Cost of Living in the United Kingdom
The United Kingdom and its universities consistently rank in the top global rankings for the best study destinations and universities worldwide. The UK boasts one of the best educational systems globally, with prestigious and historic universities, some of which are among the oldest in the world. These universities attract students yearly due to their exceptional quality of education, advanced study programs, and renowned faculty members. They are also hubs for research and scientific discoveries. The UK is home to 16 cities listed among the top 100 student cities worldwide, according to the QS Best Student Cities ranking, with London ranked as the best student city in the world for 2025. The UK offers a vibrant and safe student life through its cities, but what about living costs? Below, we detail the cost of living in the UK.
Cost of Living in the UK
The UK comprises four countries, and living costs vary from one country to another and from one city to another. The university’s location, accommodation, and the student’s purchasing preferences significantly influence their monthly living costs. Generally, the average cost of living in the UK outside London starts from £1,000. In contrast, the average cost of living in London can start from £1,300.
Accommodation
Accommodation costs vary from city to city, with costs in London being higher than most UK cities. Costs also depend on the student’s preferred accommodation and its proximity to the university and city center. Student accommodation options in the UK include on-campus student halls, private housing, or private student residences. Students can also rent a private apartment with friends or alone, which is the most expensive option, as it also requires paying for utilities such as electricity and water. On average, accommodation costs for students in the UK range between £554 and £848.
Food
The UK offers various food options for all tastes, from traditional English food like English breakfast and fish and chips to falafel, Indian cuisine, and other international dishes. The UK also has popular fast-food chains. Students can find everything they desire and more, with options to save money by buying groceries and cooking for themselves or utilizing the dining services provided by student accommodations. Monthly grocery costs can be around £150, and eating out starts from £15.
Transportation
The UK offers diverse transportation options, including buses, trains, trams, and the underground. Taxis are also available, alongside boats and planes, to connect the UK countries and the world. The UK provides special discounts for students, up to 30% off the cost of a monthly transport card, which costs around £66.50.
Students should allocate funds for health insurance, emergencies, and any study-related supplies when planning their living budget. They should also set aside money for entertainment and exploring the UK.
Note: All mentioned costs are approximate and subject to change anytime.
