Whenever studying abroad is mentioned, students usually have London in their top 5 cities to live in. Something about London has always fascinated beings from around the world.
While we’re aware that London is the international city of choice for many students, it’s also important to know how expensive the city is. On average, the cost of living in London for students ranges between £2,300 and £2,500 per month.
There are a variety of ways to save money and stick to your budget, which is why it is essential to know your expenses and see what consumes most of your budget.
The cost of living in London for students can vary depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices. However, international students can expect to pay an average of £27,600–£30,000 yearly to cover other miscellaneous expenses apart from the fees.
Average Cost Of Living In London For Indian Students 2025
As a student seeking to pursue an education in London, here is a brief understanding of the various expenses that you will have to keep in mind:
| Expense | Monthly Cost (£) |
| Off-Campus Accommodation | £1220 |
| On Campus Accommodation | £1200 |
| Transportation | £186 |
| Food | £480 |
| Entertainment | £60 |
| Groceries | £200 |
| Clothes | £70 |
| Total Cost of Living with Off-Campus Accommodation | £2216 |
| Total Cost of Living with On-Campus Accommodation | £2196 |
Breakdown Of Living Expenses In London For International Students
Living expenses in London are a crucial consideration for students looking to pursue their dream careers in the city. While the overall cost of living may vary for Indian students, certain expenses such as groceries, healthcare, and education tend to remain consistent.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the cost of living in London.
Groceries
When it comes to groceries in London, the cost can vary depending on shopping habits and preferences. Students typically spend a reasonable amount on essentials like fruits, vegetables, bread, dairy, and other household staples.
Shopping at budget-friendly supermarkets like Aldi, Lidl, or Tesco can help keep costs down, while opting for organic or premium products from high-end stores may increase the total. Bulk buying and meal prepping are great ways for students to manage their grocery expenses effectively.
| Item | Price Range (£) |
| Milk (regular, 1 litre) | 2 – 4 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | 2 – 3 |
| Rice (white, 1kg) | 1 – 4 |
| Eggs (regular, 12) | 2 – 6 |
| Local Cheese (1kg) | 5 – 20 |
| Chicken Fillets (1kg) | 3 – 10 |
| Beef Round (1kg) | 5 – 25 |
| Apples (1kg) | 1 – 4 |
| Banana (1kg) | 1 – 3 |
| Oranges (1kg) | 1 – 4 |
| Tomato (1kg) | 1 – 6 |
| Potato (1kg) | 1 – 2 |
| Onion (1kg) | 1 – 2 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | 1 – 2 |
| Water (1.5 litre bottle) | 1 – 2 |
Transport
Transportation in London can be a significant part of a student’s budget, but the city offers a variety of options to help manage costs. The London Underground (Tube), buses, and trains are the most popular modes of transport.
Students can reduce expenses by using an Oyster card or contactless payment, with daily and weekly fare caps in place. Additionally, students are eligible for discounted travel cards, such as the 18+ Student Oyster photocard or the Railcard, which can offer substantial savings on fares.
Walking or cycling is also a cost-effective and eco-friendly way to get around the city.
| Item | Price Range (£) |
| One-way Ticket (Local Transport) | 2 – 4 |
| Monthly Pass (Regular Price) | 150 – 280 |
| Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) | 3 – 8 |
| Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff) | 1 – 4 |
| Taxi 1 hour Waiting (Normal Tariff) | 18 – 50 |
| Gasoline (1 litre) | 1 – 2 |
| Volkswagen Golf 1.4 90 KW Trendline (Or Equivalent Car) | 25,000 – 30,000 |
| Toyota Corolla Sedan 1.6l 97kW Comfort (Or Equivalent Car) | 21,000 – 33,000 |
Utilities
Utilities in London can vary depending on the size of the accommodation and personal usage. For an average 85m² apartment, monthly costs for basic utilities like electricity, heating, water, and garbage collection can range widely.
