Latest Posts

Impact of Rising Rent Prices on Students: A Nationwide Analysis

For many students, university life represents a period of independence, personal growth, and academic achievement. 

However, recent trends in the housing market have made student life increasingly challenging. Rising rent prices across the United Kingdom are causing financial strain on students, impacting their education, social lives, and overall well-being. 

This article explores the reasons behind the surge in rent prices, its implications for students, and strategies to cope with these growing financial pressures.

The Current State of Student Housing Costs

In the last few years, rent prices for student accommodation have surged, making it one of the most significant expenses for university students. According to recent reports, the average rent for student accommodation in many cities now surpasses the maintenance loan available to students. 

Many students struggle to make ends meet, often relying on part-time jobs, parental support, or loans to cover the shortfall. Cities like London, Bristol, and Manchester have seen the sharpest rises in student accommodation costs, with some students paying well over half of their maintenance loan on rent alone.

Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), often managed by private companies, now dominates the market. While these accommodations may offer modern facilities, they come at a premium price that many students cannot afford. 

University-owned accommodation remains an option, but limited availability forces many students into the private rental market, where rent prices are rising unpredictably. As a result, students are facing increasingly difficult choices about where to live and how to budget their expenses.

Why Are Rents Increasing?

Several factors contribute to the continuous rise in rent prices for students. Inflation has played a major role, driving up the cost of utilities, food, and general living expenses. Landlords, facing higher mortgage rates and maintenance costs, have passed these increases onto tenants, making student accommodation even more expensive.

Another key factor is the growing demand for student housing. Universities continue to expand their intake, but the supply of student accommodation has not kept pace. With more students competing for limited housing, landlords have the power to charge higher rents. This supply and demand imbalance has left many students scrambling for affordable options, often compromising on location or quality.

Additionally, private accommodation providers now dominate the student housing market. University-run halls, which tend to be more affordable, are limited in number, forcing many students into privately owned residences. These private providers operate on a profit-driven model, which has resulted in higher rental costs.

The general property market trends also contribute to increasing rent prices. Rising property values, high interest rates, and tighter landlord regulations mean that landlords have to charge more to make renting their properties financially viable. This has further driven up the costs for students, making affordable housing an ever-growing concern.

The Impact of Rising Rents on Students

The most immediate impact of rising rents is financial strain. Many students rely on maintenance loans, part-time jobs, or parental support to afford housing. 

However, as rent consumes a larger portion of their budget, students are left with little money for essentials like food, books, and travel. Some students have had to take on additional work to afford rent, which can interfere with their studies and overall university experience.

Financial stress is closely linked to mental health struggles. Students facing high rent costs often experience anxiety about their financial situation, leading to difficulties in focusing on their studies. The constant worry about making ends meet can result in increased stress, poor academic performance, and even dropping out of university altogether.

The quality of accommodation is another issue. To cope with rising rents, some students are forced to settle for substandard housing. 

What’s more, overcrowding has become common, with students renting rooms in poorly maintained properties or sharing houses with too many people just to make the rent affordable. This can affect their well-being, making it harder to concentrate on their studies or enjoy university life.

Another significant impact is the increasing number of students moving further away from campus in search of cheaper housing. While this may reduce rent costs, it often results in longer commutes, which can be both time-consuming and expensive. 

Living further away from campus can also lead to social isolation, making it harder for students to engage in university life, attend extracurricular activities, or build friendships.

Coping Strategies for Students

While the situation is challenging, there are several ways that students can manage rising rent prices and make their budgets stretch further. 

One of the most important steps is budgeting wisely. Keeping track of expenses and prioritising essential costs such as rent, food, and bills can help students manage their finances more effectively. 

Using budgeting apps like Monzo can make it easier to see where money is going and where savings can be made.

Finding alternative accommodation options can also help. House-sharing is one of the best ways to reduce costs, as splitting rent and bills with others makes housing more affordable. University halls, if available, are often cheaper than private rentals, so applying early can increase the chances of securing a spot. 

For students who live near their university, staying at home with family can be an excellent way to save money on rent.

