If you’re an international student thinking of moving to Manchester, you have made an awesome decision. This is because you’ll experience the big-city feeling that includes world-class universities, music, football, diversity, and great nightlife without the huge cost of living of London.
The average cost of living in Manchester for students ranges between £900 to £1,300 a month. The expenditure will cover rent, food, travel, and some extras. It is cheaper than the living costs in London and most other British cities.
This guide will walk you through the monthly costs, good places to live, how to save, additional costs, and much more that will make your life easier as an international student.
If you need help with finding student accommodation Manchester, check out University Living. Are you ready? Let’s make your move a little easier.
Average Monthly Cost of Living in Manchester
It becomes easier for you to live in Manchester as a student only when you are aware of how much money one needs to spend on monthly expenses. For most students, the cost of living in Manchester ranges from £900 to £1,300 per month, depending on their lifestyle.
The highest cost for students is rent, which can reach about 50% of total monthly expenses if you do not use your student budget in Manchester cleverly. In this case, it would be beneficial to choose shared accommodation in student areas such as Fallowfield, and living alone in a private flat in the center of Manchester will cost more.
What else makes costs vary? Our habits affect us greatly. Buying your own food, using discounts, and saving money help you avoid extra spending. Going out regularly and visiting clubs every weekend leads to additional costs. However, remember that you are the one who controls your finances.
| Expense Category | Average Monthly Cost |
| Rent | £500 – £750 |
| Food & Groceries | £150 – £250 |
| Transportation | £40 – £70 |
| Utilities | £40 – £80 |
| Internet & Mobile | £25 – £45 |
| Entertainment | £60 – £110 |
| Health & Insurance | £15 – £30 |
| Total Estimated Cost | £900 – £1,335 |
Students must note these figures are just a rough estimate, and you can use University Living’s Cost of Calculator for a more accurate budget.
Student Accommodation Costs in Manchester
Accommodation is the only expense that will impact your budget in full. When you get this bit sorted, the rest cost of living in Manchester becomes easy to manage. It is a good idea to investigate the popular neighbourhoods for students such as Fallowfield and Rusholme. Selecting an appropriate room type will make the biggest difference to your finances.
Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) will allow you to benefit from flat rates and all-inclusive student accommodation in Manchester compared to the changing costs of living in private accommodation.
Types of Student Accommodation in Manchester
Choosing the best student accommodation in Manchester for international students when you are studying abroad will be easy and convenient for you. There are many types of accommodation depending on your preferences and budget. Whether you require PBSA with all the expenses covered or you are looking for cozy en-suite accommodation or shared apartments on a budget or even studios for complete privacy.
Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA): It is a fully furnished student accommodation in Manchester for international students. These modern properties offer fully furnished rooms, 24/7 security, high-speed Wi-Fi, study spaces, gyms, and social areas. Most PBSAs also include all utility bills in the rent and offer welcoming and social environment. Average costs typically range between £640 – £1,040 per month.
- Studio Apartments Manchester: These rooms are best for students who value privacy, and include a private bedroom, bathroom, and kitchenette. They are especially popular among postgraduates, higher students, and couples looking for a quieter lifestyle. The average cost ranges from £840 – £1,280 per month.
- En-suite rooms: They provide a perfect balance between affordability and privacy. Students get their own private bedroom and attached bathroom while sharing the kitchen and common living spaces with flatmates. The average monthly cost is usually between £640 – £1,000.
- Shared apartments: These are cheap student accommodation Manchester and include sharing spaces like bedroom, kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas with others. Shared apartments are ideal for students on a tight budget and average cost generally ranges from £460 to £600 per month.
Private apartments: These student accommodation UK offer complete independence and flexibility. However, you must manage separate utility bills, internet costs, and maintenance responsibilities, which can increase overall expenses. The average monthly rent ranges between £750 – £1,100 per month and these are available for working professionals as well.
Accommodation Cost Comparison
The cost of living in Manchester for students can be quite diverse depending on the kind of accommodation chosen, location, and what amenities are offered by them. Irrespective of whether you are planning to move into low-cost shared accommodation or expensive studios, there are plenty of options available in Manchester.
