Preston is one of the UK’s most practical student cities, offering a strong mix of affordability, convenience and student-focused living. Home to the University of Central Lancashire, the city has a compact layout that makes it easier for students to walk between campus, accommodation, shops, cafés, nightlife and transport links without relying heavily on buses or taxis.
Choosing where to live in Preston can make a big difference to your university experience. Some areas are best for first-year students who want to be close to lectures and social spaces, while others suit students looking for cheaper rent, quieter surroundings, private studios or shared houses with friends.
Table of Contents
- Best Student Areas in Preston at a Glance
- Corporation Street: Best Overall Student Area in Preston
- City Centre / Friargate: Best for Nightlife and Convenience
- Moor Lane / Brook Street: Best for Walking to UCLan
- Adelphi: Best for Student Community and Shared Houses
- Plungington: Best for Budget Students
- Avenham / Broadgate: Best for Quieter City Living
- Fulwood: Best for a Quieter Residential Feel
- Best Student Area Near UCLan
- Best Area for Student Studios in Preston
- Studio vs Ensuite vs Shared House in Preston
- Best Area for International Students
- Best Area for Mature Students and Postgraduates
- Is Preston Safe for Students?
- PBSA vs Shared Housing in Preston
- How to Choose the Right Preston Student Area
- Recommended Student Accommodation in Preston: The Tramshed
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Find Student Accommodation in Preston
This guide compares the best student areas in Preston by location, budget, walkability, accommodation type and lifestyle, helping you decide which part of the city is right for you before you book.
If you’re ready to compare current options, you can explore Student Accommodation Preston, browse StudentFM’s wider Preston student accommodation listings, or take a closer look at The Tramshed, located on Corporation Street close to UCLan.
Best Student Areas in Preston at a Glance
| Area | Best For | Walk to UCLan | Accommodation Type | Price Level |
| Corporation Street | Best overall | 3 – 8 mins | PBSA, ensuites, studios | ££ |
| City Centre / Friargate | Nightlife & convenience | 5 – 10 mins | PBSA, studios | ££ – £££ |
| Moor Lane / Brook Street | Closest to campus | 1 – 6 mins | Halls, PBSA, ensuites | £ – ££ |
| Adelphi | Student community | 8 – 12 mins | Shared houses, flats | £ – ££ |
| Plungington | Budget students | 10 – 15 mins | HMOs, shared houses | £ |
| Avenham / Broadgate | Quieter city living | 10 – 20 mins | Flats, shared houses | £ – ££ |
| Fulwood | Mature students / residential | Bus or bike | Houses, flats | £ – ££ |
Corporation Street: Best Overall Student Area in Preston
If you’re looking for the best all-round student area in Preston, Corporation Street is hard to beat. Situated just a short walk from the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) campus and Preston city centre, it offers the ideal balance of convenience, modern accommodation and student-friendly facilities.
For many students, location is one of the biggest deciding factors when choosing where to live. Living on Corporation Street means you can walk to lectures in just a few minutes while also being close to supermarkets, cafés, restaurants, gyms and Preston’s main shopping streets. Having everything within easy reach makes day-to-day student life much simpler and helps reduce travel costs throughout the academic year.
Corporation Street is particularly popular with first-year students, international students and anyone looking for the convenience of Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA). Modern PBSA developments provide professionally managed accommodation with on-site support, secure entry systems and facilities designed specifically for students.
One of the standout accommodation options in the area is The Tramshed. Located on Corporation Street, it offers modern student living within easy walking distance of UCLan, making it an excellent choice for students who want to be close to both campus and the city centre. If you’d like to see the building before booking, you can also arrange a visit through the Tramshed Viewing page.
Accommodation on Corporation Street also caters to a range of different lifestyles and budgets. Whether you’re considering a private studio for maximum independence or an ensuite room with shared kitchen facilities, there are options to suit different preferences. If you’re unsure which room type is right for you, our guide comparing Ensuite vs Studio Student Accommodation explains the advantages of each in more detail.
Another major benefit of choosing modern PBSA on Corporation Street is the convenience of all-inclusive living. Many properties include utility bills, high-speed Wi-Fi, contents insurance and access to communal facilities within the rent, making it much easier to manage your monthly budget. You can find out exactly what is typically included in our guide to What’s Included in Student Accommodation in the UK.
For students who want the easiest transition into university life, excellent access to UCLan, modern facilities and a central location close to everything Preston has to offer, Corporation Street remains one of the strongest places to live in the city.