Taking on part-time work or side gigs can also help students manage their finances. Many universities offer flexible job opportunities, such as working in the library or student union, that can fit around study schedules. Online freelance work, such as tutoring or copywriting, can also provide additional income without interfering too much with academic commitments.

There are also financial support schemes available to students. Many universities offer hardship funds to assist those struggling with rent and living costs. Students should also check if they qualify for any grants, bursaries, or scholarships that can help ease financial pressures. 

Additionally, full-time students are exempt from council tax, so making sure they are not being charged for it can help reduce costs.

Another useful strategy is to negotiate rent and utility costs. If renting privately, students may be able to negotiate a lower rent with their landlord, particularly if they are renewing their tenancy. It is also possible to save money on bills by being mindful of energy usage and looking for student-friendly utility deals.

Planning ahead is key to securing affordable accommodation. Many students leave their housing search too late, limiting their options. Searching for accommodation early and securing a place before prices rise can help students find better deals and avoid last-minute panic.

The Future of Student Housing

The rising rent trend is unlikely to reverse soon, but there are ongoing discussions about potential reforms to support students. 

Some universities are being urged to expand their student accommodation options to provide more affordable housing. There is also increasing pressure on the government to introduce rent controls or financial aid measures to support students struggling with high costs.

The private rental sector is also evolving, with co-living spaces designed for students emerging as a potential alternative to traditional accommodation. These living spaces offer shared facilities and communal areas, which can reduce costs while still providing comfortable living conditions.

Conclusion

Rising rent prices pose a significant challenge for students across the UK, affecting financial stability, mental well-being, and academic success. However, by staying informed, planning ahead, and adopting smart budgeting strategies, students can better navigate these challenges. 

Universities, landlords, and policymakers must also take steps to ensure student housing remains accessible and affordable. Until then, resilience and proactive decision-making will be essential for students striving to balance their education and financial responsibilities in an increasingly expensive rental market.

Everything You Need to Know About National Student Money Week 2025

National Student Money Week (NSMW) is the UK’s biggest annual financial awareness campaign for students. 

Organised by the National Association of Student Money Advisers (NASMA), this week-long event aims to help students develop better financial habits, become more money-savvy, and make informed decisions about managing their finances during university and beyond. 

Every year, NSMW adopts a fresh theme to address key financial challenges students face. In 2025, the theme is “Survive and Thrive: Building Financial Resilience”, focusing on equipping students with the skills and knowledge to not just get by, but to truly flourish financially.

When is National Student Money Week 2025?

Mark your calendars! NSMW 2025 runs from Monday, 3rd March to Friday, 7th March 2025. 

Throughout the week, universities, colleges, and student organisations across the country will be hosting various events, workshops, and activities designed to help students take control of their finances.

Why is National Student Money Week Important?

For many students, university is the first time they are managing their own finances, from budgeting their student loans to dealing with rent, bills, and unexpected expenses. NSMW is all about providing practical, real-world financial education in an engaging and supportive way.

The campaign tackles common financial worries, such as budgeting on a student loan, avoiding debt traps, learning how to save effectively, understanding the cost of living crisis, finding ways to boost income while studying, and developing long-term financial resilience. 

With rising living costs, financial pressure on students is higher than ever, making initiatives like NSMW even more crucial.

What Can Students Expect During NSMW 2025?

NSMW isn’t just about dry financial advice – it’s a fun, interactive, and engaging week filled with activities designed to make learning about money interesting and practical. 

Many universities will be offering free budgeting workshops where students can learn simple, effective ways to manage their money. Expect expert tips on how to stretch your student loan, meal plan on a budget, and cut unnecessary expenses without sacrificing your social life.

Financial experts, student advisors, and even successful graduates will be hosting live webinars and Q&A sessions, allowing students to ask for advice on a variety of financial topics, including student finance applications and side hustles that actually work. 

Many institutions will be running money challenges, such as “The £10 Food Shop Challenge” or “Save £50 in a Week,” helping students get hands-on experience with budgeting. Some universities even offer cash prizes or vouchers for winners.

