ensuite, non-ensuite, studios, and private rooms.

What payment options are available for securing purpose-built student accommodation in Colchester?

Payment for your Colchester student accommodation can usually be made through online banking, direct debit, or credit card. Be sure to check specific payment methods while booking. Contact amber for more information.

Can I schedule a tour to inspect available options for student accommodation near Colchester campus?

Absolutely! If you wish to scout a location before finalising your booking for the best Colchester student accommodation near top universities, reach out to our booking specialists, and we'll organize a virtual tour for you. If you have any further inquiries or need assistance, feel free to contact our services as we're here to help!

What attractions can I find in the vicinity of student accommodation in Colchester city centre?

Some of the best tourist attractions near student apartments in Colchester include Colchester Castle, Markshall, and the historic Firstsite.

Can I stay in a Colchester student accommodation option with friends?

Certainly! While it's a possibility, regulations differ between properties. We recommend consulting the relevant authorities before making your decision to move into student apartments in Colchester. Additionally, explore activities in and around Colchester and join the Colchester fun tribe with friends!

View less Questions

Student Accommodations in Colchester

Colchester Student Accommodation

Finding a perfect Colchester student accommodation is important for students so that they can focus on their studies peacefully. Colchester can be called a student city commonly, as it is a home to several universities and colleges. Colchester has the University of Essex in which approx 15,000 students study. The city has approx 12,000+ international students every year. Because of the large student population in Colchester, on-campus Colchester student accommodation, like private halls and uni halls, fills up quickly, making off-campus student rentals Colchester a popular choice for most of the students.

You can find private rooms, shared flats, en-suite apartments, or cosy studios that fit your style and needs. Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) are residential buildings designed specifically for students. Students usually live in fully furnished accommodations that includes a bed, clothes storage, desk, and chair. Amber makes it easy to find Colchester student accommodation in your budget. Whether you study at the University of Essex or the University of Suffolk, amber helps you find a home in the nearby areas. Some of the top student lets in Colchester includes The Maltings or 27 Magdalen Street, which have comfy rooms and a friendly vibe.

About Colchester

Colchester is a town located in Essex, southeast England which has a rich history. Colchester is known for its typical brutalist architecture. It is Britain’s oldest recorded town which has a historic castle to visit. The town has a population of about 140,000 people and also includes 33,000 students which gives the town it's young and energetic feel. There are places like Castle Park and other green spaces that are perfect for relaxing and hanging out with friends after class. The University of Essex is the main academy in Colchester. It is well-known for its courses and research opportunities.

Colchester also has Colchester Free Festival, which is a fun event with music and dancing. Other events such as art fairs and markets are also there which makes the town fun for young people. The town also have a very good public transportation system, for example even if your friend stays in London student accommodation then you can reach him or her in less than an hour by train. The centre of the town has cafes, pubs, and restaurants, where you can visit to chill & relax. There are also theatres such as The Mercury Theatre, where you can go to enjoy plays and shows on evenings. The town's welcoming vibe and ample amount of student accommodation Colchester options makes it a fantastic place for students.

Best & Affordable Student Accommodation In Colchester

Amber provides a list of student apartments Colchester which comes with facilities like wi-fi, laundry and communal areas where you can make friends. There are alos options for short term stays. Some of the student housing in Colchester provides options for both academic year and summer stays. One good thing about Colchester is that the average cost of accommodation in Colchester is 6% lower than the national average. Some of the best student accommodation in Colchester are:

Student accommodation in Colchester	Top Amenities	Nearest Uni / Distance	Price
The Maltings, Colchester	Gym, Laundry Facility, Bills Included, Study Area, Ultra-fast WiFi, Table Football, CCTV, Security Doors, Outdoor Courtyard, Common Area	2.4 miles from city center (approx. 11 min)	£119/week
27 Magdalen Street, Colchester	Dual Occupancy, Bills Included, Laundry Facility, Communal Lounge, Games Area, Study Area, Free WiFi (200mb), Gaming Facilities, Secure Key Fob Access, Wheelchair Accessible Rooms	1.2 miles from city center (approx. 7 min)	£128/week
Enso, Colchester	Study Area, Games Room, Gym, Coffee Bar, TV Lounge, Bike Storage, Laundry Services, Courtyard, Garden, Pool Table, Parking, 24-Hour Security	2.4 miles from city center (approx. 10 min)	£185/week
Elmstead Place, Colchester	Study Area, Laundry Facility, Bike Storage, High Speed WiFi, TV Lounge, Parcel Service, Contents Insurance, Keycard Access, Courtyard	2.5 miles from city center (approx. 10 min)	£205/week

Best Areas To Live In Colchester

The right transport connectivity will greatly affect how enjoyable your time at university will be while studying in Colchester. Below you will find a number of ideal areas to live throughout your academic year based on their distance from your place of study and the types of accommodation available to students in closeness to Essex University, Colchester.

Area	Atmosphere	Proximity to University (Essex vs. UCC)
Hythe	Near River Colne; features shared flats, Tesco Express, and Quayside Cafe.	Closest to Essex: ~10–15 min walk or short cycle. UCC is ~15 mins away by bus.
City Centre	Busy hub with shops, markets, and Three Wise Monkeys bar.	Closest to UCC: ~10–15 min walk. University of Essex is ~15–20 mins by bus.
Greenstead	Large student community with a Co-op and community center.	Closest to Essex: ~15–20 min walk. UCC requires a ~20 min bus ride.
Wivenhoe	Quiet riverside village with a bookshop and The Rose and Crown pub.	Closest to Essex: ~5 min by bus/train or a 25 min scenic walk. UCC is ~10 mins by train.

