Discover the surprising truths about student accommodation in Brighton

Things No One Tells You About Student Housing in Brighton

Brighton is a dream destination for students—a seaside city bursting with creativity, culture, and coastal charm. But when it comes to student accommodation in Brighton, there’s a lot more beneath the surface than what university brochures reveal. If you're moving here for the first time, here’s what no one tells you—but you need to know.

1. “Close to Campus” Can Be Misleading

It’s easy to assume that living within walking distance of your university is ideal. But in Brighton, terrain matters. Many neighbourhoods are hilly or connected by infrequent buses, making even short commutes exhausting. Students who pick housing based solely on map distance often regret not checking commute quality and terrain.

Pro Tip: Use Brighton & Hove Buses' Route Planner to assess real commute times.

2. Your Rent is Only Half the Story

The rental figure you see doesn’t include the many extras you’ll pay. Older homes in Brighton, especially those near Lewes Road or Hanover, can lack proper insulation, meaning higher heating bills. Add broadband, electricity, water, and contents insurance, and your monthly total might surprise you.

Common hidden costs:

• Utilities: £50–£80/month

• Internet: £25–£35/month

• Contents Insurance: £10–£15/month

3. The Best Properties Vanish Quickly

Most students wait too long to secure a place, thinking it’s better to be cautious. But in Brighton’s tight rental market, the good properties go fast. Many students start looking in December for the following academic year. If you wait until spring, you’ll likely face fewer choices and inflated prices.

Search intent insight: Students looking for second-year housing in Brighton often ask, “When should I start looking?” The answer: Start before January.

4. Living With Friends Isn't Always Easy

You might dream of sharing a house with your university besties, but things can change. Conflicts over cleaning, noise, or paying bills can turn friendships sour. Some student houses in Brighton host six or more tenants, making shared responsibility even more complicated.

Golden rule: Discuss boundaries before moving in. Create a cleaning rota and set shared expectations from day one.

5. Not All “Student Homes” Meet the Standard

While many student rentals are well-managed, others cut corners. Brighton & Hove City Council regularly reports violations like mould, faulty electrics, or a lack of safety measures in unlicensed shared houses. A cheap rent may be hiding serious issues.

Check for:

• Valid HMO licence

• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

• Working fire alarms and safety features

6. International Students Face Extra Hurdles

International students often encounter steeper deposits or the need for guarantors. Some landlords may also request multiple months of rent up front. It’s not illegal, but it can be stressful.

Support tip: The Student Accommodation Guide offers tailored help for international students navigating these requirements, including expert-led guidance and verified resources.

7. Living by the Sea? Watch Out for Damp

Brighton’s sea breeze feels refreshing, but it also brings humidity. Many older properties suffer from dampness, especially those without good ventilation. This isn’t just unpleasant—it can affect your health and belongings.

Prevention tip: Ask about damp history during viewings. Look for mould in corners, around windows, and behind furniture.

8. It’s Not Just Students You’re Competing With

Brighton’s rental market is competitive because it’s not just students looking. Remote workers, young professionals, and Londoners relocating for lifestyle reasons also compete for rentals. This reduces the available student stock and increases rent.

Pro insight: The rise of flexible work has pushed non-students into traditionally student-heavy areas like Kemptown and Elm Grove.

9. You Don’t Need to Live in the City Centre to Enjoy Student Life

Areas like Bevendean, Hollingbury, and Moulsecoomb are student-friendly and well-connected, even if they’re a bus ride from the beach. Students in these areas often report a better sense of community and quieter study environments.

Transport tip: Brighton has a reliable night bus system, so you can enjoy city life and still get home easily.

10. Trusted Guidance Makes the Journey Easier

The most successful students aren’t just those who find great accommodation, but those who get reliable support along the way. From understanding tenancy agreements to choosing between en-suites or shared rooms, there’s a lot to unpack.

That’s where the Student Accommodation Guide shines. As a leading international study consultant, it offers:

• Independent housing advice

• Expert study abroad counselling

• Support for visa, guarantor, and budget planning

• Resources tailored to first-time UK students

FAQs About Student Accommodation in Brighton

Q1. How much is student accommodation in Brighton per month?

A: Expect to spend £550–£800 monthly, depending on room type and location.

Q2. Is university housing better than private rentals?

A: Uni halls are structured and convenient, but private housing offers more space and flexibility, especially for second and third years.

Q3. Where do most students live in Brighton?

A: Popular areas include Lewes Road, Hanover, Elm Grove, and Moulsecoomb, all of which have strong bus links to both universities.

Q4. What should international students know before renting in Brighton?

A: Start early, prepare for higher upfront costs, and use expert guidance from Student Accommodation Guide to avoid costly mistakes.

Final Thoughts

Brighton might welcome you with sunny skies and vibrant student energy, but finding the right home here takes strategy. From hidden costs to damp-proofing tips, knowing what no one tells you about student accommodation in Brighton can be your ultimate advantage.

Looking for guidance on finding your perfect student home in Brighton or support for your study abroad journey? Visit the Student Accommodation Guide today for tailored tools, expert advice, and stress-free planning.