Southampton is a vibrant and modern city on the south coast of England, just over an hour’s journey from London. Not only is it rich in culture and history, but it is also a vibrant tourist destination with a cultural, artistic and cosmopolitan atmosphere, as evidenced by its shortlisting as a UK City of Culture 2025. Southampton has two universities, and students will find it a vibrant and friendly place to study. In this post, we will be looking at the best areas to live in Southampton, which will help students who are interested in the city and want to come and study.
Is Southampton a Good Place to Live?
There is no doubt that Southampton is a good place to live. As one of the major port cities in the South East of England, Southampton is uniquely placed to be close to the coast and the New Forest National Park (NFNP). With music, football and a great nightlife, various cultural symbols converge here, making it the perfect student city for many.
Firstly, Southampton offers a rich cultural experience with its historic buildings, museums and galleries. The city has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages and is home to many iconic buildings, such as the Tudor House and Gardens and the Balgate Monument. Secondly, in terms of education, Southampton is home to the prestigious University of Southampton and Southampton Solent University. The University of Southampton has made impressive progress in the QS World University Rankings, steadily improving from a relatively low position to a stable position in the mid-80s, making it the ‘dark horse’ of the last few years. In the QS World University Rankings 2025, the University of Southampton is ranked 80th globally. In addition, compared to large cities such as London, the cost of living in Southampton is low, with relatively low expenses on accommodation, food, transport and entertainment, which is an advantage for students on a limited budget.
6 Best Places to Live in Southampton
Ocean Village
Nestled in the southeast corner of town, Ocean Village is a vibrant and bustling neighbourhood of upscale condominiums or hotel flats that were once home to Southampton’s first working marina and have been developed to include a colourful marina, as well as many upscale condos, with plenty of national restaurants that aren’t necessarily upscale but are undoubtedly expensive. Ocean Village is always full of things to do for those who love the outdoors. Stroll along the promenade, or hire a boat and explore the Solent at your own pace. For the more adventurous, water sports such as sailing, kayaking, and paddle boarding provide a thrilling experience on the sea. Ocean Village is the best place for young families to live in Southampton!
Netley
Located in Southampton’s south-east, Netley is a historic village offering residents the perfect balance of city life and suburban living. Located just four miles from the bustling city centre, Netley gives residents easy access to all the necessary amenities while maintaining a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. One of the main attractions of this community is its proximity to the picturesque ruins of Nateley Abbey, which was founded in 1239 and began as a very strict Catholic monastery that remained peaceful for about 300 years. Choose Nateley Abbey, surrounded by beautiful green spaces and ideal for a leisurely walk or picnic with friends and family. It is also home to Nateley railway station, perfect for commuters who need to travel to neighbouring areas such as Portsmouth.
West End
Located on the west side of Southampton, West End is a charming and vibrant community with a rich history. One of West End’s main attractions is the beautiful Hawthorn Urban Wildlife Centre, a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It provides a peaceful environment for nature lovers and is home to various birds, butterflies and other wildlife. For those interested in history, West End has plenty of heritage to explore, such as the Grade II-listed St James’s Church and the Old Southampton Cemetery, which dates back to 1846. The area also has a strong community spirit, with regular events and festivals bringing people together. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful hideaway in the middle of nature or want to immerse yourself in Southampton’s rich history, West End has something for everyone.
Portswood
Portswood in Southampton is close to the city centre and is popular with students due to its convenient location and proximity to the University of Southampton. One of the most prominent features of Portswood is the wide range of amenities. The main road, Portswood Road, has various shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs. From quaint cafes and stylish restaurants to traditional pubs and international cuisine, there is something to suit every taste of Portswood. It also has several large mid-range supermarkets, including Sainsbury’s and Waitrose, making it easy for students to buy a wide range of fresh ingredients. Portswood is also a great choice for families, with the University of Southampton and several primary and secondary schools ensuring quality education options for children of all ages. Southampton Student flats in the Portswood area are much cheaper than the city centre and are popular with students due to their proximity to the University of Southampton.
Swaythling
Located north of Southampton city centre and known for its welcoming atmosphere, green spaces and accessibility, Swaythling is an attractive option for students, families, professionals and retirees. Swaythling boasts a wide variety of amenities to meet the needs of its residents. The area is home to a range of local shops, supermarkets, cafes and restaurants, offering convenient options for everyday shopping and dining. Swaythling’s shopping streets feature independent shops and well-known chains, ensuring residents have access to unique local products and essential services. The nearby Portswood shopping area further expands the choice of additional retail shops, restaurants and entertainment venues. In addition, Swaythling is easily accessible by public transport, boasting Swaythling Railway Station, which provides regular train services to Southampton Centre, London and other major destinations.
Bassett
Located just north of the city centre, Bassett is one of Southampton’s most prestigious and desirable neighbourhoods, known for its tree-lined streets, spacious homes and peaceful atmosphere. The neighbourhood attracts a wide variety of residents, including students from the nearby University of Southampton, where approximately 2,100 students from the University of Southampton live. Bassett is known for its abundant green space and parks, making it a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The neighbourhood is adjacent to Southampton Park, a vast park featuring woodlands, lakes and open spaces perfect for walking, jogging and picnics. The nearby sports centre offers a variety of sports facilities, including tennis courts, swimming pools and fitness classes, ensuring residents have plenty of options to stay active and healthy. If you’re looking for peace, Bassett could be the best place to live in Southampton.
How to Find the Best Student Accommodation in Southampton?
When looking for student accommodation in Southampton, you need to consider key factors such as location, room type, transport, budget, and neighbourhood. For students planning to study in Southampton, living near campus or the city centre can improve the convenience and comfort of student life.
There are three types of halls of residence in Southampton, namely university halls of residence, student flats and renting your own house. Although school halls of residence are popular with international students, they usually prioritise first-year students with limited beds and options, and many sophomores choose to live in off-campus student flats. uhomes.com‘s online platform provides students with a more diverse range of accommodation options, from luxury studios to cheap shared flats, and from the city centre to close to the university. Our student flats in Southampton are available to meet students’ needs! From luxury studios to cheap shared flats, from the city centre to nearby universities, our student accommodation in Southampton can cater for a wide range of needs. By choosing uhomes.com, you will simplify the rental process, save time, and even receive exclusive discounts to ensure a smooth start to your student life in Southampton.
FAQ
What is the wealthiest part of Southampton?
Chilworth is the richest area in Southampton; this prestigious residential area is renowned for its grand homes, expansive estates, and serene surroundings.
What are the safest neighborhoods in Southampton?
Bassett, Chilworth, and Highfield are considered some of the safest neighborhoods in Southampton, known for their quiet streets and low crime rates.
What are the best neighborhoods in Southampton for families?
For families, Bassett, West End, Bitterne, and Hedge End are popular choices due to their excellent schools, parks, and family-friendly amenities.