Room Types for Student Accommodation in Colchester

Colchester has a wide range of accommodation options designed to meet different budgets. Most accommodations are fully furnished normally including a bed, clothes storage, desk, and chair. Here’s are the availabe accommodation in Colchester.

1. Ensuite Rooms - En suite apartments in Colchester have a private bedroom and attached bathroom, giving students personal space while living in shared accommodation.
Privacy: A private bathroom.
Shared Living Areas: Kitchen and lounge are shared.
Ideal For: Students wanting privacy with the option to socialise sometimes.

2. Non-Ensuite Rooms - Non-ensuite rooms have private bedroom with a shared bathroom, making them budget-friendly options.
Privacy: Bedroom remains personal, bathroom is shared with others.
Shared Living Areas: Shared Kitchens and communal areas.
Ideal For: Students looking for affordable housing with community living.

3. Shared Apartments
Shared cheap student flats in Colchester have individual bedrooms while residents share bathrooms, kitchens, and lounges.
Privacy: Bedrooms are private.
Shared Living Areas: Strong focus on social living.
Ideal For: Students who enjoy community and making friends.

4. Private Rooms
Private apartments provide a full private residence with a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen solely for one person. Private accommodations often include amenities such as all-bills-inclusive rent, Wi-Fi, contents insurance, on-site laundry, and secure bike storage.
Privacy: Full privacy .
Shared Living Areas: None.
Ideal For: Students who want full independence.

5. Studios - Studio apartments in Colchester are independent spaces with a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen.
Privacy: Complete independence.
Shared Living Areas: No.
Ideal For: Students who prefer independence.

View all Questions (4)

Cost of Living In Colchester

Careful budgeting while living in Colchester as a student can make a very affordable cost of living, if you create a budget to aim for each month that is in the region of £1,300–£1,600, (which is also the average cost of living) so you will be able to live comfortably. Tuition fees are excluded from this estimate, and it will vary according to your individual personal spending habits including how much, and how you are managing your monthly living expenses for bills. Below is a list of normal cost breakdowns for costs other than rent for student lets in Colchester:

1. Food: £30–£70 per week.

2. Gas and Electricity: £20–£40 per week.

3. Internet & Mobile Phone: £15–£30 per week.

4. Laundry: £10–£20 per week. ( Costing about £3 per wash. )

5. Clothing: £30–£60 per month.

6. Travel (Buses, Trains): £30–£100 per month.

Student Travel in Colchester

It’s simple for students in Colchester to travel around. With all the affordable ways you can travel around, whether you are going to your class at the University of Essex, exploring Colchester, or visiting places nearby. Travelling around Colchester will be easy to do if you are travelling to local attractions or going to class from your student housing Colchester. When travelling from your Colchester student accommodation to other places, refer to this brief guide to some of the travel services you can use to help you while in Colchester, and there are many of them.

Mode of Transport	Key Routes	Student Pricing & Discounts
Buses (First Essex / Arriva)	Connects Hythe, Greenstead, and the City Centre to the University of Essex (UoE).	UoE Discounted Pass: Weekly for ~£18.70 (Inner Zone). Monthly passes cost ~£60.00. Termly/Annual passes are also available.
Trains (Greater Anglia)	Direct links from Colchester/Hythe to London Liverpool St, Ipswich, and Norwich.	1/3 Off: Use a 16–25 Railcard (£35/year). Local singles start around £6; London advance tickets from ~£10.50.
Bicycles	Flat routes like the Wivenhoe Trail link the campus to local residential areas.	Free Maintenance: Visit "Dr Bike" on campus (Wednesdays, 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM) for free health checks and minor repairs.
Walking	Compact paths; Hythe and Greenstead are within a 15–25 minute walk of the UoE.	Free. Best for students living in University Quays, The Meadows, or Greenstead.

Nearest Properties to the University of Essex:

Elmstead Place: 5-minute drive away
Hythe Mills: 7-minute drive away
27 Magdalen Street: 12-minute drive away

Student Lifestyle and Living in Colchester

Culinary diversity abounds in Colchester. From popular restaurants such as The Natural Pantry, a local produce supplier that prepares meals using organic, locally sourced products for healthy-eating students, to pubs such as The Royal Oak serving traditional British fare, there really is a wide variety of places to eat when you break your fast. For a more social atmosphere, Colchester has several good pubs with many of them in The Fox Inn area, an ideal location to relax with friends after a long day.

Colchester has many historic buildings and sites of interest to visit such as the ruins of St. Botolph's Priory. Colchester Castle is Europe's largest Norman castle with 2500 years of historical artifacts on display. The city also hosts several major festivals each year (Colchester Food Festival, June) as well as exciting cultural events and festivities (Colchester Arts Festival-performance) which provide engaging experiences for students in Colchester. The Colchester Film Festival is perfect for avid moviegoer; there are art galleries, ice skating rinks, bowling alleys, theatres and movie theatres for you to use at your time-out. There are plenty of green areas and parks throughout Colchester for students to enjoy and to have fun when living as a student here. Castle Park is in the centre of Colchester and is great for a relaxing afternoon out and also provides a lovely view, along with plenty of space to do recreation outside.