Affordable Cities in UK: Cheapest Cities, and Cost of Living

Affordable cities in UK are an important aspect for international students planning to study abroad. Cheapest city in UK offers applicants with a number of budget friendly colleges that are ranked good in accordance to the QS global rankings. Cheapest place to live in UK requires applicants to cover an average cost of living in UK that amounts to GBP 22,248. These offers applicants with cheapest and safest place to live in UK. UK cheapest places to live offers students with a lower accommodation rates, transport costs, eateries, and groceries are lower in comparison to other cities and several other aspects.

Alt tags

Top cheapest cities in UK consists of Cardiff, Cambridge, Sheffield, Glasgow, Birmingham, Newcastle Upon Tyne, and Manchester. Some of the top UK universities are located in these cities, making these cities popular student destinations. Getiing admission to any of the universities in these cities, help students immigrate to UK for eduaction or future emeployment purposes.

Students living in Cardiff would spend a monthly GBP 1,660 as part of cost of living, whereas a student residing in Cambridge would spend GBP 2,765. Both cities are still cheaper than the cost of living in London which would be cumulatively higher than the aforemntioned cities. Cost of living in Sheffield is more cheaper at a monthly expense of GBP 1,387. All these expenses are calculated for a single person. If a student brings in family members, then the expense would rise.

Table of Content

Cheapest City in UK
1.1 Cardiff
1.2 Cambridge
1.3 Sheffield
1.4 Glasgow
1.5 Birmingham
1.6 Newcastle Upon Tyne
1.7 Manchester
FAQs

Cheapest City in UK

Cheapest city in UK is not a single city but offers students to choose from a number of options. A number of cities offer areas with cheaper and affordable rates, such as cheap areas to live in London. There are multiple cheapest universities in UK. Low cost of living cities in UK are listed below:

Cardiff
Cambridge
Sheffield
Glasgow
Birmingham
Newcastle Upon Tyne
Manchester

Cost of Living Cardiff

Cardiff is regarded as one of the least expensive cities in UK. Cost of living in Cardiff for a single person on a monthly basis accounts for GBP 1,660. Tables mentioned below provide a breakdown of the costs to live in the most affordable cities in UK. First table mentioned below highlights the cost for food in Cardiff:

Basic lunchtime menu (including a drink) in the business district	GBP 8
Combo meal in fast food restaurant (big mac meal or similar)	GBP 5.92
500 gr (1 lb.) of boneless chicken breast	GBP 3.55
1 liter (1 qt.) of whole fat milk	GBP 0.80
12 eggs, large	GBP 2.63
1 kg (2 lb.) of tomatoes	GBP 1.83
500 gr (16 oz.) of local cheese	GBP 5.29
1 kg (2 lb.) of apples	GBP 1.48
1 kg (2 lb.) of potatoes	GBP 3.08
0.5 l (16 oz) domestic beer in the supermarket	GBP 1.71
1 bottle of red table wine, good quality	GBP 8
2 liters of coca-cola	GBP 1.90
Bread for 2 people for 1 day	GBP 0.88

Table mentioned below highlights the cost of housing in Cardiff:

Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in expensive area	GBP 1,438
Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in normal area	GBP 883
Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas ...) for 2 people in 85m2 flat	GBP 121
Monthly rent for a 45 m2 (480 sqft) furnished studio in expensive area	GBP 688
Monthly rent for a 45 m2 (480 sqft) furnished studio in normal area	GBP 520
Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas ...) for 1 person in 45 m2 (480 sqft) studio	-
Internet 8 mbps (1 month)	GBP 23
40” flat screen tv	GBP 333
Microwave 800/900 watt (Bosch, panasonic, lg, sharp, or equivalent brands)	GBP 94
Laundry detergent (3 l. ~ 100 oz.)	GBP 6
Hourly rate for cleaning help	GBP 13

