Newcastle student housing - Jesmond vs Heaton

Whether you’re studying for an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in Newcastle, chances are you’ve heard of Jesmond and Heaton. As two of the most popular student areas in the Toon, these districts are certainly worth considering in your search for accommodation. 

But which area is best for you? Read on to discover the ins and outs of student houses in Jesmond and Heaton.

Where are Jesmond and Heaton?

As UK cities go, Newcastle ranks as the 8th largest by population. As such, it has plenty of residential areas to choose from. 

Jesmond is an affluent suburb north of Newcastle city centre, and it offers a mix of student houses and family homes. Heaton lies east of the city centre and is roughly a 20-minute walk from Jesmond. This area has a more relaxed vibe but also offers housing opportunities for students, professionals, and families. 

Each location brings unique attributes and benefits to its residents — but which would best suit your needs? Let’s take a closer look at student life in Jesmond and Heaton.

Housing options

Jesmond has a high student population, and with a variety of accommodation options — from one-bed apartments for solo living to expansive eight-bed shared houses — there’s something for everyone. 

You’ll find plenty of beautiful Victorian and Edwardian properties in Jesmond, complementing this area’s leafy avenues. 

Many student houses in Heaton were built in the early 20th century, with an array of terraced and semi-detached houses. Alongside family homes,  you’ll also find a lot that have been converted into flats to keep up with the growing population and student demand. 

Affordability

Rent tends to be higher in Jesmond than in Heaton, so many students find house-shares to be the most affordable option. 

If you’re keen to have your own space, a one-bed flat or studio apartment in Heaton could be a great choice. Plus when you rent with Seekers, you can opt for a bills-included rental package to make navigating your finances as straightforward as possible.

Entertainment and nightlife

When it comes to a night out, you can’t beat Osborne Road in Jesmond. With its wealth of bars and pubs, you can find a venue for every occasion — from a classy cocktail evening to a relaxed pint after lectures. 

In Heaton you can enjoy a drink and a meal in one of the area’s many cosy pubs — perfect for catch-ups with friends. What’s more, whichever district you choose, you’ll never be far from Newcastle’s best nightlife entertainment. From city centre clubs to Quayside bars, there’s always somewhere to explore with your housemates. 

But what about daytime entertainment? A short stroll from your Jesmond student housing, you’ll find Jesmond Dene, a park full of greenery and picnic spots. The region also boasts all the shops and coffee shops you need, right at your doorstep from Local to Pink Lane Bakery, 1901 and Arlo. 

As for Heaton, you can expect a mix of high-street and independent shops. It’s a great location for Newcastle foodies, too, with a mixture of restaurants and boutique cafes to try, including The Butterfly Cabinet and Neighbourhood Coffee. 

Transport links

Both Jesmond and Heaton have metro stations, making access to Newcastle city centre a doddle. Jesmond is also an excellent choice for international students, as it has handy links to Newcastle airport — you can even hop on a direct bus. 

Both areas are also within walking distance from Newcastle’s universities. Those renting student houses in Jesmond are just one mile from Newcastle University, while Northumbria University is only two miles from student housing in Heaton.

Heaton or Jesmond: which student housing area is best for you?

Choosing where to live during your university years can be a tough decision, and there are many factors to consider. Jesmond and Heaton each offer excellent student houses, but each also provides its own atmosphere. 

As well as considering your entertainment preferences — do you want Jesmond’s nightlife or Heaton’s welcoming community? You’ll also want to think about your budget and the available transport links. Many Northumbria students find Heaton to be the most convenient and affordable option, while students at Newcastle University enjoy the easy journey from Jesmond to campus.

Find your perfect student house with Seekers

Whichever location you decide to apply for, our team at Seekers is here to help. For more detail on living in Newcastle, take a look at our Student Hub, where you’ll find guides on shopping, travel, and tips on finding the ideal student housing for your needs.

With over 20 years of experience in the Newcastle student housing business, we’ve come to know and love Heaton, Jesmond, and many other of the city’s residential locations. Please feel free to explore the properties we have available and don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions or would like to book a property viewing with our friendly team.