The cost of living has risen in many areas in the UK and Newcastle is no exception. One of the primary causes of concern for international students is how to manage Newcastle student accommodation costs in 2024. 

Studying abroad offers a taste of freedom but responsibility for a million different things comes with the territory. One of these responsibilities includes learning how to plan a monthly budget to manage your living expenses, particularly accommodation costs that contribute to the majority of your expenses. 

Why are accommodations in Newcastle costly?

Newcastle is an ideal location for international students hoping to study in the UK. Thousands of students flock to Newcastle every year due to its amazing academic programs and cost-effective living expenses. Students find that Newcastle is reasonably priced as compared to expenses incurred if they were staying in London. However, before you come to an agreement with your landlord and sign a lease, it is important to understand the factors that affect the price of your accommodation. 

Location, Location, Location!

As any realtor worth his salt will tell you, the location of a property plays a key role in determining the rent price. Accommodations that are well-placed near or around a university campus have a higher price as compared to properties located further away. Students prefer to be close to campus to reduce the time it takes to commute to and from their university. Imagine rolling out of bed and strolling to your morning classes just 15 minutes away. For many students, the expense of accommodations near a university is nothing if they can skip the hassle of a rushed morning. 

If you are an early bird who doesn’t mind the rush of the morning commute, you can opt for student accommodation that is further away from your university. This will reduce your accommodation costs significantly, however, don’t forget to account for your transportation charges. Newcastle has a well-structured transportation system that includes buses, metros, cabs, and even water travel. Students can use passes and travel cards to reduce their monthly transport expenses.

Amenities that come with the room

While choosing a place to call home during your stay in Newcastle, you should consider what amenities are provided along with your room. Landlords charge a steeper price for a property that has attractive features such as a shared gym or a maintenance team that is available around the clock. Accommodations that include amenities such as WiFi, CCTV surveillance, shared kitchens or laundry rooms are popular among international students as they provide a more comfortable stay. Students can opt for accommodations without these amenities if they want to lower their monthly expenditures.

Are utilities included?

Before choosing your accommodation, you should check whether your landlord is including utilities as part of the package. Some properties have a seemingly affordable price, but students should take care to ensure that basic utilities like heating, water, electricity, and gas are provided with the room. If you were to choose a room without utilities, you must factor in the cost of the utility bills into your budget. 

Which room are you choosing?

Prices may also vary according to the type of room you choose. Dorm rooms on campus are the ideal choice for international students on a budget. They are affordable and often come with amenities, utilities, and a food plan all included. You may prefer a room off-campus or near your university. In that case, you can choose a studio, an en-suite or rent a flat with your friends and share the cost.

Regardless of where you decide to stay while studying in Newcastle, study abroad consultants suggest that you thoroughly research which option is the most affordable for you long term.