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Best Areas for Postgraduates in Exeter

Choosing where to live as a postgraduate student in Exeter involves balancing campus access, affordability, neighbourhood character, and the type of property you are looking for. This guide covers the key areas and what each one offers for masters and PhD students at the University of Exeter.

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Popular Student Areas

  • Pennsylvania – near Streatham Campus, quiet residential streets
  • St Davids – University links, great transport
  • Heavitree – affordable, good bus routes to campus
  • Mount Pleasant – popular student area, close to city centre
  • City Centre – central location, all amenities nearby
  • St James – favoured by postgraduates and smaller households
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Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is one of the most popular areas for University of Exeter students and arguably the closest of the main residential neighbourhoods to the Streatham campus. Postgraduate students often favour Pennsylvania because of its direct campus access and the mix of quieter streets alongside the busier student areas.

Properties in Pennsylvania include a range of Victorian and Edwardian terraced houses, many of which are managed as student lets. Rents reflect the premium location and strong demand. For postgraduates who prioritise campus proximity above all else, Pennsylvania is usually the first area to consider.

Heavitree

Heavitree sits slightly further from the Streatham campus than Pennsylvania but offers a wider range of property types at generally more competitive rents. The area has a strong bus route into the city and good local amenities, making it a practical choice for postgraduates who want value for money alongside reasonable campus access.

Heavitree is also one of the most settled and community-oriented of the main student residential areas, which can suit postgraduates looking for a neighbourhood feel rather than a purely student-focused environment.

St James and Newtown

St James and the surrounding Newtown area are at the heart of Exeter's undergraduate student market, but also host a significant number of postgraduate students who want to be close to campus and city-centre amenities. The area has a high density of student properties, lively streets, and easy access to both the Streatham campus and the city centre.

Postgraduates who want to be in the middle of student life in Exeter will find St James convenient and well-connected. Those who prefer a quieter environment may find Pennsylvania or Heavitree a better fit.

St Leonards and City Centre

St Leonards is a more affluent residential area south of the city centre, with a mix of independent professionals and some postgraduate and academic tenants. It suits postgraduates who want a quieter, more upscale residential environment at a higher price point. Campus access requires a bus or cycle.

The city centre suits postgraduates who use the Business School, Forum, or city-centre facilities regularly, or who prioritise access to Exeter's amenities over walking distance to the Streatham campus. Rents are generally higher than in the traditional student areas.

For more detail on properties close to the campus, see our postgraduate accommodation guide or browse all student properties in Exeter.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which area of Exeter is closest to the University of Exeter campus?

Pennsylvania and St James are the closest residential areas to the Streatham campus. Heavitree and Newtown are also within a short bus or bike ride.

Which Exeter area is best for postgraduate students on a budget?

Heavitree and Wonford tend to offer lower rents than Pennsylvania and St Leonards while still giving reasonable campus access. The right balance depends on the individual student's priorities.

Is the city centre good for postgraduate students?

The city centre suits postgraduates who use the Business School or Forum regularly, or who want to be close to the city's cafés, restaurants, and amenities. Rents are generally higher and campus access requires a bus or cycle.

Are there quiet residential areas near the University campus?

Yes. Pennsylvania in particular has many quieter streets alongside the concentration of student housing, which can suit postgraduates looking for a more settled environment.

Do postgraduate students usually live alone or in shared houses?

It varies. Some postgraduates prefer a single-occupancy flat or studio for independence and study space. Others prefer a small shared house with one or two other postgraduates or mature students.