Here’s a realistic estimate of monthly rent for different types of student accommodation Manchester:
| Accommodation Type | Average Monthly Cost |
| Studio Room (PBSA) | £840 – £1,280 |
| En-suite Room (PBSA) | £640 – £1,000 |
| Shared Apartment | £460 – £600 |
| Private Apartment | £750 – £1,100+ (plus bills) |
Best Student Areas to Live in Manchester
Dealing with monthly expenses in Manchester for students can seem daunting due to the high cost of rent in the area. However, the most important aspect to think about is the student neighborhoods to move into because it will influence university life significantly.
The following are the best student areas in Manchester in terms of cost of living, transportation, nearness to universities, and student environment:
Budget-Friendly Areas
- Average Rent: £100 – £150 per week.
- Nearby Universities: University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University.
- Transport Convenience: Buses run down Wilmslow Road every two minutes straight to campus and the city centre.
- Student Vibe: This is the famous “student capital” of Manchester. It is very loud, social, and packed with cheap pubs and takeaways.
- Average Rent: £110 – £150 per week.
- Nearby Universities: University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University.
- Transport Convenience: Excellent bus routes link you directly to your lectures in just a few minutes.
- Student Vibe: Home to the vibrant “Curry Mile.” It is a busy, diverse area with incredible food markets and cheap places to eat.
Mid-Range Student Areas
Hulme
- Average Rent: £150 – £220 per week.
- Nearby Universities: Manchester Metropolitan University and University of Manchester.
- Transport Convenience: You can easily walk or cycle to campus, saving you money on bus fares.
- Student Vibe: A calmer, artsy area. It features modern flats, green parks, and cozy local cafes for studying.
Withington
- Average Rent: £140 – £190 per week.
- Nearby Universities: University of Manchester.
- Transport Convenience: It is a bit further out, so you will need to take a 15-minute bus ride to get to class.
- Student Vibe: A relaxed neighborhood. It is popular with final-year students who want quiet streets, thrift shops, and indie coffee spots.
Premium Student Neighborhoods
City Centre (Oxford Road & Circle Square)
- Average Rent: £220 – £350+ per week.
- Nearby Universities: University of Manchester, Manchester Metropolitan University, and the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM).
- Transport Convenience: You can walk to your classes in minutes or catch the free city zone buses.
- Student Vibe: High-energy, luxury city living. You will live in modern high-rise buildings close to trendy food halls and shopping spots.
Popular Student Accommodation Options in Manchester
There are many good choices for student accommodation Manchester, starting from new apartments and studio flats. The university halls of residence in the UK are very common among foreign students, as they are normally close to the main universities, have all the necessary facilities, and provide you with convenient access to the city center.
Searching for a perfect apartment might help you to adjust to your new life easier. Let’s look at five best choices:
Fusion Manchester Residence
- Starting from: £262 per week
- Room Types: Studios, Ensuite Rooms
- Nearby University: 20 min walk to University of Manchester
- Best For: Students who want modern, slightly premium living with a calm and wellness-focused environment
- Key Amenities: Gym, rooftop terrace, karaoke room, zen room, study spaces, high-speed Wi-Fi, laundry, 24/7 security
Canvas Manchester
- Starting from: £219 per week
- Room Types: Studios, Ensuite Rooms, Shared Apartments
- Nearby University: 22 min walk to University of Manchester
- Best For: Students who want a lively social atmosphere with modern facilities
- Key Amenities: Gym, cinema room, study spaces, social lounges, concierge, events programme, 24/7 security
First Street Residence
- Starting from: £355 per week
- Room Types: Premium studios
- Nearby University: 12 min walk to Manchester Metropolitan University
- Best For: Students looking for premium, quiet, and central accommodation
- Key Amenities: Gym, cinema room, courtyard, study areas, smart TVs, all-inclusive bills, secure entry
House of Social
- Starting from: £275 per week
- Room Types: Studios, Ensuite Rooms, Shared Apartments
- Nearby University: 16 min walk to Manchester Metropolitan University
- Best For: Students who enjoy a social, community-driven living experience
- Key Amenities: Gym, lounges, study areas, bike storage, housekeeping, high-speed Wi-Fi, 24/7 security
iQ Lambert & Fairfield House
- Starting from: £215 per week
- Room Types: Ensuite Rooms, Studios, Shared Apartments
- Nearby University: 16 min walk to University of Manchester
- Best For: Budget-friendly central living close to both universities
- Key Amenities: Study rooms, social spaces, laundry, bike storage, Wi-Fi, 24/7 security, on-site management
Ready to find your spot? Compare verified student properties in Manchester with University Living today.
