Which area of Cardiff should I pick for my second year student house?
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When it comes to finding your ideal student house in Cardiff, you've probably heard about Cathays, Roath, and Heath – the go-to areas for students. Each of these spots has its own unique vibe and there’s something for everyone. If you're feeling fancy and willing to spend a bit more, Cardiff Bay might also catch your eye. Whether you're after non-stop social life, some peace and quiet or something in between, we’ve got the lowdown on which area might be the best fit for your student digs. Read on to find out!
Eager to be right in the heart of Cardiff's student scene? Cathays is the place to be.
Cathays is the undisputed hotspot for students in the city. It’s a vibrant, student-centric area that feels like it's own little town within the city, always alive with activity, day or night. One of the biggest perks of Cathays is its unbeatable location. You’ll be just a stone's throw away from Cardiff University’s Cathays Park campus, and University of South Wales students will love the easy access to their Cardiff campus too.
With streets packed with shops, bars, cafes, restaurants and basically everything else a student could need, it's no wonder Cathays is one of the most popular areas for students in Cardiff. You’ll be close to Cathays train station, the Cardiff Uni Students' Union and within walking distance of the city centre too. Read our guide to living in Cathays to learn more.
Looking for quieter area with charm and character, still conveniently located for all your student needs? We recommend Roath!
Want the best of both worlds—being close to Uni but in a more relaxed setting? While it’s not quite as close to the action as Cathays, Roath has a charm and character all its own that draws plenty of Cardiff students year after year. The area is also conveniently located near the Cyncoed campus of Cardiff Met and offers plenty of university sports facilities. Houses tend to be a little bigger so the area isn’t as crowded.
Roath has a wonderful community vibe, with quirky shops, independent cafés and some great local pubs and bars that give it a unique flair. For nature lovers, the beautiful Roath Park is a huge draw, with its lake, recreation ground and green spaces. Living here you’ll have everything you need, including shops, pubs and bars. And while you might be a 20-minute walk from Cardiff University, rent prices here can be a bit more affordable, making it worth the extra distance for many. Read our guide to living in Roath to learn more.
Are you a Cardiff student medic seeking a comfortable and convenient home? Head to Heath!
If you’re studying medicine at Cardiff University, Heath is hands down the most convenient place to live. With the Heath Campus and University Hospital of Wales just a short walk away, you'll be saving yourself plenty of time and hassle with your daily commute. Student accommodation in Heath typically includes some of the most spacious Cardiff student houses you’ll come across, perfect for sharing with friends. If you’re studying at Cardiff Met, it's only a 15-minute walk from the Llandaff campus, making it a great option for you too.
It’s quite different from Cathays in terms of the vibe; the area has a more chilled out and residential feel to it. Heath has a mix of families and professionals, giving it a more suburban, mature atmosphere. The Heath pub will be your local and you can enjoy the convenience of North Road, with its many shops and student-friendly eateries. Heath Park, a sprawling, peaceful green space, is great for clearing your head after long days of lectures. Read our guide to living in Heath to learn more.
Seeking a more premium living experience with stunning waterfront views? Cardiff Bay is the perfect choice for you.
If you’re after something a little different and don’t mind splashing out a bit more on your accommodation, Cardiff Bay offers a premium student living experience like no other. Although it’s not your typical student area due to its distance from the main university campuses, Cardiff Bay has become a top choice for students who are looking for an upscale lifestyle, especially if they have a car or are comfortable with a bit of a commute.
The Bay is renowned for its stunning waterfront views, bustling atmosphere, and year-round events. You can also enjoy the convenience of being close to the train station and city centre. Not too many students live here (it’s more suited towards graduates and young professionals) so you're unlikely to find big student house shares, it will be predominantly one and two bedroom apartments. Read our guide to living in Cardiff Bay to learn more.
Why choose CPS Homes for Cardiff student lettings?
With over two decades of experience, we've built a reputation as Cardiff's most reliable and established student letting agency. Here's why thousands of students trust us every year:
- Biggest selection of properties: With more properties in Cardiff than any other agent, we offer homes in all the key student areas, including Cathays, Roath, Heath and some in Cardiff Bay. We've got options close to every University campus, including a large portfolio of newly refurbished student houses.
- Expert local knowledge: We know Cardiff inside and out, and many of our staff were students here recently, so we understand exactly what you're looking for!
- Our properties are accurately-priced for lower and higher-end budgets. Many are offered with a 'bills included in rent' option, saving you the hassle of sorting them out separately.
- Dedicated student support: From property viewings to signing contracts and aftercare, our team is here to support you from the start of your tenancy through the end. We have a dedicated maintenance team and online portal where you can report issues quickly and easily, getting updates as any repairs progress.
- We carry out accompanied viewings until 8pm during our busy periods. This way you can fit in house hunting even if you have late-afternoon commitments.
- Helpful renting guidance - We make sure you know your responsibilities as a renter from day one with free resources and how-to guides. Not only does this help during your tenancy with us, but these are skills that will come in handy long after your student days!
The information contained within this article was correct at the date of publishing and is not guaranteed to remain correct in the present day.
