When you’re moving to a new city for university, the last thing you want is to stress about where you’ll live. Bristol, with its buzzing artsy vibe and top universities, is a great choice for students. But the housing hunt can get a bit overwhelming. With so many websites and providers promising “the best rooms,” how do you even know where to start?
To make things easier, here’s a curated list of the top 10 trusted providers for student accommodation in Bristol. Each one brings something unique to the table. Whether you want a luxury studio, a budget-friendly shared flat, or something right near campus.
1. University Living
If you’re looking for a platform that does more than just list properties, University Living is a solid pick. It caters specifically to international students, helping them find verified, safe, and fully furnished accommodation near their university campus. What makes it stand out is the level of support; students get help with not just housing, but also visa assistance, airport transfers, and even student bank accounts.
Key highlights:
- 24/7 multilingual support team
- Listings vetted for quality and safety
- Filter options by price, distance, amenities, and room types
- Partnered with top student housing providers across Bristol
Whether you want a sleek en-suite near the University of Bristol or a private studio with a gym, this platform helps you compare and book quickly.
2. Joint Living
This one’s for students who prefer shared homes with a community feel. Joint Living focuses on creating co-living spaces that feel more like a home than just a room. They emphasize shared values like sustainability and collaboration, which gives their spaces a unique personality.
Here’s what to expect:
- Fully furnished homes in student-friendly neighborhoods
- All bills included
- Weekly communal cleaning
- Social events and community-building initiatives
It’s a great option if you want to live with like-minded people and make friends from day one.
3. OnTheMarket (Student Section)
You might know OnTheMarket as a property portal, but it also lists student homes in Bristol. It’s a helpful site if you’re exploring traditional lettings or want more independence in your search.
What they offer:
- Listings from various letting agents
- Filter options for student-specific properties
- Good if you’re looking for long-term private rentals
It’s best for students who want to rent directly through agents or explore non-purpose-built student housing.
4. SpareRoom
SpareRoom is a well-known flatshare platform that lists thousands of rooms across Bristol. It’s ideal for students looking to rent directly from current tenants or live-in landlords.
Why students use it:
- Wide range of affordable shared housing
- Useful filters for rent, area, and move-in date
- Buddy-up feature for finding flatmates
It’s a great option if you prefer more flexible or short-term lets outside of traditional student housing providers.
5. Fresh Student Living (Bristol)
Fresh is another big name in the student accommodation world, offering multiple properties across the UK. Their Bristol options are modern, social, and perfect for first-year students.
Why it’s popular:
- Fully inclusive rent
- Flexible contract lengths
- Free events and wellbeing support
- Properties near university campuses
They cater to students who want a good balance between study, social life, and comfort.
6. Almero Student Bristol
Almero Student properties are designed with flexibility and simplicity in mind. They offer both shared flats and private studios, located close to key areas in the city.
What makes them worth a look:
- All-inclusive rent
- Onsite maintenance and management
- Weekly social events
- Proximity to University of Bristol
This is ideal if you want a balance between independence and social living.
7. Bristol Digs
A more local name in the student rental scene, Bristol Digs is run by people who really know the area. They manage a wide variety of student houses and apartments, mostly aimed at second and third-year students.
Here’s what’s offered:
- Houses and flats in all key student areas (Redland, Clifton, Gloucester Rd)
- Personalised service from a local team
- Great for group bookings
If you’re past your first year and want a classic student house with mates, this one’s for you.
8. Prestige Student Living
Looking for luxury? Prestige Student Living is all about high-end rooms, beautiful buildings, and exceptional amenities. It’s on the premium end of the scale, but you do get what you pay for.
Top offerings:
- Smart studios and en-suites
- Gym, cinema room, study pods
- Stylish communal lounges
- Concierge-style services
Ideal for postgrads or students who want more comfort and quiet.
9. StuRents
Think of StuRents as a giant marketplace just for student rentals. It aggregates properties from various landlords and agencies, giving you a bird’s-eye view of what’s available in Bristol.
What’s good here:
- Huge listing variety
- Easy comparison tools
- Group and solo bookings
- Private housing as well as PBSA options
It’s great if you want to explore everything in one place before narrowing down.
10. Student Roost (Bristol Locations)
Student Roost properties are designed for community living. They’ve got multiple sites in Bristol, each with a focus on student wellbeing and experience.
Features you’ll find:
- Friendly onsite teams
- Social spaces and events
- Options for shared flats and private rooms
- Flexible payment plans
They’re known for being student-friendly and reasonably priced without cutting corners on quality.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right student accommodation in Bristol is all about knowing what you want. Be it a luxury studio, a budget-friendly flatshare, or a student community where everyone actually says hi in the hallway. Each of these platforms brings something different, so take your time, compare your options, and think beyond just the rent.
After all, your room isn’t just where you sleep. It’s where you study, cook, make memories, and occasionally cry over deadlines. So yeah, it matters.
