Are you starting a new job or just finishing university? Cambridge is buzzing with rental opportunities for graduates and young professionals.
If you’re moving to Cambridge for work or your first job after university, understanding the local rental market can make all the difference. This guide covers everything from choosing the right area to budgeting for a lease, helping you find a place that suits your lifestyle and career plans.
Why Rent in Cambridge as a Young Professional?
Cambridge is an exciting city with an ever-changing network of young professionals. For those moving to the city for the first time, there are plenty of opportunities to meet people and socialise. With organisations like the Cambridge Young Professionals Group, it’s especially easy to find a group and get involved.
Renting offers both flexibility and convenience. It gives you the opportunity to live close to work opportunities, explore different neighbourhoods and enjoy the city’s vibrant culture. Renting also lets you test the water before committing to a purchase – something that can be especially helpful when weighing up the benefits of renting versus buying.
When to Begin Your Rental Search
Starting your rental search early is the key to finding the right home. Looking in advance before you move gives you time to explore options, visit properties and complete paperwork in plenty of time.
Looking early also helps you secure a place in Cambridge’s most popular areas. The city is particularly busy in late summer and early autumn, when many other graduates and young professionals enter the market, so be sure to think ahead.
What Areas Are Popular Among Young Professionals?
Where you choose to live can shape more than just your commute to work. Lifestyle, community and a world beyond office hours all come into play when choosing where to call home. Young professionals in Cambridge often look to the city centre for its lively bars and restaurants. Mill Road is a popular location, known for its unique shops and cafes. Moving further from the centre yet still offering good transport links, neighbourhoods like Chesterton and Romsey are wise choices. If you’re curious about other popular areas, take a look at our full 2025 guide to the best places to live in Cambridge.
What to Look for in a Rental Property
The right property can make all difference when settling into city life. When picking a property as a young professional, focus on what matters to you.
Consider a location with easy access to work. Next, look at the condition of the property – is there reliable heating, good insulation and a secure lock to keep you safe? When you find a rental through Bush & Co, you can be sure that every home meets these essentials, with landlords who care about quality and comfort.
Lastly, think about the space you need within the property and how you’ll use it day to day. You might prefer a furnished home if you don’t already have your own furniture, or an unfurnished one if you want to make it your own. If you work remotely, you might also need a dedicated office area or space for a desk. Taking the time to consider these factors will help you to find a rental that fits both your work and lifestyle needs.
Rental Budget Tips
Paying rent shouldn’t use your entire monthly salary – after all, you work hard for your money and deserve to enjoy it. As a rule, try to keep rent within 30–40% of your income.
When budgeting for rent, you should also remember to factor in bills, council tax and everyday expenses like commuting and groceries. Upfront costs such as deposits also need thought before you can settle into your new home. Bush & Co is always transparent about fees, so you can start your rental with peace of mind.
Navigating the Rental Process
Finding the right home isn’t always easy, especially when you’re new to the Cambridge market and juggling a busy work life. Bush & Co’s local knowledge means you can get tailored support throughout the process. With a personalised approach, the lettings team makes renting straightforward and hassle-free, leaving you to focus on building your career and enjoying your life in Cambridge.
Ready to find your ideal rental? Get in touch with the Bush & Co team today for expert guidance designed with young professionals in mind.
