As an international student, one of the things you might be wondering about is the cost of living in UK. We don’t want our students to start their journey in the UK with a mind full of worries related to living costs. So, here we are with a guide that will provide you the average cost of everyday expenses in the UK which are essential for a comfortable life. 

 

Accommodation Costs

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The Cost of Living in UK depends on where you live. Just like in any other country of the world, even the UK has its most expensive parts of the country as well as its most affordable ones. For example,  if one chooses to live in the South of England, this may very well work out to be more expensive, relative to living in the North of England. However, again, costs vary from city to city, and it is important to have a detailed understanding of what each place has to offer in order to find accommodation which is ideal for you.

 

Average cost of accommodation in the UK

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• University Residence (Hall of residence) -  Most universities in the UK offer international students a chance to live on campus. By choosing to stay in these residences, students can save the cost of transportation as these residences are within walking distance from the campus. You can choose to live with a roommate or occupy a private room with an en-suite bathroom. The approximate monthly cost for the university residence is between £500 - £800 per month. This cost often includes food and utility bills. 

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• Private Apartment - The cost of living in the UK will vary if you go for private rentals. Renting a flat or house would come with an agreement that usually exceeds the university term. A one-bedroom flat averages at £758 (~$1000 USD) per month if you’re in the city; £614 (~$810 USD) if you’re outside of the city. These are the approximate cost without the bills. While renting a flat or house there are few more things that needs to be considered like - the utility bills and the council tax. The rent will be more if these things are added in the rent. A smart way to handle these expenses is to share the accommodation with some other students. In this way not only the rental bills, other bills like food, electricity, tv license  etc. can be split and build friendships at the same time. In the UK, council tax is the cost of waste management and maintenance. Fortunately students are suppose to pay just a minimal amount as  council tax. To get the discounted prices for that contact the local council. 

  

Average Food Cost per Month

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While staying on campus,  students can save on food expenditure as compared to students living in private rentals. The cost of living will also depend on how well you manage food costs. In UK universities there are dining halls within the campus where students can buy a membership card and eat regularly. These dinning halls offers a diverse menu for students  at a lower price. The price of a meal ranges from £5 - £10. 

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On the other hand, if you are staying on a rent outside the campus, then best is to talk  to locals and take their suggestions. While you can enjoy eating out once in a while, preparing your food at home is your best bet at cutting costs.