Your essential guide for students moving to Birmingham. Discover the right areas with insider tips on university proximity, rent and transport, and get practical tips on budgeting. Simplify your move with advice, timelines and checklists from Birmingham's trusted student movers and settle in faster.
The Ultimate Student Guide to Moving to Birmingham
Welcome to Birmingham, home to over 80,000 students studying at multiple universities. Moving to a new city or changing accommodation within Birmingham is a big step. This guide helps you choose the right area, prepare for moving day, and settle in smoothly with useful tips and advice.
Where to Live in Birmingham: Finding Your Fit
Selly Oak: The Student Hub
This area is central to University of Birmingham student life. It offers affordable housing close to campus with a lively atmosphere including pubs and shops, making it popular among students.
Tip for moving: Early July sees a lot of student moves here, so arrange transport and help in advance to keep your moving experience smooth.
Edgbaston: Space and Greenery
Edgbaston is quieter with green spaces, suitable for postgraduate students or those seeking peace while staying within reach of campus amenities.
City Centre: Urban Living
Popular with students from Aston University and BCU, the city centre offers modern housing options, easy access to cultural venues and nightlife. Rent tends to be higher, but you can walk to university and shops.
Tip for moving: High-rise buildings can have restricted access for vehicles, so planning your move accordingly helps avoid delays.
Moseley: Independent and Community-Focused
A short bus ride from the city centre, Moseley has a community atmosphere with independent cafés, pubs, and a regular farmers' market, appealing to students who enjoy a quieter and local vibe.
Birmingham Student Areas At-a-Glance
Your choice of neighbourhood influences your student life significantly. Here's a quick overview of popular areas:
| Neighbourhood | Universities Nearby | Student Population | Average Monthly Rent | Transport to Campus | right For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Selly Oak | University of Birmingham | High | £450–£550 | 5–10 min walk or direct train | Social scene, convenience |
| Edgbaston | University of Birmingham | Moderate | £500–£650 | 10–20 min walk or short bus | Quiet living, green spaces |
| City Centre | Aston University, BCU | High | £650–£800 | Walking distance | Modern housing, nightlife |
| Moseley | UoB, Aston, BCU | Lower | £500–£650 | 20–30 min bus | Community feel, independents |
Student Accommodation in Birmingham
University Halls of Residence
Halls provide a straightforward start to university with included bills, onsite security, and plenty of chances to meet fellow students, ideal for first year.
Private Rentals
Many students move to private housing from their second year for more space and independence. This comes with responsibilities such as managing bills and upkeep.
Helpful moving tip: Coordinating with friends to move together using one van can save time and effort.
A Practical Timeline for Finding Student Accommodation in Birmingham
- January–February: Start looking for properties for the next academic year.
- Form your group: Decide early on your housemates or flatmates.
- Budget carefully: Consider rent, bills (gas, electricity, water, internet), and other essentials.
- View in person: Check facilities such as heating and water, and speak to current residents where possible.
- Use reputable sources: Universities and student unions offer lists of trusted letting agents and properties.
Student Budget and Living Costs in Birmingham
Birmingham offers affordable options with good planning.
- Rent: Selly Oak and Edgbaston typically offer less expensive options than city centre flats.
- Bills: Expect about £30–£40 per person monthly for utilities when sharing household costs.
- Food: Affordable dining is available in areas like Selly Oak and Bristol Road, with more variety at Balti Triangle and Chinatown.
- Transport: Student bus passes offer unlimited travel at reduced rates, providing good value for regular commuting.
- Additional costs: Consider course materials, social activities, and occasional expenses such as deposits or returning home.
Council Tax Exemption Reminder
Most full-time students in the UK are exempt from council tax. After you receive confirmation of your student status, contact your local council to apply. Usually you will need:
- A letter or certificate from your university confirming full-time status
- Details of your residence and any housemates
- To submit your application before the bill cycle to avoid charges
Food and Culture: Making the Most of Birmingham
- Balti Triangle: Known for authentic and affordable curry houses along Ladypool Road.
- Chinatown & Southside: East Asian restaurants and cafés offering student-friendly prices near New Street.
- Selly Oak: A range of takeaways and meal deals along Bristol Road for quick, budget options.
- Moseley & Kings Heath: Independent cafés and pubs popular among students for brunch and relaxed socialising.
- Grand Central: Various familiar restaurants above New Street station good for group gatherings or fast meals.
Getting Around the City
- Buses: Routes 61 and 63 link Selly Oak with the city centre frequently.
- Trains: The Cross-City Line includes University station, offering fast connections between campus and city.
- Student passes: Discounted tickets make daily travel more affordable.
Student Moving Checklist
Keeping organised helps your move go smoothly. Here's a timeline for key tasks:
Two months before
- Sign tenancy agreements to secure housing.
- Book your man and van service early to avoid last-minute complications, especially around early July.
One month before
- Sort out belongings and plan any storage needs.
- Arrange Wi-Fi setup for your new place.
- Create a joint account for shared household bills.
1–2 weeks before
- Pack boxes with non-essential items and label clearly.
- Notify banks, university, and other services about your new address.
On moving day
- Prepare an essentials box with important items like snacks, chargers, toiletries, and important documents.
- Record meter readings for utilities at your old and new address.
- Allow helpers or movers to manage heavy lifting while you settle in.
Settling In
After moving in, unpack essential items first, set up your Wi-Fi, and create a welcoming living space. Spend time exploring Birmingham’s diverse food and cultural venues from Bristol Road to Digbeth and the Balti Triangle to find what suits your preferences.
Making the Most of Your Move to Birmingham
Moving marks the start of an exciting new chapter. Careful planning, picking the right location, and arranging transport for your belongings will reduce stress. With its rich culture and vibrant student communities, Birmingham is ready to welcome you.
