Cost of Living in Manchester

All cost estimates provided are based on the latest available information and are intended to help students plan their financial resources. Actual costs may vary depending on individual spending habits and circumstances (Date of estimations: November 2023).

1. Accommodation Costs

Considering accommodation in Manchester? Prices can vary based on factors such as type and location. There could be cheaper or more expensive options available but typically a student room in a shared flat/house would cost around £450 per month (rent). Operating costs like gas, electricity, and internet are usually not included and should be calculated separately. Additionally, expect potential deposit payments at the start of the academic year.

2. Meals

Exploring dining options in Manchester? Opting to cook at home can be a budget-friendly choice. The city hosts all the mainstream supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, M&S, and Aldi, offering reasonably priced groceries.

Let’s take a look at some average prices:

  • Meal at an Inexpensive Restaurant: Typically falls between £10.00 and £25.00.
  • Meal for Two at a Mid-range Restaurant (Three-course): Budget around £40.00 to £100.00.
  • McMeal at McDonald’s (or Equivalent Combo Meal): Priced approximately £6.00 to £9.00.

3. Groceries – typical prices 

  • Liter of Milk: £1.19
  • Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g): About £1.14
  • Rice (white, 1kg): Averaging at £1.61
  • Eggs (regular, 12): Around £2.77
  • Local Cheese (1kg): About £6.42
  • Chicken Fillets (1kg): Priced at £5.87
  • Beef Round (1kg, or Equivalent Back Leg Red Meat): Around £8.44
  • Apples (1kg): Priced at £1.97
  • Banana (1kg): About £1.12
  • Oranges (1kg): Around £2.04
  • Tomato (1kg): Averaging at £1.99
  • Potato (1kg): About £1.44
  • Onion (1kg): Priced at £1.02
  • Lettuce (1 head): Usually around £0.69
  • Water (1.5-liter bottle): About £0.87
  • Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range): Priced at £8.00
  • Domestic Beer (0.5-liter bottle): Approximately £2.47
  • Imported Beer (0.33-liter bottle): Around £3.34

3. Public Transportation

Ticket options include:

  • Student semester ticket (up to age 26): £75
  • Single ticket: £2.40
  • Annual pass: £365 (or £33 if paid monthly)
  • Monthly pass: £51

4. Personal Incidentals

When considering personal incidentals, here’s a breakdown:

  • 10 rolls of toilet paper: Typically, it’s around £2.50 to £3.00.
  • Cinema ticket: If you’re planning a movie night, tickets usually range from £8 to £15.
  • Average Personal Incidentals (Per Night): You might want to set aside about £5.00 per night.

Remember, these are rough estimates, and actual costs can vary based on your preferences and circumstances. Adjust your budget accordingly.

5. Health Insurance

Health insurance is crucial when living in Manchester. As an international student, you may need to obtain health coverage, and the cost can vary based on the extent of coverage and the provider you choose. On average, you can expect health insurance to range from £65 to £100 per month.

It is important to research different health insurance options, whether they are provided by the university or private providers. Be sure to review coverage details, including medical services, prescriptions and emergency care.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, we recommend periodically contacting the University and Health or local health insurance. Your health and well-being come first, so finding the right protection is essential.6. Miscellaneous Expenses

When it comes to miscellaneous expenses, it’s essential to account for various items in your budget for life in Manchester. Here are some average prices:

  • Shoes: Starting from £40.00
  • Tights: Starting from £4.00
  • Socks: Starting from £3.50
  • Jeans: Starting from £30.00
  • Sweater: Starting from £25.00
  • T-shirt: Starting from £10.00

Additionally, if you’re considering getting a computer, the average cost in the UK ranges from £200 upwards and if you were to use Internet then The

  • ISPs (UK): Unlimited Plusnet Internet speed: 10 Mbps Data: Infinite Duration: 12 months; Monthly price: £17.99 Rating: 5
  • EE Unlimited Internet speed: 10 Mbps Data: Infinite Duration: 18 months; Month: €19 Star rating: 4
  • TalkTalk Broadband Speed: 17 Mbps Data: Unlimited Contract: 18 months Monthly costs: €21.50 Rating: 4 stars
  • Unlimited Sky Broadband Speed: 11 Mbps Data: Unlimited Contract: 18 months Monthly costs: €22 Rating: 4 stars
  • BT Unlimited Broadband Speed: 32 Mbps Data: Unlimited Contract: 24 months Monthly fee: £26.99 Rating: 3 stars

These are estimated costs, and for the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s advisable to check occasionally with the respective service providers.

7. Student Discounts

See Manchester student discounts on a range of services. Also check especially in the surrounding area.

Note. Prices are taken from verified websites and government statements. All costs are based on average costs.

Updated: November 2023