Congratulations on beginning an exciting academic journey in Hong Kong. Before you arrive, however, the top priority for all 2026Fall freshmen is undoubtedly securing accommodation. Hong Kong’s rental market is well known for its high rents, complex property layouts and rapidly changing conditions, which can feel overwhelming for many prospective students. This guide is designed to simplify the process. It not only covers essential day-to-day living information in Hong Kong, but also provides an in-depth look at popular rental areas near major universities—most importantly, how to find safe, efficient and suitable student accommodation. By the end of this guide, you will be well prepared to take your first confident step into student life in Hong Kong.
Hong Kong at a Glance: A Practical Guide to Everyday Living
Before exploring the details of renting, it is essential to gain a basic understanding of Hong Kong as a city. Beyond being an international financial centre, Hong Kong is known for its fast-paced lifestyle, cultural diversity and highly detailed urban living environment.
Climate and Clothing Preparation
Hong Kong has a subtropical climate, with warm and humid weather for most of the year. However, new students should be aware of a uniquely local phenomenon: extremely strong air conditioning in indoor spaces.
- Summer clothes, plus a light jacket: Hong Kong has a long summer, so packing plenty of T-shirts and lightweight summer clothing is essential. However, air conditioning in university classrooms, libraries, shopping centres and shared areas of student accommodation is typically set between 20°C and 22°C, which can feel uncomfortably cold. Bringing two lightweight zip-up jackets is strongly recommended—they can be a real lifesaver and should be kept with you at all times to cope with the sharp temperature contrast between indoors and outdoors.
- Minimal Winter Clothing: Winter in Hong Kong is relatively short and mild. In most cases, a jumper and a heavier jacket will be sufficient. Bulky down jackets or thick overcoats are generally unnecessary and can be left behind to save valuable luggage space.
- Formal Attire: Given the likelihood of interviews, formal occasions, and academic presentations, having at least one set of formal attire is essential. If luggage space is limited, purchasing formal wear locally in Hong Kong is highly convenient, with prices often more competitive than those on the mainland.
Daily Essentials: Travel Light and Buy Locally
For bedding, household items and personal care products, the recommended approach is to pack lightly and purchase these essentials after arriving in Hong Kong.
- Electronics: Mainland electrical appliances require a UK plug adapter to be used in Hong Kong. This is one of the few essential items students should prepare in advance.
- Bedding: Personal items such as bed sheets and pillowcases are recommended to be brought from home, while larger items like duvets and pillows can be purchased after arrival. Hong Kong offers a wide range of home goods stores.
- Essential Medicines: The University of Hong Kong’s campus clinic usually offers free or low-cost treatment for minor illnesses, though appointment procedures can be cumbersome. It is advisable to bring a moderate supply of common medications, such as cold remedies and digestive aids (e.g., berberine), for unexpected needs.
Transport and Communication: Travel with Ease Using Octopus Card
Hong Kong boasts one of the world’s most efficient and comprehensive public transport systems.
- Transport Network: Hong Kong boasts an extensive transport network, including the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), Light Rail, buses, minibuses, ferries, and the iconic trams.
- Octopus Card: The Octopus card is Hong Kong’s all-in-one payment card. It can be used on all public transport and for small purchases at convenience stores and fast-food outlets. Students can enjoy almost 50% off MTR fares with a student Octopus card, so make sure to apply as soon as you receive your student ID.
- Traffic Rules: In Hong Kong, vehicles drive on the left, unlike in Mainland China. New students should be extra cautious when crossing the road. Queuing is widely observed by locals, so please follow the rules and avoid cutting in line.
- Communication: Most university halls provide free landline phones. Mobile plans are relatively affordable. After obtaining a Hong Kong ID, students can subscribe to local plans. Before that, a prepaid SIM card can serve as a temporary solution.
Food Culture: A Culinary Paradise with Diverse Flavours
Hong Kong is truly a culinary paradise, offering everything from street food to Michelin-starred restaurants.
