Ultimate Leicester Student Moving Guide : Student Life, Housing & Beyond

The Ultimate Leicester Student Moving Guide (2025-26)

Leicester is a city that surprises people. You might find yourself caught up in the roar of the Tigers rugby crowd at Welford Road, grabbing street food with friends on Narborough Road, or watching a gig at the O2 Academy — all in the same week.

As one of England's oldest cities, Leicester has history at every turn. The discovery of King Richard III's remains in 2012 brought global attention, but the city has long been a place of progress. Today you'll find historic architecture alongside modern venues and multicultural festivals that draw crowds from across the UK.

Located in the heart of England, Leicester is perfectly placed for exploring the UK. London is just over an hour away by train, with Birmingham, Nottingham, and Manchester all within easy reach. But once you've experienced the city's mix of history, culture, and affordability, you may find there's no need to leave very often.

Universities in Leicester

Leicester is home to two major universities that welcome more than 50,000 students every year.

University of Leicester

• A research-led university with strengths in medicine, space science, and law.
• Campus is on University Road, about 10–15 minutes from the city centre.
• Known for its welcoming community and strong academic reputation.

De Montfort University (DMU)

• Creative and vocational focus, excelling in art, design, business, and media.
• Campus sits right by the River Soar, integrated into the city centre.
• A reputation for innovation, industry links, and a lively student experience.

Sport is a big part of student life here too. Each spring, the Varsity competition between University of Leicester and De Montfort University (DMU) brings thousands of students together across a range of sports. It's not only a chance to support your university but also one of the highlights of the student calendar.

Finding Your Student Accommodation

Where you live shapes your student experience, and Leicester offers plenty of choice — from halls of residence and modern private blocks to classic shared houses.

At a glance

• University-managed halls: guaranteed for first years, all bills included, safe and social
• Private student accommodation (PBSA): modern city-centre blocks with gyms, study areas, and inclusive rent
• Shared houses: affordable and sociable, often in Clarendon Park, the West End, or the city centre

University-Managed Halls

For many students, halls are the easiest way to settle in. Both the University of Leicester and DMU guarantee accommodation for first-year undergraduates who apply on time. Rent usually includes bills and internet, with 24-hour security and support staff.

At the University of Leicester, the main first-year site is the Oadby Student Village, about three miles from campus. It's a 15–20 minute bus or cycle ride to lectures, but the trade-off is more green space and a village-style community.

At DMU, most halls are based right in the city centre. Lectures, the library and the Students' Union are all within walking distance, with cafés and shops nearby.

The biggest advantage of halls is the social side. You'll be surrounded by other students who are new to Leicester, which makes it easy to build friendships and feel part of the community from day one. And because you're never far from the city centre, a night out doesn't mean a long journey home — unlike at out-of-town campus universities.

Private Student Accommodation (PBSA)

Leicester's city centre has seen a rise in modern student blocks. These buildings usually come with gyms, communal study areas and social spaces. Bills are included, which makes budgeting simple. The convenience of being close to campus and the city's main attractions is a big draw.

PBSA can be more expensive than shared houses upfront, but when you factor in utilities being included and the fact that you get a private room (usually en-suite), it can work out even or sometimes less expensive overall. You won't have to coordinate bills with housemates or worry about variable heating costs in winter. The privacy factor and modern facilities often make the extra cost worthwhile for many students. Spaces do fill quickly though, so early applications are essential.

Shared Houses

By second year, many students move into shared houses with friends. Leicester's neighbourhoods each have a distinct feel:

• Clarendon Park: Victorian terraces, cafés on Queens Road, and a lively student community. Close to the University of Leicester.
• West End & Narborough Road: Affordable, multicultural, and close to DMU. Famous for its food.
• City Centre: Modern flats and shared houses close to nightlife and shopping. Higher rents but maximum convenience.
• Oadby: Leafier and quieter, with larger houses. Popular with postgraduates and those who prefer more space.

Just remember, you'll often have to budget extra for utilities and be mindful that costs will go up in the winter for heating

Moving Made Easy

Whatever you choose, moving in is simpler with local help. A man and van service is ideal for small student moves — whether that's a few boxes, a desk, or shifting belongings into storage between terms. Find My Man and Van connects students with affordable, reliable Leicester man and van services, making moving day straightforward. Our student moving services are designed specifically for university budgets.