To help manage expenses, students often share flats and split utility bills.
| Item | Price Range (£) |
| Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 85m² Apartment | 150 – 472 |
| Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data | 8 – 30 |
| Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | 25 – 45 |
Accommodation
The cost of accommodation in London can vary widely based on factors such as location, type of housing, and amenities provided. Off-campus accommodation will cost you less than on-campus accommodation.
Central London tends to be more expensive compared to the outskirts. Students can choose from options like university halls, shared apartments, or private rentals.
Rent constitutes a significant portion of the overall expenses, and it’s essential to consider proximity to the university, transportation costs, and local amenities when making housing decisions.
| Particular | Student Accommodation | Private Accommodation | University Accommodation |
| Cost | 80-1000 GBP/Per Week | 375 GBP & above/Per Week + Utility bills (∼ 69 GBP per week) | 300 GBP & above/Per week |
| Safety | These are gated communities with utmost safety & all facilities included like CCTV, biometric entrance, etc | Depends on the landlord and area | These are on the university campus with all the safety precautions |
| Utility Bills | Included | Not Included | Included |
| Home Insurance | Included in rent | 200 GBP per year | Included in rent |
| Proximity University | Walking distance to campus | Depends on area | Inside/nearby Universities |
| Other Amenities | Mostly all amenities are included like wifi, microwave, electric Stove, fridge etc. | Based on landlord/location | Mostly all amenities are included like wifi, microwave, electric Stove, fridge etc. |
Education
When considering higher education in the UK, tuition fees can vary significantly among top universities, reflecting the quality and reputation of the institutions. Each university sets its own fees based on the specific course and degree programme, resulting in a wide range of costs.
From the historic halls of the University of Oxford to the innovative environment of Imperial College London, prospective students should be aware of the financial commitments required for their chosen path.
Below is a breakdown of the annual tuition fees for some of the leading universities in the UK.
| University | Tuition Fee Range (£/year) |
| The University of Oxford | 1,985 – 94,800 |
| The University of Cambridge | 5,500 – 59,000 |
| Imperial College London | 7,120 – 54,500 |
| University College London | 7,770 – 36,900 |
| London School of Economics and Political Science | 5,830 – 61,180 |
Healthcare
The United Kingdom ranks as the fifth-most expensive country globally for private healthcare, as reported by the World Economic Forum.
In 2021, the per-capita health expenditure reached £4,434 (approximately US$5,387), highlighting the significant financial investment required for accessing healthcare services.
Given below is the spike in public sector expenditure on health in the United Kingdom from 2001 to 02 to 2023/24
Source: Statista
Entertainment & Leisure
Entertainment and leisure costs in London can vary widely, offering something for everyone regardless of budget. From world-class museums and galleries, many of which offer free admission, to vibrant theatres and cinemas that host a range of performances, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy.
For those seeking nightlife, London boasts an array of pubs, bars, and clubs, each with its own unique vibe. Additionally, outdoor parks and recreational facilities provide opportunities for relaxation and socialising without breaking the bank.
| Movie at the cinema | £15+ |
| West End Theatre (central London) | £35–£60+ |
| Club/pub entry | £5–£20 |
| Live music/concerts | £15+ |
| Gym membership | £20–£50 (per month) |
UK Student Visa Costs
The UK Student Visa Fees (previously known as the Tier 4 (General) Student Visa) amount to £490 (approximately ₹51,980.19 based on the exchange rate as of July 14, 2024) for students applying from outside the UK.
Additionally, applicants are required to pay a healthcare surcharge, the amount of which depends on the length of their stay.
Payment can be made using one of the following methods:
- Online with a MasterCard or Visa card.
- Through a demand draft at the visa application centre or selected branches of Standard Chartered Bank.
In cash at the visa application centre and at certain branches of Standard Chartered Bank.
It’s important to note that students wishing to extend or switch to a UK Student Visa while already in the UK will also incur a fee of £490 (£51,980.19 in INR as of July 14, 2024). Be sure to verify the UK study visa fees before submitting your application.
