Student’s Guide to Shared Housing in Dundee 

So, you’re moving to Dundee for university? That’s exciting. Great views, good vibes, and some of the friendliest people you’ll meet. But before you start exploring the city’s best coffee spots or the V&A museum, there’s one major thing to tick off your list: where are you going to live? 

For many students, shared housing becomes the go-to option. It’s cheaper, more social, and often gives you a more local feel than staying in a dorm. But how do you know what to expect? Let’s walk through everything you need to know before diving into shared student life in Dundee. 

Why Do Students Choose Shared Housing in Dundee? 

Shared housing isn’t just a money-saver. It offers a completely different experience from university halls. 

Here’s why many students prefer it: 

• Lower rent compared to private studios or PBSAs 

• More flexibility in choosing housemates 

• Chance to live in local residential areas, closer to city life 

• Larger living spaces with shared kitchens and common areas 

• More independence and fewer rules compared to campus housing 

And to be honest. Cooking dinners together, binge-watching shows, or simply complaining about lectures becomes way better when you’ve got flatmates to do it with. 

What Should You Look for in a Shared Student House? 

The listings might all start looking the same after a while, but these are the key things to pay attention to. 

Check for: 

• All-inclusive rent (covering electricity, gas, internet, and water) 

• Distance to university campuses and public transport 

• Furnished vs unfurnished setup 

• Number of bathrooms vs number of tenants 

• Laundry facilities and kitchen equipment 

• Heating and insulation. Dundee winters can get chilly 

Don’t forget to read the reviews (if you're booking through a platform) and ask for a video tour if you can't visit in person. 

Where Are the Best Areas for Students to Share a House? 

Dundee’s compact size works in your favor. You’re never too far from anywhere. But some neighbourhoods are clearly student favorites. 

Top spots for shared housing include: 

• West End – Walking distance to the University of Dundee and full of student cafes and pubs 

• Hilltown – More affordable, with a mix of students and families 

• City Centre – Close to nightlife and shops, though slightly pricier 

• Stobswell – Quieter, with green spaces and good bus links 

• Menzieshill – A growing area for students looking for value-for-money rentals 

If you’re searching through a verified platform that lists student accommodation Dundee, you’ll likely find a range of options in these areas that suit different budgets and preferences. 

Who Should You Live With? 

This is where things can get tricky. Your future housemates can make or break your shared housing experience. 

Here’s what to consider: 

• Study habits – Night owls and early birds rarely get along in small spaces 

• Cleanliness standards – Be honest about yours, and ask others about theirs 

• Budget alignment – Make sure everyone agrees on rent expectations and extra costs 

• Social preferences – Are you looking for a quiet space or a lively flat? 

• Communication style – Misunderstandings are easier to resolve when everyone’s on the same page 

Some students prefer moving in with friends, while others are okay joining an existing house. Both have their pros; you just need to be upfront about your lifestyle. 

What Are Your Rights and Responsibilities? 

Moving into a shared house doesn’t mean you skip on paperwork. Understanding your rights as a tenant in Scotland is important. 

Here's what you need to know: 

• Most student leases fall under the Private Residential Tenancy agreement 

• Your deposit must be protected in a government-approved scheme 

• The landlord should provide safety certificates (gas, electricity, etc.) 

• You are jointly responsible for communal areas, even if one tenant causes issues 

• You can request repairs, but always report them in writing 

It’s also good to set up a basic house agreement with your flatmates. Things like cleaning duties, shared expenses, and visitor rules can go a long way in keeping peace. 

How Much Should You Expect to Pay? 

One of the biggest perks of shared housing is affordability. But how much should you really budget? 

Typical monthly costs: 

• Rent (per room): £300 – £450 depending on area and amenities 

• Utilities: Around £40 – £60 if not included in rent 

• Wi-Fi: £10 – £15 split between housemates 

• Groceries: £100 – £150 depending on lifestyle 

Compared to other cities, Dundee offers some of the most budget-friendly options in the UK, especially if you’re open to house-sharing. 

How Do You Avoid Getting Scammed? 

Unfortunately, student housing scams are still out there. Especially for international students booking online. 

Here’s how to stay safe: 

• Always use a trusted platform or student housing provider 

• Never transfer money without seeing a contract 

• Avoid landlords who won’t provide a tenancy agreement 

• Research the address and landlord reviews 

• Make payments through secure, traceable channels 

If something feels rushed or sketchy, hit pause and double-check with someone. It’s better to be overly cautious than end up in a bind. 

Conclusion 

Shared housing in Dundee is more than just a place to sleep. It’s where late-night study sessions, housemate dinners, and some of your best uni memories will happen. With the right research, a little planning, and clear communication, you can land a place that feels like home. 

Looking to start your search for student accommodation Dundee style? Now you have the tools to do it right.