Housing or uni halls??

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Strong social environment: You will typically be placed among other university students, even first-years as well which helps you meet people quickly. And people you will be able to relate to.

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Location often good: usually close to campus or a 'student zone' meaning shorter commute, you may even be able to walk there!

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Accommodation fees are inclusive of bills and a simpler contract: Many uni halls include utilities, internet etc thus making budgeting easier.

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Good support: usually 24/7 security available and maintenance

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Bathroom sharing: you did say you are hesitant when it comes to this, so if you pick the cheaper/shared-bath option you may have to share the bathroom. But I will say, for Uni halls, this is very very rare.

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Cost: Halls can sometimes cost more per week especially for en-suite rooms, but this is all dependant on the accommodation you pick

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Less freedom: You might have rules regarding visitors, parties, quiet hours. But again, this is all dependent on the accommodation's rules, because they do differ.

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There is less 'house party' style: If you are keen on more independent living and hosting/partying, halls might be a bit more restricted

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More independence and choice: You might select who you live with, the style of house, perhaps have your own bathroom but this is usually for a higher price. (So a pro and con intertwined).

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Party and social potential: A shared house often gives more freedom to host, more of a 'flat party' vibe.

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Potential for cost savings: Depending on the area, the house size, number of housemates, you may get more space for similar cost

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Choice of location: You have that freedom to pick a fun area, maybe slightly further from campus but good for social life!

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You can find a house with your friends and move in with people you already know.

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Bathroom sharing: Higher chance of having to share a bathroom, not always though

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More responsibility: In terms of dealing with a landlord and bills may not all be included

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Commute/risk: Could be further away from campus so commute may increase, which you mentioned currently you commute anyway

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Less 'automatic' social community: If you move into a house with people you do not know yet, you will need to build friendships. But hey, that is always expected anyway!

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Usually ensuite rooms

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All bills included

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Events and communal areas (TV lounges, pool tables etc.)

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Usually closer to campus or the city centre

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Great for meeting new people and hanging out in other flats

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Reception can accept parcels for you when you’re out

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Don’t get to choose your flatmates – can be hit or miss

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Fire alarm drills (and the occasional 3am false alarm!)

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Live with friends you already know

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More independence – fewer rules (e.g. quiet hours)

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Have your own washing machine and sometimes a garden or outdoor space

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Parking sometimes available

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Shared bathrooms in most cases

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Room sizes can vary a lot, so you’ll need to agree who gets which room

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Maintenance and repairs can take longer depending on the landlord

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Bills may or may not be included – check if council tax exemption applies (e.g. if someone’s part-time)

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Check whether the contract is a single or joint tenancy – with joint tenancies, everyone is equally responsible for rent, so if someone drops out, the others might have to cover their share

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Need to be mindful of neighbours if you host parties – they might be families or people who have to get up early for work

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Student housing areas are sometimes a bit further from campus or the city centre