Choosing where and how to live during university is a big decision that can significantly impact your experience. For students moving out of halls or starting university, deciding between living alone or with friends is one of the key choices to make. Both options come with unique advantages and challenges, and understanding the differences can help you determine which suits your lifestyle best.
1. Cost Comparison
Living alone typically means renting a one-bedroom apartment or studio flat. While this option offers maximum privacy, it often comes at a higher cost. In cities like Plymouth, renting a self-contained flat can range from £600–£800 per month, depending on location and amenities. Many private student accommodations, such as those offered by Student Rooms 4 U, include utilities and broadband in the rent, which can help manage costs. However, the overall price remains higher than shared options.
Living with friends, on the other hand, is usually more affordable. Sharing a house or flat means splitting the cost of rent, utilities, and other expenses. In Plymouth, a room in a shared house can cost between £400–£550 per month, and the per-person cost decreases the more people you share with. All-inclusive rent options, like those offered by Student Rooms 4 U, simplify budgeting by covering utilities, broadband, and other essentials.
2. Privacy and Independence
Living alone offers unmatched privacy and independence. You’ll have full control over your living space, from how you decorate to when you cook or clean. There’s no need to coordinate with housemates or compromise on your personal preferences. This setup is ideal for those who value solitude or need a quiet environment to focus on their studies.
Living with friends, however, means sharing your space and daily routines. While this can be enjoyable and offer a sense of community, it also requires compromise. You might need to navigate shared responsibilities like cleaning and cooking or manage different lifestyles and schedules. Privacy is more limited, but having friends around can provide support and companionship.
3. Lifestyle and Daily Routines
Living alone allows you to establish a routine that suits your individual needs. You can cook when you want, study without interruptions, and create an environment tailored to your preferences. However, managing household chores and responsibilities falls solely on you, which can feel overwhelming at times.
Living with friends often leads to a more communal lifestyle. Cooking together, sharing meals, and organising group activities can make daily life more enjoyable. However, it also requires flexibility to accommodate others’ habits and schedules. For instance, sharing a bathroom or kitchen may lead to occasional conflicts or delays.
4. Social Life
Living alone provides plenty of opportunities for quiet and reflection, but it also requires more effort to maintain an active social life. You’ll need to plan meet-ups and social activities outside your home to stay connected with friends and avoid feelings of isolation.
Living with friends makes socialising easier and more spontaneous. Whether it’s a movie night, a shared meal, or casual chats in the living room, there’s always someone around. Your housemate can be a great source of support, especially during stressful times. However, it’s important to strike a balance between socialising and allowing each other personal space.
5. Academic Focus
Living alone is often better suited for students who need a quiet, distraction-free environment to focus on their studies. With no housemates to interrupt, you can create a workspace that fosters productivity and stick to your schedule without external influences.
Living with friends can sometimes pose challenges for academic focus. Noise levels, differing schedules, and the temptation to socialise can disrupt study time. However, housemates can also be a source of motivation, offering encouragement or forming study groups to tackle challenging coursework together.
6. Security and Support
Living alone means relying entirely on yourself for day-to-day responsibilities and support. While this fosters independence, it can also feel isolating at times, especially when dealing with stressful situations like maintenance issues or illnesses.
Living with friends offers a built-in support network. From helping each other with chores to providing emotional support during tough times, sharing a home can create a sense of security and camaraderie. Additionally, shared accommodation often feels safer, as there’s always someone around to watch over the property.
Choosing What’s Right for You
Both living alone and living with friends offer unique experiences, and the choice ultimately depends on your budget, personality, and priorities. Living alone provides maximum independence and a quiet space for study and relaxation, but it comes with higher costs and more responsibility. Living with friends is more affordable and social, but it requires compromise and adaptability to shared living.
At Student Rooms 4 U, we offer a variety of accommodation options to suit different lifestyles. From self-contained one-bedroom flats for those who value privacy to larger shared houses for groups of friends, we have something for everyone. All of our properties include all-inclusive rent and high-speed broadband, making life easier and more convenient for students. Whatever your preference, choosing the right accommodation can enhance your university experience and make your time in Plymouth truly memorable.
