Azimpur

Located on the western edge of Dhaka University’s academic area, Azimpur is one of the city’s oldest student neighbourhoods. It sits close to Dhaka University, BUET, Dhaka College, Nilkhet and New Market, making it a hub for students seeking affordable accommodation within walking distance of campus.

Pros:

Rent remains among the lowest in central Dhaka. Students have easy access to libraries, bookstores, photocopy centres, coaching institutes and inexpensive eateries. Most destinations can be reached on foot or a short rickshaw ride.

Cons:

The neighbourhood is densely populated and frequently congested. Traffic, political demonstrations and occasional waterlogging can disrupt daily routines.

Nilkhet–New Market

The Nilkhet–New Market area is the intellectual heart of Dhaka. Located beside Dhaka University and near BUET, it is known for its second-hand bookshops, stationery stores and student-oriented services.

Pros:

Students can find some of the city's cheapest meals and study resources. Academic institutions, libraries and bookstores are concentrated within a small area.

Cons:

Housing options are more limited than in other neighbourhoods. The area is noisy and crowded, with frequent traffic bottlenecks.

Uttara

As the name might suggest, Uttara is located in northern Dhaka. The BGMEA University of Fashion & Technology (BUFT) is located in this neighbourhood.

Pros: Rent prices are on the cheaper side in Dhaka, and the neighbourhood is considered safe and well-developed. Residents can access basic amenities in their vicinity.

Cons: Residents complain about pollution and traffic/congestion-related issues. The neighbourhood is seen as being far from the city centre. Although it is only 22 kilometres out from Dhaka’s zero-point, high traffic can often exacerbate this problem.

Bashundhara

Located on the Northern edge of Dhaka, Bashundhara Residential Area is a modern, self-contained neighbourhood popular among university students and professionals. It is close to several universities, making it a major hub for students who are seeking organised, community-style living.

Pros

The neighbourhood has wide, planned streets, with residents having immediate access to malls, restaurants, cafes and essential healthcare facilities.

Cons:

Commuting out of the neighbourhood during peak hours may involve heavy traffic.

Mirpur

Situated in the northeast region of Dhaka, Mirpur is divided into three Thanas. It is home to Dhaka’s central zoo and several medical colleges/ universities, such as the Ibn Sina Medical College and Dhaka Dental College.

Pros

Compared to other regions in Dhaka, it is considered one of the greener areas, thanks to the presence of the river Turag and several botanical gardens. Additionally, its street food scene and lively markets make it a suitable place for students.

Cons:

Certain areas in Mirpur face drainage issues and waterlogging in the monsoon season.