Food & Grocery Costs in Manchester
One of the easiest ways to keep your budget under control in Manchester is getting smart with food. It’s better to buy groceries than dine out almost all the time. Students generally prepare simple home-cooked meals during weekdays and allow themselves to treat on weekends.
Common practices among students include preparing big portions on Sundays, purchasing in bulk, and shopping from the student-friendly grocery chains such as Aldi, Lidl, and Asda. Use student discounts from the available apps such as Student Beans, UNiDAYS and Hungry Hub. These are essential, free digital ID apps when it comes to reducing food expenses and offers 10% discount at select co-op grocery stores.
Here’s what you can expect for cost of food in Manchester for a month:
| Expense Type | Average Monthly Cost |
| Grocery Shopping | £120 – £180 |
| Eating Out | £50 – £100 |
| Food Delivery | £30 – £70 |
| Total Food Budget | £200 – £350 |
Save more with student discounts and budget-friendly food options in Manchester!
Transportation Costs in Manchester
Travelling in Manchester shouldn’t present any problems for you, and it can be relatively inexpensive. The public transport system in Manchester includes efficient bus and tram services as well as convenient train services. There are routes from various places that students occupy around the city and those leading directly to the universities.
Walking and cycling are highly advised if you live relatively close to your educational institution; that will reduce transportation fees to practically nothing. In addition, purchase a student travel pass such as Stagecoach and UniRider pass for less transportation cost in Manchester.
In the table below, you can find the average monthly cost for a student to commute within Manchester:
| Mode of Transport | Average Monthly Cost |
| Student Travel Pass | £35 – £50 |
| Public Transport | £15 – £30 |
| Cycling | £0 – £10 |
| Taxi/Rideshare | £20 – £40 |
| Total Transport Budget | £70 – £130 |
Book airport pickup and stay connected from day one with ULInfinity to make your arrival stress-free!
Utility, Internet & Mobile Expenses in Manchester
For your budget, utility bills in Manchester could become a burden if not anticipated. For starters, you will have to settle your electric bill (which includes heating expenses), water bill, Wi-Fi bill, and phone bill on a separate basis in privately rented accommodation.
Fortunately, almost all PBSA comes with a huge benefit of providing the all-inclusive bills, which means you will have to include your utility expenses in the rent cost only. In terms of phone costs, there are many affordable mobile data plans available. In any case, buying an international SIM card using ULInfinity would be the best decision for you to cut unnecessary expenses.
Below is a table showing monthly costs and expense type to make an estimate budget:
| Expense Type | Average Monthly Cost |
| Electricity & Heating | £40 – £70 |
| Water | £15 – £25 |
| Internet | £15 – £25 |
| Mobile Plan | £10 – £25 |
| Total Utility Budget | £80 – £145 |
Stay connected abroad with international student-friendly SIM plans from ULInfinity!
Part-Time Jobs & Student Income in Manchester
Getting part-time employment is always a beneficial option that will assist you in covering various financial obligations while attending classes. You will have the right to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and to work full-time during vacations.
