The Main Differences Between Houses and Flats for Students
The choice between a student house and a student flat in Exeter usually comes down to group size, budget, and how much space and independence you want. Student houses are almost always better suited to groups of three or more who want to live together, share costs, and have a dedicated communal area. Student flats are more practical for solo students or couples who want more independence and a city-centre location.
Most Exeter student accommodation is in shared houses. Flats are available but represent a smaller proportion of the market, particularly in the traditional student areas close to the University of Exeter campus.
Cost Comparison: Houses vs Flats
On a per-person basis, student houses in Exeter are generally more cost-effective than flats. A 4-bedroom house split between four students typically produces a lower individual rent than a studio or one-bedroom flat in a comparable location. Purpose-built student accommodation with private ensuite rooms sits at a higher price point and includes more individual services within the rent.
The right choice depends on what you are comparing. A group let in a student house is usually the most cost-effective option for students who want to live together. A city-centre flat may cost more individually but provides a different lifestyle and more central location.
Location: Where Houses and Flats Are Found
Student houses in Exeter are most concentrated in St James, Heavitree, and Pennsylvania — the traditional student areas that sit within cycling or walking distance of the Streatham campus. These areas have high student density and are well-served by buses and local amenities.
Flats, both privately let and purpose-built, are more common in the city centre and immediate surrounds. City-centre flats suit students who want easy access to Exeter's shops, restaurants, and nightlife, or who are studying at the city-centre campus rather than Streatham.
What Suits Different Types of Student
Student houses suit groups who already know their flatmates, are comfortable with a shared-house dynamic, and want value for money alongside a typical student social environment. Most undergraduate house-shares in Exeter are booked by groups of friends in the second year of their degree.
Flats suit students who prefer a more private arrangement, including those returning from a year abroad, international students who arrive without a ready-made group, or postgraduate students who want a quieter setup. Postgraduates often have a slightly different set of priorities, which is covered in more detail on our postgraduate accommodation page.
Browse our available student properties at /student-accommodation/exeter.