Finding student accommodation in Aberdeen on a budget is not easy. Prices keep rising, whether it be rent, bills, or groceries. Even if you find a decent place, hidden costs will make it expensive. Moreover, you may come across housemates who “forget” to pay their share. So, how do you save money while studying in the UK? Do not panic—there are a few ways to achieve the same. You need to be wise and know where to look. Read this guide to find helpful tips to keep your wallet intact during your academic stay overseas.
Smart Tips to Cut Costs on Student Housing in Aberdeen
It may be a challenge to save money on student accommodation in Aberdeen. But do not panic—there are ways to afford this cost. Explore this article to check out cost-cutting tips to stay in the UK on a budget.
1. Choose Affordable Areas in Aberdeen
Finding a place to live in Aberdeen is a big decision. Rent will take up a significant portion of your budget. Therefore, choosing the right area matters. For instance, the City Centre is a convenient choice. But it will be expensive.
You can find student accommodation in Aberdeen at Old Aberdeen. It will only be a quick walk to campus. Plus, the rent here will be cheaper than in the popular city areas. Another option is Rosemount. It is a little further out, but the rent here will be more reasonable. Plus, you can find shared houses everywhere, perfect for splitting costs with friends.
Then there is Garthdee. The place is a decent option for students who need public transport more often. In short, you should skip the overpriced city-centre apartments. On the contrary, the locations mentioned will save you cash and give you a solid student experience.
2. Consider University Halls vs. Private Rentals
Choosing between university halls and private rentals can be tricky. The former are pricier but offer utilities such as Wi-Fi in one bill. On the other hand, private rentals are sometimes cheaper.
If you stay in a university hall, everything seems easy. For instance, you do not have to worry about splitting bills with housemates. Hence, it is a convenient option.
Likewise, choosing private renting as your student accommodation in Aberdeen will offer you multiple benefits. For instance, you can split the rent with your friends. This way, you can save big. Plus, there will be more space and freedom. Moreover, you can cut off your food expenses by cooking yourself.
In summary, university halls keep it simple, but private rentals give you control. What matters more totally depends on you.
3. Share Accommodation with Friends
Living alone can be a pricey affair. But sharing a place can help you save on student accommodation in Aberdeen. You and a few friends can split rent and utility bills. It is way better than stretching your budget for a tiny studio.
However, you should find housing with a decent living room and a cosy kitchen. Check if the place has a washing machine or a dishwasher. These are little things that keep costs down.
And it is not only rent. You can split the internet, groceries, and random household stuff. This way, you can ensure less stress and more savings.
4. Look for Bills-Inclusive Properties
Some landlords include miscellaneous bills in the rent—electricity, water, internet, etc. This may be a convenient option, as you will not find surprise payments.
You can also compare for rent plus separate bills vs. all-inclusive. Sometimes, paying separately saves you cash. Other times, it may not. Moreover, you should read the contracts twice. This way, you will be well aware of all the expenses.
Moreover, there is usually a fair usage policy. You have to bear extra charges for using too much. So, is it worth selecting bills-inclusive properties as your student accommodation in UK? Most probably, only when you know what you are signing up for.
5. Start Your Search Early
You should review multiple properties early if you want a good place to live in Aberdeen. Student housing fills up fast, and the best deals are gone before you know it. If you wait too long, you may get stuck with high rents, tiny rooms, or places so far from campus that you might as well be in another city.
So, start your search for student accommodation six to eight months before term starts. The earlier you look, the better the options you can explore. If you wait too long, prices may rise, and regret settles in. Some people think they can book at the last minute and still find a steal. They can not, and you should not be that person.
Summing It Up
Aberdeen is a suitable place to study, but the rent here can be expensive. You do not want to go broke while studying in the city. Therefore, you should pick cheaper areas and live with housemates to split the bills. Moreover, you will find some landlords who will budge on rent. In short, discounts are everywhere if you know where to look. However, the key here is to start early, as the good locations fill up fast. And do not ignore financial aid. It can help you save money on student accommodation in UK and find a place that feels like home.
