Student Housing Guide: Sheffield 2024

Sheffield, a county in South Yorkshire, is a city with a steel heart and a green soul. It has a proud history of industrial innovation and social reform but also a natural beauty that stems from its location at the edge of the Peak District National Park. However, Sheff has been boasting a lively environment with more than 50,000 students coming every year. If you have enrolled in the University of Sheffield or Sheffield Hallam University and are in between booking student accommodation in Sheffield, here’s a student housing guide you need! 

When to Start Looking for Student Housing in Sheffield? 

Due to the large influx of students looking for the perfect student accommodation in Sheffield, it’s best to start as early as possible. Unlike other cities in the UK, Sheffield is full of student housing options and some of them are highly affordable, too. Here are some key tips to remember when looking for student accommodation in Sheffield: 

1. Do not wait till the last minute to book student housing in Sheffield. The best options always run out fast! 

2. Start looking for student accommodation in Sheffield during your first term. More than a quarter of first-year students look for a home for the following year within weeks of beginning their degree.

March-April is a common starting point to book student accommodation in Sheffield; however, it’s good to begin in November-December. You can benefit from the early-bird deals because many landlords tend to increase the prices at the last minute when the best Sheffield student accommodation options are all booked.

Things to Keep in Mind When Choosing Student Accommodation in Sheffield  

While looking for the best student housing in Sheffield, consider a few factors. These factors will lead you to the perfect Sheffield student accommodation and ensure the perfect student living experience: 

1. Commuting: Sheffield is well-connected to public transportation and a safe city for biking around, too. Make sure the student accommodation in Sheffield is accessible by the major transport links. 

2. Security: Find a Sheffield student housing option that offers 24x7 security and is also under CCTV surveillance. Having an on-site property management team is another plus to ensure peace of mind. 

3. Deposit: The best student housing in Sheffield usually requires a one-time deposit, and the average deposit is usually between £150 and £400. Remember, the deposit is redeemable depending on whether contract requirements are met. 

4. Contract & Lease Duration: Get someone with a legal background to read your contract before signing it to make an informed decision. Some property managers allow only short-term leases; however, long-term leases lead to more affordable monthly rates. 

5. Guarantor: You can only pay the rent for student accommodation in Sheffield if you have a guarantor. Lease guarantors are third parties who add cushion to rental security. 

6. Cancellation Policy: Many landlords allow cancellation of your reservation within 2014 days of making it. However, you may still have to pay for weekly rent until the room is re-let after you cancel your chosen student accommodation in Sheffield. In case the student does not find a substitute, the student may be required to pay the entire rent. 

7. Booking Fees: The booking fee for student housing in Sheffield goes directly towards the landlord. If there is an admin fee, too, you will have to pay for the admin fee and deposit. 

8. Living Cost: Calculating the cost of living in Sheffield is essential, so you should make a budget. Don't forget to account for other expenses like utilities and transportation expenditures. The cost of living in Sheffield for students also depends on the type of accommodation they choose. 

9. Neighbourhood: Make sure to check out the area that your student housing in Sheffield is located in. Do some research on the locality, such as essential services in the area, transport options, and crime rates. 

10. Extra Perks: Some of the best student housing options also offer additional facilities such as Wi-Fi, gyms, and study areas. If you have a pet, you should also consider the pet policy before booking the accommodation. 

There are many other things to look for when choosing student accommodation. Keeping these factors in mind will always help you find the perfect place for you and make the best memories during your university days. 

Employment Opportunities in Sheffield 

International students in Sheffield hold diverse employment prospects across various sectors. While Tier 4 visa restrictions limit full-time work during your college years, there are opportunities in hospitality, retail, catering, and administrative roles. Internship programs and volunteering also offer valuable work experience and networking opportunities. Sheffield's growing tech and healthcare sectors present promising job growth, particularly for students with relevant skills and qualifications.  

Types of Student Accommodation in Sheffield 

The first choice students must make when narrowing down their options is the kind of student housing they’re looking for. Sheffield offers diverse choices of accommodation to cater to different preferences and budgets. Here are the most common types: 

1. On-campus Accommodation

Hostels or dorms are typically available at universities for on-campus housing. They include management-provided services like coffee shops, WiFi, laundry, etc. Students must, of course, pay rent to live in these halls, although the amount varies depending on the kind of housing.

2. Off-campus Accommodation 

This is off-campus housing, typically near the institution. The cost is reduced since the students choose to reserve shared lodging. Typically, rent includes costs for utilities like gas, water, and electricity. Depending on the housing and area, different fee structures apply. Your choices include a single room, a bathroom, or a studio unit. 

