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Best Places to Live in Sheffield: Top Areas, Rent and Tips

By Carly

Searching for the best places to live in Sheffield? If you are planning to study in Sheffield and wondering which areas are best for students, here is an in-depth guide to help you find your perfect destination with ease. Known as one of the UK’s most student-friendly cities, Sheffield combines affordable living, a vibrant social scene, and easy access to both the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to live in Sheffield for students, compare average rent prices, and share insider tips to help you choose the right area. Whether you want lively nightlife, a quiet study environment, or budget-friendly housing, Sheffield has something to suit every student lifestyle.

Where is Sheffield

Sheffield, located in South Yorkshire at the heart of the UK, is the fourth-largest city in the country. Once renowned for its steel manufacturing and known as the “Steel City“, Sheffield has evolved into a vibrant, multicultural hub that beautifully blends its industrial heritage with modern culture.

Home to two of the UK’s top universities— the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University— the city attracts thousands of international students each year from hundreds of countries, creating a rich, diverse community. With an array of restaurants and cafes offering global flavours from Asia, Italy, Spain, and beyond, Sheffield caters to a wide range of tastes.

Is Sheffield a Good Place to Live?

If you’re a student or planning to move here, Sheffield always offers something fantastic. Sheffield is an exceptional place to live, offering a unique blend of economic opportunities, outstanding education, rich culture, and abundant green spaces. Living in Sheffield as a student, native, or planning to move here, Sheffield offers something fantastic for you that never leaves you feeling empty.

Sheffield is renowned for its high quality of life and relatively low cost of living. As a central hub in Yorkshire, Sheffield’s living expenses are significantly lower than those in nearby cities like Birmingham, Leeds, and Liverpool. Despite this affordability, Sheffield boasts a thriving economy supported by industries such as advanced manufacturing and digital technology, providing diverse job prospects. The city also fosters a vibrant start-up culture with numerous incubators and accelerators aiding new business growth. In terms of education, Sheffield is home to the prestigious University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University, both of which attract students from around the globe with their excellent academic programs. As a newcomer to the city, you should never worry that it is difficult for you to melt into its society. Culture in Sheffield is incredibly diverse, with a lively arts scene featuring music festivals, theatres, and galleries. If you are an outdoor sports enthusiast, Sheffield offers over 250 parks and easy access to the stunning Peak District, making each outdoor enthusiast feel at home in this” The Outdoor City”.

Sheffield is also the nicest place to live if you are looking for a convenient and safe city to stay. Sheffield’s public transport system ensures that exploring the city and its surroundings is convenient. The city is about 170 miles from London, roughly a two-hour and forty-minute drive, with excellent travel links to other parts of the UK. With its strong sense of community, low crime rates, and the blend of urban and countryside living, Sheffield stands out as a truly exceptional place to call home.

Best Places to Live in Sheffield: 8 Top Areas for Students

1. Sheffield City Centre

Sheffield city centre, also known as St Paul’s, is situated just east of the University of Sheffield and within a 5-minute walk from Sheffield Hallam University. This prime location offers residents easy access to a wide variety of shopping malls, restaurants, cafes, and entertainment venues. The city centre is regarded as the most convenient place to live, with everything you need for daily life close at hand. Public transportation is well-served, including buses and trams, making it easy to navigate the city and beyond.

Student accommodation in Sheffield city centre is well-equipped, offering numerous options to suit different preferences and budgets. Not like the expensive rent in the city centre, one of the key benefits of living in this vibrant area is the affordability and reasonable pricing of housing, making it accessible to a wide range of residents.

2. Ecclesall Road, Nether Edge

Ecclesall Road is nestled within one of the best areas of Sheffield’s most desirable areas, Nether Edge, and it is renowned for its stunning Victorian and Edwardian houses that exude history and charm. Unlike the bustling Sheffield city centre, Nether Edge offers a quieter, more serene environment. However, Ecclesall Road itself is vibrant and lively, boasting a wide variety of independent boutiques, cafes, and restaurants that cater to every taste, from casual dining to fine cuisine.

