If you’re moving to Delhi for college, one of the first things you’ll probably wonder is: Should I stay in North Delhi or South Delhi? And honestly, it’s a valid question—because both sides of the city have very different personalities.
North Delhi is the classic college hub, buzzing with students and budget street food. South Delhi, on the other hand, is greener, fancier, and feels a bit more relaxed. So, let’s break this down like friends would—no filters, just real talk.
College Campuses – Where Are You Headed?
North Delhi is where the heart of Delhi University (DU) beats—St. Stephen’s, Hindu, Miranda House, Ramjas—you name it. The streets literally feel academic. There’s a student crowd at every corner, especially in Kamla Nagar or Hudson Lane.
South Delhi houses colleges like Sri Venkateswara, JMC, Maitreyi, and of course, big names like JNU and IIT Delhi. It’s a little less chaotic and a bit greener and more spread.
Pro tip: Just go with the campus your college belongs to. North = DU North Campus. South = DU South Campus, JNU, or private universities.
Food & Cafes – Where’s the Grub?
In North Delhi, the food is cheap and cheerful. Whether it’s momos, thalis, or those overstuffed sandwiches from Hudson Lane—you won’t go hungry on a student budget.
South Delhi is all about vibes—think quaint cafés, smoothie bowls, and places like Champa Gali or Hauz Khas Village. Cute, yes. Budget-friendly? Not always.
If your wallet cries at ₹300 coffee, North is your bestie. If you’re okay paying extra for aesthetics, South’s got the vibe.
Living Expenses – Rent, Rooms & PG Life
North Delhi is definitely more affordable. Mukherjee Nagar, GTB Nagar, and Vijay Nagar are packed with PGs and hostels made for students.
South Delhi is on the pricier side. But areas like Satya Niketan, Ber Sarai, and Munirka are student-friendly and manageable if you share a flat or find a decent PG.
If your budget’s tight or you don’t want to cook, North has better value for money.
Markets & Malls – Where’s the Fun?
North Delhi has places like Kamla Nagar and Hudson Lane—great for clothes, food, and accessories on a student budget.
South Delhi is more mall-centric—DLF Promenade, Select Citywalk, South Ex. You get big brands, food courts, and AC everywhere.
North = street shopping + savings. South = splurging and window shopping.
Vibe Check – What’s the Feel Like?
North Delhi is always buzzing. It’s loud, young, and full of energy. If you’re into crowds, societies, events, and late-night Maggi runs, you’ll feel at home.
South Delhi is calmer, cleaner, and definitely a bit more posh. Perfect if you like chill café days, evening walks in parks, and peaceful study corners.
Want the full-on college chaos experience? North’s your zone. Prefer a quieter, classier vibe? South’s got you.
Connectivity – Getting Around
Both are well-connected by the metro, but South Delhi has slightly better access to cabs, autos, and even the airport line.
If you plan to travel a lot or fly often, South might be more convenient.
Student Culture – Where’s the Crowd?
North Delhi is all about college life—street plays, debates, protests, society meets—you’ll see students everywhere, all the time.
South Delhi is more mixed—students, professionals, families. You’ll still find fun zones around colleges, but it’s not as intensely student driven.
Want all the college feels and chaos? North. Want a little breathing room? South.
So… North or South?
Honestly, there’s no right or wrong answer. It just depends on your vibe and where your college is.
Pick North Delhi if you’re on a tight budget, love the DU student energy, and want everything nearby.
Pick South Delhi if you’re into quiet cafes, a cleaner environment, and don’t mind spending a bit more for comfort.
Whichever side you pick, one thing’s for sure—Delhi will grow on you. The metros, the momos, the late-night walks, the college fests—it’s a wild ride, and totally worth it.