National Minimum Wage Vs. Minimum Living Wage In The UK
In London, two main wage standards exist: the National Living Wage and the London Living Wage.
National Living Wage
The National Living Wage is a legal minimum wage set by the UK government. From April 1, 2024, it will rise to £11.44 per hour for workers aged 21 and over, up from the previous rate of £10.42 per hour. While this wage applies across the UK, it often falls short for workers in London, where the cost of living is much higher.
London Living Wage
The London Living Wage, set by the Living Wage Foundation, is currently £13.15 per hour. It is calculated to reflect the greater living expenses in London and is designed to meet workers’ basic needs. Unlike the National Living Wage, the London Living Wage is voluntary for employers, though many businesses opt to pay it to better support their employees.
Wage Comparison
| Wage Type | Rate (£/hour) | Applicable Age |
| National Living Wage | £11.44 (from April 2024) | 21 and over |
| London Living Wage | £13.15 | All workers 18 and over |
The gap between these two wage standards underscores the financial challenges faced by workers in London, where living costs are substantially higher than elsewhere in the UK.
For example, a worker on the National Living Wage would need an extra £3,334.50 per year to match the London Living Wage.
How To Save Money As A Student In London?
Saving money as a student in London can be challenging, given the city’s relatively high cost of living. However, with careful planning and budgeting, it’s possible to manage expenses and even save some money. Here are some tips:
Accommodation
Consider living in student halls or affordable student accommodations closer to your university.
Transportation
Take advantage of student discounts on public transportation. Walk or cycle when possible to save on transportation costs. Explore monthly or annual travel passes for additional savings.
Food and Groceries
Cook at home instead of dining out frequently. Plan meals, make shopping lists, and take advantage of discounts and sales at supermarkets. Consider joining a local food co-op or purchasing groceries in bulk to save money.
Books and Study Materials
Buy used or digital textbooks instead of new ones. Utilise the university library and online resources to access study materials for free.
In conclusion, the cost of living in London can vary significantly depending on lifestyle choices, but it remains one of the more expensive cities, especially for students. With accommodation being the largest expenditure, followed by essential costs like groceries, transport, and utilities, it’s crucial for students to budget wisely. While tuition fees and healthcare can add to the financial load, the city’s world-class education, vibrant culture, and numerous free activities make it a rewarding experience.
FAQs
1. How expensive is it to study in London?
London is considered to be fairly expensive for international students in particular when compared to other cities in the UK. However, with good planning comes good management of finances. Tuition fees aside, overseas students also have to look at rent, utility bills, travel & transport, food & living, and other miscellaneous expenses.
2. Where do students live in London?
Camden, Tower Bridge, Bermondsey, and Shoreditch are amongst the most common places in London flocked by international students.
3. Can international students work in London?
If you are an international student enrolled in a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate degree programme, you are permitted to work for a total of 20 hours per week during term time. This limit is increased to full-time hours during your university’s registered holiday days.
4. Is public transport easily available in London?
The London Underground, or Tube, is the city’s metro system. eleven Tube lines totally, that connect plenty of the city’s neighbourhoods and are especially useful in central London. With simplistic transfers, it’s a relatively easy way to get around.
5. How much is student accommodation cost in London?
The student accommodation costs in London can vary depending on whether students choose off-campus or on-campus options. Off-campus accommodation typically costs around £408 per month, while on-campus accommodation is slightly higher at £480 per month.
6. How much money do you need to live comfortably in London?
The amount of money needed to live comfortably in London can vary widely depending on individual preferences, lifestyle, and circumstances. London is known for its relatively high cost of living, including expenses such as accommodation, transportation, food, and entertainment.
7. Is 1200 pounds enough to live in London?
The adequacy of £1,200 per month for living in London depends on several factors, including your lifestyle, accommodation choices, spending habits, and any specific financial obligations you may have. While £1,200 is considered a modest budget for living in London, it is still possible to cover essential expenses with careful planning.
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