Finding the right student accommodation in Northampton is one of the most critical steps for a smooth and successful university life. Whether you are a first-year international student or a returning postgraduate, Northampton offers a wide range of housing options to suit different budgets, lifestyles, and study needs. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about student accommodation Northampton — from available accommodation types to costs, best areas, best student accommodation northampton and when to start your search.
Northampton Student Accommodation Types
In Northampton, student accommodation generally falls into two main categories, designed to meet different budgets and lifestyle preferences: University Halls of Residence and Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA).
University Halls of Residence
The University of Northampton is one of the few institutions in the UK where residence halls are managed directly by the university, offering distinct advantages in accommodation administration and student safeguarding. The institution guarantees all full-time first-year students accommodation within university-operated halls or officially approved accommodation, providing a stable and secure transition environment for new students. Regarding accommodation contracts, students benefit from a full 42-week plus 5-day tenancy period, eliminating the need to vacate during term breaks – particularly suited to international students requiring long-term residence. Furthermore, rent includes comprehensive contents insurance, reducing additional expenses and potential concerns.
The University of Northampton’s halls of residences are primarily distributed across three officially managed areas, all overseen by the university team:
- Waterside Halls — Located within the main campus, offering immediate access to teaching buildings and the library, seamlessly integrating study and living.
- St John’s Halls — Situated in the city centre, surrounded by comprehensive dining, shopping, and transport facilities for convenient living.
- Scholars Green Village — Offering a quiet environment with excellent value for money, including complimentary travel cards for stress-free commuting.
Regardless of the chosen accommodation, all official University of Northampton halls feature comprehensive safety and support systems, including:
- 24-hour security and access control
- CCTV surveillance throughout
- On-site Residential Life Team, available to address students’ daily needs and emergencies at any time.
Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)
Compared to first-year students who predominantly opt for university-managed accommodation, second- and third-year undergraduates at the University of Northampton show a marked preference for Purpose-Built Student Accommodation in Northampton. Typically developed and managed by established UK student accommodation providers, these properties excel in living standards, security, and personal freedom, making them highly favoured by senior undergraduates and postgraduate students.
In terms of living experience, PBSA offers students greater independence and flexibility. Rental periods are more varied, accommodating both long-term academic year leases and shorter stays or flexible move-in dates tailored to course schedules. This suits students with differing academic commitments, those undertaking internships, or those extending their studies.
PBSA accommodation in Northampton generally implements high-standard security management systems, including:
- 24-hour security patrols
- Front desk reception and visitor management
- Electronic access control systems prevent unauthorised entry
- Fully furnished rooms with dedicated study areas
- All-inclusive utility bills
- Variety of room types
Student Studio Flats in Northampton
Student studio flats in Northampton are a popular choice for students who value privacy, independence, and a quiet living environment. Each studio is fully self-contained, typically featuring a private bedroom, en-suite bathroom, and a compact kitchenette, allowing students to live and study without sharing facilities with others. This room type offers greater flexibility in daily routines and is especially suitable for those with busy academic schedules or who prefer a more personal space.
Studio accommodation is ideal for postgraduate students, international students adjusting to life in the UK, or anyone who prioritises comfort and autonomy. With all essential amenities in one space, studio flats provide a balanced lifestyle that supports both academic focus and everyday convenience.
In Northampton, student studio flats usually start from £184 per week, with prices varying depending on location, building facilities, and contract length. While studios are generally more expensive than shared options, they offer excellent value for students seeking a private and stress-free living experience.
Best Private Student Accommodation in Northampton
The Drapery
The Drapery is a modern student accommodation in Northampton, located in the heart of Northampton city centre. The property offers 203 fully self-contained studio apartments and is just a 12-minute walk from the University of Northampton, combining academic convenience with city-centre living. Arranged across five storeys, The Drapery features an all-studio layout with a range of price options. Each studio includes a private bathroom and kitchenette, providing a quiet, independent living environment. Rooms are fully furnished with a study desk and chair, storage space, sofa, high-speed Wi-Fi, and essential kitchen appliances, allowing students to move in with ease.
The residence also offers a wide range of on-site facilities, including study rooms, a gym, laundry facilities, a cinema room, and communal social spaces. Security is a key focus, with electronic access control, on-site staff, and 24-hour CCTV ensuring a safe living environment. Daily essentials are close at hand, with McDonald’s, Grosvenor Shopping Centre, Northampton Market, and the Central Public Library all within short walking distance. Students booking through uhomes.com can also benefit from exclusive discounts and professional support, securing this high-quality accommodation at a better value.
College Street
College Street is a newly developed student accommodation in Northampton, designed to meet the needs of modern student living. Located in the heart of Northampton, College Street offers excellent connectivity. The University of Northampton is approximately a 15-minute walk away, while nearby transport links provide easy access across the city. Daily essentials such as supermarkets, cafés, restaurants, and the town centre are all within walking distance, making College Street Northampton a convenient and well-balanced choice for student living.
