Table of Contents
Overview of Preston’s Student Accommodation Market
If you’re even thinking about investing in student accommodation, I’d say Preston is a goldmine waiting to be tapped. I’ve watched this city evolve, and with the student population growing every year, the demand for affordable, quality housing is shooting up too.
The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) welcomes over 25,000 students each year. That means there are a lot of students seeking places to stay, and they’re coming from all over—both in the UK and beyond.
What distinguishes Preston is that it is a genuinely inexpensive city. This isn’t London or Manchester with sky-high rents, but students here are still looking for quality. You’ll find students looking for everything from simply shared houses to modern purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) with en-suite rooms, high-speed Wi-Fi, and common rooms to socialise.
Preston is the best place for new students to begin their university life, offering a vibrant student experience with a diverse mix of student rooms, from private halls to university halls. Whether you’re seeking self-contained student flats for more privacy or shared bathroom facilities with a common room to make new friends, there’s something for everyone.
And for you as an investor, it means higher occupancy rates and reliable returns, especially for properties close to campus or city hotspots like the Preston Railway Station or the Harris Museum.
Rental yields in Preston often beat the national average, which is a big draw for anyone building a portfolio. Not only can you expect solid returns, but there’s also the potential for capital appreciation down the line.
And with a city that’s constantly upgrading its facilities and cultural spots, students aren’t just getting a place to sleep; they’re getting a lifestyle that appeals to them.
Top Preston Student Accommodation for Investment
There are some excellent choices for top student accommodation in Preston or short-term rentals around. From new environmentally friendly homes a short drive away to classic apartments in the heart of Preston, every property here offers special qualities that would appeal to professionals, students, and short-stay guests equally.
Student halls here provide easy access to cultural experiences like the Ribble Steam Railway and Brockholes Nature Reserve, while the friendly team and accommodation team ensure every tenancy agreement runs smoothly.
Here are a few properties that combine prime locations with features to attract tenants
Preston's Guildhall Gardens
Guildhall Gardens is an ideal choice for investors interested in serviced flats in one of Preston’s most iconic areas: the Winckley Square Conservation District. Combining classic charm with contemporary conveniences, this accommodation in Preston, UK, attracts short-term tenants, business visitors, and tourists exploring Lancashire’s vibrant culture.
Key Property Highlights
£766 pcm
20%
Q3 2023
£2,500
- Right in Winckley Square, a top location in Preston that’s popular with locals, students, and tourists.
- Composed of 32 one-bedroom and 3 two-bedroom apartments, all with stylish interiors.
- Popular sites for both residents and visitors, walking distance to UCLan, Market Hall, and Fishergate Shopping Centre.
- Located conveniently for travellers 0.5 miles from Preston Train Station.
- Growing demand for luxury serviced residences brought on by Preston’s economic development and revitalisation.
Angel Gardens
Only a 30-minute drive from Preston, Angel Gardens is in Liverpool and perfect for anyone looking to invest in green, sustainable housing. This property is popular with students and young professionals who are environmentally conscious, plus it’s close to Liverpool’s most-visited spots, adding to its appeal for short stays.
Key Property Highlights
10% NET
£1,540 pcm
Q4 2026
£5,000
- Environmentally friendly architecture with green rooftops and energy-efficient technologies.
- Each with its own balconies, and spacious one- and two-bedroom flats.
- Close proximity to Liverpool Waters, Knowledge Quarter, and Project Jennifer sites—high-traffic locations perfect for short-term visits.
- Only 0.7 miles from Liverpool Lime Street Station, making transport easy for tenants needing to travel.
Berkeley Square
Berkeley Square is about 35 miles from the centre of Preston. It is built to meet the needs of a busy metropolitan area. Its closeness to major business and cultural hubs makes it perfect for serviced apartment investors who want to rent out apartments for short periods of time.
Key Property Highlights
£1,065 pcm
25%
Q2 - Q4 2026
£5,000
- High-end finishes, spacious layouts, and social areas for networking or relaxing.
- Near business hubs like Deansgate and Piccadilly, which adds appeal for corporate travellers.
- Within reach of Manchester Art Gallery, Deansgate, and Spinningfields.
Sovereign Point
For those looking to invest in high-end short-term rentals, Sovereign Point in Liverpool offers scenic waterfront views and premium amenities. Just 30 minutes from Preston, it’s a fantastic choice for sports fans and professionals who want luxury accommodation for a shorter stay.
Key Property Highlights
£839 pcm
10%
Q3 2025
£5,000
- Gorgeous views of the River Mersey with beautifully landscaped grounds.
- Offers one- and two-bedroom apartments and studios with high-quality finishes.
- Close to cultural hotspots like Albert Docks, Tate Liverpool, and the soon-to-be Everton Stadium, drawing in a wide range of guests.
Dockside Residences
For a blend of sustainability and style, Dockside Residences in Liverpool’s harbour district offers eco-friendly accommodation options just 38 miles from Preston. With its all-electric design and emphasis on energy efficiency, this private accommodation appeals to tenants who value green living while staying close to popular cultural sites.
£1,250 pcm
10 Years
250 Years
£5,000
Key Property Highlights
- All-electric, eco-friendly design with top-grade insulation and energy-saving features.
- Beautiful views of the Mersey River, with easy access to dockland attractions.
- Features about 48 two-bedroom residences, all built with sustainable energy sources.
- Approved for short-term rentals, it is therefore a perfect choice for visitors and business guests.
- Walking distance from well-known sites includes Liverpool One shopping centre, Tate Gallery, and Royal Albert Dock.
Paragon House
Just about a 30-minute drive from Preston in Trafford, Paragon House is well-suited for business clients or short-term visitors looking for security, comfort, and modern amenities. This is a premium private student accommodation that offers a unique combination of privacy and convenience.
Key Property Highlights
£1,183 pcm
10%
£1,000
- Features include a gated community entry, a computerised concierge, landscaped gardens, and social lounges.
- Close to Old Trafford and Trafford Bar tram stop, thereby facilitating city discovery for guests.
- Close to the master plan region of Trafford, projected to stimulate development and increase visitor count.
- Great for sports enthusiasts, as it’s near spots like Old Trafford and Salford Quays, appealing to visitors and professionals alike.
Each of these properties offers a unique mix of location, amenities, and style, whether you’re aiming to attract students, professionals, or short-stay guests. If you’re considering an investment near Preston, these student houses provide a range of choices that align well with different tenant needs and interests, giving you a strong foundation to make the most of the rental market.
Why Choose Student Accommodation in Preston for Investment?
Preston is a fantastic place to invest in student accommodation. With accommodation in Preston offering options just a short stroll from campus, now is the best time to secure the perfect place for your first year in this vibrant city. There are a few main reasons this is so:
Growing Student Population
With more than 25,000 students at UCLan, there’s a strong, steady demand for housing in Preston. And it’s not just local students; UCLan has a huge appeal internationally, which adds a layer of diversity to the housing market.
As someone who’s worked in property for years, I know just how important that variety is—international students have different preferences and often need fully furnished, high-quality spaces that are close to campus.
The closer your property is to the campus or the city centre, the quicker it fills up, especially with so many students preferring the convenience of walking to lectures or city events. From my experience, if you can secure a spot near UCLan or popular spots like Miller Parks, you’re setting yourself up for consistent demand and occupancy.
Affordability and Demand
The affordability factor in Preston makes it a standout for student housing investment. Right now, the average property price in Preston is around £168,050—much lower than you’d find in major UK cities.