Cost of Living in Sheffield: Updated Prices, Other Cities Comparison

Sheffield is a city situated in South Yorkshire, an English county, in England. Its renowned universities, such as the University of Sheffield, attract students from around the globe, fostering a dynamic and international atmosphere. The reasonable cost of living in Sheffield, affordable housing, reliable public transportation, and bustling city centre make it an ideal place to call home. Whether it’s making new friends or immersing in its rich heritage, Sheffield promises an exciting and fulfilling journey.

When considering the United Kingdom, London immediately springs to mind as the capital city. It is undeniable and unsurprising that the cost of living in London is higher than that of other cities in the country. However, Sheffield is one of the smaller cities that offers a comparable quality of life at an affordable cost of living to Sheffield. The decision to move and reside in Sheffield may be influenced by a variety of motivational factors, which vary from individual to individual. Keep reading to get an idea of ​​the cost of living in Sheffield.

Cost of Living in Sheffield

The cost of living in Sheffield is around GBP 844 per month on average without considering the rent. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre is approximately GBP 773 per month. Utilities cost around GBP 324 a month. These are just estimates and the actual cost may vary depending on various factors such as lifestyle, location, etc. 

The cost of living in Sheffield for an individual depends on some paramount factors, such as housing costs, food and grocery prices, public transportation costs, utility bills and a few others. Now, let’s understand the cost of living in this city in detail for various categories: 

Also Read: Cost of Living in Budapest: A Guide on Expected Expenses

Cost of Transportation in Sheffield

Transportation expenses significantly contribute to the overall cost of living in Sheffield, particularly if your residence is not within walking distance of the university. Sheffield’s public transportation system is primarily composed of buses and trams. The tram service, known as Supertram, operates alongside the bus service and both are managed by Stagecoach. Let’s have a look at some example ticket costs:

Transportation	Average Cost
One-way Ticket (Local Transport)	GBP 2
Monthly Pass (Regular Price)	GBP 72
Taxi Start (Normal Tariff)	GBP 3.50
Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff)	GBP 0.99
Taxi 1hour Waiting (Normal Tariff)	GBP 14.40
Gasoline (1 liter)	GBP 1.50

Grocery and Restaurant Food Costs in Sheffield

If you are a student then preparing food at home is a good idea because if you go out to eat in restaurants in Sheffield it can be expensive for you and can affect the budget of the cost of living in Sheffield. A meal at a cheap restaurant costs around GBP 11, however, a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant for 2 people may cost you around GBP 63.
Additionally, students are required to maintain a monthly grocery budget as it is a primary part of the cost of living in Sheffield. Here is what the food is going to typically cost you in Sheffield:

Grocery Items	Average Cost
Milk (regular), (1 liter)	GBP 1.38
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g)	GBP 0.91
Rice (white), (1kg)	GBP 1.22
Eggs (regular) (12)	GBP 2.92
Local Cheese (1kg)	GBP 8.42
Apples (1kg)	GBP 2.03
Banana (1kg)	GBP 1.02
Oranges (1kg)	GBP 1.66
Tomato (1kg)	GBP 2.64
Potato (1kg)	GBP 0.83
Onion (1kg)	GBP 0.88
Lettuce (1 head)	GBP 0.7
Water (1.5 liter bottle)	GBP 0.84

Cost of Utility Bills in Sheffield

While living in Sheffield at an apartment, basic amenities like electricity, water, heating, garbage disposal etc. are very important for a human being and these services come with some cost. Have a look at the table given below to get an idea of the average utility cost in Sheffield:

Utilities Type	Approx Cost
Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas, etc.) for a 85 square metre apartment	GBP 324
Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data	GBP 13
Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL)	GBP 28

Cost of Housing Rent in Sheffield

The central area of Sheffield predominantly features apartment blocks and terraced housing, while the outskirts of the city offer suburbs with a greater number of semi-detached and detached houses. In comparison to other major cities worldwide, the prices of houses and flats in Sheffield are reasonably affordable. Take a look at the average monthly rent you can expect to pay in Sheffield: 

Apartment Type	Average Cost
1-bedroom flat (apartment) in the City Centre	GBP 773
1-bedroom flat outside the City Centre	GBP 685
3-bedroom flat in the City Centre	GBP 1410
3-bedroom flat outside the City Centre	GBP 1066

Also Read: Cost of Living in Warsaw: A Guide on Expected Expenses

Average Tuition Fees in Sheffield

The tuition fees in Sheffield start around GBP 9,000 for undergraduate courses and can reach up to GBP 12,000 – GBP 15,000 for postgraduate courses and degrees. Those pursuing bachelor’s degree studies as international students in Sheffield spend an average of GBP 16,205 annually on tuition fees. The University of Sheffield offers relatively affordable tuition fees compared to other UK universities. 

Cost of Living in Sheffield vs London

If we compare the average cost of living in Sheffield with the average cost of living in London, it turns out that London is more expensive than Sheffield. In London, it is around GBP 1,101 without rent, while in Sheffield it is GBP 844 without rent. Along with the affordable cost of living in Sheffield, it provides ample opportunities for higher studies, work, and entertainment.

Why Choose Sheffield to Study Abroad?

While London is undoubtedly the most well-known city in the UK, there are numerous other cities in the country like Sheffield that offer exceptional educational opportunities, prestigious universities and colleges, and an enjoyable student lifestyle that rivals the capital. An added advantage is that the cost of living, including rent, is comparatively lower. 

If you’re interested in why you should consider studying in Sheffield, let’s explore what this city has to offer:

International Focus	Top Sheffield universities like the University of Sheffield boast a diverse student population of around 25,000, including approximately 3,900 students from 120 different countries. Many international students pursue their studies through the International Colleges. The universities in this city attract exceptional teaching staff from around the world, contributing to its multicultural environment.
Student Life	Top Sheffield universities like the University of Sheffield boasts a diverse student population of around 25,000, including approximately 3,900 students from 120 different countries. Many international students pursue their studies through the International Colleges. The universities in this city attract exceptional teaching staff from around the world, contributing to its multicultural environment.
Welcoming Environment	Sheffield is known for its student-friendly atmosphere. The local community is accustomed to a large student population, resulting in thriving businesses tailored to student needs. Many establishments, ranging from cinemas and music venues to theatres and cafes, offer special discounts for students.
Future Prospects	By choosing to pursue your degree or qualification at a university in Sheffield, you enhance your career prospects. The teaching standards and qualifications of universities here are highly regarded by employers and educational institutions worldwide.  Studying in Sheffield also improves your English language skills and allows you to establish friendships with students and educators from diverse backgrounds, creating future opportunities on an international scale.

Things to Know When Moving to Sheffield 

Moving to Sheffield offers a vibrant and welcoming experience. With its friendly residents and diverse community, settling in becomes effortless. The city boasts a thriving cultural scene, from music festivals to theatre productions, providing endless entertainment options.  Let’s have a look at a few things you need to keep in mind before moving to Sheffield: 

Unpredictable Snowfall in Sheffield

Sheffield is known for its unpredictable snowfall, which can occur at any moment. However, despite being a paradise in its own right, Sheffield is not tropical (except for the Winter Gardens). It’s important to be prepared for snow in this city, as it can start as early as Halloween or as late as April.  

Navigating Roads is not Easy

Navigating the roads in Sheffield can be challenging, especially with the steep hills and the intricate layout of the city centre. With numerous one-way streets, tram tracks, and twisting side roads, driving in Sheffield has a steep learning curve. Using a Sat Nav is highly recommended to navigate the maze-like streets.   

You are Always Climbing

Sheffield is a city of constant climbing, not just due to its hills. Whether it’s scaling the 22 stories of the Arts Tower or ascending the steep staircases found in many houses in Crookes, Sheffield residents find themselves climbing throughout the day. Some of the staircases in the city can even feel like conquering Mount Everest, with a few requiring the use of hands for support.  

You can Pay by Tram 

If navigating Sheffield by car isn’t your preference, there’s always the option of using the Tram. Surprisingly, you can purchase your tram ticket while on board. 

Relevant Reads:

A Guide on Cost of Living in Florida	Cost of Living in Wales: A Comprehensive Guide on Wales’s Expense
Cost of Studying in Germany	Cost of Living in Brussels: A Guide on Expected Expenses
Cost of Living in France: Rent, Food, Expenses and More	Cost of Living in Lithuania: A Comprehensive Guide on Lithuania’s Expenses

FAQs on Cost of Living in Sheffield

So, this was all about the cost of living in Sheffield. Many Indian students dream of pursuing education in foreign nations due to the exposure and career growth they offer. Consider joining a free counselling session with Leverage Edu if you plan to study abroad.