City Centre / Friargate: Best for Nightlife and Convenience
For students who want to be at the heart of everything Preston has to offer, the City Centre and Friargate are among the most desirable places to live. This part of the city is packed with cafés, restaurants, bars, supermarkets, shops and entertainment, making it ideal for students who enjoy an active social life outside of lectures.
Friargate is particularly well known as one of Preston’s busiest student streets, with a wide choice of places to eat, meet friends and enjoy evenings out. Living here means you’ll rarely have to travel far for food, coffee, shopping or nightlife, while UCLan is still within comfortable walking distance.
The city centre is also a great option for students who regularly travel home or explore other parts of the UK. Preston Railway Station is only a short walk away, providing direct connections to cities including Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, Glasgow and London. This makes the area especially attractive for students who commute occasionally or expect family and friends to visit throughout the year.
Because of its prime location, accommodation in the city centre can be slightly more expensive than some of Preston’s more residential or budget-focused neighbourhoods. However, many students feel the extra convenience is worthwhile, particularly if they value being able to walk almost everywhere and enjoy easy access to local amenities every day.
While the City Centre and Friargate offer an exciting student lifestyle, they may not be the quietest places to live. The higher footfall, evening activity and busy streets can create a livelier atmosphere, making this area best suited to students who enjoy being surrounded by the energy of city life rather than those looking for complete peace and quiet.
If you’re considering student accommodation in a vibrant, professionally managed environment, our guide to Living With Us explains what you can expect from StudentFM accommodation. Before deciding on your budget, it’s also worth reading our comprehensive Student Budgeting UK Cost Guide to understand the total cost of student living beyond just your weekly rent.
Moor Lane / Brook Street: Best for Walking to UCLan
If your top priority is living as close to the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) as possible, Moor Lane and Brook Street are excellent choices. Located on the edge of the main campus, these areas allow many students to reach lectures, libraries, study spaces and university facilities within just a few minutes on foot.
This convenience is particularly valuable for first-year students who are still getting to know Preston. Being able to walk to early morning lectures, return home between classes or quickly access campus resources can make university life much easier and reduce the need for public transport or long daily commutes.
Accommodation around Moor Lane and Brook Street is largely made up of purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) and university-style halls, making it well suited to students who want an organised, student-focused living environment. These developments often include all-inclusive bills, high-speed Wi-Fi, secure entry systems and communal social spaces, allowing students to focus on their studies while enjoying the benefits of professionally managed accommodation.
Compared with the City Centre and Friargate, Moor Lane and Brook Street are less focused on nightlife and entertainment. Instead, the area appeals to students who value practicality, convenience and being close to everything they need for day-to-day university life. Although restaurants, cafés and shops are still within easy walking distance, the emphasis here is very much on campus access rather than evening socialising.
For students studying at UCLan, this location offers one of the shortest and simplest commutes in Preston, making it a popular option for both UK and international students who want to settle into university life with minimal hassle.
If you’re specifically looking for accommodation close to the university, you may also find our guides on Why Students Choose UCLan Accommodation, Where Can I Find UCLan Student Accommodation? and The Best UCLan Student Accommodation helpful when comparing your options.
Adelphi: Best for Student Community and Shared Houses
Adelphi has long been one of Preston’s most established student neighbourhoods and is particularly popular with second and third-year students looking to move out of halls and into shared housing with friends. The area has a strong student community, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the academic year and making it easy to meet other students living nearby.
Unlike purpose-built student accommodation, Adelphi is dominated by traditional shared houses and private rentals. For many students, this offers greater independence and flexibility, allowing friendship groups to rent an entire property together while enjoying more space than they might find in larger PBSA developments.
The area is also well positioned for student life beyond the classroom. A variety of pubs, takeaways, cafés and local shops are within walking distance, while UCLan and Preston city centre remain easily accessible on foot. This combination of convenience and community makes Adelphi an attractive choice for students who want to experience a more traditional university lifestyle.
One of the main advantages of living in Adelphi is the opportunity to enjoy independent living while sharing costs with housemates. However, there are also additional responsibilities to consider. Depending on the property, tenants may need to organise utility bills, broadband and other household expenses themselves, and the quality of accommodation and landlord management can vary considerably. It’s always worth viewing properties carefully and checking exactly what’s included before signing a tenancy agreement.
If you’re considering renting with friends, our guide to Shared Student Accommodation explains the benefits and potential challenges of house sharing. You can also compare the advantages of shared housing with modern student developments in our guide to Private Student Accommodation vs PBSA. Before making a final decision, it’s worth reading our advice on Choosing Your Accommodation Wisely to ensure you find a property that suits both your budget and your lifestyle.