This area is one of the best places to live in Sheffield, particularly for those who thrive on outdoor green spaces. The location is famous for its proximity to Endcliffe Park, the Botanical Gardens, Chelsea Park, and Brincliffe Woods, all of which provide beautiful settings for relaxation and recreation. Ecclesall Road in Nether Edge perfectly combines the convenience of urban living with the tranquillity of nature, making it an ideal place to call home.

3. Kelham Island

It is one of the best areas of Sheffield that combines the history and the modern. The Kelham Island Museum is a must-visit attraction, showcasing fascinating exhibits on steel production, engineering, and the mighty River Don Engine, which is one of Europe’s most powerful steam engines.

The area is recreated for its craft beer scene, with several acclaimed breweries, including the Kelham Island Brewery. Foodies will delight in the eclectic mix of restaurants, cafes, and eateries, offering everything from traditional British cuisine to international flavours. The nightlife is equally exciting, with numerous venues hosting live music, events, and social gatherings. The unique blend of historical and contemporary influences makes Kelham Island a hub for artists, designers, and cultural enthusiasts.

4. Crookes

Crookes stands at the west of the University of Sheffield. It is close for students to commute if you live in this area. You can get to your university campus within 5 minutes of driving or biking. Besides, the area hosts markets, fairs, and festivals, fostering a welcoming atmosphere for both long-term residents and newcomers. The area is surrounded by beautiful parks and green spaces like Crookes Valley Park and Weston Park. Crookes offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities, picnics, and leisurely walks.

The culinary scene in Crookes is diverse, featuring everything from traditional British pubs to international cuisine. Popular spots include local bakeries, cosy coffee shops, and charming family-run eateries. This blend of community spirit, green spaces, and diverse dining options makes Crookes a delightful place to live or visit.

5. Hillsborough

Nestled northwest of Sheffield city centre, it is renowned for its dynamic blend of history, community spirit, and modern amenities. The area boasts Hillsborough Stadium, home to Sheffield Wednesday Football Club, adding to its sporting legacy and local pride.

Hillsborough’s charm lies in its diverse architecture, ranging from elegant Victorian terraces to contemporary developments. Green spaces like Hillsborough Park provide tranquil settings for recreation and leisure, enhancing the area’s appeal as a scenic retreat within the city.

6. Broomhill

Broomhill, a charming and affluent suburb southwest of Sheffield city centre, is celebrated for its picturesque streets adorned with Victorian and Edwardian architecture. It seamlessly combines historic elegance with modern amenities. Broomhill offers a variety of affordable student accommodations in Sheffield, from spacious shared houses to single flats, student studios, and so on. With excellent connections to the city centre, Broomhill provides convenient access to shops, cafes, and vibrant nightlife venues, making it an ideal choice for students.

7. Fulwood

Fulwood is the ground-up of several of the best schools in Sheffield, especially the primary schools. It is one of the best areas of Sheffield to live in for families. It is a little further out than Crookes and Broomhill from the University of Sheffield and situated 3 miles west of Sheffield city centre. But Fulwood also boasts a variety of local pubs, clubs, and live music venues. The area is surrounded by scenic walks and family-friendly activities, ensuring there’s always something to explore.

8. Dore

Dore is highly regarded for its picturesque surroundings, family-friendly atmosphere, and exceptional quality of life, making it a coveted residential area in Sheffield. Situated southwest of the city centre, Dore offers a tranquil suburban environment characterized by a charming village-like ambiance. Despite its distance from the universities’ campuses and the city centre, Dore’s proximity to the stunning Peak District National Park provides residents with breathtaking views and abundant opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. Student accommodation in this area is not too much, but you can search for shared houses or apartments indeed.

