Table of Contents
Among the wise decisions investors can make is buying student housing in York. This city has a lot going for it: great architecture, an energetic environment, and first-rate colleges.
Whether you’re just starting your property investment journey or adding to an existing portfolio, York offers exceptional investment opportunities.
The rental demand is driven by a large student population, particularly from the University of York and York St John University, making it a city where demand far outpaces supply.
Why Invest in Student Property in York 2025?
Thriving Student Population
There are a lot of students in York because it has two major universities: the University of York, which is part of the elite Russell Group, and York St. John University. Every year, more than 25,000 students come to these universities together.
With so many people coming to the city, there is always a need for student housing. I’ve seen personally how quickly homes close to campuses or the city centre can be sold, and there are often waiting lists.
New student developments and other housing choices designed for students are always full, which shows that this market will continue to be popular.
High Rental Yields
One of the standout benefits of student property investment in York is the high rental yields. Properties located in prime locations like the York city centre or close to Lawrence Street—a popular student area—command top-tier rents. For example, a well-located student housing unit can deliver yields as high as 7% or more annually.
Compared to other major cities, York’s steady demand and strong demand from students make it a safer bet for long-term returns. I always advise looking for areas with easy access to both universities and public transport to maximise your rental income.
Initiate a powerful sequence of your property growth and reinvestment.
Initiate a powerful sequence of your property growth and reinvestment.
Unleash how successful investors build wealth, reduce financial stress, and achieve financial freedom.
Stable and Growing Property Market
The real estate market in York is very strong. The city continues to draw people from all walks of life, including students, young workers, working families, and even people looking for short-term rentals.
Over the past year, York’s property prices have shown consistent growth, making it ideal for both capital appreciation and steady rental returns. When one of our clients purchased a student property near the South Bank, they saw its value increase by nearly 15% within five years—proof of York’s market resilience.
Reputation as a Top University City
Let’s not forget that York is known as a great place for students. Because they are both in the prestigious Russell Group, the University of York and York St John University regularly rank highly for academic excellence.
This reputation doesn’t just bring in students; it also brings in buy-to-let investors like me, who know how valuable it is to invest in a place with good schools. It is easy to see why students and their parents choose York over other places. It has excellent transport links to big towns like Leeds and Manchester.
York House Prices
Numbers just speak for themselves. York’s average house price in September 2024 reached £327,000, up consistently from £316,000 the year before. York is a fantastic location for property investors as well since it has been expanding consistently, indicating its strength.
Notably, York’s prices are a lot higher than the average price in Yorkshire and Humber, which is £215,000. This shows that the city is a top destination.
When working with investors, we always emphasise the importance of location within the city. For example, apartments and flats near popular sites like York Minster or in the city centre of York usually rent and sell for more.
For those investing for retirement or creating a diversified portfolio, these locations provide long-term capital gains as well as rental income.
York’s Top Areas for Student Property Investment
We have helped several investors in identifying the most profitable York areas; the secret is to know what influences tenant demand. While certain neighbourhoods appeal to young working professionals or holiday lets, others are clearly suitable for student accommodation. Here’s our breakdown of key areas:
- Badger Hill: This area is always high on our list for those investing in student accommodation. It’s a stone’s throw from the University of York and offers properties at an average price of £265,000. If you buy an apartment to rent out, you can expect rental returns of 5% to 5.5%. Because it's close to school, students like it, which keeps demand high.
- York City Centre: Investors looking for varied tenants—students, young professionals, even visitors—will find the heart of York ideal. Properties here average £328,000 but yield competitive rental returns of around 5.2%. While prices are on the higher side, we often remind clients that the prime location and rental demand can more than justify the investment.
- Clifton and Bootham: Located just north of the city, these neighbourhoods attract a mix of tenants. York Hospital is close by, hence demand exists among both personnel and students. Among our clients, properties here are a favourite since they strike a mix between cost and great rental returns.
Types of Student Properties to Invest In
When advising on student property investment in York, we always tailor our recommendations to fit the investor’s goals. From student accommodations to studio flats, each type has its strengths.
Student Accommodations
Student accommodation has modern features like clubs, common areas, and even concierge services. Because they fetch high rents, both students and us love them. Particularly in prime areas close to colleges or the York city core, these features usually attract premium rentals.
We constantly underline to investors the great demand from tenants and the high vacancy rates all year long. Choosing well-placed properties lets investors gain from long-term capital growth potential as well as regular rental income.
This is a fantastic way to ensure consistent earnings and meet evolving needs of York’s vibrant student population.
