When UAE students decide to study in the UK, one of the biggest considerations is living costs. While London offers unmatched cultural and career opportunities, its expenses can be high. This guide compares London’s cost of living with that of other UK cities, offering UAE students a clear picture to help plan budgets and select the best location for their studies.

1. Overview of Living Cost Factors

Key monthly expenses include:

• Accommodation (rent and utilities)
• Food and groceries
• Transportation
• General living costs (phone, internet, entertainment)
• Miscellaneous (textbooks, clothing, personal care)

These vary significantly between London and other popular student cities such as Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, and Glasgow.

2. Accommodation Costs

London

• Shared flat/hall: £600–£900
• Studio/self-contained: £1,200–£1,800

These figures reflect the central premium, where high demand drives high prices—even small rooms often cost over £800/month.

Manchester

• Shared flat: £300–£500
• Studio: £600–£900

Rent in Manchester is typically 40–50% cheaper than in London.

Birmingham

• Shared flat: £350–£550
• Studio: £700–£1,000

Midway between Manchester and London in terms of cost.

Edinburgh & Glasgow

• Shared flat: £350–£600
• Studio: £700–£1,100

Comparable to Birmingham, with occasional university-run housing more affordable.

3. Food and Groceries

UAE students studying in the UK spend approximately:

• London: £250–£300/month
• Elsewhere: £200–£250/month

Cities like Glasgow and Manchester are slightly cheaper due to lower supermarket prices.

4. Transportation

London

• Oyster card (zones 1–2 student e‑card): £125–£150/month
• Extenive coverage, fast and reliable but expensive.

Manchester/Birmingham

• Monthly pass: £60–£80
• Smaller networks and lower fares.

Edinburgh/Glasgow

• Monthly bus/tram: £55–£75

Overall, London transport costs twice as much as other cities.

5. Utilities & Internet

London

• Utilities: £100–£150
• Internet/TV license: £30–£40

Other Cities

• Utilities: £80–£120
• Internet/TV license: £30–£40

Slight advantage outside London due to lower average rent and energy consumption.

6. Social & Lifestyle

Though variable, typical monthly budget estimates:

• London: £200–£300
• Other Cities: £150–£250

Entertainment, clubs, events, and dining are generally cheaper in cities like Edinburgh or Manchester.

7. Total Monthly Estimate Table

City	Accommodation	Food	Transport	Utilities	Lifestyle	Total
London	£600–£900	£250–£300	£125–£150	£100–£150	£200–£300	£1,275–£1,800
Manchester	£300–£500	£200–£250	£60–£80	£80–£120	£150–£250	£790–£1,200
Birmingham	£350–£550	£200–£250	£70–£90	£80–£120	£150–£250	£850–£1,260
Edinburgh	£350–£600	£200–£250	£55–£75	£80–£120	£150–£250	£835–£1,295
Glasgow	£350–£600	£200–£250	£55–£75	£80–£120	£150–£250	£835–£1,295

8. Hidden Costs to Consider

• Tuition
• Visa fees & Immigration Health Surcharge
• Academic materials
• Travel between the UAE and UK
• Healthcare (NHS surcharge included in visa)

When planning to study in the UK, factor in these costs to avoid financial surprises.

9. Saving Strategies for UAE Students

Explore part-time work opportunities to supplement costs

Choose shared housing or university-owned accommodation

Shop at budget supermarkets (Aldi, Lidl, Tesco)

Use student discounts (NUS, uni-cards, apps)

Smart planning can narrow the cost gap between London and regional cities by up to 20%.

10. ROI: Choosing a Location Aligned with Goals

• London: Offers career networking, internships, and cultural exposure—but is the priciest.
• Other Cities: Deliver excellent education and lower costs, ideal for cost-conscious students.

Balance your academic goals, budget, and lifestyle preferences when you decide to study in the UK.

How Erudmite Can Help

Erudmite advises UAE students on budgeting, cost comparisons, accommodation options, and city selection. We provide personalised cost breakdowns and help with choosing between universities and locations to Study in the UK in ways that align with each student’s financial profile.

Final Thoughts

For UAE students aiming to Study in the UK, city choice plays a major role in overall costs. While London offers unmatched opportunities, other cities like Manchester, Edinburgh, and Birmingham offer strong education at significantly lower living expenses.

Careful planning, assistance from Erudmite, and realistic budgeting can help make UK education both rewarding and financially sustainable.

Book a Free Consultation

Curious about the costs of studying in different UK cities? Book a free appointment with the Erudmite team. Our advisers will help you compare cities, plan your budget, and select the best location for your UK education journey.

Book your free consultation now

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is London significantly more expensive than other UK cities?
Yes. London’s accommodation and transport expenses are generally 40–60% higher than in cities like Manchester or Birmingham.

2. What’s a realistic monthly budget for a student outside London?
Approximately £800–£1,200, compared to £1,275–£1,800 in London.

3. Can part-time work help cover costs?
Yes. International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term, usually earning between £9–£12 per hour.

4. Does Erudmite help with budgeting and city comparisons?
Absolutely. We offer tailored cost assessments and guidance on choosing the right city for your lifestyle and budget.

5. Are tuition and visa fees included in living cost planning?
No. Tuition and visa fees are separate; our planning considers accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses only.