3. Purpose Built Student Housing (PBSA)

This includes  Sheffield student housing that has been designed and built specifically for university students like you! Common features include an all-inclusive rent and additional benefits such as fully furnished rooms, laundry service, 24x7 security, common spaces, and study rooms. Usually, this type of student accommodation in Sheffield includes: 

1. Ensuites

Price Range: £100 - £190/week 

Equipped with a private bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom, ensuites offer greater privacy and convenience. Students can enjoy their space and work in solitude, too. Most ensuites in PBSA student accommodation in Sheffield allow you to maximise available space even in small rooms. 

2. Non-ensuites 

Price Range: £60 - £150/week. 

Slightly different from an en-suite, a non-ensuite accommodation includes a shared bathroom and kitchen. This type of student housing in Sheffield emphasises on shared facilities and building friendships. You can find students studying near universities in Sheffield coming from different parts of the world. 

3. Studios

Price Range: £130 - £210/week

Studios offer a single multi-purpose space; however, this type of student accommodation in Sheffield provides private or shared spaces. The studios offer a dynamic living space and reduce the necessity of additional furniture. 

While you are new to the city, it might be overwhelming for you to find the perfect student accommodation. Amber helps you with an array of Sheffield student housing options that cater to your lifestyle, too. 

Best Areas to Choose Student Accommodation in Sheffield 

Picking the perfect student accommodation in Sheffield depends on several factors, as we discussed earlier. However, you need to know the best areas from where you can seamlessly reach the university, explore the city attractions, and beyond. 

1. Ranmoor

If you are looking for student accommodation in Sheffield and in one of the affluent suburbs, you can consider Ranmoor. The area is primarily residential and is one of the best areas to live in Sheffield among students, housing a large student community. Ranmoor has a range of restaurants like Canton Orchards, The Florentine and Rafters that students can try. 

2. Sheffield City Centre

Sheffield City Centre is the liveliest part of the city and is divided into four zones - Centre, Riverside, Sheaf Valley, and West End. City Centre has a range of shopping centres, restaurants, and bars and often hosts different events. If you find student accommodation in this area, the top 10 clubs in Sheffield will be within your reach, making way for a rich nightlife in the heart of the city. 

3. Bramall Lane

Located in Highfield, Bramall Lane is the perfect place for students who love sports. Bramall Lane is the name given to the official stadium of Sheffield United. The area is one of the best areas to live in Sheffield Hallam for anyone looking for student housing in Sheffield near their university. Bramall Lane also thrives with a pulsating nightlife along with the best restaurants in Sheffield near Sheffield student housing accommodations. 

4. Central Quay

For anyone looking for student accommodation near the University of Sheffield or Sheffield Hallam University, Central Quay is an ideal place. Located in the Kelham Island area, Central Quay is one of the trendiest spots in the city, with a young student population.‍ Also, its central location boasts excellent public transport to explore different parts of the city and access different amenities. 

5. Crookes 

Located close to both the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University, Crookes is a convenient choice for students. Full of green spaces and a well-established student community, anyone can feel a sense of belonging. Also, the area is full of essential amenities such as cafes, pubs, restaurants, etc. 

Top 10 Sheffield Student Accommodation Options 

The Sheffield student housing guide will always remain incomplete if you do not know about the popular accommodation options. If you are ready to start the next chapter of your academic life, you should consider the following student accommodation options in Sheffield. 

1. Central Place

Amenities: Laundry facilities,  printing services, staff on-site 24/7, communal events, study room, games room, and bike storage.

Also formerly known as Sheffield 2, Central Place is the brand new student accommodation in Sheffield that offers a wide range of en-suites and 1 and 2-bedroom apartments for you to choose from. The property is located just a 10-minute drive from Sheffield Hallam University and a 6-minute drive from the University of Sheffield.  ‍

2.  Nebula, Sheffield

Amenities: Common Room, outdoor area, self-catered on-site maintenance, cleaner, laundry room, recycling, TV (communal), garden, gym, central heating, breakfast bar, and post room. 

One of the most well-known student residences in Sheffield is Nebula, which offers a variety of chic studios and two-bedroom flats for rent. Sheffield College is 10 minutes away, while the University of Sheffield building is 4 minutes away from the house.

3. Sheffield 3, Sheffield

Amenities: Wi-Fi, communal kitchen, vending machine, cafeteria, and bike storage. 

The University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University are both within a 10-minute walk from Sheffield 3's student housing, making it incredibly convenient for daily commutes. Sheffield 3 offers students a really unique experience from beginning to end. Students can pick from a variety of ensuite and studio rooms at the resort.‍

4. Archways, Sheffield

Amenities: Bike storage, recycling, Wi-Fi, communal area, and outdoor social space.

