AFS City Guides

The complete student guide to Brighton

9 min read·Last updated: 9 June 2026

1010 items: photos false

Curated and written by

Elizabeth Hadley

AFS Content Creator

Studying at University of Lincoln

9 min read

Share this guide

Why study in Brighton

Lively atmosphere
University of Brighton is one of the UK’s party cities, offering an electrifying and diverse nightlife. However, because it’s a massive city, it caters to all lifestyles and is perfectly suited for both heavy partiers and those who prefer a quieter social scene. The city has a vibrant arts and music scene which attracts many students, as well as a busy seafront, diverse restaurants and cafés. Festivals, markets, and community events create a constant buzz here.
Welcoming and diverse
Brighton is known for being welcoming and diverse because it has a long history of attracting people from different backgrounds, cultures, and communities. The city is one of the UK’s most prominent LGBTQ+ communities. Its open-minded atmosphere encourages self-expression and inclusivity, making many residents and visitors feel accepted. Events such as Brighton & Hove Pride celebrate diversity and bring people together, while the city’s international residents, independent businesses, and cultural events contribute to its vibrant and multicultural character.
Living by the seaside
Studies suggest that spending time by the seaside can benefit mental health. Brighton blends classic coastal attractions with a vibrant atmosphere, featuring the iconic Brighton Palace Pier, colourful beach huts, lively cafés, and beautiful views across the English Channel. Its popular promenade is ideal for walking, cycling, or relaxing by the sea. With a mix of traditional seaside charm, entertainment, street performers, and cultural events, Brighton is one of the UK’s most distinctive waterfront destinations.
Student opportunities
The city is home to respected institutions such as University of Brighton and University of Sussex, providing a wide range of courses and facilities. Students benefit from a unique combination of academic opportunities particularly in the arts and music scene where there are many chances for work placements in the local area, as well as a student community that is full of life, and excellent transport links, all of which make Brighton an exciting and inspiring place to live and learn.

Key facts about Brighton

Student life in Brighton

Brighton is full of cafes, restaurants, fast food spots and pubs. With plenty of options if you’ve had a busy day at uni or just want to order something in, Brighton also caters well for vegan and vegetarian options: Oowee does the tastiest plant-based burgers. It’sprobably the best meat-free chicken burger I’ve had and the chips are so good. If you’re looking for something a bit healthier, VeganOut is a favourite of mine. Their pineapple and coconut Thai curry is so fresh and flavourful. Both places come to an average price of about £12- £15 with delivery. If you’re out between classes and need a quick bite to eat, then head to Trading Post, Earl’s, or Pelicano. These are all great for something to eat on the go and sandwiches are between £5-£7. For the days when you deserve a little treat out, if you’re parents are coming to visit, there’s a birthday, or you’re celebrating graduation, then I’d recommend: Burnt Orange, Permit Room and Fatto a Mano. Finally, the most important question: where can you findthe best roast? I’d say either the Signalman, or The Geese and The Walrus. Brighton is just as lively by night as it is by day - there’s always something to do. Fancy a pint? Perhaps a gig? Perfect, it would be awfully rude of me not to mention Brighton’s thriving music scene; The Bees Mouth, Daltons, The Hope & Ruin, Rossi bar, and Green Door, are just a handful of great venues scattered across the city. Gigs are often extremely affordable (or free) and they’re brilliant opportunities to network and make friends. A lot of university bands hold these events. You’ll meet so many cool people! If pubs are more your vibe, Brighton really spoils you for choice. For something laid back, quirky or cosy, try the Village, Great Eastern or The Paris House. For pre-drinks, Hobgoblin, North Laine Brewhouse, Fiddler’s Elbow and Dead Wax never miss. And if you’re heading out on a Wednesday (student night), Hare & Hound is a must, make the most of their weekly student night with discounts on selected drinks. For those of you looking for the clubs, head down to the sea front and you’ll find them all there! One of my top hidden gems in Brighton is Unbarred, tucked away on Elder Place (just behind London Road). This taproom is one of my favourite spots for a day, evening or a night out. With pints starting at £5 and a range of fruity, sweet and hoppy drinks, there is truly something for everyone. It’s the perfect place to unwind after studying, and there’s always a fun event going on - music bingo, quizzes, open mic, beer releases – and you can get discounted drinks if you attend (up to 20% off!) They also have their very own Fatto a Mano ordering screen. Just tap in your pizza at the bar, grab a beer, take a seat and your pizza will arrive straight to your table! What more could you want? I highly recommend a visit, it's a little tucked away but once you’ve found it you won’t be able to help going back! I also love a walk at Hove Beach. Start by the bandstand - a lovely spot in the summer, especially when the lights go up and people start dancing. Then keep walking until you reach a wide stretch of green. Turn around and you’ll be met with Brighton’s gorgeous skyline. After that, make your way down to the stones. I used to come and sit here all year round. After a busy week of uni, deadlines, essays, readings, sometimes all you really need is a gentle stroll and a bit of fresh air. This part of the beach always felt so calm to me. I think most people reach the pier and call it a day, so Hove Beach can be all ours! Peaceful, quiet and the perfect place to unwind.

