2024’s Most Affordable Cities in the UK for International Students

International students are drawn to the UK for more than just its excellent education system. Another great reason why it’s a popular study-abroad option is how affordable it is. Finding affordable housing in the UK does not necessitate giving up a top-notch learning experience. There are many affordable cities in the UK for international students. The high cost of living is a major deterrent for many students considering studying in the UK. However, you should look into the UK since there are certain inexpensive locations that welcome international students.

We will uncover a list of the most affordable cities in the UK for international students. Experience high-quality education and a great lifestyle in these affordable UK cities.

2024’s Most Affordable Cities in the UK For International Students

We have shortlisted a list of the most affordable cities in the UK for international students below:

1. Cardiff
2. Cambridge
3. Sheffield
4. Birmingham
5. Manchester
6. Glasgow
7. Newcastle
8. Coventry

Cardiff

Among the UK’s most affordable cities, the capital of Welsh is a popular choice for international students. It is where the prestigious University of Cardiff and Cardiff Metropolitan University is located. International students may take advantage of part-time employment opportunities with the high-quality education they get. A part-time job might help students manage their expenses and take on more responsibilities while they’re abroad.

Cardiff offers students a budget-friendly experience with average monthly living costs ranging from £720 to £850.

Cambridge

The University of Cambridge is probably well-known to anybody who has considered studying in the UK. A lesser-known fact about Cambridge is that it is among the best budget UK cities for international students. Cambridge ranked second among affordable student UK cities in the 2021 NatWest Student Living Index. The city offers cheap rent and transportation costs, in addition to great job opportunities for candidates.

Sheffield

Sheffield was the third most inexpensive city in the UK, according to the NatWest Student Living Index 2023. You can get about easily on foot, and the city’s transportation, dining, lodging, and entertainment options are all reasonably priced. The living expenses are lower than in other UK cities. The city is large enough to be seen as a key cultural and economic hub in the nation, and it ranks fifth in terms of population in the UK.

Birmingham

Not only is Birmingham home to prestigious institutions like Aston University and The University of Birmingham, but it is also one of the most affordable cities in the UK for international students. The city provides an exciting environment for anybody looking to live or work, thanks to its diverse population and lively culture. The 2021 NatWest Student Living Index placed Birmingham at #5 for the most affordable UK city for international students. Public transport is excellent, and the accommodation rates are low. However, takeout is more expensive in Birmingham than in other UK cities.

Manchester

Manchester is one of the biggest and most affordable cities in the UK. The low cost of living isn’t the only reason for this. It’s also due to low tuition at highly-regarded universities like the University of Manchester, Manchester Metropolitan University, etc. Affordable travel and accommodation are just two of the many amenities students can discover in Manchester. Along with this, the city is home to the Museum of Science and Industry and Old Trafford, a globally-renowned football stadium.

Glasgow

Glasgow, Scotland’s biggest city, is home to prestigious educational institutions such as Strathclyde University and the University of Glasgow. Not only do students get a top-notch education, but they also get to see the area’s fascinating architecture and history. With the National Theatre of Scotland, many museums, and the Scottish Ballet and Scottish Opera, this city offers a lot to visitors.

In addition, it ranks third on the 2021 NatWest Student Living Index, making it one of the most inexpensive cities in the UK. Students on a tight budget will love this port city’s affordable accommodation and reasonably-priced public transport.

Newcastle

Newcastle is a leading UK student city that manages to strike a good mix between a vibrant culture and a strong feeling of community despite its small size. Newcastle exemplifies the common belief that Northern England is more affordable than Southern England. It is home to two internationally-ranked universities- Newcastle University and Durham University.

Newcastle might not have the cheapest tuition in the UK, but it does have low rent and public transport. Students are certain to like the environment because of its reputation of being really welcoming. To include basics like housing, food, transport and books, the average monthly cost for international students is around £1,112.

Coventry

Coventry was named the UK’s most inexpensive city in 2018 by Totally Money. Ever since then, the same agency has consistently ranked it as one of the five cheapest cities in the country. Additionally, the city is home to some of the UK’s most affordable universities.

Nottingham

When considering studying in a UK university, many Indian students turn to Nottingham. Students will find a vibrant environment in Nottingham, thanks to its many renowned universities like the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University, as well as its cultural and historical attractions. Because of the city’s efforts to make public institutions and transport affordable, students are able to take advantage of reduced tuition prices.

Study in the UK with The WorldGrad

With The WorldGrad’s Global Year 1 Program, Unismarter Program, and Unismarter Pre-Masters Program, students can complete up to one year of their degree in their home country. Later, they can transit on-campus to study in the UK. With the WorldGrad, students can save up to INR 20 lakhs to get their degree from a global-recognised university.

FAQS

Q1. Which city in the UK has the lowest cost of living?
A1. Cardiff is considered to have the lowest cost of living for international students.

Q2. Which city is best in the UK for international students?
A2. London is always the first choice for international students, irrespective of living costs.

Q3. Which city in the UK has more Indian students?
A3. London has more Indian students than any other UK city since it is home to over 40 universities.

Q4. Which is the safest city to study in the UK?
A4. According to QS Ranking, London is considered the safest city in the UK to study for international students.

Q5. Which city in the UK has more job opportunities?
A5. Milton Keynes, Oxford, York, St Albans, and Norwich are the top 5 cities in the UK for job opportunities.