Edinburgh Napier University Student Accommodation Guide 2026
Best Halls & Housing Options
Discover the best accommodation options for Edinburgh Napier University students in 2026. Compare halls, private housing, costs, and tips for living in Edinburgh.
Updated 2 min readEdinburgh Napier University
🎓 Introduction
Finding the right accommodation is one of the first and most important decisions students make before starting their studies at Edinburgh Napier University (ENU). Where you live will shape your budget, commute, and social life. Edinburgh offers world-class culture and student life, but can be one of the more expensive UK cities—so planning is key.
This guide covers the best university halls, private accommodation, and shared rentals in 2026, with costs, pros and cons, and practical tips to help you choose confidently.
🏫 University-Managed Halls of Residence
ENU provides purpose-built residences across the city with all-inclusive bills, Wi‑Fi, and support services.
🛏️ Bainfield (Fountainbridge)
- Location: Close to city centre and Merchiston campus
- Room Types: En-suite cluster flats and studios
- Facilities: Social spaces, laundry, bike storage, 24/7 staff
- Cost (2026): £185–£215 per week
👉 Best for: Students who want modern facilities in a lively central area.
🛏️ Orwell Terrace
- Location: Haymarket; 10–15 minutes by bus to campuses
- Room Types: Standard and en-suite
- Facilities: Modern kitchens, communal lounges, Wi‑Fi included
- Cost (2026): £160–£185 per week
👉 Best for: Balancing affordability with city-centre access.
🛏️ Slateford Road
- Location: West Edinburgh, convenient for Sighthill campus
- Room Types: Shared flats with standard rooms
- Facilities: Simple, community-focused, budget-friendly
- Cost (2026): £140–£160 per week
👉 Best for: Budget-conscious students who don’t mind a commute.
🛏️ Craiglockhart Court
- Location: Beside Craiglockhart campus
- Room Types: Flats with shared bathrooms and kitchens
- Cost (2026): £135–£150 per week
👉 Best for: Students based at Craiglockhart (business, social sciences).
🏘️ Private Student Accommodation
Popular with international and postgraduate students; often includes premium amenities like gyms and cinema rooms.
- Vita Student Edinburgh: Premium studios (£250–£320 per week)
- iQ Fountainbridge: En-suites and studios (£190–£250 per week)
- Unite Students – The Bridge House: Affordable private option (£180–£240 per week)
👉 Private halls are modern and stylish but can be significantly more expensive.
🏡 Shared Flats & Private Rentals
After first year, many students move into shared housing with friends.
- Average Rent (2026): £550–£750 per month per person
- Bills: £80–£120 per month
Popular Student Areas
- Marchmont & Bruntsfield: Close to campuses, cafes, and libraries
- Gorgie & Dalry: Cheaper flats; strong bus connections
- Leith: Trendy seaside vibe; popular with young professionals
👉 Private rentals offer independence but require budgeting for bills and contracts.
💸 Cost Comparison
| Accommodation Type | Weekly Rent (£) | Bills Included? | Typical Commute |
|---|---|---|---|
| ENU Halls (Craiglockhart) | 135–150 | Yes | On campus |
| ENU Halls (Bainfield) | 185–215 | Yes | ~10 mins |
| Private Halls | 190–320 | Yes | Citywide |
| Shared Flat (Private) | 140–180 ppw | No | 15–30 mins |
✅ Pros & Cons
University Halls
Pros: All bills included, social, safe
Cons: En-suites are pricier
Private Halls
Pros: Modern amenities, gyms, cinema rooms
Cons: Premium prices
Shared Flats
Pros: Independence, can be cheaper
Cons: Bills and responsibilities
🏁 Conclusion
ENU accommodation in 2026 ranges from affordable shared halls to premium studios. Freshers and international students may prefer Bainfield or Orwell Terrace for convenience and community, while returning students often save by sharing private flats. Whatever you choose, start early—Edinburgh is a popular and competitive rental market.