- Daily Dining: Although Hong Kong does not have large warehouse-style supermarkets, stores such as Wellcome, ParknShop, 7-Eleven and OK convenience stores are widely available. Daily meal costs range from around HK$20 for fast food (such as McDonald’s or KFC) to HK$40–50 or more for a full meal.
- Taste Adaptation: Hong Kong cuisine is mainly Cantonese and light in flavour, but new students need not worry. The city offers a wide variety of international cuisines, including many Shanghai and Sichuan restaurants, ensuring you can always find something to suit your taste. Must-try local dim sum includes shrimp dumplings, custard buns, and siu mai.
Hong Kong Housing Overview: Which Type of Building Suits You?
For taught postgraduate students, on-campus accommodation in Hong Kong is extremely limited, so the vast majority need to rent off-campus. Understanding the different property types is the first step in securing suitable student housing.
| Property Type | Features & Advantages | Rent Range (per person) | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tong Lau | Older buildings, usually 3–8 floors, no elevator, relatively large units, most affordable option. | Around HKD 4,000–6,000 | Students on a tight budget, who don’t mind climbing stairs and prefer spacious shared living. |
| Western-style Building | Higher floors, equipped with elevators, newer facilities, security on-site, often named “XX Mansion”. | HKD 7,000–10,000+ | Students seeking comfort, elevator access, and private bathroom/kitchen. |
| Village House | Located in suburban or New Territories areas, affordable, spacious, with balcony or rooftop; transport may be less convenient. | Negotiable, usually low | Students looking for value and space, who don’t mind longer commutes and prefer quiet surroundings. |
| Student Apartment | Professionally managed, fully equipped (gym, study rooms), 24-hour security, no agent fees, short-term rentals possible. | HKD 6,000–15,000 | Students who prioritise convenience, safety, move-in ready units, and communal facilities. |
| Luxury Complex | Newer buildings with 24-hour security and property management, good living environment, well-designed layouts, often with clubhouse. | Higher-end | Students with sufficient budget, seeking high-quality living and full property services. |
| Serviced Apartment | Quick and simple move-in, cleaning services provided, full amenities, short-term rentals possible. | HKD 12,000–20,000 | Students with higher budgets, needing temporary accommodation or maximum convenience. |
In-Depth Guide to Popular Student Rental Areas Near Hong Kong Universities
When choosing a rental location, the key principles are balancing commute time, lifestyle convenience, and budget. Below is an analysis of popular rental areas around major universities in Hong Kong.
The University of Hong Kong (HKU)
HKU is located in the western part of Hong Kong Island, with convenient transport links and well-established local amenities.
| Area | Transport Advantage | Lifestyle & Features | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shek Tong Tsui | Flat terrain, about 8-minute walk from HKU Station Exit B1, less than 15 minutes to campus. | Residential area with supermarkets (e.g., Seaview City Wellcome) and restaurants, well-equipped daily amenities. | ★★★★★ |
| Kennedy Town | Flat terrain, relatively new buildings, only one MTR stop to HKU Station, about 14-minute walk. | Abundant supermarkets, restaurants, bars, and a seaside park; vibrant local atmosphere. | ★★★★★ |
| Sai Ying Pun | Old district, direct MTR access to HKU Station; students near Eastern Gate can walk (uphill). | High Street hosts a bar street with many upscale Western restaurants; rich cultural vibe, gradually rising terrain. | ★★★★☆ |
| Areas Not Recommended | Wan Chai (high rents), Admiralty (few residential buildings), Central (expensive), Cyberport (inconvenient transport). | – | – |
The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)
CUHK is located in Sha Tin, New Territories, with most nearby rental options concentrated along the East Rail Line.