You can rely on Archways if you're seeking student housing in Sheffield, particularly in the city centre. This establishment, which provides both high-end and reasonably priced en-suite rooms, is only a 4-minute walk from Sheffield Hallam University and a 9-minute walk from the University of Sheffield.‍

5. iQ Brocco, Sheffield

Amenities: Social spaces, onsite laundry, onsite cycle, storage, games room, cinema, and onsite cycle storage.

A popular student housing in Sheffield called iQ Brocco provides a variety of en suite rooms and self-contained flats for you to select from. It's the perfect place for you to move because it's close to Sheffield Hallam University and the University of Sheffield.‍

6. Leadmill Point, Sheffield

Amenities:  Wi-Fi, laundry, outdoor social space, recycling, printing, common area, and vending machine.

Students may pick from a variety of chic en-suites and non-en-suites at Leadmill Point, Sheffield, a unique student housing in Sheffield City Centre. The building is next to Bramall Lane Stadium and is only a two-minute walk or five-minute drive from Sheffield Hallam University and Sheffield College, respectively.

7. IQ Steel, Sheffield

Amenities:  Close to universities, central courtyard, onsite laundry, onsite cycle, storage, free parcel collection, cinema, and games room.

If you are looking for splendid student accommodation in Sheffield, IQ Steel offers stylish en-suite rooms, two-bedroom apartments, and studios. Located on Pitt St in the heart of the city, the accommodation is only 5 minutes away from the University of Sheffield and a 17-minute walk from Sheffield Hallam University.

8. St Mary's House, Sheffield

Amenities: Cinema room, laundry facilities, shared communal kitchen, games room, and TV (communal).

For anyone looking for luxurious student housing in Sheffield, St. Mary’s House is the perfect one. It is centrally located in Sheffield in a busy location close to an Aldi supermarket. They provide deluxe en-suites with fitted kitchens and other amenities. In addition, it is close to many universities like Sheffield Hallam University (a 15-minute walk), the University of Sheffield (a 15-minute walk), and Sheffield College (a 6-minute drive). 

9. Yugo Bramall Court

Amenities: Bike storage, Wi-Fi, laundry room, games area, post and parcel service, and well-being events.

Regarded as one of the favourite Sheffield student housing options by many, Yugo Bramall Court offers a selection of en-suite and shared flats with warm interiors. The University of Sheffield is 20 minutes on foot and Sheffield Hallam University is 21 minutes away, and if you take a bus, you’ll reach your university in a short time!

10. Aspect 3 Apartments 

Amenities: Fully furnished 3/4 double bed, ensuite bathroom, kitchen, TV, Wi-Fi, desk & chair, wardrobe, and communal laundry.

You can always rely on Aspect 3 Apartments if you're seeking contemporary student housing in Sheffield. Sheffield Hallam University is only 9 minutes away on foot, while the University of Sheffield is only 10 minutes away, and this facility offers a variety of standard flats, ensuite rooms, and studios.

Questions to Ask Before Booking Student Accommodation in Sheffield 

You might feel anxious while picking out the best student housing in Sheffield from the array of options available online. Before deciding on student housing, consider the following questions to be sure you've chosen wisely:

1. What is the distance from my university?

2. What kind of neighbours will be around me?

3. What do the neighbours think of the neighbourhood, and how is it?

4. What is the distance to the nearest bus, tram, or metro station, and the frequency of the services?

5. Will I need to spend money on furnishings, or is the room already furnished?

6. How safe is the neighbourhood, and how secure is the property?

7. Will the rent include utilities?‍

Move-in Checklist for Students

Once you choose the perfect student housing in Sheffield, congratulations will be in order. However, do not get lost in the joy of finding student accommodation in Sheffield because there are a lot of things to consider. Before you start packing for the major relocation, consider the following list:

Of course, you can go through the ultimate university essentials guide to know what you are missing out on and can also find inspiration to move in like a pro.

Beware of Scams and Frauds

Unfortunately, non-verified student accommodation can be a breeding ground for scams and frauds. For this reason, this student housing guide was created to assist you in avoiding rental scams and helping you navigate through an unfamiliar market: 

1. Never use cash or untraceable payment methods.

2. Before making a decision, always visit the potential lodging.

3. Don't give out critical or private information.

4.  Verify if the landlord is in good vibes.

5. Get in touch with the present tenants to find out what they think of the accommodation and neighbourhood.

Now, we hope this student housing guide helps you find the best student housing in Sheffield. You can further go through the ways of how to spot a rental scam and understand how to prevent it. After all, this port city is full of rich culture and arts and can help you find the best student accommodation in Sheffield on amber. From City Centre to Central Quay, amber will take you closer to the best Sheffield student housing options!