When asked if they felt safe in their university city, not all students said yes. A recent survey from the last period of 2025, collected results from students through research being conducted by Accommodation For Students. The survey showed students admitting that they “generally feel safe, though improvements are needed.”
Scoring out of 10, the average rated their safety a firm 7.3, with only 13.9% stating that they feel “very safe.” However, on the opposite end of the scale a much smaller number of 0.9% voted for 0 which equated to the response of “very unsafe.”
What helps to make students feel safer?
Students admitted what factors helped to ensure they felt safer on campus and at their accommodation.
Students feel safe when:
- There’s a visible security presence e.g. security staff or police
- Streets are well-lit
- There is active CCTV
- They live close to university buildings or student areas and so don’t have to walk far alone
- The university community is friendly and supportive
Alternatively, students feel unsafe when:
- There are dark or empty areas to pass through to reach accommodation
- There are reports of crime and harassment
- There’s a lack of late-night transport options
- The city feels run-down or neglected.
As a result, students are more likely to attempt to avoid living in these areas where possible.
What percentage of students enjoy their student city?
The majority of students enjoy the city they’re in. The average score of satisfaction being 7.8/10.
Out of the 99 universities included in our survey, here are the top and bottom three:
The top three cities (based off average satisfaction score):
- Liverpool (9.6/10) - considered to be “friendly” and “welcoming”
- Manchester (9.1/10) - liked for its energy and opportunities
- Chester (9.0/10) - considered safe and walkable.
In contrast, the bottom three cities (based off average satisfaction score):
- Leicester (6.1/10) - concerns around safety and lack of vibrancy
- Colchester (6.0/10) - off campus life feels limited
- Aberdeen (5.7/10) - isolated and limited things to do.
