Studying in the UK is a dream for many international students, but one of the biggest concerns before moving abroad is understanding the living cost in the UK for international students. Planning your budget in advance is crucial to ensure a comfortable student life without unnecessary financial stress. The UK offers world-class education, diverse cultural experiences, and exciting career opportunities, but living expenses can vary depending on your city, lifestyle, and accommodation choices.
This guide provides a complete 2025 breakdown of living costs in the UK so you can plan effectively. We will cover accommodation, food, transportation, utilities, and other essential expenses, along with budgeting tips and insights on the cheapest cities to study in the UK compared to London.
Estimated Monthly Living Costs for International Students in the UK in 2025
| Expense Category | Average Monthly Cost (GBP) | Notes |
| Accommodation | £500 – £1,200 | Depends on city & type (halls vs private rent) |
| Food & Groceries | £150 – £300 | Varies with lifestyle & cooking habits |
| Transportation | £40 – £120 | Cheaper in smaller cities, discounts with student passes |
| Utilities (Electricity, Gas, Internet, Water) | £100 – £200 | Shared apartments reduce cost |
| Study Materials | £30 – £80 | Books, printing, stationery |
| Personal Expenses (Leisure, Clothes, Misc.) | £100 – £250 | Lifestyle dependent |
| Average Monthly Student Budget (the UK) | £950 – £2,000 | Based on 2025 estimates |
Cost of Living in the UK for International Students: A Complete Guide
Studying in the United Kingdom is a dream for many international students, but it’s no secret that the cost of living in the UK for students is one of the biggest concerns. Apart from tuition fees, students need to carefully plan for accommodation, food, transportation, and daily expenses. In this guide, we break down all the essential living costs for students in the UK, so you can prepare a realistic monthly budget and choose affordable options.
Accommodation Cost in the UK for Students
Accommodation is the biggest expense for international students in the UK. Students usually choose between:
- University halls of residence – Convenient and often include bills, but can be slightly more expensive.
- Private rentals – Shared houses or apartments with friends are popular and help reduce costs.
- Homestays – Living with a local family can be cost-friendly while offering a cultural experience.
Food Expenses in the UK for International Students
Eating habits make a huge difference in a student’s budget. Cooking at home can help you save significantly, while eating out regularly can double your food expenses. A student who shops at affordable supermarkets like Aldi, Lidl, or Tesco can keep weekly costs much lower compared to dining out or ordering takeaway.
Transportation Cost for Students in the UK
The UK has excellent public transport, and students benefit from discounted travel passes. Railcards and student bus passes can cut commuting costs by 30–50%. However, London is far more expensive for transport compared to smaller cities, where students can often walk or cycle to their university.
Utilities Cost for Students in the UK
If you live in university halls, utilities (electricity, water, heating, and internet) are usually included. But in private accommodation, you’ll need to pay these separately. On average, utilities cost between £50–£100 per month, usually shared among housemates.
Average Rent in the UK for Students
Rent varies greatly depending on location:
- Outside London – Around £400–£600 per month.
- In London – Typically £700–£1,000+ per month.
This makes rent the biggest factor when comparing the cost of living in the UK for international students.
Cheapest Cities to Study in the UK
If you are looking for affordable student accommodation in the UK, certain cities are much cheaper than London. Sheffield, Manchester, Nottingham, and Leicester are known for lower rent, cheaper transport, and a more affordable student lifestyle.
Cost of Groceries in the UK for Students
On average, students spend between £35–£60 per week on groceries. Cooking meals in bulk and meal-prepping can save a lot of money for international students.
Cost of Studying in the UK (Beyond Living Costs)
While this guide focuses on living expenses, don’t forget tuition fees. On average:
- Undergraduate courses: £11,000–£20,000 per year
- Postgraduate courses: £13,000–£25,000 per year
Medicine and business-related courses are usually on the higher side.
Part-Time Job Salary in the UK for Students
International students in the UK can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. The average wage ranges between £9–£12 per hour, which can cover part of your living costs. Popular student jobs include retail, hospitality, and university assistant roles.
Minimum Bank Balance for the UK Student Visa
To secure the UK student visa, students must show proof of funds for living expenses:
- Outside London – At least £1,023 per month.
- In London – At least £1,334 per month.
This ensures that students have enough money to manage their stay without financial stress.
Average Monthly Student Budget in the UK
A realistic monthly budget for students ranges from £950–£2,000, depending on location, lifestyle, and accommodation choice. London students should prepare for the higher end of the range, while students in northern cities can live more comfortably on the lower end.