Cost of living in Brighton

Wondering how much it costs to live in Brighton as a student? We’ve broken down typical monthly expenses and compared them to the national average, so you can plan your budget with confidence.

Expense	Brighton average	National average	Difference
Rent (monthly)	£1040	£891.63	£148.3717% more
Utilities (monthly)	£102	£112.25	£10.259% less
Bus pass (monthly)	£78	£61.13	£16.8728% more
Groceries	£17.07	£15.40	£1.6711% more
Gym pass (monthly)	£38.79	£34.59	£4.2012% more
Takeaway coffee	£3.73	£3.54	£0.195% more

Rent (monthly)
Brighton average
£1040
National average
£891.63
Difference
£148.3717% more
Utilities (monthly)
Brighton average
£102
National average
£112.25
Difference
£10.259% less
Bus pass (monthly)
Brighton average
£78
National average
£61.13
Difference
£16.8728% more
Groceries
Brighton average
£17.07
National average
£15.40
Difference
£1.6711% more
Gym pass (monthly)
Brighton average
£38.79
National average
£34.59
Difference
£4.2012% more
Takeaway coffee
Brighton average
£3.73
National average
£3.54
Difference
£0.195% more

Universities in Brighton

University of Brighton

Located in the seaside city of Brighton, this picturesque university dates back to 1859.

Read guide →

University of Sussex

Located close to one of the UK's best student cities, the University of Sussex is a leading research led university.

Read guide →

Getting around Brighton

Brighton is very easy to get around and is known as the UK’s most walkable city due to the compactness of everything being located nearby, however, transport is just as easy too!

Buses

Brighton has a highly appraised and award-winning, high-frequency bus network (operated by Brighton & Hove Buses). They allow you to use contactless payment, and day tickets are available which offer unlimited travel across the city.

Cycling

Dedicated cycle lanes can be seen painted onto roads and rental bikes are available, although certain areas of the city are quite steep.

Taxis/car

There are numerous local taxi companies, with Streamline Taxis being a prominent firm. Like most popular cities, ride-sharing apps like Uber are also highly active and reliable.

Life after uni

More than half of Brighton & Hove residents have degree-level qualifications or above, making it one of the UK’s most highly qualified labour markets. Many students from University of Sussex and University of Brighton choose to stay after graduation too.

Here are some key facts about employment prospects in Brighton:

Key industries
Brighton offers some of the UK's best prospects for people working in digital, creative, education, health, and professional-service sectors.
Freelance, remote and commuting
Brighton has a strong startup culture and high rates of self-employment. Freelancing is especially common in digital, creative, and professional occupations, giving workers alternatives to traditional employment. Some professionals also choose to commute