Moving to Oxford for work is exciting, but finding somewhere to live can be the hardest part. Whether you are starting a new job at one of the hospitals, joining the University, taking a contract in Cowley or relocating with your family, this guide explains how to find a comfortable furnished place to stay while you settle in, which areas suit which employers, and what to sort out in your first few weeks.
Why Book a Furnished Stay First
Oxford’s rental market is competitive, and good long-term homes often go quickly. Signing a 12-month tenancy from a distance, without seeing the property or the area, is a big risk. That is why many people moving to Oxford for work book a furnished home for the first few weeks or months instead.
A furnished serviced home gives you:
- Somewhere ready to live in from day one, with a full kitchen, Wi-Fi and fresh linens
- Time to view long-term homes in person and learn which areas you like
- Space to live, not just sleep, which matters if your family is moving with you
- Better value than a hotel for stays of several weeks
Where People Work in Oxford, and Where to Stay
The best area to stay in depends on where you will be working. Oxford’s main employers are spread across a few distinct parts of the city:
- Headington: the John Radcliffe Hospital, the Churchill Hospital, the Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre and Oxford Brookes University’s main campus. Ideal for NHS staff, medical researchers and Brookes staff.
- City centre: the University of Oxford’s colleges and departments, the Saïd Business School by the station, and many offices. Best if your work is central and you want to walk everywhere.
- Cowley: BMW’s MINI Plant Oxford and Oxford Business Park. Both are a short drive or bus ride from Headington and from the city centre.
If you are visiting for a shorter business trip rather than relocating, our guide to corporate accommodation in Oxford compares the city centre, Jericho, the station area and Headington in more detail.
Your First Weeks After Moving to Oxford for Work
- Getting around: Oxford is compact and very bike-friendly, and local buses cover most of the city. Parking in the centre is limited, so if you drive in, the Park & Ride sites at Thornhill, Redbridge, Seacourt, Pear Tree and Oxford Parkway are an easy way to get into town.
- Registering with a GP: if you are staying in an area for less than three months, you can register with a local GP practice as a temporary resident while you look for a permanent home.
- House-hunting: use your first weeks to visit different areas at different times of day, try the commute to work, and view properties in person before you commit.
- Time off: when you have a free weekend, our guide to the best of Oxford city centre has 12 easy things to see and do.
Staying With Spencer & Jackson
We have been hosting guests in Oxford since 2022, including professionals and families moving to Oxford for work. Our homes are in two of the areas above:
- Headington: a three-bedroom house that is suitable for families with children, with plenty of room to settle in. It is around 15 minutes’ walk from the John Radcliffe Hospital, a 5-minute bus ride from the nearest stop or about 10 minutes by car.
- City centre: a one-bedroom apartment and a two-bedroom duplex, both within walking distance of the colleges, shops and restaurants. The duplex also has free parking.
Minimum stays range from 3 to 28 nights depending on the property and how far ahead you book. In winter we offer stays of 28 nights or more at monthly rates, with weekly cleaning included. If your employer is covering your relocation, we can invoice the company directly. We are on hand by phone, WhatsApp or email throughout your stay.
You can check availability and book direct, read what past guests say on our reviews page, or contact us with your dates and we will help you find the right home for your move.
Own a property in Oxford you would like to let? See how our Oxford Airbnb management service works.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my employer pay for my stay?
Yes. If your company is covering your relocation, we can invoice the company directly.
How long can I stay?
Minimum stays range from 3 to 28 nights depending on the property and how far ahead you book. For people moving to Oxford for work, we offer winter stays of 28 nights or more at monthly rates, with weekly cleaning included. Extensions are always subject to availability and pricing.
Is the Headington house suitable for a family?
Yes. Our three-bedroom house in Headington is suitable for families with children, with plenty of space and a full kitchen. It is also around 15 minutes’ walk from the John Radcliffe Hospital.
