Everything You Need To Know About Living in Exeter

Are you thinking about living in Exeter as a student? This city in Devon has so much to offer, from great universities to an exciting student life. Whether you’re planning to study at the University of Exeter or considering other options, this blog has everything you need to prepare.

We’ll talk about universities , student rent , cost of living and so much more. You’ll also learn about local attractions, transport options, and how to enjoy your time here. If you’re considering Exeter for your studies, this guide will help you feel ready to start your journey!

Exeter city aerial view

Universities in Exeter

Exeter is home to the University of Exeter, a top-rated university known for its excellent teaching and research. It offers a wide range of courses, from science and business to the arts. The university is also known for its beautiful campus and supportive student community. Students enjoy great facilities, including modern libraries and study spaces.

Exeter College is another popular choice for students. It provides a range of higher education and vocational courses. The college focuses on practical learning and helping students get real-world skills.

Both institutions are located in a welcoming city with plenty to do. Whether you’re aiming for academic success or hands-on experience, Exeter has great options to support your goals.

Exeter College

Is it expensive to live in Exeter as a student?

Living in Exeter as a student is quite manageable, especially with smart budgeting.

Accommodation options vary, so you can save by opting for shared spaces or spend more for modern amenities and prime locations. There’s something to suit every preference.

Beyond housing, planning for essentials like food, transport, and social activities is key. Luckily, Exeter is a student-friendly city with plenty of affordable shops, cafes, and discounts tailored to students. Public transport is cost-effective, but many students find the city’s compact layout perfect for walking or cycling, saving even more.

With careful budgeting and an eye for deals, you can enjoy an exciting student life in Exeter while keeping expenses under control. It’s a city that offers great value for its student  experience.

Girl budgeting for living in Exeter

Student Accommodation in Exeter

Students in Exeter have plenty of accommodation options to suit different needs and budgets.

University-owned accommodation is a popular choice for first-year students. It offers convenience and a ready-made community, but spaces can be limited and they often don’t have as many as amenities as other choices.

Private student accommodation is another great option. These buildings often include en-suite rooms, modern facilities, and social spaces. They are comfortable and close to campus, but the cost can vary ranging from £155 to £350 per week, depending on the amenities you are after.

For those wanting more independence, student houses are ideal. These are often shared with friends and can be more affordable. However, you might need to manage bills and maintenance yourself, so that is an added expense to consider.

Here are some of our student accommodation options in Exeter:

Students in a living room

Cost of Living in Edinburgh

Rent

Rent in Exeter depends on the type of accommodation you choose.

You can expect to spend anywhere around £155 to £350 per person ,per week for student accommodation in Exeter. If you are okay with the basic amenities , you can easily find accommodation on the lower end of the range , whereas if you are after luxury student living in Exeter , you can expect to pay in the higher end of the range mentioned.

Students in the kitchen of an accommodation

Groceries

Exeter has plenty of options for grocery shopping, catering to different budgets. If you shop at stores like Tesco or Sainsbury’s, you can expect to spend around £30 per week on groceries.

For more budget-friendly choices, Lidl and Aldi offer great value, bringing your weekly spend down to about £25. Over the course of a month, your grocery expenses may range from £150 to £200, depending on where you shop and your personal spending habits.

Person grocery shopping

Travel

Exeter is an easy city to get around, with plenty of transport options to suit every preference. Buses are the easiest choice for students, with single tickets costing just £2. For frequent travellers, there are great deals available, such as day rider tickets and return options, making bus travel affordable and convenient.

For those looking to explore neighbouring cities, the train system is an efficient option, connecting Exeter to surrounding areas quickly and reliably.

If you prefer a more active way to travel, the city offers dedicated cycling routes, perfect for getting to campus or exploring. Thanks to its compact size, Exeter is also easy to navigate on foot, making it a student-friendly city in every sense.

Bus in Exeter

Eating Out

When it comes to eating out, you can enjoy a good meal for around £12 at many student-friendly cafes and restaurants. For drinks, expect to pay about £4–£5 for a drinks at local spots.

Exeter also has great deals for students, with many places offering discounts or happy hours, so you can enjoy a night out without spending too much.

Whether you’re grabbing food with friends, exploring the city’s nightlife, or enjoying live music, Exeter offers a great social scene at prices that won’t break your budget.

A group of people eating out

Is Exeter good for student life?

Exeter is a fantastic city for student life. The city is known for its welcoming atmosphere and has plenty to do for students. You can explore historic sites like Exeter Cathedral, relax by the River Exe, or visit the trendy cafes and independent shops in the city centre. For nightlife, there are student-friendly pubs, bars, and clubs with affordable drinks and great vibes.

Exeter is also renowned for its live music scene, cosy theatres, and festivals, giving students plenty of entertainment options. With so much to do and affordable options for meals, drinks, and activities, Exeter offers the perfect balance of fun and practicality for student life.

Students having fun in Exeter

We hope you found this blog on Everything You Need To Know About Living in Exeter helpful. Exeter is a great choice for students, offering a mix of good universities, fun student life, and a friendly community. There are lots of accommodation options to suit different needs, and the city is affordable and easy to get around.

Whether you’re just arriving or planning your next move, Exeter has everything you need to make your student experience enjoyable and memorable. It’s a city that’s perfect for learning, making friends, and creating great memories.

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