The average wage varies depending on your age, ranging from £10.85 to £12.71 per hour. Part-time employment opportunities include retail or hospitality, campus work, and delivery services. These part time jobs for international students in UK can definitely help offset your monthly cost of living and give you some breathing room for fun.
| Job Type | Average Hourly Wage |
| Retail | £11.00 – £13.00 |
| Hospitality | £11.00 – £13.00 |
| Campus Jobs | £12.00 – £15.00 |
| Delivery/Freelance | £11.00 – £16.00 |
Hidden Costs Students Often Miss
Despite proper planning, there are certain expenses that will surprise you when you first get to college. Upon arrival, you will need money to purchase beddings and basic cooking utensils. Pre-ordering a ULInfinity Room Essential Kit will help you save time after your arrival at your destination.
Other unexpected expenses you may incur include visa processing charges, deposits using Forex, international money transfers, student bank account, health insurance, and an emergency fund through ULInfinity. This platform also provides Guarantor service for students in Manchester.
| Expense Type | Estimated Cost |
| Setup Costs | £100 – £200 |
| Visa Fees | £490 – £776 |
| Insurance | £20 – £40 |
| Emergency Fund | £200 – £400 |
Protect yourself from high cost of living in Manchester with secure student support services by ULInfinity!
Smart Ways to Reduce Living Costs in Manchester
In order to overcome the high cost of living in Manchester for students, some suggestions for a student to follow are:
- Sharing accommodation will help you save on accommodation costs and also provide a social environment as you live with other students.
- Booking your place of stay in advance will give you good bargains with low accommodation prices.
- Use student discounts wherever possible, as many shops, restaurants, and services offer reduced prices with a valid student ID.
- Cook at home instead of eating out regularly, as this can significantly cut down your monthly food expenses.
- Choose accommodation near the university to save money and time on daily commuting and transport.
- Use public transport such as buses and trains, which are much more affordable than taxis or private travel options.
- Opt for all-inclusive rent so that utilities like electricity, water, and Wi-Fi are covered, making budgeting simpler and more predictable.
Is Manchester Affordable for International Students?
Yes, Manchester is truly affordable for international students. It is perfect for students who enjoy a big, vibrant city with top-notch universities, a music scene, sport events, and cultural attractions but don’t want to pay as much as London.
From budget students living in flats, cooking at home, and relying on student discounts to students who prefer more luxury accommodations and city center locations, Manchester will not disappoint.
There is no doubt that Manchester gives you a lot of value for money. In comparison to London, Bristol, and Edinburgh, you’ll spend less money on accommodation and other expenses while still experiencing exciting student life.
Conclusion
Manchester is one of the most affordable big cities in the UK where students can attend their studies. However, even if Manchester is cheaper than many other cities in the UK, it does not mean that you shouldn’t plan your finances properly.
As rent is one of the biggest expenses each month, choosing your accommodation wisely from the very beginning is of great importance. Whether you go for shared apartments or all-inclusive PBSA, getting this sorted sets you up for success.
University Living will help you choose budget-friendly and student accommodation Manchester. Start planning today with the Cost of Living Calculator and take the stress out of your move. You’ve got this.
Also Read: University Halls Vs Private Accommodation in Manchester
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost of living for international students in Manchester?
The average international student cost of living in Manchester varies from £900 to £1,300 monthly. It comprises all expenses: accommodation costs, food, transportation, and other expenditures. However, the amount may differ based on different preferences and needs.
Which is the cheapest place for students in Manchester?
There are two cheap and attractive neighborhoods for students in Manchester: Fallowfield and Rusholme. The first one is the main hub for student life, whereas the second one provides affordable rent and good access to transport services.
Is the rent in Manchester expensive for students?
The student accommodation in Manchester are less costly compared to those in London. The price starts from £460 monthly if you choose shared flats. Studios and individual flat prices may be higher depending on specific conditions.
How can students reduce their living expenses in Manchester?
Students can reduce their cost of living in Manchester by sharing accommodation, cooking at home, using student discounts, and choosing housing near their university. Using public transport passes and booking accommodation early also helps save money.
Are utility bills included in student accommodation in Manchester?
In most purpose-built student accommodations (PBSA), utility bills such as electricity, water, heating, and Wi-Fi are included in the rent. However, in private rentals, students usually pay these separately, which can increase cost of living in Manchester.