Plungington: Best for Budget Students
For students looking to keep accommodation costs as low as possible, Plungington is one of the most affordable areas to live in Preston. Located just north of UCLan, it has become a popular choice for students who prioritise lower weekly rent over premium facilities, making it especially attractive to those in their second or third year of university.
The area is well known for its large number of shared houses and Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), offering plenty of options for friendship groups who want to rent together. In many cases, accommodation in Plungington is more affordable than purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) located closer to the city centre, helping students stretch their budgets further throughout the academic year.
Despite its lower rental prices, Plungington remains within comfortable walking distance of UCLan for many students. Depending on the exact location of your property, lectures, libraries and campus facilities can often be reached in around 10 to 20 minutes on foot, making it a practical option for those who don’t mind a slightly longer walk in exchange for cheaper rent.
Plungington is generally best suited to students who are comfortable with private renting and the additional responsibilities that can come with it. Unlike many PBSA developments, private rentals may require tenants to organise utility bills, broadband and other household services separately. Tenancy agreements can also vary in length, and the level of landlord support differs from one property to another, so it’s important to read contracts carefully and understand exactly what is included before committing.
Before choosing a budget-friendly property, it’s worth considering the overall cost of living rather than focusing solely on weekly rent. Our Student Budgeting UK Cost Guide explains how accommodation, bills and everyday expenses add up over the academic year. You can also compare the benefits of All-Inclusive Student Accommodation if you prefer fixed monthly costs, and learn more about tenancy requirements in our guide to Guarantor Student Accommodation.
Avenham / Broadgate: Best for Quieter City Living
If you’d like to stay close to Preston city centre without living in the busiest student neighbourhoods, Avenham and Broadgate are excellent areas to consider. Situated just south of the city centre, these neighbourhoods offer a more relaxed atmosphere while still providing convenient access to both UCLan and the amenities that make student life enjoyable.
These areas are particularly popular with postgraduate students, mature students and anyone who prefers a quieter living environment. While you’ll still find students living here, Avenham and Broadgate are generally less dominated by student accommodation than areas such as Corporation Street or Adelphi, resulting in a calmer day-to-day experience.
One of the biggest attractions is the abundance of green space. Avenham Park and Miller Park sit alongside the River Ribble, providing scenic walking routes, open lawns and peaceful places to relax, study outdoors or exercise. For students wanting a better balance between university life and personal wellbeing, having these parks nearby is a significant advantage.
Depending on your exact location, UCLan can usually be reached on foot within 15 to 25 minutes, while Preston city centre, shops, cafés, restaurants and Preston Railway Station also remain easily accessible. This makes Avenham and Broadgate ideal for students who want convenience without the constant activity found in Preston’s busiest student districts.
Although purpose-built student accommodation is less common here than in Corporation Street, you’ll find a mixture of private apartments, converted properties and shared houses that appeal to students looking for a quieter place to call home.
If you’re comparing neighbourhoods, it’s also worth reading our guides on Safety and Wellbeing and Living With Us to understand what to look for when choosing accommodation that supports both your studies and your overall university experience.
Fulwood: Best for a Quieter Residential Feel
Fulwood is one of Preston’s most established residential neighbourhoods, offering a quieter alternative to the busier student areas surrounding UCLan. With tree-lined streets, family homes and a more suburban atmosphere, it’s well suited to students who value peace, privacy and a slower pace of life.
The area is particularly popular with mature students, postgraduate students and those who may be studying for longer courses or placements. Rather than being centred around student nightlife, Fulwood offers a more relaxed environment that’s ideal for focusing on studies while still having access to the wider city.
One of the trade-offs is location. Fulwood isn’t generally within easy walking distance of the majority of UCLan campus buildings, so many students choose to travel by bus, bike or car depending on where they’re living. Preston’s transport links make commuting straightforward, but it’s worth factoring travel time into your daily routine.
Accommodation here is typically made up of private houses, apartments and residential rentals rather than large purpose-built student accommodation developments. This contributes to the quieter atmosphere but also means there are fewer student-focused amenities immediately on your doorstep.
For first-year students looking to meet lots of new people, enjoy busy social spaces and walk to lectures within minutes, Fulwood is usually not the strongest option. Areas such as Corporation Street, Moor Lane or Adelphi generally offer a more traditional student experience. However, for students who prioritise calm surroundings, personal space and a more residential lifestyle, Fulwood remains one of Preston’s most attractive neighbourhoods.
