Cost of Living in the UK – The Detailed Guide
Are you planning to pursue higher education in the UK? If yes, one of the first things you’re probably thinking about is the cost of living. The overall expenses in the UK depend on various factors, such as accommodation, food, transport, and other daily needs. These costs can vary depending on where you live and your lifestyle. For students living independently, the monthly cost of living for Indian students can range between ₹1.5 Lakhs to ₹2.5 Lakhs. In this blog, we will explore the cost of living in the UK and the various factors that influence it. We will also discover some helpful tips to help you reduce your living expenses.
Factors Affecting the Cost Of Living in the UK
There are several factors that impact the cost of living in the UK, especially for students. Below, we’ve listed some key aspects that can significantly influence your budget while studying abroad.
1. Educational Institutions
The university or college you attend has a big impact on your overall expenses. Major city universities, especially those in London, tend to be more expensive, with Oxford being even pricier. On the other hand, smaller universities in regional areas are usually more affordable. Apart from tuition, you also need to account for additional costs like course materials, lab fees, and extracurricular activities.
2. Accommodation Type
Where and how you choose to live plays a huge role in determining your living expenses. Renting a private apartment in major cities like London can be quite expensive compared to options like university dorms or shared houses. Campus housing and shared flats are generally cheaper, but factors like location and available facilities can further affect the cost.
3. Transportation
Your transportation costs will largely depend on how far you live from your university or workplace. In bigger cities, public transport—like buses, trains, and the Tube—is convenient but can get expensive unless you buy a discount pass. If you live in a smaller town, local transport is usually cheaper, and you can cut costs even more by walking or cycling to your destinations.
4. Lifestyle Patterns
Your lifestyle choices can significantly impact your monthly budget. Regularly eating out, shopping, and indulging in entertainment or social activities can quickly add up. If you’re more budget-conscious, cooking at home and keeping leisure spending under control can help you save money. Keep in mind that some cities promote a more active social scene, which can lead to more spending.
5. Insurance and Healthcare
While all UK residents benefit from free healthcare through the NHS, international students may need to pay for health insurance, especially if it’s required for their visa. They might also need other types of insurance, like renter’s or travel insurance, depending on their situation. Make sure to include these costs when planning your budget for living in the UK.
Tip: If you’re planning to study abroad, you can explore Internshala’s study abroad program and get connected with a study abroad consultant to help with all your requirements.
An Overview of Cost of Living in the UK
The cost of living in the UK can vary greatly depending on where you live and your lifestyle choices. For example, rent in big cities like London can range from £1,200 to £2,500 per month, while smaller towns offer more affordable options, with rents between £500 to £800.
In addition to rent, expect to spend around £150 per month on public transportation, £150 to £300 on groceries, and another £100 to £150 on utilities like electricity and internet. While healthcare is covered under the NHS, international students may want to consider additional insurance, which typically costs £300 to £600 per year.
Overall, the cost of living can vary significantly from city to city, but with careful budgeting, you can find reasonably priced places to live.
Living Expenses in the UK Per Month City Wise
The cost of living in the UK varies greatly depending on the city you’re in. For instance, living in London is more expensive, with monthly expenses ranging from £1,800 to £3,300, including rent, groceries, transportation, and other essentials. In cities like Manchester and Birmingham, the cost is slightly more affordable, between £1,200 to £1,800 per month.
In contrast, smaller cities offer even lower living costs, typically ranging from £1,000 to £1,500 per month. To give you a better understanding, here’s a breakdown of average living expenses by city:
1. Cost of Living in Manchester
Manchester offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other major cities in the UK. This makes it one of the top choices to live in the UK for international students. Here is a quick look at the cost of living in Manchester:-
| Expense | Estimated Monthly Cost in INR (₹) | Estimated Monthly Cost in Pound (£) |
| Rent (1-bedroom apt) | ₹ 65,000 – ₹ 80,000 | £600 – £750 |
| Utilities (electricity, gas, water) | ₹ 7,000 – ₹ 10,000 | £80 – £100 |
| Public Transport | ₹ 6,500 – ₹ 8,000 | £120 – £150 |
| Groceries & Meals | ₹ 5,000 – ₹ 20,000 | £70 – £85 |
| Leisure & Miscellaneous | ₹ 6,000 – ₹ 10,000 | £130 – £150 |
2. Cost of Living in Birmingham
Birmingham offers a moderate cost of living, making it an appealing option for international students. Moreover, the central location of the city in the UK provides easy access to public transport and various amenities. Here is a quick look at the cost of living in Birmingham:
| Expense | Estimated Monthly Cost in INR (₹) | Estimated Monthly Cost in Pound (£) |
| Rent (1-bedroom apt) | ₹ 60,000 – ₹ 75,000 | £550 – £700 |
| Utilities (electricity, gas, water) | ₹ 6,000 – ₹ 9,000 | £70 – £90 |
| Public Transport | ₹ 6,000 – ₹ 7,500 | £110 – £140 |
| Groceries & Meals | ₹ 14,000 – ₹ 18,000 | £65 – £80 |
| Leisure & Miscellaneous | ₹ 5,000 – ₹ 9,000 | £125 – £140 |
3. Cost of Living in London
