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 2026. 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.
Why Southampton Is a Great Place to Live
Southampton is a vibrant port city and a key economic hub on England’s south coast, combining urban convenience with seaside charm. Home to the University of Southampton and Southampton Solent University, the city boasts a youthful, innovative atmosphere and a diverse job market, particularly in maritime, retail, and technology sectors. With a warm, sunny climate and a coastal location that remains comfortably dry, Southampton is consistently ranked as one of the most livable cities in the UK.
Compared with London, the cost of living in Southampton for international students is significantly lower. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre rents for around £950 per month, compared with over £1,700 in London, while groceries and transport are approximately 25–30% cheaper. This affordability makes the city ideal for families, students, and young professionals. Southampton also benefits from excellent transport links, including direct trains to London in just over an hour, easy connections to nearby Winchester (≈22 km) and Portsmouth (≈33 km), and access to Southampton Airport (SOU).
6 Best Places to Live in Southampton
Ocean Village
| Metric | Detail |
|---|---|
| Best For | Young professionals, couples |
| Average Monthly Rent | £1,200 – £1,500 |
| Commute to City Centre | 10-minute walk |
| Commute to University of Southampton | 20-minute bus ride |
| Commute to Southampton Solent University | 15-minute walk |
| Crime Rate | Low |
Nestled in the southeast corner of town, Ocean Village is a vibrant and bustling neighbourhood of upscale condominiums, recognised as the best place to live in Southampton for professionals and couples who enjoy waterfront living with easy access to the city centre. Ocean Village, which was once home to Southampton’s first working marina, has 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 paddleboarding provide a thrilling experience on the sea. Ocean Village is the best place for young families to live in Southampton!
Netley
| Metric | Detail |
|---|---|
| Best For | Commuters, families, history enthusiasts |
| Average Monthly Rent | £1,100 – £1,400 |
| Commute to University of Southampton | 34-minute train |
| Commute to Southampton Solent University | 42-minute bus |
| Commute to Portsmouth | 44-minute train |
| Crime Rate | Medium |
Located in Southampton’s south-east, Netley is a historic village offering residents the perfect balance of city life and suburban living. Netley is the best area to live in Southampton for families or those who need to commute to Portsmouth. 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
| Metric | Detail |
|---|---|
| Best For | Families |
| Average Monthly Rent | £1,100 – £1,400 |
| Commute to City Centre | 23-minute bus ride |
| Commute to University of Southampton | 35-minute bus ride |
| Commute to Southampton Solent University | 35-minute bus ride |
| Crime Rate | Medium |
Located on the west side of Southampton, West End is a charming and vibrant community with a rich history, and is one of the best places to live in Southampton for families. 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.
| Metric | Detail |
|---|---|
| Best For | Students |
| Average Monthly Rent | £900 – £1,400 |
| Commute to City Centre | 10-minute bus ride |
| Commute to University of Southampton | 12-minute walk |
| Commute to Southampton Solent University | 12-minute bus ride |
| Crime Rate | Medium |
Portswood, is a nice place to live in in Southampton for 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 in 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.
| Metric | Detail |
|---|---|
| Best For | Students, budget-conscious renters |
| Average Monthly Rent | £600 – £1,000 |
| Commute to City Centre | 15-minute bus ride |
| Commute to University of Southampton | 20-minute walk |
| Commute to Southampton Solent University | 25-minute bus ride |
| Crime Rate | Medium |
Located north of Southampton city centre and known for its welcoming atmosphere, green spaces and accessibility, Swaythling is one of the best places to live in Southampton 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
| Metric | Detail |
|---|---|
| Best For | Families |
| Average Monthly Rent | £900 – £1,500 |
| Commute to City Centre | 18-minute bus ride |
| Commute to University of Southampton | 16-minute walk |
| Commute to Southampton Solent University | 20-minute bus ride |
| Crime Rate | Low |
Located just north of the city centre, Bassett is the most desirable neighbourhood in Southampton, 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.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the best place to live in Southampton depends on your priorities, whether it’s proximity to the university, affordability, safety, or lifestyle. Areas like Portswood offer vibrant student life with convenient transport links, while Swaythling and Bassett provide quieter, family-friendly neighbourhoods with green spaces and a sense of community. For commuters, Netley combines scenic views with easy access to the city and nearby towns. Ultimately, Southampton has a diverse range of neighbourhoods to suit different needs, making it possible for students, professionals, and families alike to find a comfortable and convenient place to call home.
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 the safest neighborhoods in Southampton, known for their quiet streets and low crime rates.
What are the best places to live 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.
What is the best area to live near the University of Southampton?
Highfield and Portswood are the most popular choices to live near the University of Southampton due to their proximity to campus, frequent bus services, and a large number of student-friendly rental properties.
What are the best places to live in Southampton for young adults?
The best places to live in Southampton for young adults include Portswood, Ocean Village, and the City Centre. These areas offer vibrant nightlife, good transport links, modern apartments, and easy access to universities and workplaces, making them ideal for young professionals and graduates.
