Blackrock Accommodation

For students seeking accommodation off-campus, there are a variety of housing options that suit different preferences, budgets, and levels of independence. Below are the main types of off-campus accommodation available for students:

1. Student Dorms and Halls of Residence

• Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA): Often referred to as “student dorms” or “student halls,” these facilities are specifically designed for student living. They offer private or shared rooms with communal amenities such as study areas, lounges, and gyms. PBSA provides a supportive, student-focused environment, ideal for those who prefer structured, community-based living. Student halls are typically more expensive but often include bills and offer booking terms in line with students’ needs.
• Student Dormitory Rooms: Located within PBSA or other student-oriented residences, dormitory rooms offer a mix of private and shared spaces with essential amenities. This type of accommodation is ideal for students who prefer a social and structured setting close to campus.

2. Shared Apartments and Houses

• Rooms in Shared Apartments: Many students opt to rent a private room within a shared apartment, allowing them to balance affordability with community living. In this setup, students typically have their own rooms but share common areas like kitchens and living rooms with other tenants.
• Student Digs: Known as “student digs,” this type of arrangement typically involves renting a private room in a landlord-occupied property under a license agreement rather than a lease. It offers a more traditional, home-like environment and is often an affordable option for students. This is a popular option however a lot of landlords only offer student digs on a 5 day basis (typically Sunday evening to Thursday evening).
• Private Rooms in Shared Houses: Similar to shared apartments, renting a room in a shared house provides a home-like setting with more privacy than dorm-style accommodation. Students enjoy communal spaces within the house and benefit from a shared rental cost.

3. Entire Apartments and Houses

• Private Apartments: For students who prefer more independence, renting an entire apartment, such as a studio or one-bedroom unit, is a popular option. These apartments provide private living spaces with dedicated kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas, allowing students full autonomy over their accommodation. Studio apartments are particularly popular both within larger apartment complexes or student halls.
• Larger Shared Houses and Apartments: Some students choose to lease an entire property, such as a multi-bedroom apartment or house, with a group of friends. This setup provides a larger communal living experience where the students lease the property as a whole rather than individual rooms. It’s ideal for groups of students who want a shared yet independent living arrangement with more control over the property.

Cost of Accommodation

Accommodation costs in or near Blackrock vary depending on the type of housing and location. On-campus accommodation offers fixed rates determined by the University, while off-campus options range from €800 to €1,800 per month for a room in a shared apartment or house, with private apartments typically costing more.

Nearby Universities and Colleges

Blackrock is conveniently located near some of Dublin’s top educational institutions:

• University College Dublin (UCD): One of Ireland’s leading universities, UCD is just a short DART or cycle ride from Blackrock, making it a top choice for students in the area.
• Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School: Located in Carysfort, Blackrock, this renowned institution attracts postgraduate students worldwide.
• Trinity College Dublin: While slightly further afield, Trinity is easily accessible from Blackrock via public transport, making it a convenient option for students seeking quieter accommodation.
• Institute of Art, Design & Technology (IADT): Located in Dún Laoghaire, just a short journey from Blackrock, IADT offers specialized courses in art, design, and technology, catering to creative students.

Living in Blackrock

Blackrock offers an exceptional quality of life with plenty of activities and amenities

• Local Ameneties: The vibrant village center boasts grocery stores, cafes, restaurants, and gyms. Blackrock Market is a must-visit destination for fresh produce, artisan goods, and street food.
• Leisure Activities: Blackrock Park offers coastal walks, picnic areas, and green spaces, perfect for unwinding between studies. Nearby, Dún Laoghaire’s marina provides additional leisure options.
• Cultural Attractions: While Blackrock offers a tranquil environment, it’s close to Dublin city’s cultural landmarks, theaters, and museums, ensuring students never miss out on urban attractions.
• Transport Links: Blackrock is served by the DART, connecting it to Dublin city center in minutes, and multiple bus routes. Students can also cycle to nearby universities thanks to bike-friendly infrastructure. A Leap Card provides discounted travel on public transport.

Blackrock Cost of Living

The cost of living in Blackrock, Dublin can be higher compared to other parts of Dublin. Students can expect to spend around €200 to €300 per month on groceries, with additional costs for utilities, entertainment, and transportation.

Staying Safe and Avoiding Rental Scams

With rental scams on the rise in Dublin, we strongly advise all students to exercise caution when searching and applying for properties online. At StudentHouse, we offer a range of tools and services to protect students from rental scams, including property scam checks, rent escrow agreements, and landlord verification. Our sister company, SecureProp, specialises in rental scam prevention, and we use their tools and services to enhance our offering and keep students safe throughout their student accommodation search.

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