Your city

A Guide to Finding the Perfect Place to Live in York as an International Student

Divya Behl ‐ Content & Marketing Specialist
15.04.25 – 02 Mins Read
A brick building with two stories is partially shaded by trees. In front, there is a grassy area with a concrete bench surrounded by bushes and plants. The sky is partly cloudy, and the scene has a serene, summery feel.

York is a history-rich city with vibrant student life and a welcoming community. Living in York as a student is an exciting experience. However, it’s the accommodation that makes all the difference. Finding the best student accommodation in York is key to making the most of your time there.

This blog will walk you through the best areas to live in York as a student and what you should consider when choosing an accommodation.

Where to Live in York as an International Student

Lawrence Street stands out as the top choice among international students moving to York. Located close to the City Centre, the area has premium all-inclusive accommodations, which is why it is popular among young professionals. Our first-ever Student Village, set across 6 acres of landscaped grounds, is also on Lawrence Street. Located around 15 minutes from the University of York and within easy reach of York St John University, we offer convenience and community.

Aerial view of a suburban neighborhood in York, ideal for international student living, with rows of houses, green trees, and open fields under a clear sky. The scene captures residential streets and a mix of older and newer buildings—a perfect place to live.
An aerial view of Lawrence Street.

Heslington

Heslington is for peace lovers. It’s a quieter living area near the University of York campus. Living at Heslington gives you the advantage of being just 5-10 minutes from lecture halls. The area has seen a 15% increase in student housing developments since 2021, reflecting its growing popularity. The City Centre is 20 minutes away by bus.. This place is the perfect location for those who want a village-community feel, though Heslington is also known for its two of the most popular student pubs, Charles XII and The Deramore Arms.

City Centre

If you are an explorer, this is the area for you. York City Centre is for students willing to immerse themselves in the culture and nightlife of York. Minutes away from landmarks like York Minster and The Shambles, living here is a great experience. The city centre has various shopping centres, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Students can also find many part-time job opportunities with access to many part-time jobs here.

Hull Road

One of the most popular areas for students in York is Hull Road, which is known for its affordability and convenience. Living here is a 15-minute walk from the University of York. Hull Road offers easy and quick access to supermarkets such as Tesco and Lidl, as well as a variety of takeaways and shops. The area has a lively atmosphere, with student pubs like The Black Bull and local cafes making it a vibrant place to live.

However, due to its popularity among students, it can be noisy during evenings or weekends.

Fulford

Fulford is home to some of the greenest residential areas of the city. It boasts affordable housing options and the strongest transport connections, making it practical for students willing to commute 15-20 minutes to the University of York. Besides being a budget-friendly student area close to the River Ouse and having good bus links, Fulford also has other social groups, such as families and successful professionals. Living in Fulford gives you access to local shops, a bus stop, 15 minutes’ cycle to the York St John University campus and much more. This is why Fulford is popular among all students, domestic or international.

Making York Feel Like Home

When choosing an accommodation, there is a lot that you should consider as a student. Settling in goes beyond just finding a room. You need a place that feels like home. University surveys show that students who make friends, join events, and participate in activities are more likely to feel at home.