Living Costs and Inexpensive Cities in the UK for Indian Students

21 June 2025

For most Indian students, the UK is a life experience. The exposure to the world, universities, and quality education bring the UK to the list of most probable choices. But the idea of handling living expenses on a day-to-day basis always raises a question mark. The reality is not that all UK cities are expensive—to be precise, there are a few budget-friendly cities where Indian students can stay without draining their wallets.

At BCES Admissions Abroad, we also think that it’s not just a matter of selecting the best university, but also the best city. Our aim is to assist you in getting suitable cities where you can live your student life to the fullest without breaking the bank.

What Are the Living Costs in the UK?

For studying in the UK, your core expenses will comprise accommodation, food, transport locally, study materials, and personal expenditure. London and other big cities are known to have the highest possible living standards, where students might require between £1,300 to £1,600 per month for basic needs.

But if you select cities other than London, your spending can drop to a mere £800 to £1,100 per month. Your choice of city can also greatly influence your entire experience, both in terms of costs but lifestyle and ease.

Best Value Cities in the UK for Indian Students

1. Leicester

Leicester is a cheap but highly favored destination among foreign students. Monthly living costs range between £800 and £1,000. It has friendly student life, low living rents, and lively Indian communities, making it warm and homely.

2. Coventry

Coventry is an ideal place where low-cost living meets a high level of education. Coventry students typically spend £850 to £1,050 each month. Coventry boasts excellent public transport, easy access to part-time work, and provides an international student with an ideal environment.

3. Bradford

Bradford is regularly ranked as one of the UK’s cheapest student cities. Students get by on a £700-£900 a month budget. The city is cheap to live in, ethnically diverse, and has a high number of venues that accommodate Indian food and traditions.

4. Sheffield

Sheffield provides a calm ambiance with greenery and a cheaper cost of living. Students typically spend £850 to £1,100 per month. The city has a vibrant student life and a balance lifestyle in which you get time to study and enjoy student life at a reasonable cost.

5. Cardiff

Being the capital of Wales, Cardiff is busy and reasonably priced. Students can budget £850 to £1,050 per month. Cardiff also boasts a lively Indian student community with a reputation for inexpensive entertainment, good public transport, and welcoming local people.

How to Make Your Living Expenses in the UK as Low as Possible: Simple Tips

• Opt for shared housing or university-managed housing to reduce your rent.
• Cook meals at home since frequent dining out proves costly in no time.
• Opt for student discount cards for public transport, shopping, and eating out.
• Seek part-time work to fund your lifestyle and acquire work experience.