Introduction
Choosing where to live is one of the most important decisions for students at Cardiff Metropolitan University (Cardiff Met). With campuses situated in vibrant Cardiff, students can enjoy a rich blend of affordable living and cultural vibrancy. Accommodation shapes your daily routine, social life, and most importantly, your ability to focus on studies. Most first-year students opt for university-run halls such as Cyncoed and Plas Gwyn, while returning students often explore private housing in areas like Cathays, Roath, and Llandaff.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the pros and cons of different options, updated costs for 2025, and practical advice for budgeting and finding the ideal student home.
🏠 Why Accommodation Matters
Securing the right accommodation affects your academic success, wellbeing, and social opportunities. Cardiff offers affordable living compared to other parts of the UK, but prices vary by area and housing type. Proximity to campus can save time and commuting costs. University halls provide ready-made social networks, while private housing gives independence and flexibility.
🏢 Cardiff Met On-Campus Halls
Pros of Halls
- Location: Cyncoed and Plas Gwyn halls are conveniently located near the main campuses
- Bills: Rent includes utilities, Wi-Fi, and often insurance — simplifying budgeting
- Community: Designed to foster social life, perfect for first-year and international students
- Support: Onsite staff provide 24/7 security and assistance
- Ready to Move In: Rooms are furnished, with options ranging from shared kitchens to ensuite facilities
Cons of Halls
- Privacy: Shared kitchens and communal areas can reduce personal space
- Noise: Halls can be lively and noisy, especially during the busy Freshers' period
- Cost: Premium and catered halls demand higher rent
- Availability: Priority is given to first-year students, meaning spaces fill up quickly
🏘️ Private Student Housing
Pros of Private Housing
- Independence: Choose your own flatmates or live solo
- Variety: From budget-friendly shared houses to luxury studios
- Cost: Shared housing in Cathays or Roath offers good value
- Location: Flexibility to live near nightlife, campuses, or quieter suburbs
- Contracts: Usually 12-month leases providing stability
Cons of Private Housing
- Bills: Utilities, internet, and other extras are often not included
- Upfront Costs: Deposits and guarantors are commonly required
- Commute: Living further afield can increase travel expenses and time
- Quality: Older properties may lack the amenities of newer halls
- Community: Less built-in social interaction compared to halls
💰 Accommodation Costs (2025)
| Accommodation Type |
Weekly Rent (£) |
Bills Included? |
| Cardiff Met Halls |
220 – 240 |
Yes |
| Private Student Halls |
160 – 180 |
Typically yes |
| Shared Houses/Flats |
115 – 180 |
Often no |
🗺️ Popular Student Areas
- Cathays: Student heartland, bustling and affordable
- Roath: A quieter neighborhood, but with plenty of social life
- Llandaff: Residential and quieter, closer to the university
- City Centre: Convenient but tends to be pricier and busier
🍽️ Food & Grocery Expenses
- Expect to spend £35 to £50 weekly on groceries, using budget supermarkets like Aldi and Lidl
- Eating out at local restaurants costs around £8 to £15 per meal
- Cooking at home can save upwards of £70 monthly
🚌 Transport & Getting Around
- Cardiff offers excellent public transportation, with bus fares costing roughly £3 per single trip
- Student travel cards and discounts are available
- Many students also choose cycling and walking given Cardiff's compact urban layout
🎯 Lifestyle & Personal Expenses
- Gym memberships: £15 to £40 per month
- Socializing and entertainment: £60 to £130 monthly, depending on activity levels
- Mobile phone and internet plans: £20 and £30 monthly
- Study materials: £20 to £40 each month
📊 Average Monthly Student Budget
💡 Monthly Budget Breakdown
| Expense Category |
Estimated Cost (£) |
| Accommodation |
800 – 1,000 |
| Food |
150 – 200 |
| Transport |
60 – 80 |
| Lifestyle |
70 – 130 |
| Study Materials |
20 – 40 |
| Total |
1,100 – 1,450 |
💡 Tips to Save on Rent and Living Costs
- Apply early for university halls to secure a place
- Consider sharing a flat or house to reduce expenses
- Use student discount apps like UNiDAYS and NUS Extra
- Shop at budget supermarkets to save on groceries
- Utilize public transport discounts like student passes
- Engage with student societies for affordable social activities
"Living in Cardiff Met halls was the best decision I made in first year - the community atmosphere helped me settle in quickly, and having everything included in the rent made budgeting so much easier!"
🎓 Final Thoughts
Cardiff Met's student accommodation options provide both security and flexibility. Early application and well-planned budgeting go a long way to ensuring a successful and enjoyable student experience in 2025. Whether you choose the vibrant community of university halls or the independence of private housing, Cardiff offers excellent options for every student's needs and budget.
FAQs
Q1: How much do university halls cost?
Between £220 and £240 per week, all bills included.
Q2: Are bills included in private housing?
Often yes, but it varies, so always check before signing.
Q3: What are the cheapest student neighborhoods?
Cathays and Roath offer some of the most affordable housing options.
Q4: Do I have to share kitchens in university halls?
Many halls have shared kitchens, but some offer ensuite options with private facilities.
Q5: Are university halls guaranteed for first-year students?
Yes, all first-year students are guaranteed accommodation.