GBP 1= INR 104.38, as of 15^th February 2024

Cost of Living in Cambridge

Cambridge as a city is expensive in comparison to other cities and to study in UK, however, it is still one of affordable cities in UK. Cost of living in Cambridge as it is regarded as the cheapest and safest place to live in the UK accounts for GBP 2,765. Table mentioned below highlights the food and relevant expenses for students planning to reside in Cambridge, regarded as cheapest place to live in UK:

Basic lunchtime menu (including a drink) in the business district	GBP 10
Combo meal in fast food restaurant (big mac meal or similar)	GBP 7
500 gr (1 lb.) of boneless chicken breast	GBP 3.84
1 liter (1 qt.) of whole fat milk	GBP 1.07
12 eggs, large	GBP 3.00
1 kg (2 lb.) of tomatoes	GBP 1.94
500 gr (16 oz.) of local cheese	GBP 3.82
1 kg (2 lb.) of apples	GBP 2.15
1 kg (2 lb.) of potatoes	GBP 0.56
0.5 l (16 oz) domestic beer in the supermarket	GBP 1.53
1 bottle of red table wine, good quality	GBP 8
2 liters of coca-cola	GBP 2.00
Bread for 2 people for 1 day	GBP 0.72

Table mentioned below highlights the housing cost for students residing in Cambridge which accounts for cheapest and safest place to live in UK:

Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in expensive area	GBP 2,264
Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in normal area	GBP 2,004
Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas ...) for 2 people in 85m2 flat	GBP 217
Monthly rent for a 45 m2 (480 sq ft) furnished studio in expensive area	GBP 1,473
Monthly rent for a 45 m2 (480 sq ft) furnished studio in normal area	GBP 1,908
Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas ...) for 1 person in 45 m2 (480 sq ft) studio	GBP 151
Internet 8 mbps (1 month)	GBP 25
40” flat screen tv	GBP 319
Microwave 800/900 watt (Bosch, panasonic, lg, sharp, or equivalent brands)	GBP 73
Laundry detergent (3 l. ~ 100 oz.)	GBP 7
Hourly rate for cleaning help	GBP 13

GBP 1= INR 104.38, as of 15^th February 2024

Cost of Living in Sheffield

Cost of living in Sheffield accounts for a number of expenses. Monthly cost of living in this cheapest city in the UK accounts for GBP 1,387 for a single person and it is one of the best student cities in the UK. Tables mentioned below provides the cost breakdown for individuals residing in Sheffield and relevant expenses account for cheapest places to live in London as well:

Cost of food in Sheffield which is listed amongst a low cost of living cities in UK has been listed below:

Basic lunchtime menu (including a drink) in the business district	GBP 11
Combo meal in fast food restaurant (big mac meal or similar)	GBP 5.82
500 gr (1 lb.) of boneless chicken breast	GBP 3.35
1 liter (1 qt.) of whole fat milk	GBP 0.97
12 eggs, large	GBP 2.20
1 kg (2 lb.) of tomatoes	GBP 1.68
500 gr (16 oz.) of local cheese	GBP 3.66
1 kg (2 lb.) of apples	GBP 1.96
1 kg (2 lb.) of potatoes	GBP 1.10
0.5 l (16 oz) domestic beer in the supermarket	GBP 1.56
1 bottle of red table wine, good quality	GBP 6
2 liters of coca-cola	GBP 2.11
Bread for 2 people for 1 day	GBP 0.78

Mentioned below are the housing costs for Sheffield which accounts for most affordable city in UK:

Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in expensive area	GBP 1,196
Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in normal area	GBP 579
Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas ...) for 2 people in 85m2 flat	GBP 137
Monthly rent for a 45 m2 (480 sq ft) furnished studio in expensive area	GBP 694
Monthly rent for a 45 m2 (480 sq ft) furnished studio in normal area	GBP 454
Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas …) for 1 person in 45 m2 (480 sq ft) studio	GBP 73
Internet 8 mbps (1 month)	GBP 20
40” flat screen tv	GBP 264
Microwave 800/900 watt (Bosch, Panasonic, lg, sharp, or equivalent brands)	GBP 73
Laundry detergent (3 l. ~ 100 oz.)	GBP 10
Hourly rate for cleaning help	GBP 10

