What does a student room cost? How to make a realistic budget.

A student room is more than just rent. If you list all the costs in advance, you will not face surprises later. In this guide we go through the main items, for students and their parents.

1. The rent: check what is included.

Two rooms with the same rent can still cost a different amount. For some rooms you pay the rent plus an advance for energy and water, with a final settlement at the end of the year. For other rooms everything is included in one fixed amount.

So always compare the total amount per month, and multiply it by the number of months in your lease. A 12-month lease costs more than a 10-month lease, even if the monthly rent is the same.

2. The deposit: a one-off amount.

At the start of your lease you pay a deposit. You get it back at the end if the room is in good condition. Ask in advance how much the deposit is and how you can arrange it, for example through a blocked bank account or a deposit guarantee provider.

3. One-off costs at the start.

• The move itself.
• A mattress, bed linen and towels.
• Kitchen equipment: plates, cutlery, pots and pans.
• Small items such as a lamp, an extension lead and storage boxes.

4. What you spend each month besides rent.

• Food and drinks.
• Transport, such as a bus, tram or train pass, or maintenance of your bike.
• Your mobile phone plan.
• Study materials.
• Leisure.

Tip: put all amounts in a simple table, with the fixed and variable costs per month. That way you see straight away whether your budget adds up.

How it works at Cobane.

• One fixed amount per month. Electricity, gas, water and internet are included. There is no final settlement and no surprise at the end of the year.
• A 12-month lease.
• A deposit of 2 months’ rent. You arrange it through an institution such as your bank or a deposit guarantee provider. A deposit with Cobane is also possible.
• Bed, mattress and desk chair. For hygiene reasons you bring your own mattress and desk chair.
• Living with two? Then we ask you to let us know. For the extra consumption we charge €60 per month.

Want to know more? Read our page for parents or the frequently asked questions.