These are the five best Russell Group uni cities to live in – and they’re all up north

Starting university and moving to an unfamiliar place can be daunting. So much so that you might be too wrapped up in what the campus looks like and how big the library is, that you might forget to look at other very important things, like how many pubs there are in walking range and how safe the area is.

Obviously, things like rent and academic integrity are important to consider as well before choosing your new postcode. The vibe of the city is just as important as the vibe of the campus, if not more so.

The quality of your student city can greatly impact your student experience.

A recent study conducted by the University of Technology Sydney Online has ranked student cities by four factors: Social life, wellbeing, study and work, and costs. With these factors in mind, here are the top five best Russell Group uni cities to live in as a student.

5. Southampton

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The University of Southampton is well recognised for its academic excellence in engineering sciences. Scoring higher in academic areas rather than social categories. Despite having a lower score for social attributes, studying at the University of Southampton would give you the chance to adopt an affordable coastal lifestyle.

Alumni have stated that student life in Southampton is generally a positive experience, with pleasant memories to be made on campus and out in the city.

However, many student have noted the dullness of the city and compared to bigger student cities like Manchester or Leeds, the nightlife could do with a few improvements.

4. Manchester

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Manchester offers lots of social and academic opportunities for its students. With lots of music, football and shopping to keep you busy, there are also many career opportunities to be found if you are more academic focused.

If you see yourself living in a busy city, the University of Manchester might be for you.

Manchester is one of the most expensive cities and so rent is slightly higher (around £1,191 per month) than some northern universities, but rent prices are still significantly lower than in London. Alongside rent, transport costs are also very high but, there are plenty of gyms and a coffee shop round every corner.

Although, being one of the biggest student cities does come at a cost. Manchester has been ranked poorly for its lack of greenery and somewhat unsafeness. Manchester has a reputation for poor standards of living in student accommodation.

3. Sheffield

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Sheffield offers a great mix of affordability and student culture and easily placed within the best Russell Group uni cities to live in as a student.

The price for a pint is relatively low and with affordable rent, £1,000 per month, a life in Sheffield is ideal for a like-minded student. With endless access to concerts and gigs as well as plenty of public libraries to keep you occupied during your time at university.

With good levels of safety and excellent academic support for students, Sheffield is a likely candidate for a well-rounded, student city.

2. York

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This student city expertly combines historic charm with modern student culture. With high scores across social life, study support, and student costs, York is a good pick for university.

Ranked highly for safety and healthcare, York is scattered with public libraries, green spaces and gyms. With the lowest grocery and utility costs in the country and affordable rent, £947 per month, York is perfect if you have an eye for stunning scenery and historical architecture.

While the nightlife is quieter than other cities, York is the perfect place to study is you’re wanting less clubbing and more study support.

1. Durham

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The best Russell Group university city for student living is Durham, ranked the safest city in the UK. Durham also scores highly in academic related areas with a vast array of study spaces for its many student inhabitants.

With affordable transport and average rent, £1,075 per month, Durham is the perfect student city. With an impressive academic reputation and strong sense of community, prices for coffee and beer are low and student life at Durham is safe and full of culture.

Even though some previous students have commented on the more quieter nightlife scene, Durham’s other appealing attributes make up for it.

Durham is the best Russell Group uni city and an excellent choice for students.

Featured image via Unsplash/Pexels/Pixabay