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Leicester is a city in the East Midlands of England, with a population of more than 300,000 people. It is a lively and vibrant city with a rich and diverse history and culture. Leicester is also home to two universities, the University of Leicester and De Montfort University, which attract thousands of students from all over the world every year. But how much does it cost to live and study in Leicester?
This blog will explore the cost of living in Leicester and give some tips on how to reduce your expenses. For students planning to live in Leicester, it is essential to budget effectively to have a comfortable stay there. Do you want to know about the average expenses in this vibrant city? Read on for key insights and detailed information on the cost of living in Leicester. Let’s dive in! Read on to know more!
This Blog Includes:
Cost of Living in Leicester: Overview
The average cost of living in Leicester for international students is around GBP 863 per month, excluding rent, according to Numbeo data. While Leicester’s living expenses may be lower than in many other UK cities, it still offers a high quality of life, excellent amenities, and access to various cultural and recreational activities.
The cost of living in Leicester depends on various factors, such as your lifestyle, preferences, and needs. However, here are some average monthly costs that you can expect to pay as an international student in Leicester:
| Category | Approx Cost |
| Living accommodation | GBP 500 – GBP 800 |
| Food | GBP 422 |
| Entertainment | GBP 50 – GBP 100 |
| Utilities and bills | GBP 120 |
| Transportation | GBP 68 |
Also Read: Cost of Living in Manchester, UK
Cost of Accommodation in Leicester
One of the biggest expenses you will encounter as an international student in Leicester is your accommodation. This cost will significantly impact your overall budget for the cost of living in Leicester City. The cost of your accommodation will depend on the type, location, and quality of your housing. Here are some average monthly rents for different types of student accommodations in Leicester:
| Type of Accommodation | Approx Cost |
| University halls | GBP 600 |
| Private halls | GBP 700 |
| Shared flat/house | GBP 500 |
| Studio flat | GBP 500 – GBP 800 |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre | GBP 787 |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre | GBP 766 |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre | GBP 1,266 |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside of Centre | GBP 1,100 |
Also Read: Cost of Living in Sheffield: A Guide
Cost of Grocery in Leicester
Grocery expenses are a daily necessity for students who choose to cook at home, and their food choices will determine these expenses in Leicester. These expenses play a significant role in the overall cost of living in Leicester City.
It is advisable to compare prices among various stores or vendors to ensure optimal value when purchasing groceries in Leicester. Here are some average costs for different grocery items in Leicester:
| Grocery Items | Approx Cost |
| Milk (1 litre) | GBP 1.28 |
| Bread (500g) | GBP 1.20 |
| Eggs (12) | GBP 2.48 |
| Cheese (500g) | GBP 8.92 |
| Rice (1kg) | GBP 1.76 |
| Apples (1kg) | GBP 1.50 |
| Bananas (1kg) | GBP 1.19 |
| Tomatoes (1kg) | GBP 2.25 |
| Potatoes (1kg) | GBP 1.00 |
| Onions (1kg) | GBP 1.90 |
Cost of Food in Leicester
Another major expense that you will have as an international student in Leicester is food. The cost of food will depend on your eating habits, preferences, and dietary requirements. However, Food cost for a month in Leicester is around GBP 422.
You can save money on food by cooking at home, buying in bulk, shopping at local markets or discount stores, or using student discounts or vouchers. This way you can reduce your extra expense on the cost of living in Leicester. You can also eat out occasionally, but be aware that eating out can be more expensive than cooking at home. Here are some average prices for eating out in Leicester:
| Meal at Resturants | Approx Cost |
| Lunch Menu | GBP 14 |
| Dinner in a Restaurant, for 2 | GBP 57.9 |
| Fast food meal, equiv. McDonald’s | GBP 7.89 |
| Coffee | GBP 4.19 |
Also Read: Cost of Living in Bath: Updated Prices, Comparison with Other Cities
Cost of Utilities in Leicester
Utilities in Leicester cover essential services for living quality of life. These services typically include electricity, water, heating, internet, and garbage disposal. Understanding the expenses associated with these basic utilities can assist students in effectively managing their households in Leicester.
The cost of utilities and bills will depend on the type, size, and location of your accommodation, as well as your usage and consumption habits. It is a main expense of the cost of living in Leicester. Here are some average monthly costs for different types of utilities and bills in Leicester:
| Utility Type | Utility Name | Approx. Cost |
| Basic Utility Bills | Water, Electricity, Heating, Cooling, etc | GBP 120 |
| Internet | 50 Mbps+, Unlimited Data | GBP 34.4 |
You can save money on utilities and bills by choosing an energy-efficient accommodation, using less electricity, gas, and water, switching to a cheaper provider or tariff, sharing internet or phone plans with your flatmates, or using free Wi-Fi hotspots.
Cost of Transportation in Leicester
The last expense that you will have in the cost of living in Leicester budget is transportation Costs. The cost of transportation will depend on how often and how far you travel within or outside the city.
Evaluating travel expenses in Leicester is crucial for students, as commuting to and from college is a daily necessity. To aid in budget planning, we have compiled a table detailing the average transportation costs in Leicester. Here are some average monthly costs for different modes of transportation in Leicester:
| Transportation | Approx Cost |
| Monthly Pass (Regular Price) | GBP 54 |
| Train ticket to London (return) | GBP 40 |
| Taxi fare (per km) | GBP 1.09 |
| One-way Ticket (Local Transport) | GBP 3.10 |
| Gasoline (1 liter)Leicester | GBP 1.47 |
You can save money on transportation by walking or cycling to campus or nearby places, using public transport instead of taxis or cars, buying tickets in advance or online, using student discounts or railcards, or carpooling with friends.
Miscellaneous Costs in Leicester
As an international student in Leicester, you will also want to enjoy your free time and engage in social activities. Miscellaneous costs will vary based on your hobbies, interests, and lifestyle. These expenses can include gym memberships, movie tickets, clothing, and occasional medical visits. Below are some average monthly costs for various types of entertainment and activities in Leicester:
| Entertainment | Approx Cost |
| Cinema ticket | GBP 13.3 |
| Museum ticket | GBP 5 |
| Gym membership | GBP 34.6 |
| Doctor visit | GBP 52.1 |
| Brand Jeans | GBP 70.2 |
| Brand Sneakers | GBP 106 |
You can save money on entertainment by taking advantage of student discounts or offers, joining clubs or societies, volunteering, or exploring free or low-cost attractions in the city. Here are some examples of free or low-cost things to do in Leicester:
- Visit the King Richard III Visitor Centre, where you can learn about the discovery of the king’s remains in a car park.
- Explore the National Space Centre, where you can see rockets, satellites, and planets.
- Enjoy the festivals, such as the largest Diwali celebration outside India, the Caribbean Carnival, and the Comedy Festival.
- Relax in the parks, such as Victoria Park, Abbey Park, or Bradgate Park, where you can see deer roaming freely.
- Walk along the River Soar or the Grand Union Canal.
Also Read: Cost of Living in Belfast: Updated Prices, Other Cities Comparison
Average Tuition Fees in Leicester
Apart from the average cost of living in Leicester, you should be aware of the average tuition fees charged by the universities here. Careful financial planning allows students to make the most of educational opportunities while effectively managing expenses. So, see below the average tuition costs in Leicester:
| Course Level | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| Undergraduate | GBP 14,750 to GBP 30,000 |
| Postgraduate | GBP 14,750 to GBP 30,000 |
| PhD | GBP 16,277.85 |
Cost of Living Comparision: Leicester vs Other Cities
When comparing the cost of living in Leicester to other cities in the UK, several factors come into play. Leicester is recognized for its affordable housing and transportation, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced lifestyle. It’s important to understand how the cost of living in Leicester stacks up against other cities to make informed decisions about relocating or staying long-term.
To offer a clear perspective on how the cost of living in Leicester compares to major cities such as London, Manchester, Nottingham, Birmingham, and even Germany, we have compiled relevant data. Here’s a detailed comparison for better understanding:
| Cost of Living City Wise | Average Cost of living | Comparison with Cost of Living in Leicester |
| Cost of Living in London | GBP 1,107 (excluding rent) | Higher than Leicester |
| Cost of Living in the UK | GBP 881 (excluding rent) | Higher than Leicester |
| Cost of Living in Germany | GBP 831 (excluding rent) | Lower than Leicester |
| Cost of Living in Manchester | GBP 858 (excluding rent) | Lower than Leicester |
| Cost of Living in Nottingham | GBP 820 (excluding rent) | Lower than Leicester |
| Cost of Living in Birmingham | GBP 759 (excluding rent) | Lower than Leicester |
Why Choose to Study in Leicester?
Apart from getting an idea about the cost of living in Leicester. Do you know it is a great choice for international students who want to experience life in the UK? Here are some reasons why you should consider studying in Leicester:
- Leicester is one of the most affordable student destinations in the UK, with the cost of living in Leicester being 39.8% less expensive than in New York and 16.6% less expensive than in London.
- Leicester is a multicultural and diverse city, with people from different ethnicities, religions, and backgrounds. You can enjoy various festivals, cuisines, and events throughout the year, such as the largest Diwali celebration outside India, the Caribbean Carnival, and the Comedy Festival.
- Leicester is a city with a lot of history and heritage dating back to Roman times. It also has a lot of green spaces and nature where you can relax and enjoy the fresh air.
- Leicester is a city with a lot of transport links and connections, making it easy to travel around the UK and Europe.
Leicester is a wonderful city to live and study in as an international student. It offers a lot of opportunities, benefits, and attractions for students from different backgrounds and interests. But living in Leicester can also be expensive if you don’t plan and manage your budget well. Therefore, it is vital to be aware of the cost of living in Leicester and follow some tips to reduce your expenses and make the most of your money.
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FAQs on Cost of Living in Leicester
Answer: The average cost of living in Leicester is around GBP 863 a month including rental costs. This means the cost of living for a student is decent compared to other cities in the UK.
Answer: The answer to this question depends on your circumstances and choices. However, the cost of living in Leicester is GBP 863 without rent. It is 39.8% less expensive than in New York and 16.6% less expensive than in London, meaning Leicester is relatively affordable compared to some other major cities in the world.
Answer: Leicester is neither cheap nor expensive, but rather moderate in terms of living costs. The average monthly cost of living in Leicester is GBP 863, without rent for a single person, which is in the top 31% of the most expensive cities in the world, ranked 2915th out of 9294. However, this also means that many cities are more expensive than Leicester.
Answer: The amount of money that you need to live in Leicester depends on various factors, such as your lifestyle, preferences, and needs. However, you need around GBP 1654 every month to live comfortably in Leicester.
We hope this blog has helped you understand the cost of living in Leicester and how to save money while studying in this amazing city. For more living costs-related information during the student life abroad, subscribe to Leverage Edu.
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