Thinking of moving to the UK for your studies? Excellent! Not sure where to live? Let this blog help you. Cardiff and Birmingham often top the list for international students—and it’s not hard to see why. Both are packed with energy, culture, student-friendly communities, and great universities. But if you had to pick one, which city actually offers a better lifestyle?
Let’s break it down.
City Vibes: What’s the Overall Feel?
Alright, let’s talk about the atmosphere. Cardiff? It’s chill, scenic, and surprisingly lively for a capital city that’s not London. You’ll find cobbled streets, castles, and more green parks than you’d expect. There’s a slower pace here—think weekend strolls by the bay, indie cafés, and music festivals tucked into tiny venues.
Now Birmingham, on the other hand, feels like a proper big city. It’s the UK’s second-largest, and you’ll feel that as soon as you hop off the train. There’s always something happening—new restaurants, street art, food markets, pop-up vintage stalls. It’s busier, faster, and more multicultural in every direction.
So, which vibe fits you better? If you like a calmer rhythm, Cardiff’s your city. If you thrive in movement, Birmingham might feel more like home.
Cost of Living: Which City Is More Budget-Friendly?
Let’s be real—budget matters. Especially when you’re juggling rent, food, transport, and the occasional coffee binge during exam week.
- In Cardiff, you can get a decent student residence without selling your soul. Weekly rent averages around £120–£150, sometimes even less if you share. Food prices are manageable, public transport’s cheap, and nights out won’t burn a hole in your wallet.
- Birmingham? Slightly pricier—but not by a huge margin. You might pay £140–£180 a week for a good room. Groceries and bus passes are a tad more expensive too. But then again, a bigger city = more part-time job options.
Winner in the budget department? Cardiff edges it—especially if you’re watching every penny.
Universities & Student Life: What’s Campus Life Like?
Both cities are home to solid universities that international students love.
In Cardiff, you’ve got Cardiff University, Cardiff Metropolitan, and the University of South Wales. The campuses feel close-knit, and you’ll notice a strong student community—like, everyone knows someone who knows someone.
In Birmingham, it’s a bigger game: University of Birmingham, Aston, Birmingham City University, and UCB. The campuses are more spread out, and you’ll get students from every corner of the world. It’s diverse, it’s exciting, and there’s always something on—debates, gigs, food fairs.
In terms of support, both cities have good housing platforms like University Living to help you land the right place. Whether you’re after shared flats or private studios, you’ll find something to fit your style.
So, student life? Birmingham has variety. Cardiff has charm.
Accommodation Options: What’s the Living Situation?
Let’s talk flats, studios, and those surprisingly decent student digs.
In Cardiff, there’s a healthy supply of accommodation—from modern studios to older shared houses. Many international students prefer fully serviced options that handle bills, Wi-Fi, and repairs. You’ll find plenty of well-rated accommodations in Cardiff within walking distance of campuses.
In Birmingham, housing is modern, competitive, and everywhere. You’ve got clusters of buildings tailored just for students, complete with gyms, game rooms, and rooftop views. Student accommodations in Birmingham tends to offer a wider range, especially for those looking for extras (or Instagrammable study spots).
If you’re someone who likes sleek, new, and shiny—Birmingham wins. If cozy, affordable, and walkable is more your thing—Cardiff might be it.
Things to Do: What’s the Social Scene Like?
Both cities know how to keep students entertained—but in very different ways.
- Cardiff brings a festival vibe. There’s the annual Tafwyl Welsh language fest, gigs at Clwb Ifor Bach, rugby days at Principality Stadium, and loads of live music in pubs that barely fit 50 people.
- Birmingham goes big. Bullring for shopping, Digbeth for underground culture, and more clubs and bars than you’ll probably visit in your whole degree. It’s also a foodie’s paradise—seriously, from Korean BBQ to Caribbean patties, you’ll eat well.
If you like quirky, intimate events—Cardiff. If you want a buzzing, fast-paced social life—Birmingham.
Getting Around: How Easy Is It to Move?
Both cities are well-connected. Cardiff is smaller, so walking or biking gets you everywhere. Plus, buses are student-friendly and regular.
Birmingham has a massive transport network—trains, trams, buses. But you’ll probably end up spending more time (and money) commuting if you live far from campus.
In short? Cardiff wins for simplicity. Birmingham wins for scale.
Final Verdict
If you want peace, parks, and a manageable city that feels like a tight-knit student village—Cardiff is your pick. It’s more affordable, greener, and easier to get around.
But if you’re after opportunities, energy, and a city that never sleeps—Birmingham might suit you better. It’s got more universities, more culture, and more to explore.
And hey, whichever you choose, just make sure you find the right student residence—a comfy bed, good Wi-Fi, and friendly flatmates go a long way. Platforms like University Living can help you figure that part out.