Cost of Living the UK Universities Provide
Many universities provide an estimated cost of living on their official websites. These estimates help international students plan better and compare different universities based on affordability.
Living Costs for Indian Students in the UK
For Indian students, the average cost of living in the UK translates to around ₹90,000–₹1.6 lakh per month. Cities outside London, with cheaper rent and food, are preferred by many Indian students looking to balance education with affordability.
Affordable Student Accommodation in the UK
For those on a tight budget, the best options are:
- Shared student apartments
- University halls with inclusive bills
- Homestays with meals included
These are cheaper than private rentals in city centers and help international students save significantly.
Living Expenses: London vs Other Cities in the UK
London is one of the most expensive student destinations worldwide. Expect 30-40% higher living costs in London compared to regional cities. Rent, transportation, and entertainment are significantly pricier in the capital, making budget planning crucial.
| Expense Category | London (Average Monthly Cost) | Rest of the UK (Average Monthly Cost) | Notes |
| Student Halls (bills included) | £848 | £664 | Non-catered single occupancy halls. Catered halls cost more. |
| Private Room (without bills) | £750 | £554 | Shared accommodation, one person per room. |
| Household Bills (gas, electricity, water, broadband, TV license) | £140 | £80 | Additional cost for private housing. |
| Groceries | £155 | £116 | Savings possible with smart budgeting and offers. |
| Socialising (dining, cafés, bars) | £150 | £80 | Avg. meal: £16 (London), £15 (Rest of the UK). Coffee: £2.69 vs £2.50. |
| Public Transport | £103 | £54 | London students get a 30% discount with a Student Oyster Card. |
| Mobile Phone Bill (SIM only) | £18 | £18 | Average monthly student plan. |
| Student Gym Membership | £20 | £15 | Student discounts widely available (£15-20). |
10 Budgeting Tips for Students in the UK
Studying in the UK can be exciting, but managing your finances wisely is key to enjoying student life without financial stress. Here are some practical budgeting tips for students in the UK:
- Create a Monthly Budget: Start by tracking your income (scholarships, parental support, or part-time job) and expenses (rent, food, travel, utilities). Use free apps like Mint, Yolt, or Student Budget Calculators to stay organized.
- Choose Affordable Accommodation: Housing is the biggest expense. Save money by opting for university halls, shared apartments, or homestays instead of private rentals in expensive areas.
- Cook at Home: Buying groceries and cooking meals at home can cut your food expenses in half compared to eating out regularly. Shopping at budget supermarkets which can save you £20–£40 per week.
- Use Student Discounts: Get a TOTUM card, or UNiDAYS app for discounts on restaurants, clothing, electronics, and entertainment. Many stores, cinemas, and transport services offer student deals.
- Save on Transportation: Purchase a 16–25 Railcard or regional bus pass to save up to 30% on travel. Walking or cycling for short distances is both healthy and free.
- Manage Utility Bills Smartly: If you live in private accommodation, share utility bills with housemates. Use energy-saving habits like turning off unused appliances, reducing heating usage, and using student internet packages.
- Limit Entertainment Costs: Instead of frequenting pubs or clubs, look for university events, student societies, or free city attractions. Many museums and galleries in the UK are free.
- Buy Second-Hand or Rent: Save on textbooks, furniture, and gadgets by buying second-hand from platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, or university noticeboards. Renting textbooks is another budget-friendly option.
- Open a Student Bank Account: the UK banks offer student accounts with perks like free overdraft protection and travel cards. Compare options from HSBC, Barclays, or Santander before opening one.
- Work Part-Time Wisely: International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. Use part-time earnings for daily expenses rather than luxury purchases.
Studying in the UK is a rewarding experience, but managing the cost of living alongside tuition fees requires careful planning and budgeting. From choosing affordable accommodation to saving on groceries, travel, and utilities, every decision makes a difference in your overall expenses. While these costs may feel overwhelming at first, the right guidance and preparation can make your student journey smooth and stress-free.
At Cliftons, we are here to support you at every step, from admission guidance to financial planning and living arrangements. With our expert assistance, you can focus on your education while we help you navigate the challenges of studying in the UK with confidence.
FAQ
- What is the average cost of living for students in the UK?
On average, students spend between £900–£1,300 per month, depending on the city and lifestyle. - How can I save money on accommodation in the UK?
Sharing apartments, living in student halls, or choosing housing outside the city centre can reduce costs. - Are there student discounts available in the UK?
Yes, students get discounts on travel, shopping, entertainment, and even groceries with a valid student ID or discount card like NUS or UNiDAYS. - Can international students work part-time in the UK?
Yes, most international students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays
