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Rochester Student Village, Rochester
Pier Quays, Medway
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What types of student accommodation in Rochester are available?
Students can choose from purpose-built student accommodation, shared apartments, studios, and private rentals. Student accommodation in Rochester typically includes fully furnished rooms, shared or private kitchens, and communal spaces, making it suitable for both first-year and returning students.
Is Rochester a good location for students commuting to London?
Yes. Rochester is considered a cost-effective commuter location due to its excellent transport links. High-speed trains reach London St Pancras in around 35 minutes, making Rochester an attractive option for students studying in Medway or travelling regularly to London.
How much does Rochester student accommodation usually cost?
Rent varies based on room type and location. On average, Rochester student accommodation ranges from £450 to £800 per month, while purpose-built student housing often includes bills, helping students manage monthly expenses more easily.
What is typically included in the rent for student accommodation in Rochester?
Most student accommodation includes inclusive bills covering utilities, internet, and basic maintenance. Many properties also provide access to communal spaces, study areas, and on-site security, which adds value and reduces additional costs.
When should students start looking for accommodation in Rochester?
It is recommended to begin searching 3-6 months before the intended move-in date. Students who start early often secure better locations near campus and benefit from greater availability, especially for popular properties. Students can choose to view accommodation in person or arrange a virtual tour if they are out of town.
Are there student accommodations near the University of Greenwich in Rochester?
Yes. There are several options for student accommodation near University of Greenwich, particularly around Medway. Properties like Rochester Student Village are strategically located to provide easy access to the Medway Campus, often within a short commute.
Do I need a guarantor or a deposit to book accommodation in Rochester?
Most accommodation providers require a security deposit, usually equivalent to one month’s rent. Some may also ask for a UK-based guarantor, although alternatives such as upfront rent payments are sometimes available for international students.
Can students view accommodation before booking?
Yes. Many platforms, including amber, allow students to arrange virtual or in-person viewings. This is especially useful for international students or those unable to travel to Rochester before securing accommodation.
What makes Rochester a student-friendly city?
Rochester offers a safe and supportive environment, a strong sense of community, and a balanced lifestyle. With a solid safety index, good walkability, and affordable living costs, the city supports both academic focus and an active student life.
Which universities do students living in Rochester typically attend?
Students living in Rochester commonly attend the University of Greenwich (Medway Campus), the University of Kent, & Canterbury Christ Church University. Rochester’s location allows easy commuting to these institutions while offering more affordable housing options.
Student Accommodations in Rochester
Student Accommodation in Rochester
Finding the right student accommodation in Rochester is a crucial decision that significantly impacts a student’s academic routine, social life, and overall comfort. With a wide range of student accommodation Rochester options available, students can choose housing that fits their budget, room preferences, and university location. Amber simplifies the process by offering verified listings, flexible payment options, and dedicated booking support, helping students secure student housing in Rochester UK that aligns with their academic year and lifestyle needs.
As university-managed halls are limited, many students opt for off-campus Rochester student accommodation, especially properties located close to Medway campuses. These include well-known student apartments in Rochester UK, such as Rochester Student Village and Pier Quays. Both properties are recognised for modern amenities, secure access, and excellent transport connectivity, making student flats ideal for those who want easy access to campus, supermarkets, and public transport while keeping living costs manageable.
About Rochester
Rochester is a city in Kent, UK, with a population of approximately 63,000 residents. The city supports a growing student population of around 12,000 students, driven by nearby institutions such as the University of Greenwich (Medway Campus), University of Kent, and Canterbury Christ Church University. This makes Rochester a practical base for students studying across Kent while remaining well connected to London and other parts of England's most in-demand zones. Rochester is a historic city that offers a rich tapestry of heritage and modernity, making it an attractive place for students. Rochester hosts numerous cultural events, including music festivals and seasonal markets, enriching the student experience.
Rochester is known for its safe streets and congenial atmosphere, providing a supportive environment for students. The city records a safety index of around 80 and an estimated happiness index of 7.6, reflecting strong community wellbeing. With an employment rate of approximately 93-94% and a walkability score close to 7.5, Rochester appeals to students seeking affordable living, ease of movement, and a balanced pace of life. Its location also attracts students comparing options across the best UK universities, particularly those looking beyond larger cities.
Best and Affordable Student Accommodation in Rochester
Rochester offers a limited but well-structured selection of the best and most affordable student accommodation, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious students and those commuting to nearby universities or London. Many Rochester UK student apartments focus on practical student needs, offering fully furnished rooms, inclusive bills covering utilities and internet, secure access, and convenient transport links. This makes these properties a cost-effective and reliable choice for students seeking quality apartments for rent in Rochester UK.
1. Rochester Student Village - From £130 per month - ★★★★★ (5/5) - “Rochester Student Village offers a very peaceful place. I love that place”
2. Pier Quays - From £131 per month - ★★★★★ (4.8/5) - “This is my second year here, and it’s amazing, the night staff are so nice and approachable, the manager is very friendly and polite, he’s always there to chat and support with anything needed.”
Best Areas to Live in Rochester for Students
Rochester has several student-friendly neighbourhoods that appeal to different budgets and lifestyles. Affordable student housing options in Rochester include purpose-built student housing, private apartments, and shared houses in neighbourhoods like Henrietta, College Town, and South Wedge. Rent levels vary based on proximity to campus, transport access, and the type of student housing Rochester UK available.