Students struggling with overdrafts, credit cards, or unexpected debts can attend one-on-one advice clinics with student money advisers. These sessions provide personalised solutions and help students understand how to manage their finances more effectively. 

Many universities also partner with local businesses to offer exclusive discounts on food, travel, and essential student services, alongside handing out free finance guides, planners, and budgeting tools to help students stay on top of their money.

Financial Wellbeing and Mental Health

Financial stress can have a big impact on student wellbeing, so many universities incorporate mental health and finance workshops into their NSMW events. 

These sessions provide guidance on dealing with money anxiety, managing stress, and developing a healthy relationship with money. By focusing on the link between financial wellbeing and mental health, NSMW aims to help students feel more in control of their personal and academic lives.

How to Get Involved

Getting involved in NSMW is easy. Students should check with their university’s student services, as most institutions will have an official schedule of NSMW events. 

Following NASMA on social media is a great way to stay updated on nationwide competitions, webinars, and financial resources. Attending in-person events and workshops can provide hands-on knowledge, while making use of free resources such as budgeting templates and financial planning tools can further help students take charge of their finances. 

The best way to reinforce financial knowledge is by discussing it with others, whether through social media posts or group discussions, as sharing tips can help spread financial awareness among friends.

Final Thoughts

National Student Money Week 2025 is more than just a campaign – it’s a valuable opportunity for students to gain financial confidence and resilience. 

By attending workshops, seeking advice, and engaging with practical money-saving challenges, students can build lifelong financial skills that will serve them well beyond university. 

Whether struggling to balance a budget or simply looking for new ways to be financially savvy, NSMW 2025 offers valuable guidance for students looking to take control of their financial future.

Student Budgeting Tips: Saving Money as a Student

Being a student comes with a lot of freedom, but it also means managing your own finances for the first time.

With the rising costs of living, tuition fees, and unexpected expenses, budgeting can seem like a challenge. However, with the right mindset and a few smart strategies, you can make your money last longer without missing out on the university experience. 

Here are some top tips to help you stay on top of your finances.

Creating a Budget and Sticking to It

The first step to saving money is knowing how much you have and where it’s going. 

Creating a budget and sticking to it is essential. Break your budget down into categories like rent, food, transport, entertainment, and savings. There are plenty of budgeting apps, like Monzo, Yolt, or Mint, that can help you track your spending. 

At the start of each term, calculate your income from student loans, grants, part-time work, and savings, and subtract your fixed expenses like rent, bills, and subscriptions. What’s left is your flexible spending budget for the term, and it’s important not to exceed it.

Making the Most of Student Discounts

One of the best things about being a student is the number of discounts available. 

Many retailers, restaurants, and travel providers offer student deals through platforms like UNiDAYS, Totum, and Student Beans. 

Always ask if a store offers a student discount, even if it’s not advertised. You’d be surprised how many places offer 10–20% off just by showing your student ID.

Smart Grocery Shopping

Food shopping can be one of your biggest expenses, but there are ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality. 

Planning your meals in advance helps to prevent overspending on unnecessary items. Buying own-brand products instead of premium brands can also save a significant amount of money. 

Shopping at discount supermarkets like Aldi and Lidl can offer great value for money, while cooking meals in bulk and freezing portions can save both time and cash in the long run.

Reducing Transport Costs

Traveling can be expensive, but there are plenty of ways to keep costs low. 

Investing in a 16-25 Railcard can save you a third on train fares, while a student bus pass can significantly cut transport costs if you travel frequently. Walking or cycling whenever possible is not only free but also a great way to stay fit. 

If you need to use a car, sharing rides with friends for long trips can help split the cost of fuel.

Affordable Entertainment Options

University life should be fun, but that doesn’t mean you need to spend a fortune on entertainment. 

Many universities host student union events with discounted or free entry. Free cultural experiences such as museum entries, galleries, and local events can also be great alternatives to expensive nights out. If you do go out, look out for happy hour deals to save on food and drinks. 

Furthermore, swapping expensive gym memberships for university sports facilities or outdoor workouts can also help you cut down on costs.

