Cost of living in Liverpool for students
Liverpool is a vibrant hub of culture and creativity, where a student-friendly vibe meets rich culture and passion. As the birthplace of The Beatles and with its proud maritime heritage, Liverpool offers an inspiring blend of excitement and tradition - making it an unbeatable place to live and learn in the UK.
For those studying in Liverpool, understanding the cost of living in Liverpool is crucial for managing budgets effectively. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate university living - and all important student living costs - in this exciting city.
Average living expenses for students in Liverpool
The living expenses for students in Liverpool can vary depending on your lifestyle, total utilities and accommodation choices.
According to University Living, students can expect to spend between £800 and £1,200 per month on average, including rent, food, transportation and leisure.
Compared to other cities in the cost of living UK, Liverpool is considered very affordable. London is actually 35% more expensive than Liverpool, according to data from Numbeo.
Housing and accommodation costs
University living costs or private accommodations are among the largest expenses for students. According to Sturents, the average rent in Liverpool ranges between £90 and £150 per week, depending on location and type of housing. Students can choose between purpose-built student accommodation or private rental properties.
Average gas and electricity bill
When living off-campus, utilities can add to your Liverpool living expenses. The average gas and electric bill for shared accommodations is approximately £50 to £70 per person each month (depending on usage and the size of the property).
Why not check out the room choices at iQ, where all-inclusive bills make it much easier to manage your outgoings. We have several room types available as well, including en suite rooms and apartments.
Council tax in Liverpool
Students enrolled full-time are usually exempt from paying council tax. Make sure to inform the Liverpool City Council to make the most of this exemption. If you're sharing a house with non-students, however, council tax rules will differ.
Food and grocery costs
Groceries are a manageable part of student living costs in Liverpool. Expect to spend around £25 to £50 per week for a single person depending on your shopping habits.
Cost-saving supermarkets like Aldi, Lidl, and Tesco offer budget-friendly options, while dining out may cost around £10 to £50 per meal at different venues.
Transportation costs
Liverpool has excellent public transport, making it easy to commute between your accommodation and university. A student bus pass costs about £30 per month, while occasional trips via Merseyrail trains are also economical. Walking and cycling are common alternatives for reducing transportation costs further.
We’ve written a detailed guide on getting a student railcard - give it a read to learn all about the nifty discounts you can get.
Entertainment and social life costs
Liverpool offers a buzzing social life with plenty of things to do for students. From pubs and clubs to museums and theatres, the cost of entertainment depends on your preference.
Whether you’re enjoying a budget night out or splashing out on a special occasion, remember that student discounts can make cultural and leisure activities in Liverpool way more affordable. Take a look at our favourite student discount platforms: UNiDAYS and Student Beans.
Budgeting tips for students in Liverpool
Need some help budgeting for your student life in Liverpool? We’ve got some helpful tips.
- Use student discounts on travel, food, and entertainment to reduce Liverpool living expenses
- Cook at home or try meal prepping to save on food costs
- Use a budgeting app to manage your expenses and savings better
FAQs
Is Liverpool good for student life?
Yes, Liverpool is a fantastic city for students. It has a vibrant social scene, affordable cost and living and world-renowned universities that make it ideal for student life.
Where do most students live in Liverpool?
Popular areas for students include Aigburth, Smithdown Road and Wavertree. A lot of students tend to live in the city centre as well because it’s close to local colleges and universities.
Great Newton House is our student building in Liverpool. With en suite rooms and apartments, it features all-inclusive bills and social spaces perfect for making new friends.
Are you planning to study in Liverpool? Make it your best move yet and stay with us. Explore available rooms in the city or talk with our friendly team if you have any questions.
