JO
Curated and written by
Jess Orman
AFS City Guide Content Creator
Studying at University of Leeds
The complete student guide to Leeds
8 min read·Last updated: 10 April 2026
“Leeds city is very vibrant while remaining affordable at the same time.”
Why study in Leeds
Universities are targeted by employers
Due to Leeds having one of the highest student populations in the UK (besides the obvious choices like London), the universities here are often targeted by top employers, providing strong industry connections and various career opportunities for students.
These chances of employment are increased by the high standard of education provided by universities in the city. According to the University of Leeds the wide range of subjects being taught via their courses have led to 90% of research rated as “world-leading” or “internationally excellent.”Great walks
One of the nicest but lesser-appreciated things about Leeds is the canal. It’s a lovely walk or run into town and feels surprisingly peaceful compared to the rest of the city. Leeds is also close to the Yorkshire Dales, so if you have access to a car, there are loads of great walks and hikes nearby. When family visits, I love taking them to Roundhay Park; it has lakes, waterfalls and The Garden Room café, which is a lovely place for brunch or coffee.
Music events everywhere
Leeds is home to many music venues and live events. Every year the Leeds Festival is held, established in 1999, the event is said to be one of the biggest in the UK (alongside Reading) with more than 100,000 attendees each year and insane lineups.
Mint Festival in May is a great weekend if you’re into house, tech or garage DJs. If you’re more into rave nights or DJ events, Testbed is a newer venue that hosts some big-name DJs.Excellent student life
From student pubs and bars that hold student discounts and host student nights for societies and events, to clubs with different music options – Leeds caters for everyone.
Weekdays are cheaper as they’re student-focused, while Call Lane is a good option on weekends but is more expensive.
Beaver Works is well known for its big, themed nights, especially at Halloween and summer day festivals. For something a bit fancier, like a birthday drink or a special occasion, Sky Lounge has good cocktails and amazing views across the city.
Key facts about Leeds
Student life in Leeds
Cost of living in Leeds
Wondering how much it costs to live in Leeds 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 | Leeds average | National average | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (monthly) | £719 | £907.91 | £188.9121% less |
| Utilities (monthly) | £109 | £111.91 | £2.913% less |
| Bus pass (monthly) | £74 | £62.64 | £11.3618% more |
| Groceries | £15.81 | £15.26 | £0.554% more |
| Gym pass (monthly) | £32.19 | £35.63 | £3.4410% less |
| Takeaway coffee | £3.63 | £3.62 | £0.010% more |
Rent (monthly)
- Leeds average
- £719
- National average
- £907.91
- Difference
- £188.9121% less
Utilities (monthly)
- Leeds average
- £109
- National average
- £111.91
- Difference
- £2.913% less
Bus pass (monthly)
- Leeds average
- £74
- National average
- £62.64
- Difference
- £11.3618% more
Groceries
- Leeds average
- £15.81
- National average
- £15.26
- Difference
- £0.554% more
Gym pass (monthly)
- Leeds average
- £32.19
- National average
- £35.63
- Difference
- £3.4410% less
Takeaway coffee
- Leeds average
- £3.63
- National average
- £3.62
- Difference
- £0.010% more
“When I’m studying, I like to head to some of the vibey cafes with my friends for a group study session. Our favourites are: 92 Degrees, The Clubhouse Coffee, and The Union Coffee House.”
Universities in Leeds
Leeds Arts University
Leeds Arts University is a specialist higher education institution based in Leeds, with the main campus next door to the University of Leeds. Read this guide to find out more about this great university.
Read guide →
Leeds Beckett University
Leeds Beckett University is a modern university with campuses in both Leeds city centre and in Headingly.
Read guide →
Leeds Trinity University
Leeds Trinity University is one of the top 25 UK universities for teaching and course satisfaction, as it is committed to providing high quality education to all of its students.
Read guide →
University of Leeds
The University of Leeds was established in 1874 as the Yorkshire College of Sciences. Not long later in 1884, it merged with the Leeds School of Medicine and was renamed Yorkshire College.
Read guide →Getting around Leeds
Most places are close together, and you can move between campus, the city centre and student areas without much effort (thanks to the ease of the transport system.)
Buses
The primary mode of transport. First Bus is the main bus service in the city and serves the key routes (such as 1, 6, 28, 56, 97) which connect the University of Leeds and Leeds Beckett to the city centre and Headingley. For live times and tickets, you can use the First Bus App.
Cycling
The University of Leeds now offers a bike hire scheme, which is an affordable way for students to get around whilst also keeping fit. New bike lanes also make this easier.
Walking
The city centre is compact and not too spread out like other cities, making it easy to walk between the city museums and campuses. The campus itself is walkable, with a 5-minute bus ride or 15 to 20 minute walk to the city centre.
Trains
Leeds Station provides excellent, fast connections to surrounding areas in West Yorkshire as well as the rest of the UK.
Taxis/car
Uber, Amber Cars, and white cabs are available, and particularly useful for students that have late lectures or are commuting, as well as nights out to allow for a safe trip home.
Life after uni
Leeds is a great hub for employment, especially for those seeking careers within professional services.
Key industries
Leeds is a major UK financial hub, offering diverse opportunities in auditing, banking, as well as public sector and technology. Graduate employment rates
Across all universities in Leeds, employment rates are high for those who have completed their studies; 97% of students from the University of Leeds are in work or further study within months of graduating, and at Leeds Beckett University 91% are in work
Some of Leeds's biggest graduate employers
Accommodation for every student
halls
31 properties
Avg. £168/week
houses
467 properties
Avg. £135/week
flats
185 properties
Avg. £195/week
studios
175 properties
Avg. £246/week
Latest properties in Leeds
JO
Curated and written by
Jess Orman
AFS City Guide Content Creator
Studying at University of Leeds
Jess is a final year student at the University of Leeds, studying International Business and Marketing. Using her student experience, she wrote a City Guide for our student content creator team.