For extra advice on settling in to Leicester, see our Leicester Relocation Guide 2025.

Student Budget in Leicester

One of Leicester's biggest advantages is affordability. Rent is lower than in many UK cities, food shopping is cheaper, and transport costs are manageable because so much of student life is within walking distance. With a little planning, you can live comfortably on a student budget without missing out.

Groceries are simple to manage, with Aldi and Lidl for essentials and Leicester Market offering affordable fresh produce. Narborough Road's international supermarkets and takeaways add variety at low prices.

Transport is equally manageable. Many students walk or cycle, but if you're further out, a monthly bus pass costs about £35. Leicester's central location also makes it easy to explore the UK, with trains to London in just over an hour and Birmingham or Nottingham in under 45 minutes.

Entertainment is cheaper than in most big cities. From student nights at pubs and clubs to free festivals and outdoor events, you don't need to spend heavily to enjoy yourself. Budgeting £100–£150 a month for social life is realistic.

At a glance: typical monthly costs (2025)

• Accommodation: £350–£520 (shared house), £520–£780 (halls), £650–£860 (PBSA)
• Food & groceries: £150–£200
• Transport: £20–£40 (bus pass ~£35)
• Utilities: £40–£60 (if not included)
• Social & entertainment: £100–£150
• Phone & internet: £15–£25

Estimated total monthly cost: £675–£1,050, depending on accommodation and lifestyle.

Getting Around Leicester

Leicester is compact, so getting around is easy. Most students live within walking or cycling distance of lectures, which keeps costs down.

The main bus operator, First Bus, offers discounted student passes at around £35 a month. They're good value if you live in Oadby or other suburbs.

Leicester Railway Station links the city to the rest of the UK. London is just over an hour away, Birmingham takes 45 minutes, and Nottingham is even closer. A 16–25 Railcard is a worthwhile investment for regular travel.

Cycling is also popular thanks to flat routes and secure bike storage at both universities.

Student Life, Food & Fun

Leicester balances affordability with plenty to see and do.

Sporting Heritage

The city's love of sport is hard to miss. The Leicester Tigers are one of Europe's most famous rugby clubs, while Leicester City Football Club's Premier League win in 2016 made headlines worldwide. Matchdays are part of the city's identity, and students often find themselves swept up in the excitement.

Festivals and Events

The Leicester Comedy Festival each February draws performers from around the world. The Caribbean Carnival fills the streets with colour and music every summer. Diwali on the Golden Mile is one of the largest celebrations outside India, and Eid is marked with major community events. These festivals showcase Leicester's diversity and give students plenty to enjoy beyond lectures.

Food Scene

Leicester's food culture is one of its biggest attractions. The Golden Mile is legendary for Indian restaurants and sweet shops, while Narborough Road serves cuisines from almost every part of the world. Leicester Market is ideal for budget-friendly cooking, and cafés across the city make eating out affordable.

Nightlife

Leicester's nightlife is student-friendly and affordable. The O2 Academy hosts gigs and student nights, while pubs and smaller clubs run regular deals. It may not be as big as London or Manchester, but it's varied, cheaper, and easy to get home from.

Practical Tips for Your Move

Starting university is exciting but comes with admin too. Get the basics done early:

• Register with a GP and dentist
• Open or update your student bank account
• Apply for a 16–25 Railcard
• Collect your student ID and set up university accounts
• Join a society or two during Freshers' Week — it's one of the easiest ways to make friends

Packing light helps, especially if you're moving into halls. For everything else, a man and van service is ideal — whether it's a few boxes from home or putting belongings in storage over the holidays.

A City of Surprises

Even though it's smaller than cities like London or Manchester, Leicester quickly wins people over. It's affordable, welcoming, and filled with culture and sport. You can go from a lecture to a football match, or from a study session to a comedy gig, all without leaving the city.

For students, Leicester offers both community and opportunity. And when moving day comes, Find My Man and Van is here to help. From small moves across town to long-distance relocations, our trusted moving partners across the UK make the process simple. Book online in minutes and start your university journey with less stress.

For more tips, see our blog on how to save money on your move.