Best Student Area Near UCLan
The best area to live near UCLan ultimately depends on your priorities, whether that’s being close to lectures, enjoying Preston’s nightlife or finding the most affordable accommodation. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
- Best overall: Corporation Street – Offers an excellent balance of location, modern accommodation, city-centre convenience and easy access to UCLan. It’s home to The Tramshed, making it one of the most popular choices for both UK and international students.
- Closest to campus: Moor Lane / Brook Street – Ideal if you want to minimise your daily walk and be just minutes from lectures and university facilities.
- Best for nightlife: City Centre / Friargate 0 Perfect for students who want restaurants, cafés, bars, shops and entertainment all within walking distance.
- Best value: Plungington – A great option for students looking to reduce accommodation costs while remaining within walking or cycling distance of UCLan.
- Best for shared houses: Adelphi – A traditional student neighbourhood that’s especially popular with second and third-year students looking to share with friends.
If you’re still deciding, our complete guide to Student Accommodation in Preston compares the city’s accommodation options in more detail. If you’re looking for modern, all-inclusive accommodation close to both UCLan and the city centre, The Tramshed remains one of Preston’s standout student residences.
Best Area for Student Studios in Preston
If you’re looking for more privacy and independence during university, a student studio can be an excellent choice. Unlike shared flats, studios provide your own bedroom, kitchen and bathroom, giving you complete control over your living space and daily routine.
Studio accommodation is particularly popular with postgraduate students, mature students, international students and anyone who values a quieter environment for studying. While studios typically cost more than ensuite rooms in shared apartments, many students feel the additional privacy and convenience make the extra expense worthwhile.
The best areas in Preston for student studios include:
- Corporation Street – Preston’s strongest location for modern purpose-built student accommodation, offering high-quality studios within walking distance of UCLan and the city centre.
- City Centre – Ideal for students who want independent living while remaining close to shops, restaurants, cafés and Preston Railway Station.
- Moor Lane / Sizer Street – Excellent for students who prioritise being close to UCLan’s teaching buildings while enjoying the privacy of a self-contained studio.
- Ringway – Another convenient location offering easy access to both the university and Preston city centre, with several modern accommodation developments nearby.
When deciding between a studio and an ensuite room, it’s worth considering both your budget and lifestyle. Our guide to Ensuite vs Studio Student Accommodation explains the advantages of each option, while What’s Included in Student Accommodation? outlines the facilities and bills you can typically expect from purpose-built student accommodation.
Although this guide focuses on Preston, you can also explore our Student Studios in Leicester guide to compare how studio accommodation differs between popular university cities across the UK.
Studio vs Ensuite vs Shared House in Preston
| Type | Best For | Pros | Cons |
| Studio | Privacy | Own kitchen/bathroom | Higher rent |
| Ensuite | Balance | Private bathroom, social kitchen | Shared kitchen |
| Shared house | Budget | Lower rent, group living | Bills/cleaning vary |
Best Area for International Students
For international students moving to Preston for the first time, Corporation Street and the City Centre are generally the best places to live. Both locations make the transition to university life much easier by placing everything you need within easy walking distance.
Being close to UCLan means you can quickly find your lecture buildings, university facilities and student support services without relying on public transport. It’s also reassuring to have supermarkets, cafés, restaurants, banks, pharmacies and other essential services nearby while you’re settling into a new city.
Many of the purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) developments in these areas are designed specifically with international students in mind. They often include all utility bills, high-speed Wi-Fi, on-site maintenance, secure key-fob entry, communal study areas and social spaces, making it easier to manage both your budget and your day-to-day life from the moment you arrive.
Living in centrally located PBSA also provides more opportunities to meet other students from the UK and around the world, helping you build friendships and feel part of the university community during your first few weeks.
If you’re moving to the UK from overseas, our guides for International Students and StudentFM Provides Cheap Accommodation for International Students contain additional advice on choosing accommodation and preparing for your arrival. Parents can also find useful information in our Parents and Guardians guide, which explains how StudentFM supports students throughout their tenancy.
Best Area for Mature Students and Postgraduates
Mature students and postgraduates often have different priorities from first-year undergraduates. While being close to campus remains important, many place greater value on quiet surroundings, private study space and accommodation that supports a balanced lifestyle.
Several areas in Preston stand out for students looking for a calmer university experience:
- Avenham / Broadgate – Ideal for students who want easy access to the city centre while enjoying a quieter, more residential environment. The nearby parks and riverside walks also provide a welcome escape from busy campus life.
