Data reveals the city with the best lettings agencies for students

Finding suitable accommodation is a top priority for every university student, as it sets the stage for a comfortable and fulfilling academic journey.

With numerous different accommodation choices available, determining the most reliable and student-friendly options can be a daunting task.

To discover which university city had the best accommodation letting agencies for students, Uswitch.com buy to let mortgages experts examined cities with more than 3,000 available student properties, focusing on the number of reviews and average ratings for student letting agencies in each city^[5].

Table 1: The university city with the best student letting accommodation agencies

City	Total reviews	Average review rating
Bath	3,687	4.45
Plymouth	2,962	4.45
Bristol	7,117	4.44
Exeter	3,626	4.41
Sheffield	3,677	4.41
Camden	7,090	4.38
York	3,247	4.36
Southwark	5,562	4.29
Portsmouth	2,773	4.29
Oxford	4,694	4.28

Letting agencies in Bath received an average review rating of 4.45 out of 5 from 3,687 reviews, making it the city with the best property managers for students^[1]. The average review score highlights the high-quality accommodation and services provided by letting agencies in the city, ensuring a comfortable and satisfying experience for student residents. 

Almost a third (31%) of students at universities in Bath have never had any disputes with their property manager^[6], and more than half (52%) believe that if they approached them about the current cost of living crisis, their landlord or letting agency would support them^[7].

Up next is Plymouth, with an average rating of 4.45 from 2,962 reviews. Whether it’s the modern amenities, affordability, or the supportive and friendly approach of the letting agencies, Plymouth’s property managers consistently receive high praise from students. Over two-thirds (68%) believe their monthly rent payments are reasonable for the quality of property they live in^[8], and nearly three-quarters (71%) would recommend their property to another student^[9]. 

Following that is letting agencies in Bristol, which have an average review rating of 4.44 based on 7,117 reviews^[10]. The city offers a wide range of accommodation choices that cater to different preferences and budgets. Over two-thirds (66%) of Bristol students would recommend their current residence to another student^[11], with around one-third (33%) stating they haven’t had any disputes with their current landlord or letting agency^[12].

Sheffield and Exeter are next with scores of 4.41^[13] followed by Camden with a score of 4.38^[14].

Uswitch buy to let mortgage expert speaks on the importance of a good landlord or letting agency for students:

“Selecting a reputable letting agency is crucial for students searching for accommodation. The choice of a reliable and responsible agency can significantly enhance the overall student living experience, creating a secure and comfortable environment that promotes academic success. 

Here are the key reasons why it is essential for you, as a student, to prioritise a reputable letting agency: “

·         Responsive communication: Having good communication with your landlord or letting agency is crucial for a positive renting experience. As our survey shows, 32% of students prioritise honesty and communication when looking for a new property manager. A good letting agency will maintain open lines of communication and should respond to student inquiries, concerns and requests in a prompt manner. This will build trust between tenants and the landlord or letting agency.

·         Safe and well-maintained properties: A good landlord/letting agency prioritises the safety and maintenance of their properties. By maintaining their properties well, students can benefit from a more secure and comfortable living space.

·         Positive living experience: Ultimately, a good landlord/letting agency plays a crucial role in creating a positive living experience for students. By providing a comfortable, safe, and supportive living environment, they enable students to focus on their studies and make the most of their academic journey.”

For more on the UK’s letting agencies, see the Uswitch buy to let statistics page