York is a historic city in the northeast of England, renowned for its rich heritage, medieval architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. This city was founded by Romans in 71 AD. Later on, the city flourished during the Viking and medieval periods. Today, it is a city chosen by many people to visit. People from around the world visit York for varied reasons. One of the major reasons is unquestionably higher education.
There is no doubt that York is an ideal city for students, and here you will read why.
Academic Excellence and a High-Ranked University
Like many other cities in the UK, York is known for its academic excellence. The University of York is located in York, UK. The University of York is one of the top 200 universities in the world. This university has been ranked #184 out of 1503 universities in the QS World University Rankings 2025.
There are numerous research and study facilities at the University of York and other institutes in York. Libraries and laboratories are wonderful. Faculty members here are expert and well-versed. Many of them have years of experience in teaching their subjects. Faculty members teach students with a practical approach.
Excellent Accommodation
After enrolling in York, your next step will be finding accommodation. You can find excellent accommodation in York with numerous amenities. These days, accommodation is not just a roof over the head. You can have leisure activities also in your accommodation. Besides, you can be involved in many other activities in accommodation.
In student housing properties in York, you can find gyms, cinemas, games rooms, entertainment rooms, televisions, study rooms, study tables and chairs, Wi-Fi internet connections, laundries, air conditioners, wheelchair access, and more. Social events are also organized in many student housing properties.
The abovementioned ones are the details of off-campus student housing properties in York. Apart from them, there are more accommodation options for students in York. University-managed accommodations, private rental apartments, and homestays are the other accommodation options for students.
Affordable Cost of Living
York is an ideal city for students due to the affordable cost of living. Here is a brief about the cost of living in York for international students.
1. Accommodation:
- University-managed rooms: From £6,300 to £11,250 per year (including bills like electricity and internet).
- Private off-campus student accommodation: From £150 per week to £475 per week for a single person. Maximum price of a double-occupancy studio: £593.75 per week.
- Private apartment accommodation: From £1,169 per month to £1,343 per month.
- Homestays: From £30 per night to £65 per night.
2. Monthly Living Expenses:
- The UK government advises budgeting £1,023 per month to meet living expenses. It covers rent, food, travel, and leisure.
3. Other Costs:
- Meals: £15 at an inexpensive restaurant
- Cappuccino: £3.34
- Public transport (one-way ticket): £2.20
Amazing Travel Destinations to See
Students also like to explore York during their years of study here. These trips make their stay in York memorable. There are many amazing travel destinations to see in York. These destinations are related to history, nature, and many other aspects. Some popular places to visit in York are:
- York Minster
- Yorkshire Air Museum & Allied Air Forces Memorial
- Yorkshire Wolds Way
- Yorkshire’s Other Minster
- York’s Many Churches
- River Ouse
- Stonegate and Barley Hall
- Yorkshire Museum and Gardens
- Castle Howard
- Jorvik Viking Centre
- Clifford’s Tower
- York Castle Museum
- Shambles
- Medieval York City Walls
- National Railway Museum
Great Student Life
York has a great student life without a second thought. It is one of the most student-friendly cities in the United Kingdom. The University of York boasts over 200 student societies based on different themes. Moreover, many social events take place in the university, colleges, and student housing complexes. Many interesting events are organized in the city also. “York Early Music Festival” is a popular festival here. Students can have loads of fun at such festivals.
Strong Public Transport Links
York presents a strong transport connection in multiple means of transport. Its rail transport services are outstanding, as the city lies on the East Coast Main Line which means it connects to practically all parts of the United Kingdom including London, Edinburgh, and Leeds among others. Two hours at most are taken to get to London and therefore may be considered as a major commuting and travel center. Local rail services also provide the link to the neighboring towns and cities across Yorkshire and the rest of the North.
In terms of road connections, the A64 connects York to the M1 and A1(M) motorways thereby providing access to the remainder of the network. York also enjoys a good bus service with a Park & Ride system, which helps to keep cars off the streets of the city. Finally, the city collaborates and negotiates with the operators continually to make bus services better through the York enhanced partnership for buses in order to ensure the sustainability of public transport for everyone.