• study in the UK

Cost of Living in UK for International Students in 2024

8459 Reads
3 min Read

By:CANAM Group
Updated On:Feb 07,2024 11:31 AM IST

In this blog, international students will learn about the cost of living while studying in the UK in 2024-2025. It includes all the primary and miscellaneous expenses, from housing to extra stuff like stationery, clothes, etc. Living in the UK will be expensive if a student does not know the estimated expenses and the art of money management.

Cost of living in UK for international students.webp

The United Kingdom (UK) stands out as a top study destination as it homes some of the world’s oldest universities and colleges. Studying abroad is a crucial decision for an international student, as it’s not only about studying but experience. While studying, there are a lot of things that require one’s attention. The cost of living is one aspect of studying abroad, along with tuition fees and other miscellaneous expenses. The cost of living depends on the economic conditions of a country.

In this blog, we will discuss the cost of living for international students in 2024. It will help the students who are planning to study with all the expenses while studying in the UK in 2024.

UK as a Study Destination

UK is one of the most desirable study destinations for international students. Notably, it is home to two of world’s top universities out of three, with 26 educational institutions that rank among the top 200. The high quality and innovative teachings of the UK not only provide flexible courses but beneficial skills as well. While studying in the UK, students will experience an unbeatable international cultural scene, trustworthy police help, an inclusive way of life with ancient traditions, and reliable and affordable transportation means. Studying in the UK is a dream for many international students.

UK as a study destination.webp

Living Cost for International Students in UK

It’s not only about studying far away from home. It is more about managing financial blunders. One must know the proper way to manage their expenses while living in the UK. The cost of living in the UK for international students include several expenses. Apart from tuition fees, there are basic and miscellaneous expenses such as housing, transportation, food and grocery, health, mobile and internet, clothing, stationery, and household items. The estimated cost of living in the UK for international students will be between approximately £1,345 and £1,955/month in 2024.

Cost of Living in UK for International Students in 2024...webp

Cost of living (City-wise) in UK in 2024

It is quite interesting that living in a city makes a lot of difference in the living expenses of international students. Some of the cities have the highest cost and some have the lowest cost of living. The below table gives details about the cost of living on the expense scale of 0-100 in the best cities in the UK for international students which shows rents, groceries, and restaurant prices.

Cities	Ranges of Cost of Living (Pound)	Ranges of Rents (Pound)	Range of Groceries expenses (Pound)	Ranges of Restaurant price (Pound)
London	89-90	74-75	84-86	96-98
Derby	68-69	21-22	51-52	69-70
Birmingham	72-73	25-26	58-60	77-78
Oxford	81-83	38-39	67-68	90-92
Newcastle	69-70	24-26	55-56	71-73
Liverpool	70-72	25-27	57-58	72-73
Manchester	77-78	32-33	62-64	83-84

Primary Expenses of international students

Studying in the UK requires financial stability to manage one’s primary expenses, which include tuition fees, living or housing charges, transportation costs, food and grocery expenses, health expenses, and mobile and internet charges. Putting these expenses in the category of primary expenses shows the importance of the basic needs of an international student while studying away from home.

Tuition Fee : The tuition fee of the course or program that the student has opted for will be the primary expense. Paying the fee on time resolves issues related to late fee charges. The tuition fee for a student depends on the course level and university.

Housing Expenses : Some of the universities in the UK provide on-campus living options for their students. On-campus living options save one’s travel expenses because university residences are built inside or near the campus. On the other hand, international students also prefer to live in a private room with a roommate. A good roommate is like a new family member. Roommates become like families, helping students deal with homesickness while studying abroad. Below are the details of accommodation in the UK for international students.

Average monthly cost of living in the UK (In ranges)	London (pound)	Other cities (Pound)
University residence	727-730	515-518
Private room	848-850	505-507
Utility bills	45-47	40-42

Transportation cost: In the UK, transportation costs for international students are notably affordable by using the Oyster card, which offers 30% off travel cards and bus passes. The average cost of transportation is between 40-56 pounds per month.

Food and grocery expenses: Food is the basic human need. The average cost of food and groceries is 100–200 pounds per month in the UK for international students.

Items	Quantity	Prices (pound)
Bread	1 pack	0.71-0.74
Milk	1-1.3L	0.81-0.85
Eggs	6	1.15-1.18
Rice	1kg	1.51-1.53

Health expenses: Being an international student away from family, taking care of one's health is important. Buying health insurance in the UK is a wise decision for a healthy future.

Internet and entertainment expenses: For better connectivity, internet expenses are considered the primary expenses of an international student. Investing in a SIM card with a call and data plan, Wi-Fi, and TV payments keeps one connected and aware of events. Studying in the UK is not about becoming a bookworm. Discovering the charm of places to visit in the UK for refreshing study breaks will make students' journeys in the UK more memorable and joyous.

Miscellaneous expenses of international students

In addition to essential expenses, there are additional expenses that depends on the lifestyle and creativity required to create a comfortable and well-maintained home. International students should closely monitor their monthly budget, as they may be surprised to see how much they have spent on non-essential items such as clothing, footwear, stationery, and household items.

• Everyone has a dream of living a lavish lifestyle. However, keeping an eye on the monthly budget while shopping helps a student manage expenses in the UK. Buying excessive clothing and footwear creates trouble for space and money too.

• Being a student, it is an obvious thing to buy lots of stationery items like pencils, notebooks, sticky notes, pens, colors, and other things. So, buy wisely.

Conclusion

In conclusion, studying abroad is a crucial decision for an international student. It requires a strong financial situation to study in the UK. In this blog, we have discussed the entire cost of living for an international student while studying in the UK. One should keep an eye on a monthly budget while buying anything—the cost of living for an international student is significantly dependent on one’s lifestyle. Connect to our experienced counsellors at Canam to know more about the cost of living in the UK and which city will be a suitable option to start one’s academic journey in the UK.

FAQ

How much is the monthly rent in the UK?

An international student needs to spend approximately 505 to 848 pounds for monthly rent in the UK, which varies according to the cities of the UK.

How can I save money in the UK while studying?

Smart spending saves money. One can also try a ‘’no spend week’’, compare before buying, try to cook at home, make weekly savings, and invest in good things.

Which field is best to study in the UK?

Fields like management, medicine, psychology, law, education, architecture, modern languages, physiotherapy, and computer science are some of the best fields to study in the UK for an international student.

Get great articles direct to your inbox

The latest news, articles, and resources, sent straight to your inbox every month.

Popular Universities to Study Abroad

World class education waiting for you.

Loyalist College - Port Hope Campus

Ontario, Canada • 10 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 15000-15500 / year

California State University - Sacramento

California, USA • 179 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 16000-17000 / year

Mohawk College - Stoney Creek Campus

Ontario, Canada • 11 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 17000-19000 / year

BPP University - London West (Shepherds Bush) Campus

England, UK • 4 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 0-0 / year

Hult International Business School - Boston Campus

Massachusetts, USA • 27 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 0-0 / year

University of South Australia - Mount Gambier Campus

South Australia, Australia • 1 Programmes

Tuition Fee : AUD 30500-31000 / year

ICN Business School - Paris Campus

Paris, France • 7 Programmes

Tuition Fee : EUR 9000-9200 / year

University of Indianapolis

Indiana, USA • 87 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 35000-36000 / year

View All Universities

Latest at CANAM

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

The International Education Fair

Study in Canada, UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Germany, Ireland, France, UAE

New Delhi • 11:00AM

In-Person Event

University Visit - Selkirk College

Study in Canada • University Visit

Bathinda2 • 12:30PM

In-Person Event

University Visits - Vancouver Community College

Study in Canada • University Visit

Bathinda2 • 01:30PM

In-Person Event

Top countries destinations

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland
Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland
Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales
Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria
Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia
Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland
La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria
LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland
Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland
Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland
Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay
Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland
Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland
Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland
New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland
The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

Kent state university Ohio
San Jose State University California
Wright State University Ohio
Clark University Massachusetts
Rowan University New Jersey
Arkansas State University Arkansas
University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois
University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams

Blogs and Articles

Curated content to keep you updated on the latest education trends, news and more.

Scholarships in France for Indian Students

Are you planning to study in France but are scared of the expensive tuition fees? But now there is no need to fear because you can take advantage of F...

Updated on • May 29,2025 05:22 PM IST • France

Intakes in Dubai for Indian Students

World-class universities, a multicultural environment and tax-free earnings are some of the benefits that attract Indian students to Dubai. However, i...

Updated on • May 27,2025 03:34 PM IST • Study in Dubai

France Student Visa 2025 – Requirements, Fees, Checklist & Application Process

Imagine this: Today is the day you will sit for your dream job interview. You practised all possible questions, wore formal attire, and collected all ...

Updated on • May 23,2025 03:36 PM IST • France

MBA in France for Indian Students in 2025

MBA is one of the most sought-after master’s programs worldwide. France is increasingly becoming popular as an overseas education destination. The r...

Updated on • May 22,2025 05:35 PM IST • France

PTE Accepted Universities in Australia

In recent years, PTE has emerged as one of the alternatives to IELTS to study abroad. Many top study-abroad destinations like USA, UK and New Zealand ...

