How to find Housing for Exchange Students in Cambridge, UK

Cambridge, UK, is a world-renowned destination for academic exchanges, anchored by world-class institutions like the University of Cambridge and Anglia Ruskin University (ARU). Despite its academic charm, finding a room as an exchange student can be difficult. Many private landlords prefer long-term tenants over short-stay applicants, creating a shortage of temporary housing. Furthermore, remote searches leave international students vulnerable to online rental scams that target people attempting to secure housing from overseas. Nevertheless, Cambridge remains an unforgettable location to spend a semester, and housing obstacles shouldn't prevent you from taking advantage of this opportunity.

Key resources and tips for finding exchange accommodation in Cambridge

University resources: (University of Cambridge, Anglia Ruskin University) Start your search by exploring the official accommodation and student support portals for the University of Cambridge or Anglia Ruskin University. Inquire about short-term housing pools or dedicated university housing assistance services. Even prior to official enrollment, contacting these departments directly can provide useful advice on available options.

Consult municipal information of your host city Cambridge.government pages frequently publish helpful context regarding local tenancy guidelines, tenant rights, and city-wide housing statistics.

Avoid rental scams. Take extra precautions when searching through informal social media channels like Facebook groups. While these platforms are widely used by students, they carry significant risks of fake listings and advance-fee fraud. Never transfer money or security deposits before verifying a property, and consult local university housing advisors if you need to double-check a listing's legitimacy. Verified booking portals eliminate these risks.

Dedicated housing platforms: Generic property sites cater primarily to long-term full-year tenants. Exchange Rooms, by contrast, targets exchange exchange students specifically by aggregating short-term rentals and sublets posted directly by verified fellow students. Browsing through listings built for short-term international stays streamlines the entire search process.

Cost of living and hosing expenses in Cambridge

Living costs in Cambridge tend to be higher than in many other parts of the UK, though generally more manageable than in central London.

• Rent Expectations: Monthly rent for a room in a shared student house typically ranges from £450 to £800. Self-contained studios or private single-bedroom apartments generally range between £800 and £1,200 per month.
• Living Budget: Beyond rent, students usually budget roughly £150 to £280 each month for groceries and food, alongside extra funds for social outings, utilities, and study supplies. Expect a full baseline budget of £800 to £1,200 monthly (excluding tuition fees).

Key Student Neighbourhoods

Selecting the right area helps balance convenience, safety, and budget:

• Mill Road (Petersfield/Romsey): A vibrant, multicultural hub packed with independent cafes, international markets, and eateries. It is highly popular with both ARU and University of Cambridge students due to its lively atmosphere and close proximity to the main railway station.
• Chesterton: Situated just north of the River Cam, Chesterton provides a quieter residential setting. It is ideal for students who prefer a peaceful environment while staying within easy cycling distance of central faculties.
• Castle Street & Northern Corridor: Located close to central university departments and historic sites, offering a mix of historic homes and modern flats close to the action.
• Cherry Hinton & Arbury: Located slightly further out, these areas offer more budget-friendly shared housing options for students looking to stretch their monthly allowance.

Local Transportation & Cycling Culture

Getting around Cambridge is straightforward, primarily because the city is famously built for cycling.

• Bicycles: Cycling is by far the most popular and cost-effective way to commute. Picking up a second-hand bike is a common choice for exchange students, keeping local travel costs under £15–£20 a month for minor upkeep.
• Buses: Local bus services (including the Universal bus route) offer discounted student fares (around £1.50 per single journey with student ID), connecting main campus hubs, the city centre, and the railway station efficiently.

A strategic tip: leverage your current housing

An effective approach to securing a room abroad is offering your home residence for exchange first. By creating a listing for your current room on Exchange Rooms and sending the link to the international exchange office at your host institution in Cambridge, you make it available to outgoing Cambridge students heading to your home country. This direct connection helps unlock accommodations right where you need them.

If you don't have a room available to sublet, you can still sign up without posting a listing. Sharing the Exchange Rooms network with peers and international offices at both your home and host universities helps grow the user community, expanding short-term housing options for every incoming student.

Securing your accommodation with Exchange Rooms

Exchange Rooms supports incoming students looking for short-term stays across Cambridge. Search for rooms in the area or learn more and make an account!

Good luck finding housing, we’re rooting for you!