Aberdeen tops student flat rents

Published on 18/08/2012 14:44

THE COST of renting student flats is soaring – with Aberdeen University the most expensive place in Scotland, according to a new study.

Figures for the whole of the UK show London is the most expensive place to rent a student flat, with people paying an average of £151 a week.

And with more demand for rental accommodation nationwide the figures show costs are rising – with average rents in some areas rising by more than 15 per cent over the last year.

According to figures compiled by SpareRoom.co.uk, 
students in Aberdeen are paying the most in Scotland with an average weekly rent of £101 per week.

The second most expensive place to rent a student flat is Edinburgh, where students pay an average of £94 a week. Glasgow, Strathclyde and the University of the Highlands and Islands in Inverness all share equal place with rents at £86 a week.

Dundee is the cheapest place to rent a student flats, with rents an average of £72.

Matt Hutchinson, director of SpareRoom.co.uk, said: “As tuition fees rise students are 
becoming understandably more cautious about the price of university.

“Whilst many young people now select their university based on the cost of the course, it is also worthwhile looking at the price of accommodation too, particularly as private sector rents are likely to rise over the next three years.

“Our research shows that studying at Oxbridge or any of the London universities is a
pot­entially huge financial investment.

“To save money on accommodation, consider lodging which is generally cheaper and less responsibility, as your landlord will sort out utility bills and this will be included in your monthly rent.”