Starting university life in student halls is a rite of passage for many. It’s where you meet your first friends, figure out how to live independently, and begin navigating the world of higher education. But once the first year ends, most students in Canterbury start to think about what’s next. That’s where shared student houses come in – and making the move from halls to an off-campus house with your friends might just be one of the most rewarding parts of your university journey.

Building Stronger Friendships

In halls, you’re usually living among dozens (if not hundreds) of students, sharing basic facilities and dealing with random flatmates. While it’s a great way to meet people initially, it’s often hard to form deeper connections when you’re constantly surrounded by noise, unfamiliar faces, and a lack of privacy.

Moving into a house with your chosen friends changes everything. You’re no longer just acquaintances who share a corridor — you’re now part of a small, close-knit household. Whether it’s cooking meals together, hosting movie nights, or just chatting over a cup of tea, living in a student house gives you the time and space to really bond. These are the friendships that often last well beyond university.

More Space, More Comfort

Student houses in Canterbury generally offer more space than halls. You’ll have a proper living room, a garden (in many cases), and a full-size kitchen. No more fighting for fridge space or queueing to use a tiny shared oven.

Bedrooms are typically bigger, and you’ll find the overall atmosphere far more relaxed. Instead of the cramped, often impersonal feel of university halls, you get a real home, somewhere you can make your own. Decorate your room how you like, put up pictures, or bring your own furniture. It’s your space now.

Greater Independence

Living in a student house off-campus is a huge step towards adulthood. You’ll be responsible for managing bills, sorting out your own meals, and keeping the house clean. While that might sound daunting at first, it’s excellent preparation for life after university.

Plus, with bills included in many student houses in Canterbury, there’s less to worry about. All-inclusive packages often cover water, electricity, internet, and even TV licences, giving you one less headache when juggling deadlines and lectures.

 

Escape the Bubble

Let’s face it, living on campus can start to feel like a bubble. You eat, sleep, study, and socialise all in the same place. While convenient, it can be stifling, especially as you grow more confident and independent.

Living in shared houses lets you explore more of Canterbury. You’ll get to know the local shops, cafés, and pubs. You’ll understand how to navigate the bus system, get familiar with neighbourhoods like Forty Acres, North Holmes Road, and Downs Road, and generally feel more like a part of the wider community, not just the student population.

Tailored to Your Needs

Unlike university halls, which are usually standardised and non-negotiable, student rental houses in Canterbury come in all shapes and sizes. Whether you need four bedrooms or seven, a quiet study-focused environment or a lively social house, there’s something for every group dynamic.

Some houses come with extra perks too – think fast Wi-Fi, dishwashers, big garden spaces, or even double bedrooms for everyone. You can choose the property that works best for your group and your lifestyle.

A Budget-Friendly Option

One of the biggest misconceptions is that halls are cheaper. In reality, student houses can often offer better value for money. Rent in off-campus houses is usually lower per week than on-campus halls, especially when you consider the added space and privacy.

With bills included and costs shared among friends, budgeting becomes more predictable. You’re also more in control of how you spend — want to cook at home rather than eat at the uni canteen? Go for it. Prefer to split bulk buys of essentials with housemates? Easy.

Flexibility and Freedom

Off-campus life means fewer rules. No more sign-in guests, quiet hours, or RA patrols. Want to have a few friends over for dinner? No problem. Prefer to decorate the lounge with fairy lights and plants? Go ahead.

Of course, you still need to be a respectful tenant and neighbour, but the level of freedom is incomparable. It’s your home, and you get to decide how it feels and functions.

 

Better for Mental Health

Many students report feeling more relaxed and less anxious once they leave halls. Less noise, fewer people, and more control over your environment can do wonders for your wellbeing. Being surrounded by your close friends in a comfortable home creates a safe and supportive atmosphere, especially during stressful exam seasons or tough personal times.

Plus, the simple act of walking or cycling to campus each day provides a mental buffer between your home life and academic responsibilities – something that’s hard to get when you’re living on campus.

RoomSurfer Makes It Easy

At RoomSurfer, we specialise in student rental houses in Canterbury. Whether you’re looking for a 2-bed starter house or a 7-bed place for your entire group, we’ve got fully furnished, modern homes across all the popular student areas. All properties come with bills included, fast internet, and responsive local management — so you can focus on uni life without the stress.

Moving out of halls and into a student house with friends isn’t just a step forward in independence – it’s a step into some of the most memorable and meaningful experiences of your university life.

Ready to Make the Move?

If you’re studying at UKC, CCU, or UCA and want to start the next chapter of student life with your friends, explore our available student houses in Canterbury today. With RoomSurfer, you’ll find a place that feels like home.