Shared flat or university residence? 7 key factors for studying in Barcelona
The time has come to take the leap into university life in Barcelona, and the big question arises for families: Should they rent a shared apartment or reserve a place in a residence hall?
At first glance, an apartment might seem like the “cheapest” option or the one that offers the most “freedom.” However, when we analyze the real costs, time management, and quality of life, the balance usually tips in favor of a residence hall, especially in the early years of university.
As experts in student accommodation at Grupo Mestral, we have analyzed the 7 decisive factors you should consider before making a decision.
1. Hidden costs vs. “All Inclusive”
The most common mistake is comparing the price of a room in a student residence with the price of renting an apartment. It’s an unfair comparison. In an apartment, you have to add the cost of electricity, water, gas (which skyrockets in winter), high-speed internet, community fees, and cleaning supplies to the rent. In a residence like those offered by Grupo Mestral, you have complete financial control: you pay a fee and forget about surprises at the end of the month. Financial peace of mind is also part of academic success.
2. Your time is gold (literally)
In a shared apartment, an average of 10 to 12 hours a week are spent on household chores: grocery shopping, cooking, cleaning common areas, doing laundry, and dealing with repairs. What’s that time worth? In a residence with full board and cleaning service, those 12 hours a week become free time to study, relax, or enjoy Barcelona.
3. Loneliness vs. Networking
Living in an apartment can be lonely if you don’t get along with your roommates, or chaotic if your schedules don’t align. A residence hall offers the perfect balance: you have your privacy in your room, but when you open the door, you’re part of a community. At Grupo Mestral, we foster a family-like atmosphere where it’s easy to make friends from different fields and backgrounds. You’re building your professional network from day one.
4. Safety and peace of mind for parents
Barcelona is a vibrant city, but for a family living far away, knowing their child is in a safe and secure environment is invaluable. Having reception staff, security personnel, or tutors, and knowing that in case of any emergency (medical or personal) there is someone responsible to help, eliminates the anxiety generated by a private apartment where the student is left to their own devices.
5. The quality of the study
Student flats are often synonymous with noise, unplanned parties, or annoying neighbors. Student residences, on the other hand, are architecturally designed for studying: quiet study rooms, good lighting, and clear rules of coexistence that respect exam periods.
6. Conflicts of coexistence
Whose turn is it to clean the bathroom? Who ate my food? These kinds of squabbles can really strain relationships in apartment living. In a residence hall, with basic needs (food and cleaning) taken care of, 90% of arguments are eliminated, allowing the relationship between residents to be purely one of friendship and camaraderie.
7. Strategic location
Finding a decent apartment near universities at a good price is nearly impossible. Our residences are strategically located in prime areas like Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, guaranteeing safe environments and excellent connections to major universities (UB, UPC, URL, UIC).
Conclusion: An investment in performance
Choosing accommodation isn’t just about choosing a roof over your head; it’s about choosing the lifestyle you’ll have during your studies. While an apartment forces you to be a “househusband,” a student residence allows you to be a “full-time student.”
At Grupo Mestral , we see this stage as a vital experience. If you’re looking for an environment that enhances your academic performance without sacrificing the warmth of home, come and meet us.
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