Saving on Course Materials

Course materials can be another costly expense, but there are ways to minimise spending. 

Buying second-hand textbooks from older students or online platforms like eBay and Facebook Marketplace can be much cheaper than purchasing brand-new books. 

Using your university library is a great way to access books for free, and digital versions of textbooks often come at a lower price than physical copies. Some universities also have book-sharing schemes that can help you save money.

Earning Extra Income with Part-Time Work

If you have time, taking on part-time work can provide extra cash to ease financial pressure. 

Many students find work in bars, restaurants, or retail stores. Other options include tutoring, campus jobs such as being a student ambassador or library assistant, and even participating in paid research studies or focus groups. 

These opportunities provide flexibility while allowing you to earn some extra money.

Cutting Down on Utility Bills and Subscriptions

Utility bills and subscriptions can quickly add up, so finding ways to reduce these costs is crucial. 

If you live in shared accommodation, splitting bills fairly with housemates using apps like Splitwise can help keep things organised. Simple habits like turning off lights, unplugging electronics when not in use, and using energy-efficient bulbs can reduce your electricity bill. 

Instead of turning up the heating, layering up with warm clothing can also save money. Cutting down on unnecessary subscriptions such as Netflix, Spotify, and Amazon Prime, or sharing them with housemates, can help you manage your finances more effectively.

Avoiding Peer Pressure to Spend

It’s important to be mindful of peer pressure that can lead to overspending, especially when it comes to nights out, takeaways, or expensive trips. 

Learning to say ‘no’ doesn’t mean missing out – it just means making smarter choices. Instead of spending money on expensive outings, consider budget-friendly alternatives such as home-cooked dinners, movie nights, or attending free local events.

Building an Emergency Fund

Even if you can only save a small amount each month, having a financial safety net is beneficial for unexpected costs. 

Opening a high-interest student savings account, using round-up savings apps that save your spare change, or setting up an automatic transfer to a savings account each payday can help you build up a small emergency fund over time.

Final Thoughts

Budgeting as a student isn’t about cutting out everything fun – it’s about making smarter financial choices so you can enjoy university life without constantly worrying about money. 

By planning ahead, taking advantage of discounts, and making small changes to your spending habits, you’ll be able to make the most of your student years without breaking the bank.

How to Budget for Student Living: A Comprehensive Guide

Budgeting is an essential skill that becomes particularly vital when you’re a student living independently for the first time. 

Balancing academic responsibilities with financial constraints can be challenging, but with proper planning, you can manage your finances effectively. 

This comprehensive guide will provide you with detailed budget planning tips, outline common expenses, and offer strategies on how to save money.

Understanding the Importance of Budgeting

Budgeting isn’t just about restricting your spending; it’s about making sure your money works for you. By keeping track of your income and expenses, you can ensure that you have enough funds to cover your needs while also saving for future goals. 

For students, effective budgeting can mean the difference between having a stress-free academic experience and constantly worrying about finances.

Step-by-Step Budget Planning

The first step in budgeting is knowing how much money you have coming in. For students, income can come from various sources, such as parental support, part-time jobs, scholarships, grants, and student loans. 

Parental support often provides a steady monthly allowance, while part-time jobs can offer additional income. Scholarships and grants significantly reduce financial burdens and should be sought out diligently. Student loans, while essential for many, are borrowed money and must be repaid eventually, so they should be used wisely.

Understanding where your money is going is the next crucial step. Start by listing all your expenses, both fixed and variable. Fixed expenses include rent, utilities, and insurance – costs that remain relatively constant each month. 

Variable expenses can fluctuate and include groceries, entertainment, and transportation. Accurately tracking these can help you see where you might cut costs.

Once you’ve identified your expenses, categorise them into groups such as housing, food, transportation, education, and personal expenses. This helps you prioritise your spending based on needs versus wants. Essentials like rent and groceries should always take precedence over discretionary spending like dining out or entertainment.

With a clear picture of your income and expenses, set a budget for each category. Ensure your total expenses do not exceed your income, and allocate some money towards savings, even if it’s a small amount. 