Best Areas of Sheffield: Average Rent Comparison

If you’re searching for a home in one of Sheffield’s best neighbourhoods, it’s crucial to consider the average rent in these areas before making your final decision. To assist you in making a straightforward comparison, here is an overview of the average weekly rent in each of the 8 top places to live in Sheffield.
Average Rent for Best Places to Live in Sheffield
Area Average Rent Key Features
Sheffield City Centre £140 – £170 PER WEEK Modern student apartments, walking distance to both universities, nightlife, shops, and transport hubs.
Ecclesall Road & Nether Edge £70 – £90 PER WEEK Popular with Sheffield Hallam University students, buzzing nightlife, bars and restaurants, close to Endcliffe Park.
Kelham Island £120 – £160 PER WEEK Trendy, industrialchic vibe, independent cafés, craft beer breweries, great for young professionals and postgraduates.
Crookes £95 – £120 PER WEEK Affordable student housing, 10–15 minutes from the University of Sheffield, friendly community, good local shops.
Hillsborough £112 – £160 PER WEEK Budget-friendly, excellent tram links to the universities, larger houses, quieter suburban feel.
Broomhill £100 – £150 PER WEEK Close to University of Sheffield campus, leafy streets, student-heavy community, popular with undergraduates.
Fulwood £130 – £160 PER WEEK Leafy, affluent suburb with excellent schools and parks; quieter, suitable for families and postgrads.
Dore £150 – £180 PER WEEK One of Sheffield’s most affluent areas, large houses, green surroundings, ideal for families rather than most students.

Nicest Areas in Sheffield: Tips on Searching for Student Rooms

When looking for a room in Sheffield, it’s important to consider key factors such as location, budget, transportation options, and the type of accommodation that suits your lifestyle. Referencing the best areas of Sheffield mentioned earlier can provide a helpful starting point. For students planning to study in Sheffield, living near campus or close to the city centre can enhance convenience and comfort during your student life. While university dormitories are popular among international students, they often prioritise first-year students and offer limited options, primarily ensuite flats.

The most useful tip for looking for the right room for students is to compare housing options based on verified properties, a wide range of room types and real students’ reviews. Thus, an online platform should stand out. uhomes.com, as a leading online platform, is highly beneficial for exploring more diverse accommodation choices. Students can explore the widest range of verified student accommodation in Sheffield, spanning across the city’s best areas. Plus, various room types cater to different preferences and budgets. Choosing uhomes.com not only streamlines your search process but also provides opportunities to save time and even access exclusive discounts. This makes finding your ideal room both affordable and straightforward, ensuring a seamless transition to living in Sheffield.

Best Places to Live in Sheffield: A Conclusion

The best places to live in Sheffield are an important consideration for any student looking to make the most of their university experience. From the lively City Centre and social hub of Ecclesall Road, to the budget-friendly streets of Crookes and Hillsborough, every area has something unique to offer. Rent prices vary depending on location, but Sheffield remains one of the UK’s most affordable and student-friendly cities. Whether you’re looking for nightlife, quiet study spaces, or a balance of both, Sheffield has neighbourhoods that fit every lifestyle and budget. With the right tips and guidance, finding your ideal student accommodation becomes much easier. Find us to help you settle into Sheffield with confidence and start your new chapter smoothly.

FAQ

Sheffield is located in the county of South Yorkshire, England, UK. And Yorkshire is located in the northern part of England. It was a center of coal mining and steel production during the Industrial Revolution. There are major cities such as Sheffield, Rotherham, Doncaster, and Barnsley.

Compared to those major cities in England, the cost of living in Sheffield is not too high and reasonable with the midium level, even can be said low. 

That must be vibrant, vivid and brilliant, but the cost would be affordable and reasonable. There are so many things to do in Sheffield as a student. The lifestyle is joyful and leisure and the nightlife always will be colorful.

The safest areas in Sheffield are Fulwood, Ecclesall, Broomhill, and Sharrow Vale, with low crime rates of 3%, 4.1%, and 4.4%, respectively.

Kelham Island is widely seen as the trendiest area, known for its independent cafés, bars, art spaces, and a vibrant community that appeals to young professionals and students.

Dore, Ranmoor, and Fulwood are among the most affluent parts of Sheffield, offering large houses, green surroundings, and excellent schools.

Yes, Sheffield is very family-friendly, with great schools, parks, and safe neighbourhoods. Areas like Ecclesall and Nether Edge are especially popular with families.

Sheffield has a temperate climate with mild summers and cool, wet winters. Expect regular rainfall throughout the year, especially in autumn and winter.

No, Sheffield is one of the more affordable UK cities. Rent, transport, and daily expenses are generally cheaper than in London, Manchester, or Leeds, making it attractive for students and young professionals.

It is around 10.3% of Sheffield’s population identifies as Muslim, according to the 2021 Census, making it one of the more religiously diverse UK cities.

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