Top 5 Student-Friendly Areas to Live in Exeter

Exeter is a fantastic city for students, offering a blend of history, vibrant culture, and great living options. If you’re looking for the best places to live while studying, choosing the right area can make all the difference. To help you decide, here are the top 5 student-friendly areas to live in Exeter, each offering something unique for students looking for convenience, social life, and affordability.

1. St Leonards

Ideal for: University of Exeter students who want to be close to campus.

Located just a short walk from the University of Exeter, St Leonards is a popular choice for students looking for a mix of convenience and tranquillity. The area is known for its charming Victorian houses, leafy streets, and proximity to local shops, cafés, and parks.

Why it’s great for students:
- Walkable to the university
- Quiet, residential vibe ideal for studying
- Plenty of local amenities, including grocery stores and cafes
- Close to the city centre

Rent in St Leonards typically ranges from £[X] to £[Y] per month for shared accommodation. It’s perfect for students who value being close to both university and nature, with Exeter's Northernhay Gardens nearby.

2. Heavitree

Ideal for: Students looking for a mix of suburban charm and easy access to Exeter city centre.

Heavitree offers a more laid-back atmosphere while still being well-connected to Exeter’s key student hotspots. Just a short bus ride from the University of Exeter, Heavitree is perfect for those who prefer a quieter area but still want quick access to campus and city life.

Why it’s great for students:
- Affordable rental options
- Excellent bus links to the university and city centre
- Green spaces and parks, such as Heavitree Park, ideal for relaxation
- Good selection of local pubs and eateries

Expect to pay around £[X] to £[Y] for shared houses, and slightly higher for private flats or studios. Heavitree’s blend of peaceful living and proximity to Exeter's bustling centre makes it a top pick for students.

3. St Thomas

Ideal for: Students on a budget who want easy access to the city and riverfront.

St Thomas is one of the more affordable student-friendly areas in Exeter, located just across the River Exe from the city centre. It offers a variety of rental properties, from shared houses to student flats, making it an attractive option for students who need more affordable accommodation without sacrificing convenience.

Why it’s great for students:
- Affordable rents, ideal for those on a tight budget
- Great transport links to the university and Exeter city centre
- Access to green spaces, including the Quay area along the river
- A lively community with plenty of local cafes and shops

Rent prices typically range from £[X] to £[Y], with shared houses often being more budget-friendly. The area is popular among students looking for more affordable housing options while still being close to university and the city.

4. Topsham

Ideal for: Students who want a peaceful, village-style atmosphere with easy access to Exeter.

If you’re after a more unique, picturesque area to live in, Topsham could be the perfect choice. Located just a short train ride from Exeter, this former fishing village offers stunning riverside views, charming architecture, and a slower pace of life. While it’s a little further from the University of Exeter, Topsham’s peaceful environment is ideal for students who prefer a quieter lifestyle.

Why it’s great for students:
- Beautiful riverside area with lots of green space
- Unique, quaint vibe that’s different from the typical student scene
- Access to local cafes, shops, and the Exeter Quay
- Short commute to the city centre by train or bus

Rent in Topsham can vary but typically ranges from £[X] to £[Y]. While it might be slightly pricier than some other areas, its appeal as a peaceful, picturesque location makes it perfect for students seeking a quieter place to study and live.

5. City Centre (Exeter)

Ideal for: Students who want to be right in the heart of the action and close to everything.

For students who want to be at the centre of it all, living in Exeter city centre is hard to beat. Offering a dynamic mix of shopping, dining, entertainment, and student life, the city centre is ideal for those who enjoy being in the middle of the action. Plus, it’s just a short walk or bus ride to the University of Exeter and other student hotspots.

Why it’s great for students:
- Quick access to the university and other amenities
- Close to student-friendly cafes, bars, shops, and entertainment
- Easy transport options for getting around Exeter and beyond
- Vibrant nightlife and cultural scene

Rent in Exeter’s city centre can vary widely depending on the property type, but for shared houses or flats, expect rates from £[X] to £[Y]. Living in the heart of Exeter offers ultimate convenience, making it a popular choice for students who want everything at their doorstep.

Why Choose Star Students for Accommodation in Exeter?

At Star Students, we offer a wide range of student accommodation options across these great areas in Exeter. Whether you're looking for a quiet home in St Leonards or a bustling flat in the city centre, we have something to suit every student’s needs and budget.