Cheapest Accomodation
Cheapest Accommodation for Students Abroad
Find the most budget-friendly housing options by city and type — compare dorms, shared flats and low-cost studios.
Compare student rent prices by city
Accommodation is the single biggest expense for international students. While tuition fees are often fixed or predictable, rent can vary drastically depending on the city you choose. Two universities with similar academic quality can offer completely different living realities simply because of housing costs.
This page is designed to help students compare cities based on real accommodation prices. Instead of vague “affordable” labels, we show average monthly rent ranges so you can immediately see what living in each city actually costs.
Why accommodation cost should come first
Many students choose a city first and only later realize that rent alone consumes most of their budget. High housing costs often lead to shared overcrowded apartments, long commutes, or constant financial stress.
By comparing accommodation prices upfront, students can:
- Choose cities that fit their real budget
- Avoid last-minute housing pressure
- Plan blocked account and monthly expenses more accurately
A city with slightly lower tuition but much higher rent can easily become the more expensive option in the long run.
How to read these prices
The rent ranges shown below reflect average monthly costs for shared student accommodation (room in a shared flat or dormitory). Private studios and one-bedroom apartments are typically significantly more expensive.
Actual prices may vary depending on location, demand, and timing, but these ranges provide a realistic baseline for planning your study-abroad budget.
Prague
€350 – €500 / month
Prague is consistently ranked among the cheapest student cities in Europe when it comes to accommodation. Most international students live in shared apartments or university dormitories, both of which are widely available across the city. Rent prices are relatively stable and not heavily affected by seasonal demand.
Another advantage of Prague is that affordable housing is not limited to distant suburbs. Even neighborhoods close to universities and public transport hubs remain accessible on a student budget. This makes Prague ideal for students who want low rent without sacrificing commute time or safety.
Lisbon
€400 – €550 / month
Lisbon offers one of the best price-to-lifestyle ratios in Western Europe. Student rooms in shared apartments are common, particularly in residential districts slightly outside the historic center. While demand has increased in recent years, prices are still manageable compared to similar coastal cities.
Most students choose Lisbon for its mild climate, relaxed pace, and affordable living costs. Accommodation is easier to find when students are flexible with location and willing to share housing. Overall, Lisbon suits students who want affordability combined with quality of life.
Berlin
€450 – €750 / month
Berlin remains more affordable than many other European capitals, but housing availability is the main challenge. Rent prices are regulated to some extent, which helps keep costs lower, but competition for rooms can be intense.
Students who secure accommodation early—especially through dormitories or shared flats—benefit from reasonable rent and low daily expenses. Berlin works best for students who plan ahead and are open to living outside the city center while still staying well-connected by public transport.
Vienna
€450 – €750 / month
Vienna stands out for its predictable and structured housing system. Student dormitories are well-organized, widely available, and priced fairly. Unlike many other capitals, Vienna’s rental market is less volatile and more regulated.
This stability makes budgeting much easier for students. Housing quality is generally high, public transport is efficient, and rent increases are rare. Vienna is ideal for students looking for long-term affordability and minimal housing stress.
Barcelona
€500 – €700 / month
Barcelona offers moderate accommodation costs compared to other major European cities. Most students live in shared apartments, and prices vary significantly by neighborhood. Areas outside the tourist center are noticeably cheaper and more student-friendly.
While rent is higher than in Eastern Europe, Barcelona remains attractive due to its balanced lifestyle, social environment, and manageable housing costs. It is a good option for students who are comfortable sharing apartments and value location and atmosphere.
Milan
€550 – €750 / month
Milan is one of the more expensive cities in Italy, but still more affordable than many Northern European capitals. Student accommodation typically consists of shared apartments or private student residences.
Housing prices increase significantly near central districts, but students who live slightly outside the core areas can keep costs under control. Milan is best suited for students who want access to industry and internships, while still maintaining a reasonable housing budget.
Amsterdam
€700 – €900 / month
Amsterdam is known for its limited housing supply and high demand, which directly impacts rent prices. Most students live in shared rooms, and finding accommodation often requires early planning or university assistance.
While rent is high, the city offers excellent infrastructure, safety, and student services. Amsterdam is more suitable for students with secured housing options or higher budgets, rather than those relying on last-minute searches.
Munich
€750 – €1,000 / month
Munich is consistently the most expensive student city in Germany. Rent prices are high across the board, and competition is strong, especially near universities and public transport lines.
Students who choose Munich often do so for its strong academic reputation and industry connections. However, accommodation costs require careful budgeting. Munich fits students with strong financial planning or guaranteed housing support.