Furthermore, regularly reviewing your budget is essential to ensure you are sticking to it. Adjust your spending as necessary to stay within your limits. Budgeting apps or spreadsheets can be very helpful tools in tracking your expenses and maintaining financial health.

Common Expenses for Students

Understanding common student expenses can help you create a more accurate and realistic budget. Housing is often the largest expense. Whether you live on campus or rent an apartment, monthly rent, utilities (such as electricity, water, and internet), and renter’s insurance must be factored into your budget.

Food is another significant expense that can vary widely based on your eating habits. Buying groceries to prepare meals at home is generally more cost-effective than dining out or ordering takeout. Planning your meals and buying in bulk can help reduce costs further.

Transportation costs depend largely on your location and lifestyle. Public transportation, such as buses, trains, and subways, can be economical, especially if your school offers discounted student passes. If you own a car, you must consider fuel, maintenance, insurance, and parking fees.

Education-related expenses are unavoidable and essential. Tuition fees are the largest component, but you must also account for books, supplies, and course fees. Consider buying used textbooks or renting them to save money. Additionally, digital versions are usually cheaper than printed ones.

Personal expenses include costs for personal care and leisure activities. Clothing, health and wellness (such as gym memberships and medical expenses), and entertainment are all important to consider. While these can add up, they are also areas where you can often find ways to cut costs without sacrificing too much.

Strategies to Save Money

Living on a student budget can be tight, but there are many strategies to save money without compromising your quality of life. One of the most effective ways to save money is to cook at home. 

Eating out is convenient but expensive. By planning your meals, buying groceries in bulk, and preparing simple, healthy dishes, you can significantly reduce your food expenses.

Take advantage of student discounts wherever possible. Many businesses offer discounts to students, so always carry your student ID and ask if discounts are available at stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues. This can lead to substantial savings over time.

Buying used textbooks or renting them is another great way to save money. Textbooks can be a major expense, but online marketplaces and campus bookstores often have second-hand options. Additionally, digital versions are usually cheaper than print.

Limiting non-essential spending is crucial. Cutting back on expenses, such as coffee shop visits, subscriptions you don’t use, or impulse purchases can make a big difference. Small savings can add up over time and help keep your budget on track.

Using public transportation can save you a lot of money compared to owning a car. If possible, use public transportation, bike, or walk to save money on gas, maintenance, and parking. If you do need a car, consider carpooling to reduce costs.

Sharing housing costs with roommates can significantly reduce your expenses. Splitting rent, utilities, and even groceries can help stretch your budget further. It also provides a social support network, which can be beneficial for your mental health.

Many campuses and communities offer free or low-cost activities and events. Participating in these can be a great way to have fun without spending a lot of money. Additionally, be mindful of your energy consumption. Turn off lights and unplug electronics when not in use to save on utility bills.

Consider earning extra money through part-time work or freelance gigs that fit around your academic schedule. Tutoring, babysitting, or online work can provide additional income. Even a few hours a week can make a significant difference in your budget.

Finally, try to build an emergency fund. Even on a tight budget, saving a small amount regularly for emergencies is crucial. This fund can prevent you from going into debt when unexpected expenses arise.

Tools and Resources

Numerous tools and resources can assist with budgeting. Budgeting apps, such as Mint, YNAB (You Need A Budget), and PocketGuard, can help you track and manage your finances. Most universities have financial aid offices that provide advice and resources for managing money. 

What’s more, it would be good to attend budgeting and financial literacy workshops offered by your school or community organisations. Additionally, websites and blogs dedicated to student finance can offer tips and guidance.

Conclusion

Budgeting for student living is a crucial skill that can set the foundation for a financially stable future. By assessing your income, tracking your expenses, and making informed spending decisions, you can manage your finances effectively. 

Remember to prioritise your needs, take advantage of student discounts, and find ways to save money. With careful planning and discipline, you can enjoy your student life without the constant stress of financial worries.

Learning to budget is a journey, and while it may seem daunting at first, the rewards of financial security and independence are well worth the effort. Start budgeting today and take control of your financial future.