Tucked right next to Manchester, Salford is often overshadowed by its buzzing big brother. But make no mistake, this city has its own rhythm, and it plays it loud.
Known for its media revolution, vibrant arts scene, and massive student population, Salford is a place where creativity meets community. The city blends historic charm (hello, old industrial warehouses and canals) with futuristic vibes, MediaCityUK being a prime example.
And the best part? Salford delivers everything its famous neighbour does, diverse culture, lively nightlife, job opportunities, and music that thumps through your bones, at a much more student-friendly pace and price.
It’s compact, easy to navigate, loaded with green space (Peel Park is a study-and-chill favourite), and bursting with student energy. Whether you’re watching indie bands, podcasting in MediaCity or cramming for exams in a cozy café, Salford just works.
🌍 Why International Students Are Loving Salford
Salford flies slightly under the radar. And that’s exactly why international students are loving it. You get the experience without the overwhelm. Here’s what makes it special:
1. University of Salford Beats Expectations
Let’s start with the key player. The University of Salford is a forward-thinking institution with deep links to MediaCityUK, BBC, ITV, NHS, and global businesses. It’s especially strong in:
- Media and broadcasting
- Business and law
- Health sciences
- Engineering and architecture
Plus, the famous School of Arts, Media and Creative Technology is a magnet for future creators.
2. Affordability That’s Actually… Affordable
Why pay £250+ a week for rent in central Manchester when you can get more space, peace, and modern amenities in Salford for £130–£180/week on average? That adds up.
3. Connected without Chaos
With Manchester city centre just 10–15 minutes away by tram, you’ll never miss out on gigs, jobs, internships, or entertainment. But when it’s time to wind down? You’ll be grateful for Salford’s slower streets.
4. Built for Students
From 24/7 study spaces to cozy indie cafes and international grocery shops, Salford puts students at the center of its rebuild. It’s urban regeneration, but with student discounts.
5. Multicultural, Welcoming, and Career-Focused
Over 20,000 students call Salford home. Many are international. Add in the university’s career services and practical placement routes, you won’t just study here, you’ll grow here.
🎓 Top 10 Universities and Colleges in and Around Salford
Salford isn’t just a one-trick pony. While the University of Salford dominates, the wider region links into Greater Manchester’s massive education network.
1. University of Salford
The crown jewel. Famous for media, health, tech, and business. Industry-integrated courses and a confident, modern campus split across Peel Park and MediaCity.
2. Salford City College – Pendleton & Eccles Campuses
Award-winning FE college offering A-levels, access courses, and apprenticeships. A great starting point for international students aiming for degree entry.
3. University of Manchester (10 mins away)
Top 30 globally. World-class research, Russell Group prestige. Many Salford students choose to live in Salford while studying here.
4. Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) (15 mins)
Creative arts, business, education, and science programs mixed with major city vibes. Another major player with shared student life crossover.
5. BIMM Manchester (Music Institute)
Located nearby. Great for music students. Courses connected to the industry, think production, performance, and business.
6. Arden University – Manchester Study Centre
Practical learning provider focused on business, data, law, and psychology. Offers blended learning and study-friendly schedules.
7. UCEN Manchester
Offers higher national diplomas (HNDs) and degrees in media, make-up artistry, digital design, and hospitality. Affordable and applied.
8. Access Creative College Manchester
For gamers, videographers, and digital creatives. A lot of Salford-based students cross-register here for co-curriculars.
9. Manchester College
The largest FE college in the UK. Offers foundation pathways, international English training, and trades.
10. Futureworks Media School
Specialist training in film, TV, sound engineering, and visual effects. Close to MediaCity and strong hands-on experience.
🏠 Top 10 Student Accommodation Properties in Salford
Looking for well-connected, safe, and fully student-oriented housing? Here are the best student accommodations in the heart of Salford:
- Peel Park Quarter – On-campus, ultra-modern
- John Lester & Eddie Colman Courts – University-managed, budget-friendly
- True Salford – High-end amenities and socials
- IQ Salford – Stylish rooms near transport
- X1 The Campus – En-suites and studios near uni
- Hello Student Salford – Boutique student living
- Liverpool Street Apartments – Spacious and quiet
- Prospect Point (Urban Student Life) – Great value
- The Green Apartments – Ideal for mature or postgrad students
- Moho Salford – Trendy studios near MediaCity
📍 Top 10 Student Areas in Salford – Where to Live and Why
Where you live shapes your student life. Whether you want city action or late-night library vibes, here’s a breakdown of Salford’s most student-friendly zones:
1. Peel Park
- Nearby: University of Salford campus
- Properties: Peel Park Quarter, John Lester Courts
- Vibe: Central campus hub, safe, sociable, and minutes from everything. Uni life without the commute? Yes, please.
2. MediaCityUK
- Nearby: University Media School, BBC, ITV
- Properties: True Salford, Moho Salford
- Vibe: Sleek, dynamic, and creative. For media students and Netflix binge-watchers alike.
3. The Crescent
- Nearby: Peel Park Campus and city centre
- Properties: Shared housing, IQ Salford
- Vibe: Classic student zone, pubs, pizza, and parks within walking distance.
4. Liverpool Street / Regent Road
- Nearby: Quick walk to uni
- Properties: X1 The Campus, The Green Apartments
- Vibe: Renowned for value and independence, best for second-years and postgrads seeking quiet without isolation.
5. Salford Quays
- Nearby: 10 mins by tram to university
- Properties: Moho, luxury flats
- Vibe: Waterfront living with style. Think Sunday strolls and sushi nights.
6. Langworthy
- Nearby: Trams and buses to MediaCity + uni
- Properties: Private rentals, student HMOs
- Vibe: Affordable and chilled. Good for group living and mature students.
7. Eccles
- Nearby: 15–20 mins by tram
- Properties: Shared houses
- Vibe: Budget-friendly and calm. Ideal for students working part-time in healthcare or retail nearby.
8. Chapel Street
- Nearby: Right between Salford and Manchester
- Properties: IQ Salford, luxury apartments
- Vibe: Best of both worlds. Urban, creative, growing in popularity with students chasing city lifestyles on a budget.
9. Seedley
- Nearby: 20 mins walk to campus
- Properties: House shares
- Vibe: Quiet, local, no-frills lifestyle. Good for focused, mature students.
10. Lower Broughton
- Nearby: North of Salford
- Properties: Affordable private rentals
- Vibe: Diverse and residential. Not a party district, but solid if you’re looking for privacy and peace.
✍️ Final Thoughts: Why Study in Salford Just… Works
Salford hits that rare sweet spot between city life and campus culture. A place where you can grow academically, creatively, and personally, at a pace that feels sustainable, not overwhelming.
With an innovative university, budget-friendly rent, global job prospects, and a front row seat to Manchester’s endless energy, to study in Salford is to choose smart, modern student living, without the stress.
And once you’re walking along the Irwell at sunset, just minutes from your lecture hall? Yeah, you’ll know you made the right choice.