College Street student accommodation offers exclusively self-contained studio apartments, each featuring a private kitchen and bathroom to ensure comfort, privacy, and independence. The studios are thoughtfully designed with contemporary interiors, generous living spaces, and practical furnishings, including high-speed Wi-Fi and digital room access, creating a secure and move-in-ready environment. Residents benefit from a range of high-quality on-site facilities that support both academic success and social life. These include a fully equipped gym, dedicated study pods, and modern communal areas where students can relax and connect with others. Safety is prioritised with secure CCTV monitoring and controlled access throughout the building.
Student Living Costs in Northampton
One of the biggest advantages of studying in Northampton is the significantly lower cost of living compared to major UK hubs like London or Manchester. For international students, this means achieving a high quality of life on a manageable budget. On average, a student in Northampton can expect to spend between £900 and £1,400 per month, covering everything from stylish accommodation and groceries to social activities and local travel.
| Expense Category | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | £600 – £800 |
| Utility Bills | £0 – £100 |
| Food | £120 – £180 |
| Internet | £0 – £15 |
| Mobile Phone Plan | £10 – £25 |
| Transport | £0 – £40 |
| Course Materials | £20 – £40 |
| Entertainment & Socialising | £80 – £150 |
| Clothing & Shopping | £20 – £50 |
| Total Estimated Monthly Cost | £900 – £1,400 |
Best Places to Live in Northampton
Choosing the right neighborhood in Northampton is all about balancing your budget with your lifestyle. While the Town Centre and Waterside Area offer unbeatable proximity to lectures and urban amenities, residential pockets like The Racecourse and Semilong provide a more traditional community feel and excellent value for money. Below is a breakdown of the four most popular student hubs to help you find your perfect match
| Area | Famous For | Distance to UON (Waterside) |
|---|---|---|
| Town Centre |
Urban living Grosvenor Centre Major transport hubs |
5–12 min walk |
| Waterside Area |
Immediate campus access Modern riverside housing |
0–5 min walk |
| The Racecourse |
Large green park Social student HMOs Budget rents |
20–30 min walk |
| Semilong |
Quiet residential streets Highly affordable room rates |
15–20 min walk |
Why Students Love Northampton
Northampton is more than just a historic market town; it’s a thriving student hub that consistently ranks high for student satisfaction. Here’s why international students are making it their top choice:
A World-Class Learning Environment: The University of Northampton Waterside Campus, opened in 2018 on the banks of the River Nene, is a game-changer. It offers state-of-the-art facilities right next to the town centre, allowing for a “walking campus” lifestyle that saves you time and transport money.
Unbeatable Affordability: Compared to London or even nearby Birmingham, Northampton is a breath of fresh air for your budget. Your student loan goes significantly further here, covering high-quality accommodation and leaving plenty of room for social life.
Seamless Connectivity: Located in the heart of England, you’re never isolated. With direct trains to London Euston or Birmingham New Street taking only about an hour, weekend trips or airport runs are incredibly easy.
Culture & Social Vibes: Whether it’s exploring the town’s famous shoemaking heritage at the Northampton Museum and Art Gallery or catching a show at the Royal & Derngate theatre, there’s always something to do. For a night out, Wellingborough Road offers an eclectic mix of international cuisine, cozy coffee shops, and student-friendly pubs.
Green Spaces for Wellbeing: From the vast Abington Park to the riverside walks in Becket’s Park, the town offers plenty of spots to de-stress from exams and enjoy the classic English countryside vibe.
When to Start Your Search for Student Accommodation Northampton?
Timing plays a key role in securing the right student accommodation in Northampton and avoiding unnecessary stress. The student housing market follows a clear yearly cycle:
November to January: The market opens for the next academic year. This is the best time to search, offering the widest choice of rooms and properties—especially ideal for students planning to live with friends.
February to April: Peak booking season. Demand is high, and popular rooms are booked quickly, so early decisions are essential.
May to July: Options are still available, but choices become more limited. Flexibility on location or room type may be needed.
August to September: Last-minute period with very limited availability and potentially higher prices. While platforms like uhomes.com may still offer some rooms, it’s strongly recommended to secure accommodation well before this stage.
Where to Find Best Northampton Student Accommodation?
When searching for the best student accommodation in Northampton, uhomes.com is the trusted student platform for students. It offers a wide range of verified studio listings close to the University of Northampton, giving students private and comfortable living spaces within walking distance of campus, shops, cafes, and local transport. Users can filter studios by price, distance, and amenities, making it easy to find a home that fits both budget and lifestyle. With detailed photos, accurate descriptions, and secure online booking, uhomes.com simplifies the search process in Northampton’s competitive student housing market. Dedicated support for international students and flexible lease options make uhomes.com a reliable choice for securing your perfect student flats while enjoying the vibrant city life of Northampton.
FAQs
In Northampton, most student accommodation consists of studio apartments, which offer private living and kitchen space. These studios are ideal for students seeking independence and convenience near the University of Northampton.
The average rent for student housing in Northampton ranges from £700 to £800 per month, often including bills and Wi-Fi.
Popular areas include Town Centre, Waterside, The Racecourse, and Semilong. These areas offer easy access to campus, shops, and public transport, catering to different budgets and lifestyle preferences.
Yes. uhomes.com student housing in Northampton is all-inclusive, covering electricity, gas, water & internet.