GBP 1= INR 104.38, as of 15^th February 2024

Cost of Living in Glasgow

Monthly cost of living for Glasgow accounts for GBP 1,612 for a single person, during all intakes in UK. Expenses for food and accommodation for this UK cheapest places to live has been highlighted in the table mentioned below:

Basic lunchtime menu (including a drink) in the business district	GBP 15
Combo meal in fast food restaurant (big mac meal or similar)	GBP 5.48
500 gr (1 lb.) of boneless chicken breast	GBP 4.11
1 liter (1 qt.) of whole fat milk	GBP 0.85
12 eggs, large	GBP 2.56
1 kg (2 lb.) of tomatoes	GBP 2.44
500 gr (16 oz.) of local cheese	GBP 5.32
1 kg (2 lb.) of apples	GBP 2.18
1 kg (2 lb.) of potatoes	GBP 0.63
0.5 l (16 oz) domestic beer in the supermarket	GBP 1.82
1 bottle of red table wine, good quality	GBP 8
2 liters of coca-cola	GBP 2.05
Bread for 2 people for 1 day	GBP 0.97

Student Accommodation in UK cost for Glasgow has been highlighted below in the table:

Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in expensive area	GBP 1,319
Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in normal area	GBP 798
Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas ...) for 2 people in 85m2 flat	GBP 188
Monthly rent for a 45 m2 (480 sq ft) furnished studio in expensive area	GBP 1,041
Monthly rent for a 45 m2 (480 sq ft) furnished studio in normal area	GBP 646
Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas ...) for 1 person in 45 m2 (480 sq ft) studio	GBP 89
Internet 8 mbps (1 month)	GBP 24
40” flat screen tv	GBP 288
Microwave 800/900 watt (Bosch, Panasonic, lg, sharp, or equivalent brands)	GBP 73
Laundry detergent (3 l. ~ 100 oz.)	GBP 6
Hourly rate for cleaning help	GBP 14

GBP 1= INR 104.38, as of 15^th February 2024

Cost of Living for Birmingham

Monthly cost of expenses in Birmingham accounts for GBP 1,750 for a single person, even if students work while studying in UK. This cost of living in the UK against a UK student visa covers all monthly necessities of a student. Table mentioned below highlights the cost of food for an individual residing in Birmingham, which highlights cost for the most affordable city in UK:

Basic lunchtime menu (including a drink) in the business district	GBP 11
Combo meal in fast food restaurant (big mac meal or similar)	GBP 8
500 gr (1 lb.) of boneless chicken breast	GBP 3.71
1 liter (1 qt.) of whole fat milk	GBP 1.22
12 eggs, large	GBP 3.94
1 kg (2 lb.) of tomatoes	GBP 2.05
500 gr (16 oz.) of local cheese	GBP 3.39
1 kg (2 lb.) of apples	GBP 2.36
1 kg (2 lb.) of potatoes	GBP 0.73
0.5 l (16 oz) domestic beer in the supermarket	GBP 1.81
1 bottle of red table wine, good quality	GBP 9
2 liters of coca-cola	GBP 2.20
Bread for 2 people for 1 day	GBP 0.96

Cost of accommodation in Birmingham has been mentioned below in the table:

Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in expensive area	GBP 1,331
Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in normal area	GBP 1,037
Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas ...) for 2 people in 85m2 flat	GBP 272
Monthly rent for a 45 m2 (480 sq ft) furnished studio in expensive area	GBP 852
Monthly rent for a 45 m2 (480 sq ft) furnished studio in normal area	GBP 801
Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas ...) for 1 person in 45 m2 (480 sq ft) studio	GBP 105
Internet 8 mbps (1 month)	GBP 27
40” flat screen tv	GBP 347
Microwave 800/900 watt (Bosch, , lg, sharp, or equivalent brands)	GBP 102
Laundry detergent (3 l. ~ 100 oz.)	GBP 7
Hourly rate for cleaning help	GBP 13

GBP 1= INR 104.38, as of 15^th February 2024

Cost of Living in Newcastle Upon Tyne

Cost of Living in Newcastle Upon Tyne for a single person accounts for GBP 1,813 monthly as the city also has some of the top affordable universities in UK. This includes a number of expenses such as accommodation, food and groceries, travel and other relevant expenses. Table mentioned below highlights the cost for food and relevant expenses in Newcastle Upon Tyne:

Basic lunchtime menu (including a drink) in the business district	GBP 10
Combo meal in fast food restaurant (big mac meal or similar)	GBP 7
500 gr (1 lb.) of boneless chicken breast	GBP 4.02
1 liter (1 qt.) of whole fat milk	GBP 1.13
12 eggs, large	GBP 3.16
1 kg (2 lb.) of tomatoes	GBP 2.92
500 gr (16 oz.) of local cheese	GBP 4.20
1 kg (2 lb.) of apples	GBP 1.74
1 kg (2 lb.) of potatoes	GBP 0.53
0.5 l (16 oz) domestic beer in the supermarket	GBP 2.04
1 bottle of red table wine, good quality	GBP 8
2 liters of coca-cola	GBP 2.46
Bread for 2 people for 1 day	GBP 0.71

Cost of accommodation has been mentioned below for the city of Newcastle Upon Tyne:

Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in expensive area	GBP 1,257
Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in normal area	GBP 1,104
Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas ...) for 2 people in 85m2 flat	GBP 252
Monthly rent for a 45 m2 (480 sq ft) furnished studio in expensive area	GBP 1,458
Monthly rent for a 45 m2 (480 sq ft) furnished studio in normal area	GBP 1,069
Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas ...) for 1 person in 45 m2 (480 sq ft) studio	GBP 184
Internet 8 mbps (1 month)	GBP 29
40” flat screen tv	GBP 327
Microwave 800/900 watt (Bosch, panasonic, lg, sharp, or equivalent brands)	GBP 133
Laundry detergent (3 l. ~ 100 oz.)	GBP 5.32
Hourly rate for cleaning help	GBP 13

GBP 1= INR 104.38, as of 15^th February 2024

Cost of Living for Manchester

Monthly cost of living for Manchester for a single person accounts for GBP 1,963, even if UK scholarships for Indian students are granted. Table mentioned below highlights the food expenses for Manchester:

Basic lunchtime menu (including a drink) in the business district	GBP 15
Combo meal in fast food restaurant (big mac meal or similar)	GBP 6
500 gr (1 lb.) of boneless chicken breast	GBP 3.07
1 liter (1 qt.) of whole fat milk	GBP 1.10
12 eggs, large	GBP 2.83
1 kg (2 lb.) of tomatoes	GBP 1.47
500 gr (16 oz.) of local cheese	GBP 3.23
1 kg (2 lb.) of apples	GBP 1.99
1 kg (2 lb.) of potatoes	GBP 1.18
0.5 l (16 oz) domestic beer in the supermarket	GBP 1.94
1 bottle of red table wine, good quality	GBP 8
2 liters of coca-cola	GBP 2.21
Bread for 2 people for 1 day	GBP 1.14

Cost of accommodation has been mentioned below:

Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in expensive area	GBP 1,645
Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in normal area	GBP 1,069
Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas ...) for 2 people in 85m2 flat	GBP 316
Monthly rent for a 45 m2 (480 sq ft) furnished studio in expensive area	GBP 955
Monthly rent for a 45 m2 (480 sq ft) furnished studio in normal area	GBP 702
Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas ...) for 1 person in 45 m2 (480 sq ft) studio	GBP 108
Internet 8 mbps (1 month)	GBP 27
40” flat screen tv	GBP 408
Microwave 800/900 watt (Bosch, Panasonic, lg, sharp, or equivalent brands)	GBP 143
Laundry detergent (3 l. ~ 100 oz.)	GBP 7
Hourly rate for cleaning help	GBP 16

GBP 1= INR 104.38, as of 15^th February 2024

Cost of living includes a number of expenses that are required to be covered by applicants. Expenses in the least expensive cities in UK account for a number of factors, and cost of living undertakes these parameters. Affordable cities in UK offer several expense structures that help students to cope up with the lifestyles in UK.

