News

Is Leeds a Good Student City? Here’s What Data says

Divya Behl ‐ Content & Marketing Specialist
30.03.25 – 02 Mins Read
A view of Leeds’ cityscape with modern high-rise buildings, construction cranes, and a mostly empty multi-lane road in the foreground; some trees line the roadside under a cloudy sky in this dynamic student city.

With over 70 cities in the UK to choose from, deciding where to study can be a challenge. Well, it honestly depends on your priorities as a student, whether you like affordability, vibrant nightlife, shopping, or proximity to national parks. The UK offers a diverse range of cities to suit your needs.

Reports say, Leeds is one of the best cities in the UK and top-ranked among all others as the Best Student Cities UK 2024, voted by students. The city has cultural energy and is a hub of academic excellence with diverse cultural experiences.

Why Leeds is your Perfect University City

Leeds is a city with affordable living costs and top-class amenities. It is an appealing destination for British and international students. After you graduate, the city opens several doors to kickstart your professional journey. As per CIPHR, Leeds, along with London and Manchester, is said to have the highest number of medium and large businesses.

Here’s why the Yorkshire-based city should be on your list when evaluating the universities and cities that are right for your student journey.

Cost of Living

Student living can be a pricey business as there’s so much to embrace and enjoy. Leeds, being an exciting city with so much to learn and explore, gives you the added perk of being more affordable than any other in Southern cities. Living in Leeds can benefit you with the ‘London experience’ without breaking the bank. In fact, research suggests that Leeds is 16.98% cheaper than London overall.

Universities

When picking your ideal university city, the distance between accommodation and the university plays a crucial role. Leeds hosts two prominent universities, the University of Leeds and Leeds Beckett University.

According to a recent report by Russell Group, the University of Leeds is one of the top 100 universities in the world, with around 40,000 students worldwide. The university is known for its strong sense of purpose and commitment to delivering value to stakeholders and communities.

Leeds Beckett University is the city’s second-biggest university, with more than 20,000 students. It has two main campuses: one in the City Centre (just a few steps from the University of Leeds) and the other in a 100-acre park in Headingley, three miles north of the city. Both of these are well-regarded, professional universities boasting excellent facilities.

Vita Student Leeds

Leeds is home to more than 70,000 students in all its universities. Thinking about finding your spot in the heart of the city? Vita should be at the top of your agenda.

Life at Vita

When we talk about student life, their experience abroad is what counts. First, it’s the accommodation—the place that will be your home for the next few years. Then come amenities, transport, and food.  Living abroad comes with its struggles. Going for a student house with everything included is highly recommended, from a free breakfast service designed to energise your studies to safety and unlimited doctor consultations. Hence, you should choose an accommodation that offers a premium living experience with everything covered.

At Vita, we have you covered. With our all-in service at both our buildings in Leeds—Portland Crescent and St Albans—we offer you a home away from home. Come explore our buildings and find your room today!