- Fulwood – A peaceful suburban area that’s well suited to mature students who don’t mind a slightly longer commute in exchange for a quieter neighbourhood.
- Corporation Street – Modern studio accommodation provides excellent privacy while remaining within walking distance of UCLan, shops and city-centre amenities.
- City-centre fringe – Areas just outside the busiest parts of Preston offer a good balance between convenience and a quieter living environment.
Many mature students choose studio accommodation or private ensuite rooms rather than larger shared flats. Having your own kitchen and bathroom can make it easier to maintain routines, study without distractions and enjoy greater independence throughout the academic year.
Purpose-built student accommodation also offers practical advantages that appeal to postgraduate students, including all-inclusive utility bills, secure entry systems, dedicated study spaces, professional on-site management and maintenance support. These features remove much of the stress associated with private renting, allowing students to focus on their studies instead of household administration.
Ultimately, the best area depends on the balance you want between convenience and tranquillity. If your priority is a quieter place to live with reliable facilities and a supportive environment, Avenham, Broadgate, Fulwood and modern city-centre studio developments are all excellent choices.
Is Preston Safe for Students?
Preston is widely regarded as a manageable and student-friendly city, with UCLan at its centre and thousands of students living across the surrounding neighbourhoods each year. Like any university city, there are areas that are busier than others, but most students enjoy a safe and positive experience by choosing suitable accommodation and following sensible everyday precautions.
When comparing different parts of the city, it’s worth considering more than just the weekly rent. Think about factors such as well-lit walking routes, how far you’ll be travelling after evening lectures or nights out, access to public transport and the overall security of the building you’re considering.
For many first-year and international students, accommodation close to UCLan can provide additional peace of mind. Being within walking distance of campus means less reliance on public transport and shorter journeys home after studying or socialising, making day-to-day life simpler and more convenient.
Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) also includes security features that many students and parents value. Depending on the property, these may include secure key-fob entry, CCTV, controlled building access, on-site management teams and dedicated maintenance support. These features can provide reassurance throughout your tenancy while creating a safe and well-managed living environment.
If you’d like more advice on choosing secure accommodation, read our guides on Safety and Wellbeing and How Do I Know My Student Accommodation Is Safe and Secure?. Parents supporting students can also find helpful information in our Parents and Guardians guide, which explains the support available throughout the academic year.
PBSA vs Shared Housing in Preston
One of the biggest decisions when choosing student accommodation in Preston is whether to live in purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) or a traditional shared student house. Both options have their advantages, and the right choice depends on your budget, lifestyle and what you want from your university experience.
Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) is designed specifically for students and offers a more managed living environment. Most PBSA properties include utility bills, high-speed Wi-Fi and access to shared facilities within a single weekly rent, making budgeting much easier. Many developments also provide secure entry systems, CCTV, on-site management, maintenance support, study spaces and social areas, giving students greater convenience and peace of mind.
By comparison, shared student houses are often a more affordable option, particularly for second and third-year students living with friends. They generally offer greater independence and can provide more space for the price. However, students should carefully check what’s included in the rent, as utility bills, broadband, council tax exemptions, maintenance responsibilities and landlord standards can vary between properties.
Neither option is automatically better than the other. Students who value convenience, predictable monthly costs and modern facilities often prefer PBSA, while those looking to reduce accommodation costs or enjoy a more independent living arrangement may find a shared house better suits their needs.
If you’re still weighing up the options, our guides on What is Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)?, Private Student Accommodation vs PBSA and Shared Student Accommodation explain the differences in more detail. You can also read All-Inclusive Student Accommodation to understand exactly what is typically included in your rent when choosing PBSA.
How to Choose the Right Preston Student Area
Choosing where to live in Preston isn’t just about finding the lowest weekly rent. The best student area is the one that matches your budget, lifestyle and daily routine while making university life as convenient as possible.
Before booking your accommodation, ask yourself the following questions:
- How close is it to UCLan? Will you be able to walk to most lectures and university facilities?
- Can you comfortably walk to campus every day, or will you need public transport?
- Are utility bills included? Knowing exactly what your weekly rent covers can make budgeting much easier.
- What type of accommodation suits you best? Decide whether you’d prefer a private studio, an ensuite room in a shared flat or a traditional shared student house.
- Is there a supermarket nearby? Easy access to food shopping can save both time and money throughout the year.
- Is your route home well lit and easy to navigate? This is particularly important if you’ll regularly be returning after evening lectures or social events.