| Area | Transport Advantage (to CUHK) | Rent Range (per person) | Features & Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sha Tin | 2 MTR stops, approx. 10 minutes; connected to New Town Plaza. | HKD 4,000–7,000 | Convenient for dining, shopping, and daily needs; well-equipped amenities; ★★★★★ recommendation. |
| Tai Po Market | 1 MTR stop, convenient transport; bus 74K provides direct access to campus. | HKD 4,000–7,000 | Nearby supermarkets, pharmacies, restaurants, and market; suitable for students with part-time jobs. |
| Tai Wai | 3 MTR stops, approx. 15 minutes by train; direct access via bus 74K or minibus 26. | HKD 4,000–6,000 | Ming City residential area has high safety (24-hour security), full clubhouse facilities, newly opened “Wai Fong” shopping mall. |
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST)
HKUST is located in Clear Water Bay, with most commutes relying on MTR transfers to minibuses.
| Area | Transport Advantage (to HKUST) | Features & Highlights | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hang Hau | Located above the MTR station; 10-minute minibus 11M ride to HKUST. | Convenient for daily life, numerous shopping malls (East Point City, Nan Fung Plaza); most popular area for HKUST students. | ★★★★★ |
| Po Lam | Terminal station of the MTR Tseung Kwan O Line, slightly farther than Hang Hau. | Fewer facilities than Hang Hau but more affordable rents. | ★★★★☆ |
| Tseung Kwan O | Farther from HKUST; requires MTR to Hang Hau and transfer to minibus. | Comfortable living environment with a high sense of well-being; relatively affordable rents. | ★★★★☆ |
| Sunrise Cove | Newer buildings (0–12 years), mostly sea- or mountain-view apartments; well-maintained environment with complete security. | Highest rents; requires transfers for commuting; suitable for students with sufficient budget seeking high-quality new housing. | ★★★★☆ |
City University of Hong Kong (CityU) & Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU)
Both universities are located near Kowloon Tong, sharing several popular rental areas.
| Area | Transport Advantage (to CityU/HKBU) | Features & Highlights | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kowloon Tong | 5-minute walk to CityU, 20 minutes to HKBU. | Upscale residential area with Festival Walk mall; convenient lifestyle, well-maintained estates, strict security. | ★★★★★ |
| Tai Wai | 1 MTR stop, approx. 5-minute ride. | Residential areas like Ming City and Golden Jubilee Garden; convenient transport and daily amenities; large shopping mall “Wai Fong”. | ★★★★★ |
| Mong Kok/Prince Edward | 2 MTR stops, approx. 5-minute ride. | Plenty of food stalls and shopping malls; vibrant local atmosphere, but mostly older buildings with lower safety. | ★★★☆☆ |
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU)
PolyU is located in Hung Hom, offering a wide range of nearby rental options.
| Area | Transport Advantage (to PolyU) | Features & Highlights | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hung Hom | Adjacent to campus; South Waterfront has a covered walkway directly to PolyU, no traffic lights. | Newer buildings with clubhouse; well-equipped amenities; popular residential area for students of CityU, HKBU, PolyU, and CUHK. | ★★★★★ |
| Whampoa | 2 MTR stops from Hung Hom; plenty of nearby restaurants and full daily amenities. | Whampoa Garden connected to PolyU via footbridge; spacious rooms at relatively lower rents. | ★★★★★ |
| Tsim Sha Tsui | Only 1 MTR stop away; lively area with convenient shopping. | Crowded with tourists; students seeking quiet should choose carefully. | ★★★★☆ |
| Mong Kok East | Only 1 MTR stop away; many nearby eateries. | Noisy environment; mostly older buildings with lower safety; relatively cheap rents but limited amenities. | ★★★☆☆ |
Lingnan University (LU)
Lingnan University is located in Tuen Mun, with most nearby rental options concentrated around Siu Hong Station.
