Cost of living crisis causes Nottingham university students’ rents to escalate

The burden of high energy and electricity costs is being passed on to students starting university in September 2023. 

Students are now struggling to afford their rent and basic necessities due to the high costs of living, with many having to turn to part-time jobs or loans to manage these costs. 

Cidney Miller, 19, a resident at Trinity Square, said: “I applied really late (to the university) and all the university accommodation was fully booked. 

“Private accommodation is a rip-off. 

“An increase in price has definitely put me off booking private accommodation next year.”

Costs of Student Roost properties in Nottingham will rise by five per cent for next year, causing current residents to look for alternative living arrangements. 

An ensuite room at Student Roost’s Trinity Square will increase from £169 a week to £179, resulting in an extra £500 per year for residents to pay.

A spokesperson for Student Roost said: “At Student Roost, we monitor student accommodation prices to keep rents as affordable as possible and in line with other student accommodation providers in the cities we operate in. 

“Despite an 80 per cent increase in the cost of utility bills in the last 12 months, we will not pass this burden onto our customers and all bills will remain included in the price of our rents.” 

Many private flats already have high prices compared to university-owned halls of residence for similar rooms and features. 

However, both options are offering bills included in the price to avoid the changing costs of utilities. 

If you are a student in Nottingham struggling with your money, NTU students can visit the  StudentHub  and University of Nottingham students can visit the  MyHelp Zone  for advice.