Updated on • May 22,2025 05:31 PM IST • PTE

PTE Accepting Universities In USA

PTE stands among the most popular English language proficiency exams accepted by various institutions worldwide. Students applying to study in the USA...

Updated on • May 22,2025 05:24 PM IST • USA

MBBS in UK: Colleges, Fees, Eligibility and Scholarships

Starting a medical journey is a great choice, and pursuing a Bachelor of Medicine or Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) in the United Kingdom adds an extra la...

Updated on • May 22,2025 05:13 PM IST • UK

MBBS in Australia: Top Universities, Syllabus, Cost of Study, Eligibility, Scholarships & Jobs

Medical studies have taken the world by storm with its increasing popularity. The majority of international students prefer to study this course in Au...

Updated on • May 22,2025 04:53 PM IST • Australia

MBBS in Germany

Studying an MBBS in Germany offers a pathway to a world-class education in medicine, attracting thousands of aspiring doctors from around the globe ev...

Updated on • May 22,2025 04:36 PM IST • Study in Germany

Best Medical Colleges in USA

You looking for medical colleges in the USA is clear evidence that it is the best country to pursue medical courses. One of the most sought-after medi...

Updated on • May 22,2025 04:20 PM IST • USA

Highest Paying Jobs in New Zealand for International Students

Many students aspire to live and work in a country like New Zealand. And why not? Alongside its stunning scenery and vibrant culture, New Zealand is a...

Updated on • May 22,2025 01:03 PM IST • New Zealand

High Paying Jobs in Germany

Germany, a powerhouse of innovation and industry, offers a fantastic job market with excellent salaries and a strong work-life balance. Whether you're...

Updated on • May 22,2025 11:11 AM IST • Study in Canada

Fastest Growing Job Sectors in Germany in 2025

Thousands of job opportunities in Germany are waiting for Indians. Fill them before someone else grabs these. But how? Do you know which sector these ...

Updated on • May 20,2025 05:25 PM IST • Germany

Job Opportunities in Canada for Indians: Salaries, Best Job Sites & More

Canada has always been a highly sought-after destination for international students, thanks to its exceptional education, abundant job prospects, and ...

Updated on • May 20,2025 05:21 PM IST • Study in Canada

How to Get a Job in USA in 2025

USA is not just a great destination for studying abroad, but also for pursuing a full-time job. That’s why the internet is filled with queries like ...

Updated on • May 20,2025 05:20 PM IST • USA

Reasons to study Engineering Masters in Germany

When you think about Germany, the thing that instantly comes to mind is its safe roads, modern technology, the best cars in the world, and t...

Updated on • May 17,2025 01:22 PM IST • Study in Germany

Study in the USA after 12th

For countless Indian students, the dream to study in the USA after 12th is more than just an academic milestone- it’s a gateway to global exposure, ...

Updated on • May 15,2025 05:23 PM IST • USA

France Intakes in 2025

France is one of Europe's most popular study destinations, with 35 universities ranking in the QS World University Rankings 2025. French universities ...

Updated on • May 13,2025 03:54 PM IST • France

UK Scholarships for Indian Students 2025

Studying abroad is becoming a growing trend among Indian students as the opportunity not only allows them to explore modern and advanced education opt...

Updated on • May 03,2025 05:39 PM IST • UK • study in the UK

What is GPA? A Complete Guide for Students and Parents

Do you ever get overwhelmed by the number of grading systems in India and wonder why they can’t simply tell marks? Well, you are not alone. Each one...

Updated on • May 01,2025 01:56 PM IST • Study Abroad Guidance

Cost of Living in UK for International Students in 2024

Table of Contents

UK as a Study Destination

Living Cost for International Students in UK

Cost of living (City-wise) in UK in 2024

Primary Expenses of international students

Miscellaneous expenses of international students

Conclusion

FAQ

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland

Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland

Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales

Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria

Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia

Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland

La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria

LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

University Canada West British Columbia

University of Windsor Ontario

Dalhousie University Nova Scotia

Carleton University Ontario

Cape Breton University Nova Scotia

University of ottawa Ontario

University of saskatchewan Saskatchewan

University of regina Saskatchewan

University of guelph Ontario

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland

Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland

Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland

Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay

Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland

Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland

Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland

New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland

The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

University of Warwick England

De Montfort University England

University of West London England

University of Strathclyde Scotland

Aston University England

University of Bath England

University of Liverpool England

Durham University England

Newcastle University England

Kent state university Ohio

San Jose State University California

Wright State University Ohio

Clark University Massachusetts

Rowan University New Jersey

Arkansas State University Arkansas

University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois

University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams