Halls vs. Private Housing: The Ultimate Pros & Cons

The Big Decision: Halls or House?

It's that time of year again. You've barely recovered from Freshers' Flu, and suddenly everyone is panicking about where they're going to live next year. The pressure is on. Do you stick with the convenience of halls, or do you venture into the wild world of private renting?

It's a massive decision that will affect your bank balance, your social life, and your sanity. But don't panic—we've broken it down for you. Here is the ultimate "Savvy Older Sibling" guide to Halls vs. Private Housing.

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Option 1: University Halls (The "Safe" Bet)

Living in halls isn't just for first years. Many universities offer accommodation for returning students, and private halls (like Unite or IQ) are always an option.

✅ The Pros

• All-Inclusive Bills: This is the big one. Heating, electricity, water, and Wi-Fi are usually included in the rent. You can blast the heating in December without dreading the bill.
• Location, Location, Location: You can roll out of bed at 8:50 am and still make your 9 am lecture.
• Security: 24/7 security and key-fob entry mean you're safer than in a random terrace house.
• Maintenance is Easy: If the shower breaks, you log a ticket, and it (usually) gets fixed. No chasing a dodgy landlord.

❌ The Cons

• The Price Tag: Convenience costs money. Private halls, in particular, can be eye-wateringly expensive—often eating up your entire Maintenance Loan.
• The Noise: Thin walls and fire alarms at 3 am are standard. If you need silence to study, this might be a nightmare.
• Strict Rules: You're still living under the university's roof. That means guest restrictions, noise curfews, and room inspections.
• Random Flatmates: Unless you book a cluster flat with friends, you might end up living with people you have nothing in common with.

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Option 2: Private Housing (The "Grown-Up" Choice)

Moving into a house in the local student area (think Selly Oak in Birmingham or Fallowfield in Manchester) is a rite of passage.

✅ The Pros

• Cheaper Rent (Usually): generally, the base rent for a room in a shared house is lower than halls. However, bills are extra.
• Freedom: No security guards, no guest sign-ins. It's your house. You can have a house party (within reason) without getting fined.
• Choose Your Squad: You pick exactly who you live with. No randoms stealing your milk.
• More Space: You usually get a proper living room with sofas, which is rare in modern halls.

❌ The Cons

• Bill Splitting Stress: You have to set up gas, electric, water, and internet yourself. If one housemate refuses to pay their share, it causes major drama.
• The "Damp" Factor: Let's be real—many student houses in the UK are old, drafty, and prone to mould.
• Landlords: Some are great; some are... not. Dealing with repairs can be a battle.
• 12-Month Contracts: Most private landlords want you to pay for the summer (July/August), even if you aren't there. Halls often let you pay for just the academic year (40-44 weeks).

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💰 The Financial Reality Check

Before you sign anything, you need to do the maths.

• Halls: £180/week x 44 weeks = £7,920 (Bills included)
• House: £110/week x 52 weeks = £5,720 + approx £1,200 bills = £6,920

Note: These are estimates. Prices vary wildly by city!

Don't guess. Use our free Student Budget Planner to plug in the actual rent costs and see if you can afford to eat after paying for your room.

🏆 The Verdict

Choose Halls If:

• You hate admin and want bills included.
• You value being close to campus over having a big living room.
• You have a higher budget or parental support.

Choose a House If:

• You want to save money (and are willing to budget carefully).
• You want the "real" independent living experience with your best mates.
• You want a place that feels like a home, not a hotel corridor.

Whatever you choose, don't rush. Take your time, view multiple places, and read the contract!