- Do you want a lively student atmosphere or somewhere quieter? Some areas are ideal for nightlife, while others are better suited to focused study and relaxation.
- What is the total monthly cost? Remember to include rent, utility bills, transport, food and other everyday expenses rather than comparing rent alone.
- Is maintenance provided? Professionally managed accommodation can make resolving issues much quicker and easier.
- Will you need a guarantor? Understanding the booking requirements before you apply can help avoid delays.
Taking the time to compare these factors will help you choose accommodation that supports both your academic success and your overall university experience.
For more practical advice before moving, download our Moving Into Student Accommodation Checklist, explore our Student Budgeting UK Cost Guide and read our Guarantor Student Accommodation Guide if you’re unsure about the guarantor process.
Recommended Student Accommodation in Preston: The Tramshed
If you’re looking for modern student accommodation in one of Preston’s best locations, The Tramshed is one of the city’s standout options. Situated on Corporation Street, it places you within easy walking distance of UCLan, Preston city centre, supermarkets, cafés, restaurants and public transport, making it an excellent base for university life.
The Tramshed has been designed to provide students with a comfortable, convenient and well-managed living experience. Depending on availability, you can choose from modern ensuite rooms or private studios, allowing you to find accommodation that suits both your lifestyle and your budget.
One of the biggest advantages is the simplicity of all-inclusive living. Utility bills are included in your rent, helping you budget more effectively without worrying about separate payments throughout the year. The building also offers secure entry, professionally managed facilities and welcoming communal spaces where residents can relax, study and meet other students.
Whether you’re a first-year student arriving in Preston for the first time, an international student looking for a straightforward move, or a returning student wanting high-quality accommodation close to campus, The Tramshed offers an excellent balance of location, convenience, comfort and value.
To find out more, explore The Tramshed, book a viewing to see the accommodation in person, book a room online, or contact our team if you’d like help choosing the right room for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
For most students, Corporation Street is the best all-round location. It’s close to UCLan, within walking distance of Preston city centre and home to several modern purpose-built student accommodation developments.
Many UCLan students live around Corporation Street, Moor Lane, Brook Street, Adelphi, Plungington and the wider city centre, depending on their budget and preferred accommodation type.
Yes. Corporation Street is one of Preston’s most popular student locations thanks to its proximity to UCLan, modern accommodation, supermarkets, restaurants and city-centre amenities.
Plungington is an excellent choice for students looking for lower rental costs. It offers plenty of shared houses and remains within walking or cycling distance of UCLan.
Fulwood is well suited to mature students and postgraduates who prefer a quieter residential environment. However, it’s generally less convenient for walking to UCLan than areas closer to the campus.
Plungington is generally considered one of Preston’s most affordable student neighbourhoods, particularly for students renting shared houses or HMOs.
There isn’t a single “safest” student area, but many students choose accommodation close to UCLan or in professionally managed PBSA developments with secure entry, CCTV and on-site management. Choosing well-lit walking routes and reputable accommodation is often more important than selecting a particular neighbourhood.
Corporation Street and Moor Lane are excellent choices for first-year students thanks to their proximity to UCLan, purpose-built student accommodation and easy access to shops, cafés and university facilities.
Corporation Street and the city centre are usually the best options for international students, offering convenient access to UCLan, supermarkets, transport links and modern all-inclusive accommodation.
Corporation Street, the city centre, Moor Lane and Ringway are among the best locations for modern student studios, offering privacy while remaining close to campus.
It depends on your priorities. PBSA offers all-inclusive bills, secure buildings and professional management, while shared houses are often cheaper and provide greater independence.
Yes. The Tramshed is located on Corporation Street, placing students within a short walk of UCLan campus and Preston city centre.
Most students do not need a car. Preston is compact, and many of the main student areas are within walking or cycling distance of UCLan, with good public transport available if needed.
It’s usually best to start looking several months before your course begins, particularly if you want the widest choice of rooms or are hoping to secure accommodation in popular areas such as Corporation Street. Booking early often provides the best selection and availability.
Find Student Accommodation in Preston
Whether you’re looking to live just a short walk from UCLan, compare Preston’s most popular student neighbourhoods or secure modern all-inclusive accommodation on Corporation Street, StudentFM makes it easy to find a place that suits your lifestyle and budget.
From ensuite rooms and private studios to professionally managed student accommodation in some of Preston’s best locations, our team is here to help you choose with confidence and make your move to university as straightforward as possible.