| Area | Transport Advantage (to LU) | Features & Highlights | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dai Yan Court | Adjacent to Siu Hong Station; most alumni live here. Front gate leads directly to campus, back gate to the MTR station. | Convenient transport, pleasant environment, but rooms are relatively small. | ★★★★★ |
| Siu Hong Estate | Close to Siu Hong Station; older buildings, recommended to look for recently renovated units. | Good surrounding amenities. | ★★★★☆ |
| Chuk Hong/Lee Lingnan Court | Less than 50 metres from campus back gate; good environment and security; some units have large living rooms. | 10-minute walk to MTR or accessible by bus. | ★★★★☆ |
Hong Kong Rental Pitfalls and Process: A Survival Guide for Newcomers
Renting off-campus in Hong Kong can feel like both an “information battle” and a “psychological challenge” for those living away from home. The process is complex and full of pitfalls, involving contracts, agents, deposits, and other key steps. New students must stay vigilant and approach each stage with caution.
Rental Process and Key Considerations
- Determine your budget and requirements: Set an acceptable rent range, preferred property type (Tong Lau, Western-style building, or apartment), and the number of flatmates based on your personal circumstances.
- Choose a Location: Consider the university’s location and your commute time to determine your target rental area.
- Viewing and Selection: When viewing properties online, always request actual photos or videos and clear contract terms. For students relocating from afar, using a reputable platform for online signing is essential.
- Signing the Contract: Carefully review the contract terms, especially regarding the lease period, deposit, move-out conditions, and maintenance responsibilities. In Hong Kong, rental contracts are typically one year in duration.
- Payment: Rental fees usually follow the “two months deposit plus first month rent” arrangement.
- Move-in and Inspection: Upon moving in, thoroughly check the property’s facilities, furniture, and appliances. Take photos as evidence for the move-out process.
Watch Out for Rental Scams
- Fake Listings: Be cautious of properties where photos do not match reality or the same unit is advertised to multiple tenants.
- Unlicensed Agents: Avoid dealing with unlicensed or low-reputation agents to prevent extra fees or disputes.
- Hidden Charges: Confirm all costs, including rent, deposit, agent fees, management fees, and utilities, as well as the payment methods.
Recommended Hong Kong Rental Platform: uhomes.com
After understanding the complexities, high costs, and potential risks of the Hong Kong rental market, you might wonder: is there a platform that truly provides new students with a safe, hassle-free, and cost-effective solution? The answer is yes. Verified by countless students relocating to Hong Kong, we proudly recommend uhomes.com. It is more than just a rental platform—it serves as a bridge for you moving from Mainland China to Hong Kong, helping you transition from anxiety to peace of mind. With its four core advantages, uhomes.com has become the ultimate solution for new students seeking accommodation in Hong Kong.
Verified Listings -Say Goodbye to “Photo Tricks”
Verified listings are the lifeblood of uhomes.com. Every property on the platform undergoes strict screening and verification to ensure accurate information and consistency between photos and reality. This greatly alleviates the anxiety of new students who cannot view properties in person, delivering a true “what you see is what you get” experience and eliminating the risks of fake listings and information asymmetry.
Safety and Security- Hassle-Free from Payment to Move-In
For new students arriving in Hong Kong, safety comes first. uhomes.com provides comprehensive security across multiple aspects:
- Official Partnerships and Direct Contracts: The platform collaborates directly with numerous high-quality student apartments and property owners. New students can sign contracts online directly with the apartments, avoiding potential risks of dealing with individual landlords.
- Professional Process Guidance: From application submission, document preparation guidance, apartment approval follow-up, to final contract signing and move-in instructions, uhomes.com provides full free assistance. Dedicated advisors are available in groups to handle all procedures, ensuring compliance and safety throughout the process.
- Flexible Cancellation Policy: To address the uncertainties new students may face, some properties offer policies such as risk-free cancellation up to three months before the lease starts, or the ability to switch offers or change apartments if transferring schools, providing students with greater flexibility and security.
