🌟 Why This Guide?
London Metropolitan University (London Met) has two main campuses: Holloway (Zone 2) and Aldgate (Zone 1). Your accommodation choice will influence your rent, commute, and lifestyle.
Unlike some universities, London Met does not own or operate halls of residence but connects you to trusted private halls, flats, and rentals. This guide helps you understand your choices, costs, and how to find the best places to stay near your campus for 2025.
🏫 Understanding Halls of Residence Near London Met
"Halls" typically means privately managed, purpose-built student buildings split into flats, with bills and Wi-Fi usually included. On-site staff are present during the day, with security by night.
Since London Met does not manage its own halls, students must apply directly to private providers. Rooms are limited and not guaranteed, so early applications are crucial.
Example: Private Halls near Aldgate Zone 1
iQ Hoxton is a top example, offering en-suite rooms from around £250 per week, just 0.9 miles from Aldgate campus—ideal for Art, Architecture, and Design students. Use it as a price and location benchmark for 2025 private halls.
- Advantage of halls: Utilities and bills are bundled, simplifying budgeting and giving you a built-in student community.
- Note: Always verify landlord reviews and contracts before paying.
📅 Short Stay and February Entry
London Met supports short-stay bookings and mid-year arrivals at select halls run by major providers such as Unite Students and Sanctuary Students. Bookings fill quickly, so check availability each term.
🏠 Private Accommodation: Flats, Studios & House Shares
If you want more control over who you live with or need flexible contracts, private housing is a strong option. London Met students can use Studentpad, the university's private rental platform offering listings, rental advice, and a messaging board for flatmates.
Options range from flatshares and studios to homestay and short-term rentals.
💰 Average London Student Rent 2024-25
Expect high demand and rising prices with average student rent in London around £13,595/year (~£261/week). Keep that in mind when budgeting.
🚇 Commute Savings
Full-time students can apply for the 18+ Student Oyster photocard, which gives 30% off travelcards and is useful if living beyond campus zones.
📍 Where to Live: Campus Zones Compared
| Location | Pros | Cons | Areas to Explore |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aldgate (Zone 1) | Walkable to classes, central city | High rents, smaller room sizes | Shoreditch, Aldgate, Hoxton, Whitechapel |
| Holloway (Zone 2) | Better rental value, tube access | Some older properties, varying quality | Holloway, Finsbury Park, Archway, Tufnell Park |
⚖️ Halls vs Private Flats Quick Comparison
| Feature | Halls | Private Flats & Houses |
|---|---|---|
| Bills Included | Yes | Sometimes |
| Community | Strong, planned social opportunities | Depends on housemates |
| Contracts | Academic year (usually 9–10 months) | Often 12 months |
| Furnished | Fully furnished | Usually, but check |
| Cost | Higher, especially in Zone 1 halls | Wider range, possibly cheaper |
| Deposit & Guarantor | Often required | Usually required, especially for internationals |
| Independence | Less (shared kitchens/spaces) | More, you control your living space |
💡 Cheapest Accommodation Tips for 2025
- Apply early (spring/summer months) to access the best halls and lower rates.
- Share bigger flats with friends; evidence shows it beats studio prices.
- Live one or two Tube stops beyond Zone 1 and use the 18+ Oyster discount for overall savings.
- Pick all-inclusive halls to avoid unexpected bills for Wi-Fi and utilities.
🔗 Useful Links
- London Met Accommodation Hub
- Aldgate Halls Listings (e.g., iQ Hoxton)
- Holloway Area Halls Overview
- London Met Studentpad – Private Rentals
- Short Stay & February Entry Booking Info
- Sanctuary Students London Met Halls
- TfL 18+ Student Oyster Card 2025
🎯 Final Thoughts
For London Metropolitan University students in 2025, the best plan is: shortlist private halls near your campus, price-check them against Zone 2 flatshares, and secure your place early. Combining all-inclusive halls or large flatshares with the 18+ Oyster discount can make budgeting easier and your monthly costs lower.