FAQs

Ques: What are some affordable cities to live in the UK?

Ans: Some affordable cities in UK include Glasgow, Belfast, Newcastle upon Tyne, Liverpool, Hull, Nottingham, Sheffield, Swansea, Cardiff, and Stoke-on-Trent.

Ques: What factors make these cities affordable?

Ans: These cities tend to have lower costs of living compared to larger metropolitan areas like London. They offer relatively lower housing prices, affordable transportation options, and reasonable expenses for daily necessities.

Ques: Are there job opportunities in these affordable cities?

Ans: Yes, these cities have job opportunities in various sectors such as healthcare, education, tourism, retail, manufacturing, and services. While they may not offer the same level of opportunities as larger cities, they still provide employment options.

Ques: Are there good educational institutions in these cities?

Ans: Yes, many of these cities have reputable educational institutions, including universities, colleges, and schools. They provide a range of courses and qualifications, making them suitable for students and professionals seeking education or training.

Ques: How is the transportation system in these cities?

Ans: The transportation systems in these cities are generally well-developed. They have public transport networks consisting of buses, trains, trams, and sometimes underground systems. Additionally, they often have good road connections, making commuting easier.

Ques: Are there cultural and recreational activities in these cities?

Ans: Yes, these cities offer a variety of cultural and recreational activities. You can find museums, art galleries, theaters, music venues, sports facilities, parks, and outdoor spaces where you can engage in leisure and entertainment activities.

Ques: What about healthcare facilities in these cities?

Ans: These cities have healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and general practitioners, ensuring residents have access to medical services. The quality of healthcare may vary, but they typically offer adequate healthcare provisions.

Ques: Are these cities safe to live in?

Ans: While no city is entirely crime-free, these cities generally have lower crime rates compared to larger cities. However, it is always advisable to research specific areas within these cities to ensure you choose a safe neighborhood.

Ques: What is the cost of housing in these cities?

Ans: The cost of housing in these cities is relatively lower compared to major cities like London or Edinburgh. However, prices can still vary depending on the location and property type. Mostly, you can find more affordable housing options and rental properties in these cities.

Ques: Can international students or immigrants live in these cities?

Ans: Yes, international students and immigrants can live in these cities. The UK welcomes students from around the world, and these cities provide opportunities for education, work, and community integration. However, it is important to check visa requirements and regulations for living and studying in the UK.

Ques: Is Birmingham a good city for international students?

Ans: Yes, Birmingham has a reputation for being a student-friendly city. Numerous universities offering a wide variety of courses are located there, including Birmingham City University, Aston University, and University of Birmingham.

Ques: Can international students work in Cardiff?

Ans: We can assist you whether you want to work part-time while you're a student or hope to stay in the UK after you graduate. Our international students receive committed career support from a small team of professionals.

Ques: Is Sheffield a good place to live for students?

Ans: Sheffield is a fantastic city in which to live and study. This is a creative, friendly, safe, and reasonably priced city. Living here gives students access to both the space and adventure of the Peak District National Park, which is practically right outside their door, and the lively vibe of a big city.

Ques: Is Manchester a good place to live for international students?

Ans: In summary, Manchester is a great place for international students to study because it has world-class universities, a wide range of reasonably priced housing options, a vibrant cultural scene, and it's a great place for students searching for the ideal living and study environment.

Ques: Is Manchester or London better for international students?

Ans: It's not by much, but generally speaking, foreign students are drawn to London universities. 54.3% of University College London's student body is foreign, making it the most of any university in the UK. However, it's important to note that University of Manchester, with 33.6% of its student body being international, comes in right behind.