Transparent Pricing -No Agent Fees, No Hidden Costs
Regarding costs, uhomes.com adheres to transparent pricing and a zero-markup policy, effectively breaking the information barriers of traditional rental agents.
Zero Markup Guarantee: uhomes.com ensures that the rent and application process for properties are exactly the same as if you were renting directly, with the platform taking no commission or rent difference.
No Agent Fees: The platform clearly states that no agent fees are charged (also indicated on the app), and provides free full-process assistance with booking procedures, significantly reducing rental costs for new students.
Direct Online Payment of Deposit and Rent: Students can pay deposits and rent online directly to the apartments. This ensures transparent fund flow and eliminates the risk of money being intercepted by agents or third parties.
Great Deals -Early Bird Offers and High Cashback
In addition to transparent pricing, uhomes.com also offers real and tangible benefits for new students:
- Early Bird Booking Discounts: Many properties offer the best rates through early bird bookings, with some even providing rent reductions or other discount policies.
- High Cashback Offers: For partnered apartments, the platform provides additional high cashback offers, with up to 650 HKD per person, further increasing the cost-effectiveness of renting.
- Saving Time and Energy: The platform’s professional services save new students a significant amount of time and effort, allowing them to focus more on their studies and adjusting to their new environment.
Conclusion
Studying in Hong Kong is undoubtedly an exciting journey filled with both challenges and opportunities. A comfortable and secure home is the foundation for settling down in the city and fully dedicating yourself to your studies and life. After reading this comprehensive guide on renting in Hong Kong, you will realize that choosing a reliable platform is far more efficient and safe than navigating the process blindly on your own. Therefore, our final recommendation is: If you are a new student heading to Hong Kong, choose uhomes.com without hesitation.
uhomes.com has removed all obstacles in your rental journey through its commitment to verified listings, comprehensive security guarantees, complete price transparency, and real benefits. It is not just a platform but your most reliable partner in starting your life in Hong Kong and finding a secure home. Act early, secure your ideal accommodation through uhomes.com, and begin your new chapter of studying in Hong Kong with ease and confidence!
FAQs
How much is the rent for a studio in Hong Kong?
The rent for a studio apartment in Hong Kong typically ranges from HKD 8,000 to HKD 15,000 depending on the location and size. Popular areas for studios include Causeway Bay, Mong Kok, and Central, with Mong Kok being one of the more affordable areas for studio apartments near universities.
How can I rent an apartment in Hong Kong?
Renting an apartment in Hong Kong involves choosing between private landlords or student accommodation platforms like uhomes.com. The process includes selecting a location based on budget, signing a lease, and paying the necessary deposit and rent upfront. Make sure to check the rental terms and conditions, including utilities and maintenance responsibilities.
Is there student accommodation available specifically for HKUST students?
Yes, there is student accommodation available for HKUST students in nearby areas like Tseung Kwan O and Choi Hung. These areas are well connected to the university by public transport and offer affordable rent for students, with many properties offering shared living spaces, which is ideal for those on a budget.
Where can PolyU students find off-campus housing?
PolyU students often choose off-campus housing in areas such as Hung Hom, Jordan, and Tsim Sha Tsui. These neighborhoods are within easy reach of PolyU and offer a wide range of accommodation options, from affordable flats to high-end serviced apartments, depending on the student’s budget.
Where can I find off-campus housing for HKU students?
HKU students can find off-campus housing in neighborhoods like Pok Fu Lam, Sheung Wan, and Kennedy Town, all of which are close to the university. Rental prices for these areas range from affordable shared apartments to more luxurious studios, offering options suitable for all budgets and preferences.
What are the off-campus housing options for HKUST students?
For HKUST students, off-campus housing options are abundant in areas like Tseung Kwan O and Chai Wan, where rental prices are more affordable than on-campus housing. Students can find apartments ranging from studios to multi-bedroom flats, offering convenience and privacy while still being close to public transport links to the university.
