Birmingham is the second biggest student city in England. Three universities, including the prestigious red brick University of Birmingham, and two large colleges make it lively place for students to live. The growing reputation of Aston University and Birmingham City University in the past ten years have been matched by growing demand for student properties.
Moving out of first year halls can seem daunting but don’t worry, we’ve divided the areas up by university to make it easier for you. Happy house hunting!
Aston University
The areas most popular for Aston students are Erdington and right in town. A number of private halls are popping up, with five (Jennens, Cosmo, Canalside, The Heights and Curzon) a stone’s throw from the university. Erdington can be a bit rougher than neighbouring Edgbaston but has a good standard of housing with reasonable rents and direct bus links. There are good shopping facilities on both Slade Road and in Erdington town centre.
Birmingham City University
Perry Barr
First year halls are a student bubble in an otherwise rough Perry Barr and private halls can be a hit or miss, with several of them being quite pricey. Your wallet might thank you if you seek out shared houses in the area instead, where most Birmingham City University students live. Although the Students Union tries to make Perry Barr palatable, it’s not the most glam of areas and can be rough around the edges. Although the One Stop Shopping Centre and Greyhound Stadium (always an unusual night out) are dubious diversions, head to the city centre for more to do.
University of Birmingham
Selly Oak
This is the student stomping ground for the University of Birmingham. Everyone lives in terraced houses close to each other, so you’re never too far from any of your friends. Shops here are student-oriented and affordable and there’s a good selection of bars, pubs and restaurants. On Guild student nights, you can walk (or lurch or crawl) out of Fab and straight into the legendary chicken takeaway Rooster House. Waiting in the queue can be a social event in itself.
Leave your car at home, there are fantastic transport links up and down Bristol Road. The University is only a few minutes walk away and the train from Selly Oak to the city centre only takes about seven minutes. Plus, while the university is the only one in the country to have its own railway station, Selly Oak has its own station.
Harborne
Situated slightly outside the main student areas, leafy Harborne is a more affluent suburb. It’s not as popular as Selly Oak, which means it feels safer and quieter. Although close to the University, it’s definitely not in the heart of the action so keep that in mind. This is where the students on longer courses – including year-abroad students, medics, lawyers and others – as well as many families and young professionals live. The High Street is full of nice pubs and feels safe. Ideally located, students living here have a 10 minute walk for short bus ride to the University and city centre.
City Centre
If the more studenty Birmingham suburbs don’t appeal to you, look for accommodation elsewhere. If you really want to splash out, living in Birmingham city centre can be a pricey but upscale option. Accommodation here tends towards flats for student couples, international students, or a small number of students sharing. Perfect if you want your own space in a lively environment where you are a stone’s throw from all the shopping, bars and nightlife you could want. Look around before deciding anything.