Find Your Ideal Area

The heart of Cardiff student life. Cathays is home to over 12,000 students and sits right next to Cardiff University's main campus. Victorian terraced houses line streets like Woodville Road and Salisbury Road, packed with takeaways, cafes, and student shops. The cheapest area for shared houses, but expect noise — especially during Freshers' Week and match days.

Roath offers the perfect balance between student life and peaceful living. The area is known for beautiful Roath Park with its lake and botanical gardens, a thriving food scene on Albany Road and Wellfield Road, and a diverse community of students, young professionals, and families. Slightly more expensive than Cathays but significantly quieter.

Canton is Cardiff's trendy, arts-focused neighbourhood. Home to the Chapter Arts Centre (cinema, theatre, gallery), diverse independent restaurants, and a vibrant multicultural community. Cowbridge Road East is the main strip with cafes, charity shops, and international food. A great choice for students who want character and culture without the student-bubble feel.

Grangetown is Cardiff's most affordable student-friendly area with a strong sense of community. This diverse neighbourhood sits between the city centre and Cardiff Bay, offering easy access to both. The area has a large South Asian and Arab community, meaning excellent halal food options and a welcoming atmosphere for international students. Grangetown train station provides Valley Lines access.

Adamsdown is an inner-city area right on the edge of the city centre. It offers some of the cheapest housing in Cardiff but has a mixed reputation for safety and housing quality. Its biggest advantage is the proximity to the city centre's shopping, nightlife, and transport hubs. Home to a diverse, multicultural community and great for students at the USW Atrium campus.