University of Cambridge Student Accommodation Guide 2025 Best Halls, College Rooms & Private Housing Options
Practical advice for choosing accommodation in Cambridge — compare college halls, private renting, postgraduate options, costs, application tips, and neighbourhood guides.
🎓 Overview
Accommodation is a major part of your Cambridge experience. Most first-year undergraduates live in college-provided rooms, while returning students and postgraduates choose between college housing and the private market. This guide explains the differences, costs, and how to pick the right option for you in 2025.
Deciding where to live affects your social life, commute time, and budget — use this guide to make an informed choice.
🏫 College Accommodation — Why Choose It?
Community & Convenience: College rooms are close to lectures, dining halls, and college events — ideal for first-years.
Included Services: Some colleges include meals, heating, and internet in the rent.
Support Network: Porters, welfare officers and tutors are on hand in college life.
Variety: Options range from traditional quads with shared facilities to modern en-suite blocks.
⭐ Notable Colleges for Accommodation
Each college offers different room types and vibes. A few examples (note — pick based on subject fit and personal preference):
King's College: Central location, beautiful grounds; mix of historic and modern rooms.
Trinity College: Large college with extensive facilities and close links to academic departments.
St John's / Clare: Strong traditions, attractive college settings near the Backs.
Lucy Cavendish / Churchill: Known for newer buildings and modern accommodation options.
Check individual college pages for exact room types and photos — colleges publish accommodation guides each year.
🏠 Private Renting — Pros & Cons
Pros: More independence, wider location choices, and potential for lower per-person rent in larger houses.
Cons: Upfront deposits, council tax considerations, arranging utilities, and less immediate college support.
Where to Look: Mill Road, Romsey, Chesterton, and areas near the train station are popular among students.
🛏 Types of Accommodation Explained
Standard College Room: Basic bedroom with shared bathroom/kitchen — low cost and social.
En-suite College Room: Private bathroom, often higher rent but more comfort.
Shared House/Flat: Private market — split bills and chores with flatmates.
Studio/One-bed: Good for postgraduates or those wanting independence — higher cost.
Graduate/Family Housing: University/college-managed family flats and graduate communities exist.
💷 Costs & What’s Typically Included
College rooms: £350–£800/month depending on type; may include some meals, internet, and heating.
Private rooms (shared house): £600–£920/month per person.
Studio/1-bed private: £900–£1,200/month.
Utilities: Check whether gas/electric/water and broadband are included in the rent.
📅 When & How to Apply
Undergraduates: Colleges typically allocate rooms after offers are accepted — complete college accommodation forms when prompted by the college.
Postgraduates: Apply to college or university-managed accommodation as soon as places open; some colleges offer guaranteed rooms for new postgrads.
Private Renting: Start searching in late spring to early summer for the next academic year; coordinate with future flatmates early.
Short-term stays: Consider university-arranged temporary accommodation if you arrive before a long-term contract begins.
🔒 Contracts, Deposits & Legal Tips
Deposits: Typically 4–6 weeks' rent; ensure it's protected in a tenancy deposit scheme.
Inventory: Take photos and sign an inventory at move-in to avoid disputes.
Tenancy agreements: Read for break clauses, notice periods and bill responsibilities.
Avoiding scams: View properties in person or via trusted university agents; never transfer money without a signed contract.
🚶♀️ Neighbourhood Guide
Central / College areas: Walkable to most departments, higher rents, historic setting.
Mill Road: Diverse area with independent shops and slightly lower rents.
Romsey: Popular with families and students seeking affordable housing.
Chesterton: North-side residential area with good connections to city centre.
🧰 Moving In — Practical Checklist
Confirm move-in date and key collection details with your college/landlord.
Arrange travel and temporary accommodation if arriving early.
Take meter readings or note initial utility readings where applicable.
Register with a local GP and open a UK bank account soon after arrival.
Buy or borrow essentials — bedding, crockery, basic utensils; many colleges share equipment lists.
❓ FAQs — Accommodation
Do colleges guarantee accommodation for first-years?
Most Cambridge colleges guarantee accommodation for first-year undergraduates; check your college offer for specifics.
Can postgraduates get college housing?
Yes — many colleges allocate rooms for postgraduates, but availability varies; apply early.
Are there short-term / summer lets?
Some colleges and private providers offer short-term or summer lets — useful for visits, conferences, or transitioning between contracts.
✅ Final Recommendations
For most new undergraduates, college accommodation is the simplest and most supportive option. For returning students and postgraduates, balance cost, commute, and lifestyle when choosing between college rooms and private renting. Start planning early, read contracts carefully, and use college support services if problems arise.
A great room can make your Cambridge experience — prioritize safety, location, and community, and you'll settle in quickly.