COST OF LIVING
What does it really cost to study in the UK?
A realistic monthly budget for a single student, built from the same 2026 figures in our city guides. Pick a city, choose how you want to live, and see where the money actually goes.
Accommodation
Spending style
Per month£1,112A typical month in our Manchester guide: £900–£1,200
- Accommodation (shared house)£650Bills usually extra
- Food & groceries£190Cooking at home
- Transport£27Student travel pass
- Essentials£85Mobile, broadband, gym, books
- Social & leisure£160Eating out, cinema, trips
9 months
Total for that period£10,008
Estimates for a single student in 2026, excluding tuition fees and one-off costs like flights, visa fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge. Your own spending will vary. Figures are indicative guidance, not a guarantee — always budget with a margin.