Let’s be real – choosing where to live as a student isn’t just about cost. It’s about your peace of mind, your daily vibe, and how much energy you’re spending on stuff other than your studies and social life. So if the prices are pretty similar, what’s actually better: student accommodation or private housing? In this blog, we’ll tell you why purpose built student accommodation is much better.
On paper, private housing might look like a good deal. But once you dig deeper, the costs add up fast. In student accommodation like ours, things like electricity, water, heating, and Wi-Fi are included in your rent. With private housing? You’re juggling utility bills, internet providers, and unexpected charges you never saw coming. In a study by UCAS, people living in private housing had the highest dissatisfaction rates with overall cost and value for money. So, that “bargain” house can suddenly feel like a budgeting nightmare.
When something breaks in private housing, who you gonna call? Hopefully, your landlord – but not all of them are known for quick replies. Dripping taps, broken heaters, and mouldy bathrooms can drag on for weeks. Meanwhile, across our student accommodation locations we have a maintenance team ready to help if you need anything at all – just pop any requests into the Fusion app. Having support right there? Total game changer.
In private housing, stability isn’t guaranteed. You might start the year at one price and end up paying more, especially if bills rise or your landlord decides to make changes. In contrast, purpose built student accommodation like Fusion Students come with fixed rent, meaning no mid-year surprises or random increases. When you stay at any of our locations, bills are included in your rent, you’ll get free washing and access to onsite amenities from gyms to basketball courts.
Here’s something people often overlook – how long you’re actually paying rent for. Most private houses come with a 52-week contract and no other option, meaning you’re paying for the full year – even if you’re not living there during the holidays. Student accommodation tends to have more flexibility. At Fusion, we offer a shorter 44-week contract, allowing you to save hundreds of pounds on your total spend! It just makes more sense – why pay for a space you’re not using
Living in private housing comes with extra responsibilities: chasing landlords, splitting bills, and dealing with stress outside of your studies that you just don’t need! Student accommodation, on the other hand, is all about convenience. Your rent covers the bills, support is on-site, and there’s a built-in community. Think social events, shared spaces, and always having people around. Read more about the benefits of our accommodation: The Fusion Feeling
Student accommodation offers way more value. You get stability, support, and way fewer headaches. It’s a space designed for students, with your lifestyle in mind. Private housing might work for some, but it often comes with hidden stress.
At the end of the day, where you live should help you thrive – not distract you from everything that matters most. So take a breath, think about what you need, and choose the place that makes student life feel like a little less of a juggling act.
In locations like York, it can be difficult to choose between purpose built student accommodation and student housing. But, Fusion York can make your decision a lot easier. With an on-site gym, gaming zone, co working areas, free laundry and bills included, you’re set up to thrive here. Learn more: Fusion York Student Accommodation