Student Apartments & Flats
The primary type of student housing are flats and apartments. Depending on the location, they offer flexibility; you might target families, young professionals, or even individuals.
We recently advised an investor on a flat in Heworth, where the average price is £344,000. This region provides access to public transit and proximity to the University of York, thereby benefiting rental revenue as well as capital appreciation.
Student Studio Flats
Students looking for privacy—especially postgraduates and international students—will find studio flats in York ideal. Usually yielding better rates per unit, these features might help to attract more specialised tenants.
For instance, we recently assisted an investor in finding a studio close to York St. John University, and postgrad students have been there regularly. These flats guarantee a consistent flow of tenants by working best in places with high demand and close access to facilities.
What Student Property Investment Opportunities Do You Have in York?
City Gate
.
Property Price
Rent per month
Rental Yield
Students who want to live in high-quality apartments for a short time or for school should check out City Gate, a new building in the middle of York’s city centre. Its stylish design and convenient location near famous sights like York Minster keep people interested.
20%
250 years
3%
- 62 premium apartments with balconies, big windows, and terraces.
- Located in the York city centre, close to the York Minster and the City Walls.
- Amenities include a 5-star lobby, private gardens, concierge service, gym, and secure parking.
- High demand from students and tourists ensures reliable occupancy rates.
The One Residences is only 25 miles from York and has high-end apartments that both students and workers want to rent. It’s very easy to get to York, and it’s close to Leeds Train Station. This is a good choice for renters who go back and forth between the two towns.
20%
Q3 2026
£5,000
- 125 modern apartments ranging from one to three bedrooms, perfect for students and young professionals.
- Situated in Leeds city centre, close to Leeds train station, world-class dining and entertainment.
- High-quality interiors with premium furnishings.
- Strong rental demand from corporate and leisure travellers, including students commuting to York.
Rawsons Mill
.
Property Price
Rent per month
Rental Yield
Rawsons Mill, which is 40 miles from York, is a mix of old-fashioned beauty and modern convenience. Its one-of-a-kind apartments are perfect for students and workers who want to live in a unique place close to big cities.
5%
Q1 2025
£5,000
- Perfect for students who want unique lodging, sixteen rebuilt mill flat with high ceilings and original characteristics.
- Located close to Halifax town centre and main retail centres, guarantees tenant interest.
- Attractive to both professionals and students, strong demand for short-term rental choices with lots of character.
The Springs
.
Property Price
Rent per month
Rental Yield
The Springs is about 44 miles from the centre of York. It has high-end apartments that are built to meet the needs of modern renters, especially students and young professionals. It stays a popular place to rent because it’s close to Halifax’s job centres and public transportation.
25%
Q2 2025
£5,000
- 36 luxury apartments with ergonomic designs and premium interiors.
- Positioned in a thriving economic area with high employment and education opportunities.
- High occupancy rates due to its location near Halifax’s businesses, schools, and transport links.
Suffolk House
.
Property Price
Rent per month
Rental Yield
Suffolk House is only 38 miles from York and has small, fully furnished apartments that are perfect for workers, students, and small families. Its unique style and good location make it very appealing to people looking to rent in Hull, which is a growing market.
6th Jan 2021
£147,000
7.8%
- Perfect for students looking for first-rate accommodations, Boutique construction features 10 fully equipped apartments.
- Centrally located for extra convenience close to Hull’s stores and public transport.
- Affordable entry into Hull’s rental market, with high potential for steady income and tenant demand.
The Merchant
.
Property Price
Rent per month
Rental Yield
The Merchant is 39 miles from York and offers modern living at an affordable price, making it appealing to both students and workers. The property is close to public transport and cultural places, which makes it a great choice for short-term rentals.
25%
Q3 2024
12%
- 29 one- and two-bedroom apartments designed for low-maintenance.
- The property is just 39 miles from York.
- Close to Hull Station and cultural landmarks.
- Consistent demand from tenants exploring nearby cities, including York.
Conclusion
York is one of the best places to invest in student accommodation because it has a healthy student population, high rental yields, and steady capital growth. Top universities and high demand from tenants, make it perfect for investors who want to make steady rental income and long-term returns.
Right now is a great time to invest in this lovely city and lock down your future in one of the UK’s most promising real estate markets!
York’s city centre, located in the heart of North Yorkshire, is a prime property investment location, offering excellent opportunities for rental properties near the University of York, York Central, Clifford’s Tower, and Bishopthorpe Road, making it a sought-after tourist destination with a thriving property market driven by ongoing development projects and high-demand investment properties.
Exclusive Property Launch Invitations
Customised Market Reports
Exclusive Access to Off-Market Properties
Networking Events