London is considered to be one of the most expensive cities to live in the UK. The city has various career opportunities to look for but it comes with high costs for rent, transportation, and everyday expenses. This makes budgeting necessary for international students living in London. Here is a quick look at the cost of living in London:
| Expense | Estimated Monthly Cost in INR (₹) | Estimated Monthly Cost in Pound (£) |
| Rent (1-bedroom apt) | ₹ 95,000 – ₹ 1,25,000 | £900 – £1,100 |
| Utilities (electricity, gas, water) | ₹ 8,500 – ₹ 12,000 | £90 – £120 |
| Public Transport | ₹ 8,500 – ₹ 12,000 | £150 – £180 |
| Groceries & Meals | ₹ 20,000 – ₹ 25,000 | £140 – £160 |
| Leisure & Miscellaneous | ₹ 12,000 – ₹ 16,000 | £220 – £290 |
4. Cost of Living in Liverpool
Liverpool is a budget-friendly city in the UK for international students. The cost of living in Liverpool is lower than many other cities in the UK and it also has various affordable housing options. Here is a quick look at the cost of living in Liverpool:
| Expense | Estimated Monthly Cost in INR (₹) | Estimated Monthly Cost in Pound (£) |
| Rent (1-bedroom apt) | ₹ 50,000 – ₹ 65,000 | £450 – £600 |
| Utilities (electricity, gas, water) | ₹ 6,000 – ₹ 9,000 | £70 – £90 |
| Public Transport | ₹ 6,000 – ₹ 7,500 | £100 – £120 |
| Groceries & Meals | ₹ 13,000 – ₹ 17,000 | £60 – £80 |
| Leisure & Miscellaneous | ₹ 5,000 – ₹ 9,000 | £120 – £150 |
5. Cost of Living in Nottingham
Nottingham offers a balanced cost of living, with reasonable housing prices for its international students. It’s an ideal city for those looking for affordability while still using various modern amenities. Here is a quick look at the cost of living in Nottingham:
| Expense | Estimated Monthly Cost in INR (₹) | Estimated Monthly Cost in Pound (£) |
| Rent (1-bedroom apt) | ₹ 45,000 – ₹ 60,000 | £400 – £550 |
| Utilities (electricity, gas, water) | ₹ 5,500 – ₹ 8,500 | £65 – £85 |
| Public Transport | ₹ 5,500 – ₹ 7,000 | £90 – £110 |
| Groceries & Meals | ₹ 12,000 – ₹ 16,000 | £55 – £75 |
| Leisure & Miscellaneous | ₹ 5,000 – ₹ 8,000 | £100 – £130 |
6. Cost of Living in Bristol
Bristol’s cost of living is higher than many smaller cities in the UK, particularly due to housing and transportation costs. However, it remains a popular city due to its career opportunities, and proximity to the countryside. Here is a quick look at the cost of living in Bristol:
| Expense | Estimated Monthly Cost in INR (₹) | Estimated Monthly Cost in Pound (£) |
| Rent (1-bedroom apt) | ₹ 70,000 – ₹ 90,000 | £650 – £800 |
| Utilities (electricity, gas, water) | ₹ 7,000 – ₹ 10,000 | £80 – £100 |
| Public Transport | ₹ 7,000 – ₹ 9,000 | £130 – £150 |
| Groceries & Meals | ₹ 16,000 – ₹ 20,000 | £75 – £90 |
| Leisure & Miscellaneous | ₹ 6,500 – ₹ 10,000 | £160 – £180 |
How to Reduce Your Living Expenses in the UK as a Student?
Living in the UK can feel expensive for Indian students due to the difference in currency exchange rates. However, there are several ways to cut down on your costs. Here are some tips to help you reduce your living expenses as a student:
1. Shared Accommodation
Choosing shared accommodation can significantly lower your rent and utility expenses. By living in a shared flat or house with other students, you split the costs, making it much cheaper than renting privately.
2. Using Public Transport
Public transport is an affordable way to get around in the UK. Many cities offer student discounts on buses, trains, and even bikes, which can help you save a lot on transportation costs.
3. Be Mindful of Your Utilities
Pay attention to your use of electricity, gas, and water. Small habits like turning off lights when you leave a room, using heating only when necessary, and conserving water can make a big difference in lowering your utility bills.
4. Cutting Costs in Groceries, and Meals
Buying groceries in bulk from budget-friendly stores and cooking at home instead of eating out will save you money. Planning your meals ahead and using a shopping list can also help reduce food expenses.
5. Rely on Public Healthcare
Take full advantage of the National Health Service (NHS), which provides free or low-cost healthcare in the UK. Make sure to register with a local GP (General Practitioner) when you arrive, so you can access these services without needing expensive private health insurance.
6. Scholarships on Education
Look for grants, bursaries, or scholarships for studying abroad to lower your tuition and education costs. Many universities and organizations offer financial aid for international students, helping ease the financial burden of studying abroad.
Also Read: Indian Government Scholarships to Study Abroad
Conclusion
The cost of living in the UK varies depending on factors like education institutions, accommodation type, transportation, lifestyle, and healthcare needs. While cities like London tend to be more expensive, smaller cities offer more affordable options. By making mindful choices—such as opting for shared accommodation, using public transport, and managing utilities and groceries—students can significantly reduce their living expenses.
If you’re considering pursuing an MBA in the UK, make sure to explore top universities and available scholarships to help reduce your overall expenses.
FAQs
Answer: The cost of living varies around UK cities. International students are expected to pay between £1,000 and £2,500 a month including accommodation, food, and transport, among other living costs.
Answer: Accommodation costs in the UK vary depending on location and type. One may pay £1,200 to £2,500 to rent a private flat in cities such as London; however, university dorms or shared flats could be cheaper, sometimes reaching only £500 to £1,000 per month in smaller cities and towns.
Answer: Public transportation costs differ from city to city in the UK. As an example, in London, the monthly travel pass costs a player around £150-£200. There are alternatives in smaller cities that cost much less. Cycling and walking can reduce students’ costs further in more compact areas of each city.
