Student Accommodation in Durban 2027 – Options, Areas & Costs
Finding a place to live is one of the most important decisions for students moving to Durban. The city hosts major institutions such as the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), Durban University of Technology (DUT) and several private colleges. This guide highlights the types of student accommodation available, the best areas to live, typical costs and where to search for 2027.
Whether you’re attending UKZN, DUT, or another institution, you’ll find advice to help you settle into student life in “Durbs”.
Table of Contents
- Top Tertiary Institutions in Durban
- Types of Student Accommodation
- Best Areas for Student Living
- Cost of Accommodation
- Where to Find Accommodation
- Campus Life Tips
- FAQs
Top Tertiary Institutions in Durban
Durban is a hub for higher education. Major institutions drawing students to the city include:
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) – Howard College, Westville, and Medical School campuses
- Durban University of Technology (DUT) – Steve Biko, ML Sultan, and City campuses
- Boston City Campus
- Rosebank College
- Varsity College
- ETA College
- NewBridge Graduate Institute
- Berea Group of Colleges
- Richfield
- Pax College
Knowing where your campus is located will help you choose accommodation nearby.
Types of Student Accommodation
Durban offers three main types of student accommodation:
1. University Residences
Run by universities, these are large dormitory-style buildings offering single, double or triple rooms with basic furniture.
Pros:
- Built-in student community
- Furnished rooms
- Proximity to campus
Cons:
- Less privacy
- Limited independence
2. Private Residences
Modern, purpose-built student apartments offering private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, kitchenettes, study areas and social spaces.
Pros:
- More amenities and privacy
- Often include utilities and Wi-Fi
Cons:
- Higher cost
3. Off-Campus Housing
Renting a house or flat with friends for maximum independence.
Pros:
- Often cheaper per person
- More freedom
Cons:
- You’re responsible for furniture, utilities and transport
🆕 What’s New for 2027: Thrive Student Living Development
A major new student accommodation development is set to open in January 2027 that will significantly ease the student housing shortage in Durban.
Thrive Student Living, backed by Growthpoint Properties, is investing R800 million in KwaZulu-Natal’s largest student accommodation project. The development features:
- 2,400 new student beds in a 12-storey building
- Located adjacent to the main gate of UKZN’s Howard College Campus
- Purpose-built student accommodation with modern amenities
The first students are expected to move in from January 2027. This development will be a game-changer for students seeking high-quality, secure accommodation close to campus.
Best Areas for Student Living
Durban has several student-friendly suburbs. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular areas for 2027:
Cost of Accommodation
The cost of student accommodation in Durban depends on type, area, room size and amenities. Based on 2027 data:
| Type of Accommodation | Price Range (per month) |
|---|---|
| Student residence (university) | R3,800 – R5,500 |
| Private residence (purpose-built) | R6,000 – R12,000 |
| Apartment/house (shared) | R2,500 – R8,000 |
Cost by City Comparison (2027-2028):
| City | Budget Range | Mid-Range |
|---|---|---|
| Durban | R2,500 – R3,500 | R3,500 – R5,000 |
| Johannesburg | R3,000 – R4,500 | R4,500 – R7,000 |
| Cape Town | R3,500 – R5,000 | R5,000 – R8,000 |
Note: Durban is generally more affordable than Cape Town or Johannesburg for student accommodation.
Typical Rentals in Durban (2027):
- Female sharing in Umbilo: R4,000 per month
- Room near Nelson Mandela Medical School: R5,000 per month
- CBD shared apartment: R1,600 per bed (sharing)
- Garden cottage: R6,400 per month
- Shared room: R1,700 – R2,200 per month
Remember that costs can vary depending on the suburb and whether utilities, Wi-Fi or meals are included.
Where to Find Accommodation
🔍 Top Platforms for 2027
| Platform | Best For |
|---|---|
| Property24 | Apartments, houses, and flats for rent |
| Private Property | Private rentals and garden cottages |
| MyProperty | Sharing and budget options |
| FundiConnect | Student-specific accommodation guides |
| Roomies | Shared rooms and budget-friendly options |
| University portals | On-campus and university-affiliated residences |
📝 Tips for Finding Accommodation
- Start early – DUT residences fill up quickly
- Apply for university residences at the same time as your study application
- Consider the new Thrive Student Living development near UKZN Howard College for 2027
- Check if utilities and Wi-Fi are included in the rent
- Visit the area before committing to ensure it’s safe and convenient
Campus Life Tips
- Apply for residence early – On-campus accommodation is limited and fills up fast
- Consider transport – If staying off-campus, check public transport routes to your campus
- Budget for extras – Factor in utilities, groceries, and transport costs
- Join student groups – Facebook and WhatsApp groups often have accommodation listings
- Check security – Research the safety of the neighbourhood before signing a lease
FAQs
When should I apply for student accommodation in Durban for 2027?
Apply as early as possible. University residences typically open applications around the same time as study applications (from April 2026). Private accommodation should be secured 3-6 months before the academic year starts (by October–November 2026).
What is the new Thrive Student Living development?
It’s a R800 million development opening in January 2027 with 2,400 beds adjacent to UKZN’s Howard College Campus. It will be KZN’s largest student accommodation project.
How much does student accommodation cost in Durban?
- University residences: R3,800 – R5,500/month
- Private residences: R6,000 – R12,000/month
- Shared apartments/houses: R2,500 – R8,000/month
Is Durban cheaper than other cities for student accommodation?
Yes. Durban is generally more affordable than Johannesburg or Cape Town.
Does NSFAS cover student accommodation?
Yes. NSFAS funding can cover accommodation costs for eligible students at public universities and TVET colleges. Apply through the NSFAS portal.
Can international students get accommodation?
Yes, but international students may be required to pay double the fees including accommodation and other levies.
Conclusion
Durban offers a wide range of student accommodation options for 2027, from affordable shared houses to modern private residences. The new Thrive Student Living development opening in January 2027 will add 2,400 beds near UKZN, significantly easing the student housing shortage.
Key takeaways for 2027:
- Apply for accommodation as early as possible
- Popular areas: Glenwood, Berea, Durban Central, Morningside, Westville
- Budget: R2,500 – R12,000 per month depending on type
- New R800 million development with 2,400 beds opening January 2027
