What Is the Average Cost of Living in the UK for Students?
On average, international students in the UK spend £900–£1,300 per month outside of tuition. Your total cost depends on:
- Which city you live in (London is most expensive)
- Your accommodation choice (shared vs. private)
- Lifestyle habits (travel, dining, phone plan, etc.)
This guide includes typical student costs in 2025 to help you plan your UK study budget.
How Much Does Student Accommodation Cost in the UK?
| Type of Housing | Monthly Cost (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| University Halls (on-campus) | £400 – £700 | Often includes utilities |
| Shared Private Apartment | £500 – £800 | Most common option |
| Studio Apartment (Solo) | £750 – £1,200 | Expensive in major cities |
| Host Family Accommodation | £500 – £800 | Includes meals in some cases |
London costs 20–30% more than smaller cities like Leeds or Sheffield.
Learn more: UK Student Visa Requirements
What Are Food and Grocery Expenses in the UK?
| Item | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Groceries (home cooking) | £150 – £250 |
| Eating out (2–3 times/week) | £80 – £150 |
| Meal plan (university halls) | £120 – £200 |
Cooking at home is much cheaper than dining out regularly.
What's the Cost of Transportation for Students?
| Mode of Transport | Monthly Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Public Transport (Bus/Train) | £30 – £70 | Student discounts widely available |
| London Underground | £90 – £130 | Use 18+ Student Oyster Card |
| Bicycle (rent or own) | £10 – £20 | Many cities offer free bike lanes |
Students in major cities like Manchester or Glasgow can use low-cost monthly passes.
What Are the Average Mobile & Internet Costs?
| Service | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| SIM-Only Plan | £10 – £25 |
| Internet (Wi-Fi at home) | £25 – £40 |
Most students use SIM-only plans with data and rely on university or home Wi-Fi.
Other Monthly Expenses to Keep in Mind
| Item | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Books & Supplies | £20 – £50 |
| Clothing | £30 – £60 |
| Personal Care | £20 – £30 |
| Entertainment (movies, gym, etc.) | £40 – £70 |
Many student discounts are available for gyms, subscriptions, and cinemas through TOTUM or UNiDAYS.
Monthly Budget Summary – Living in the UK (2025)
| Expense Category | Average Range (GBP/month) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | £500 – £900 |
| Food & Groceries | £150 – £250 |
| Transportation | £30 – £70 |
| Internet & Mobile | £20 – £40 |
| Personal + Leisure | £60 – £100 |
| Total (avg) | £900 – £1,300 |
You'll need this estimate to prepare your bank balance proof during visa application.
Conclusion
The UK offers world-class education, but it's important to plan your finances wisely.
AECC Sri Lanka helps you:
- Estimate your full study budget
- Compare city costs and universities
- Apply for part-time job support and scholarships
Contact our team today to get personalised cost planning for your UK journey.