1. Rochester City Centre
Rochester City Centre suits students who prefer convenience and an active social environment. Shops, cafés, libraries, and transport hubs are all within easy reach, making it a popular area for student accommodation in Rochester. The average rent here typically ranges between £550 and £750 per month.
2. College Town
College Town is popular among students due to its proximity to campuses and availability of shared housing and student apartments Rochester UK. The area offers everyday amenities within walking distance. Average rent usually falls between £450 and £650 per month. The College Town neighbourhood features shops, restaurants, and convenience stores within walking distance of the University of Rochester (U of R) campus.
3. Henrietta
Henrietta appeals to students seeking a quieter residential setting with larger housing options and more independence. It is often considered a cost-effective option for shared student flats Rochester, with average rent ranging from £500 to £700 per month. The Henrietta area is favored by students due to its proximity to RIT and a variety of larger apartment options and shopping centers.
Room Options for Rochester Student Accommodation
Rochester offers a wide range of room types designed to suit different budgets, living preferences, and stages of student life. Most student accommodation in Rochester is fully furnished and includes essential facilities such as a bed, desk, chair, storage, and internet access. Students will enjoy modern amenities such as high-speed internet, fully furnished rooms, and inclusive bills covering utilities, internet, and maintenance.
1. Ensuite Rooms
Ensuite rooms provide a private bedroom with an attached bathroom, while kitchens and living areas are shared. These rooms are common in Rochester UK student housing and appeal to students who want privacy alongside communal living. All apartments, including Private apartments in Rochester may average around £550 per month.
2. Non-ensuite Rooms
Non-ensuite rooms are among the most affordable student accommodation Rochester options. They provide private bedrooms with shared bathroom and kitchen facilities, making them ideal for budget-conscious students.
3. Studio Apartments
Studio apartments are fully self-contained units that include a private bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen. These are popular apartments in Rochester UK, for students who prefer independence and quiet study environments.
4. Shared Apartments
Shared apartments consist of private bedrooms with shared kitchens and lounges. This setup is common across student apartments in Rochester UK, and suits students who enjoy social interaction and shared living costs.
Cost of Living in Rochester
Living in Rochester is generally affordable compared to many other UK university cities. The cost of living in Rochester ranges from £800 to £1,000 per month, depending on lifestyle and accommodation type. Many students planning student accommodation in England also review the detailed cost of living in Rochester to budget more effectively.
1. Accommodation: £450-£800 per month
2. Food & Groceries: £150-£200 per month
3. TV & Subscriptions: £15-£30 per month
4. Mobile Phone: £10-£25 per month
5. Clothes: £40-£80 per month
6. Leisure: £60-£150 per month
7. Books & Stationery: £20-£40 per month
8. Travel: £55-£65 per month
Student Travel in Rochester
Rochester’s excellent transport links make it a practical choice for students commuting within Medway or travelling further afield. These connections are particularly useful for those living in student accommodation near University of Greenwich and nearby campuses.
1. Bus
Local bus services operate across Rochester and Medway, connecting students to campuses and residential areas. A single fare averages £2, while monthly student passes typically cost £55-£65, with student ticket discounts available.
2. Train
Rochester Railway Station provides high-speed rail services, allowing students to reach London St Pancras in just 35 minutes. Monthly rail travel generally costs £90-£120, with railcards offering further savings.
3. Walking and Cycling
Many student apartments in Rochester UK are within walking distance of campuses and essential services. Cycling is also popular due to short travel distances and cost savings.
Student Life and Tourist Attractions in Rochester
Rochester offers a vibrant yet relaxed student atmosphere shaped by its historic character and close-knit community. Student unions linked to nearby universities organise social events, societies, and activities that help build a vibrant student community and active social life.
Students enjoy dining at The Cheese Room at St Helen’s and Don Vincenzo with friends, socialising at pubs such as The Dead Pigeon and The Golden Lion, and experiencing nightlife at Casino Rooms Nightclub and Pure Nightclub. Cafés like The Cornish Bakery and Rochester Coffee Co are popular for study breaks, while green spaces such as The Vines Gardens and Rochester Castle Gardens offer relaxation. Facilities such as the Medway Archives and Local Studies Centre, Pentagon Shopping Centre, and Medway Little Theatre add cultural and practical value to the area. Daily essentials are easy to manage with supermarkets like Tesco Extra Medway and Sainsbury’s Rochester close by, while healthcare needs are covered by Boots Pharmacy Rochester and Medway Maritime Hospital. For those interested in local history, the Guildhall Museum Rochester offers a well-rounded community experience.
Top Universities in Rochester
Rochester benefits from proximity to several well-established universities in Kent, making it a practical base for students seeking student accommodation in Rochester with strong academic access.
1. University of Greenwich (Medway Campus)
The University of Greenwich has a total student population of over 38,000 students, with a strong academic presence in Medway. Popular courses include engineering, business management, computing, and health sciences. Average tuition fees typically range from £7,000 to £9,000 per semester, and many students choose student accommodation near University of Greenwich in Rochester for affordability.
2. University of Kent
The university enrols approximately 20,000 students, including a large international student population. Popular courses include law, humanities, sciences, psychology, and social sciences. Many students prefer Rochester student accommodation due to its lower living costs and transport connectivity.
3. Canterbury Christ Church University
The university supports around 17,000 students and is known for programmes in education, health, and social sciences. Tuition fees typically range from £6,500 to £8,500 per semester, making Rochester an appealing base for commuting students.