Best Areas to Live in Liverpool: A Student's Guide

Liverpool – a city with legendary music venues, iconic waterfront views, and a whole lot of that friendly Scouse spirit! Whether you're just starting university or are looking to move for your second or third years, Liverpool offers a variety of neighbourhoods that cater to every student's needs.

But deciding where to live is important. Should you go for the city-centre buzz or a quieter neighbourhood? Fear not! We've got the insider scoop on Liverpool's coolest student hangouts to help you find your perfect fit.

Absolutely! Liverpool ticks all the right boxes for an awesome student experience. You've got exciting nightlife, top universities, diverse food venues, and a vibrant cultural scene that won't break the bank.

It's home to multiple universities and colleges, including the University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University, and Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts, making it an ideal city for students seeking quality education and an enjoyable student life. 

The city boasts a range of affordable student accommodations, loads of amenities, and a robust transport network, all of which make daily living both convenient and enjoyable. No matter if you're looking for the hustle and bustle of city life or a quieter, suburban feel, Liverpool offers some of the best areas to live for students.

Let's explore Liverpool's top student-friendly hotspots…

The absolute beating heart of Liverpool! The ultimate choice if you want to be within walking distance of most university campuses, surrounded by shops, bars, buzzing nightlife, and the biggest cultural attractions. It’s one of the best areas to live in Liverpool for students seeking a full city-living experience. Sanctuary Students has a selection of centrally located student accommodations in Liverpool which offer a fantastic base to get involved in all the action. With three student villages at Marybone 1, Marybone 2 and Marybone 3, you’ll have plenty of affordable student rooms to choose from, right in the heart of Liverpool.

Often referred to as a creative playground, this former industrial warehouse district is now a hub for artists and independent businesses. It is one of the best places to live in Liverpool for students who enjoy arts, music, and regular events.

The area is also home to a variety of eateries and coffee shops, perfect for socialising or studying. Think quirky cafes, vintage shops, street art, and a creative energy all around. Sanctuary Students' Grenville Street accommodation is nearby, letting you reside in one of the trendiest parts of Liverpool with all the perks of urban living.

Home to the University of Liverpool and the Royal Liverpool University Hospital, this area in Liverpool is a magnet for students. It's a good choice if you want city living with your campus on the doorstep and lots of interesting spots to explore.

It's less about nightlife and more about proximity to educational facilities, making it a preferred spot for those who prioritise academics over partying. If your main focus is on your studies, then the Knowledge Quarter is arguably the best place to live in Liverpool.

If you like the sound of living in one of the posh parts of Liverpool, the Georgian Quarter is full of charm. Famous for its beautiful Georgian architecture, it offers a quiet, picturesque environment to live and study with independent shops, quaint coffee shops and fancy wine bars.

This area is just a short walk from the lively city centre, Baltic Triangle and the academic buzz of the Knowledge Quarter, making it a great option if you like a slightly more refined atmosphere. It’s also home to the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA).

Right in the heart of the action, Ropewalks is known for its narrow streets, bold street art and unique warehouse buildings which have been converted into vibrant bars, galleries, and indie shops. Think cocktails in quirky venues, late-night indie music gigs, and a buzzing atmosphere. It’s a nice area to live in Liverpool for students who appreciate both history and contemporary culture and want some bohemian vibes on their doorstep.

The classic student stomping ground! Smithdown Road is immensely popular with students, making it super social. Expect affordable digs, plenty of student-friendly shops, lively pubs, and all the takeaway joints you could wish for! Even if those late-night study sessions mean you miss the last bus home, good transport links mean you're never far from the action.

If you fancy a slightly more chilled neighbourhood feel, Wavertree offers a nice balance between student life and local living. It's greener, with Wavertree Botanic Gardens on your doorstep for relaxing strolls. You'll still find good transport links to whizz you into town, plus plenty of pubs, bars, and affordable restaurants catering to students and locals alike. It also offers the potential for more spacious living options at better prices than those closer to the centre.

If you're studying at John Moores or the University of Liverpool, Islington is super convenient. You might even be able to walk or cycle to lectures, saving on bus fares. Expect student accommodation at decent prices and a relaxed vibe. Although Islington is a bit quieter, you're just a quick bus hop from the city centre when you want a dose of full-on Liverpool energy.

Choosing the best area to live in Liverpool is crucial for your overall student experience, but with so many options out there, we know it can be hard to make a decision. 

There are plenty of nice areas to live in Liverpool as a student, but it’s worth keeping these things in mind…

• Budget: Areas closer to the city centre or the posh parts of Liverpool will usually cost a bit more, so factor this in from the start. If you’re looking to save money, Sanctuary Students offers some of the cheapest student accommodation in Liverpool, with all bills included!

• • Atmosphere: Do you crave non-stop action and excitement on your doorstep or would you prefer somewhere quieter to relax and study?

• • Proximity to university: How much travel to uni are you happy with? Factor in both time and transport costs when considering your campus commutes.

• • Interests: Are you all about live music gigs, sports, or art galleries and museums? Some areas cater to specific interests better than others.

Conclusion

Liverpool's got a spot to make any student feel at home! The "best" area boils down to finding the perfect match for your preferences and priorities. Think about your budget, the sort of atmosphere you love, and how you want to spend those precious student days. With a little research and our helpful guide, you'll soon be settled into your perfect Liverpool pad! Remember, Sanctuary Students has high-quality, low-cost accommodation options in the city to get you started, check them out here!