At Student Digs, we know that finding somewhere to live is only part of the student experience. Where you live can shape your routine and how easy it is to get to university, so choosing the right area and accommodation is important.
Liverpool is one of the UK’s best-known student cities, with a large student population and plenty to do outside of lectures. With the University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) and Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA) all based in the city, students have a wide choice of courses, communities and places to live.
From live music and independent cafés to football, green spaces and some of the UK’s best-known nightlife, there’s plenty to explore. Whether you’re moving to Liverpool for your first year or returning for another year of university, this guide covers what student life in Liverpool is really like, including where to live and what to do in your free time.
Living in Liverpool as a Student
One of the reasons Liverpool is popular with students is the range of accommodation and lifestyle options available across the city. Different neighbourhoods offer very different experiences, from being right in the centre of the action to living in a traditional student area surrounded by other shared houses.
Liverpool is also a relatively compact city, making it easy to get around. Many popular student areas are within walking distance of university campuses, while buses and rail services make it straightforward to travel further across the city and beyond.
Your accommodation will be one of your biggest considerations when budgeting for university. Alongside rent, remember to account for food, transport, course materials and social activities.
If you want to make managing your monthly budget easier, bills-inclusive Liverpool student accommodation can help by bringing household costs together rather than requiring you to manage separate payments for utilities.
Liverpool Student Accommodation
Finding the right student accommodation is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make before starting university. When comparing Liverpool student accommodation, consider:
Location: Think about how close you’ll be to university, shops, supermarkets, nightlife and public transport.
Budget: Work out what you can comfortably afford each month and check exactly what is included in the rent.
Bills: Bills-inclusive accommodation can make budgeting simpler, particularly when you’re sharing with other students.
Housemates: If you’re moving into a shared house, consider who you’ll be living with and how many people will share the property.
Security: Check that the property has suitable locks, secure entrances and is well maintained.
Transport: If you aren’t within walking distance of your university, check the local bus and transport connections before booking.
Where Do Students Live in Liverpool?
Liverpool has several popular student areas, each with its own character.
Liverpool City Centre: A popular choice for students who want to be close to shops, restaurants, nightlife and entertainment. Living centrally can also make getting around the city easier, particularly if you’re studying at LJMU or one of the University of Liverpool’s city-centre campuses. You can explore our Liverpool student properties to see what’s currently available.
Smithdown Road: One of Liverpool’s best-known student areas. It’s particularly popular with students looking for shared houses and offers plenty of independent cafés, takeaways, shops and other amenities.
Kensington: Close to the city centre and is another established student area. Its location makes it convenient for students who want relatively easy access to university campuses and the city centre while looking for a wider range of accommodation options.
The Baltic Triangle: One of Liverpool’s most creative neighbourhoods, with independent businesses, cafés, food venues, events and converted warehouse spaces. Its location close to the city centre makes it particularly convenient for students who want to be near Liverpool’s cultural and social scene.
The best area for you will depend on your university, budget and the type of student lifestyle you’re looking for.
When Should You Start Looking for Student Accommodation in Liverpool?
It’s a good idea to start researching your options well before your intended move-in date. Popular properties and larger houses suitable for groups can become unavailable as the academic year approaches.
If you’re looking for student accommodation for a September start, starting your search during the previous academic year gives you more time to compare properties, understand contracts and decide which area suits you.
If you have questions about deposits, contracts or the booking process, take a look at our student accommodation FAQs or contact the Student Digs team.
Things to Do in Liverpool for Students
University isn’t all lectures and studying. Liverpool has plenty to offer when you’re looking for something to do outside of your course.
Waterfront
Liverpool’s waterfront is one of the city’s most recognisable areas. The Royal Albert Dock is home to museums, galleries, restaurants and attractions, making it an easy place to spend an afternoon with friends. You can also walk along the River Mersey and take in views across the water without spending anything.
Music History
Liverpool’s music scene is closely associated with The Beatles, but there’s much more to the city’s musical identity than its most famous band. The Cavern Quarter and Mathew Street are closely linked to Liverpool’s music history, while venues across the city continue to host live music throughout the year.
Nightlife
Liverpool has a particularly strong nightlife scene, with student nights, live music venues, bars and clubs spread across the city centre. Concert Square and the Cavern Quarter are well-known choices for a night out, while Seel Street and the Baltic Triangle offer a mixture of bars, restaurants and independent venues.
If you’re new to the city, exploring different areas is a good way to find the places that suit you rather than sticking to the same student venues every week.
Football
Football is a huge part of life in Liverpool. The city is home to two Premier League clubs, Liverpool FC and Everton FC, and both have a long-standing connection with the city. Even if you’re not a football fan, experiencing a matchday atmosphere can be a memorable part of student life in Liverpool.
Parks and Green Spaces
When you need a break from city life, Liverpool has plenty of green spaces to explore. Sefton Park is a popular choice for walks, picnics and meeting friends, while Crosby Beach is another great option for getting out of the city centre. The beach is particularly well known for Another Place, Antony Gormley’s installation of cast-iron figures along the shoreline.
Food Scene
Liverpool has a diverse food scene, with plenty of independent restaurants, cafés and street-food venues to choose from. Bold Street is particularly well known for its range of international restaurants and independent businesses, while the Baltic Triangle is home to a number of food and drink venues.
Making the Most of Student Life in Liverpool
One of the best things about studying in Liverpool is the variety of experiences available outside university. Getting involved in societies, joining a sports club, exploring different parts of the city and meeting people outside your course can all help you settle into student life.
Where you choose to live can make a difference too. Think about what matters most to you. Whether that’s being close to campus, having a short journey into the city centre, living with a group of friends or keeping your accommodation costs predictable.
At Student Digs, we have student properties across Liverpool to suit different locations, group sizes and budgets. Ready to start looking? Browse our available Liverpool student accommodation or contact the Student Digs team if you need help finding a property that’s right for you.
Explore Student Life in Other UK Cities
Considering other university cities? Read our other student life guides:
