Cost of Living in Sheffield: A Guide

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. Exploring the city reveals picturesque landscapes, including the breathtaking Peak District nearby. Sheffield’s 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 United Kingdom, London immediately springs to mind as the capital city. It is undeniable and unsurprising that living in London is more costly compared to other cities in the country. However, Sheffield stands out as one of the smaller cities that offers a comparable quality of life. The decision to relocate and reside in Sheffield can be influenced by various motivating factors, which vary from individual to individual. Keep reading to get an idea of the cost of living in Sheffield.

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.

Also Read: Cost of Studying in Canada

Cost of Living in Sheffield

The cost of living in Sheffield is around $1481 per month on average. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre is approximately $991 per month. Utilities cost around $167 a month. These are just estimates and the actual cost may vary depending on various factors such as lifestyle, location, etc. 

Now, let’s understand the cost of living in this city in detail: 

Transportation

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	Cost
Adult single individual	£2.10
One day ticket for bus and tram	£8.50
Monthly season ticket for bus and tram	£52
Annual season ticket for bus and tram	£570 – £650

Food, Grocery, and Restaurant 

Here is what the food is going to typically cost you in Sheffield:

Groceries	Cost
Inexpensive Restaurant	£10.00 – £15.00
1L of milk	£0.50 – £1.25
Takeout Coffee	£1.70 – £3.00
12 Eggs	£1.50 – £2.35
Bottle of Coke	£0.70 – £1.50
1kg Apples	£1.00 – £3.00
1kg Chicken	£5.95 – £10.00
Loaf of Bread	£0.62 – £1.25
1kg White Rice	£0.45 – £2.00

Utility 

Have a look at the table given below to get an idea of the average utility cost in Sheffield:

Utilities	Costs
Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas, etc.) for 2 individuals in 85 square metre flat	£137
Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas, etc.) for 1 individual in 45 square metre studio	£73
Internet 8 mbps (for 1 month)	£20
Laundry detergent (3 l. ~ 100 oz.)	£10
Microwave 800/900 watt (bosch, panasonic, lg, sharp, or equivalent brands)	£73

Housing 

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: 

Monthly Rental Prices	Apartment Type
1-bedroom flat (apartment) in the City Centre	£500 or higher
1-bedroom flat outside the City Centre	£400 or higher
3-bedroom flat in the City Centre	£750 or higher
3-bedroom flat outside the City Centre	£550 or higher

Also Read: Cost of Living in Italy

Average Tuition Fees in Sheffield

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

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

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

This was all about the Cost of Living in Sheffield. Consider joining a free counselling session with Leverage Edu if you are also planning to study abroad.