Living in Edinburgh as a Student: All You Need to Know

Edinburgh has everything a student could want—and more! In this blog, we’ll cover it all: the top universities, the best student accommodation options, and smart ways to manage your budget.

Need tips on getting around? We’ll dive into transportation, too. And for those times you need a break from studying, we’ll guide you to Edinburgh’s must-visit spots. Whether it’s exploring hidden gems, or making the most of student life, this guide will help you experience all that Edinburgh has to offer.

Universities in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is home to two great universities, each adding something special to student life! The University of Edinburgh is known for its historic campus, top research, and global connections. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for an education with a global perspective.

Edinburgh Napier University, on the other hand, focuses on practical learning and creativity. With a friendly and supportive feel, Napier is ideal for students who want hands-on experience. Both universities have a lively student scene, with clubs, events, and societies for every interest. Whichever you choose, you’re in for a memorable experience in one of the UK’s most exciting student cities!

Is Edinburgh Good For Student Life?

Edinburgh is a fantastic city for students! With two major universities, it’s filled with students, making it easy to meet new people and dive into student life.

There are plenty of affordable spots to eat, hang out, and explore, so you can enjoy the city without stretching your budget. Many shops offer student discounts, and there are loads of budget-friendly events and nights out to enjoy.

Getting around is simple with Edinburgh’s reliable public transport system. The city has a welcoming vibe, helping you feel at home from day one. If you’re after a lively and friendly place to study, Edinburgh is the ideal choice for students!

Accommodation For Students Living in Edinburgh

If you are considering living in Edinburgh, the first question you will likely have is the accommodation options.

Students in Edinburgh have lots of accommodation options to fit different needs!

University-owned halls are great if you want to be close to campus. Living here means you’ll be right by your classes and surrounded by other students, making it easy to meet people. These halls can cost a bit more, but the student community and convenience are worth it.

If you prefer more facilities, private student accommodation is a solid choice. These options often include amenities like gyms, study rooms, and social spaces, so you have everything you need nearby. You’ll find these options both close to campus and in quieter areas, giving you flexibility.

For a cheaper choice, student houses are popular. They’re often more budget-friendly, though you might need to cover bills separately. Living in a shared house also offers a bit more independence and a chance to live with friends.

Whatever you choose, Edinburgh has many student-friendly options to make your time here feel like home!

What Is The Cost Of Living In Edinburgh?

There are several expenses you will have to consider when trying to understand what the cost of living in Edinburgh is like. We will discuss the most common ones below.

Rent

Accommodation costs can vary anywhere between £180 to over £250 per week depending on the type of accommodation you are after. If you are open to house shares, you might find options on the lower end of the range and if you are after luxury amenities , you will likely be paying higher. The cost of accommodation also largely depends on the location.

You can find cheaper accommodation if you are comfortable commuting a short distance to the university or if you are not living close to the campus. It all comes down to your preferences!

Utilities

In Edinburgh, students living in rented houses or student houses may pay around £150- £250 each month for utilities like electricity, gas, and water.

This amount can vary based on energy use and the size of the property, so it’s smart to keep it in mind when budgeting.

However, if you’re in private student accommodation or university-owned halls, you typically don’t need to worry about these extra costs. In most student accommodation, utilities are included in the rent, making it easier to manage your budget.

This way, you can focus on rent alone without any extra bills, which keeps things simpler and gives you one less thing to think about while studying in Edinburgh!

Groceries

Edinburgh has plenty of stores for grocery shopping, each with different price ranges. If you’re shopping at places like Tesco or Sainsbury’s, expect to spend about £30 per week on groceries.

Opting for budget-friendly options like Lidl and Aldi can bring this down to around £25 weekly. Over a month, your grocery expenses may range from £150 to £200, depending on where you choose to shop and your spending habits.

Eating Out

Eating out in Edinburgh offers lots of choices for every budget, making it ideal for students and food lovers alike. On average, a meal at a casual spot costs around £15 – £25 , so you can enjoy a nice meal without overspending.

If you go to a more upscale restaurant or a popular place in the city centre, prices might be a bit higher, but the quality often makes it worth it. Drinks in Edinburgh usually range from £5 to £10, whether you’re having a pint or mocktails with friends.

With so many places to try, Edinburgh food scene lets you enjoy dining out while keeping an eye on your budget.

Transport

Edinburgh has plenty of easy and affordable ways to get around. The bus network is large, with a single ride costing £2, while a day pass is £5 for unlimited travel.

Trams are also a great choice, with single fares starting at £2, running from the city centre to the airport and other key stops.

If you’re looking to travel beyond Edinburgh, the train is a solid option, linking you to other parts of the UK.

Whether you’re off to class, exploring the city, or visiting nearby areas, Edinburgh’s buses, trams, and trains make travel simple and straightforward.

Is Edinburgh an Expensive City To Live In ?

Edinburgh is typically more expensive than other student cities, but with good budgeting, it’s manageable.

Rent is one of the biggest costs, especially for students, but there are options in and around the city for different budgets. Groceries, eating out, and transport can also add up, but many shops, restaurants, and places offer student discounts, helping you save on daily expenses.

Setting a weekly budget for food, transport, and fun can keep spending on track and prevent surprises. While Edinburgh may cost more than some cities, planning and budgeting make it possible to enjoy its lively culture and student life without overspending.

How to Make the Most Of Living in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is full of must-visit spots that make student life fun! For history and culture, check out Edinburgh Castle and The National Museum of Scotland to learn about Scotland’s past.

Take a walk up Arthur’s Seat for amazing views of the city, perfect for a study break or weekend hike. For food, The Grassmarket area has plenty of cafes, pubs, and street food, while Victoria Street offers unique shops and places to eat.

Princes Street Gardens is a top spot for picnics and relaxing outdoors. For a thrill, visit Edinburgh Dungeon for a spooky experience. Living in Edinburgh means there’s always something new to see, try, and enjoy!

Living in Edinburgh as a student is an amazing experience, full of history, culture, and fun things to do. With its friendly student community, top universities, and exciting places to explore, Edinburgh is a great place to study and enjoy life.

From accommodation to must-visit spots, we hope this guide helps you make the most of your time in the city. Take in all that Edinburgh has to offer—you’re in for an unforgettable time!