Cost of Living in Bangor for Students 2025

Thinking about studying in Bangor? You’re not just choosing a scenic coastal town—you’re picking one of the most affordable university cities in the UK. Yup, you read that right! According to the NatWest Student Living Index 2024, Bangor ranks in the Top 10 for student affordability. That means lower rent, cheaper groceries, and more room in your budget for weekend fun or spontaneous coffee runs.

While living in big cities like London or Manchester could easily set you back £1,400+ a month, students in Bangor typically spend between £800 and £1,100 depending on lifestyle choices. Whether you’re someone who loves meal prepping, enjoys quiet walks to campus, or prefers the occasional takeaway and pub night, we’ve got your back. Let’s break down what you can really expect to spend as a student in Bangor in 2025.

What Are the Average Monthly Expenses for Students in Bangor?

Living in Bangor is a breath of fresh air for students on a budget! In fact, according to the NatWest Student Living Index 2024, Bangor ranks among the Top 10 most affordable university cities in the UK — making it an excellent choice for international and domestic students alike. 

Compared to cities like London or Manchester, where average monthly student expenses can exceed £1,400, Bangor offers a much lower cost of living, averaging between £800 and £1,100 per month in 2025. Now your actual spending will also depend on your lifestyle — whether you’re cooking at home or eating out, taking public transport daily or walking to class, and how often you socialize. Here’s a detailed breakdown of typical monthly expenses for students in Bangor: 

How Much Is Student Accommodation in Bangor in 2025?

When it comes to budgeting for university life, accommodation often takes up the biggest chunk — but in Bangor, things are refreshingly affordable. In 2025, student accommodation costs in Bangor are significantly lower than the UK national average, with many options falling 15–25% below cities like Manchester or Bristol. According to the Save the Student Accommodation Survey 2024, the national average student rent is around £535 per month, whereas students in Bangor typically pay between £400 to £520 per month, depending on the type of accommodation they choose. 

You’ll find a range of student housing options here — from university-managed halls and private ensuite rooms to shared houses and self-contained studio apartments. Most properties are within walking distance of Bangor University, which means you can save money on transport while still enjoying easy access to classes, cafes, shops, and the train station. Here’s a quick look at the average weekly rent costs for various accommodations in Bangor for 2025:

What Is the Average Cost of Food and Groceries for Students in Bangor?

Good news for foodies and budget-conscious students alike! Bangor offers one of the most affordable grocery and food scenes among UK university cities. According to the Student Budgeting Report 2024, students in Bangor spend an average of £150 to £250 per month on groceries, depending on their diet, cooking habits, and frequency of eating out. Supermarkets like Aldi, Lidl, and Tesco Express dominate the student shopping landscape here, offering excellent deals on fresh produce, frozen meals, and international food items.  

Plus, Bangor Farmers’ Market — held monthly — gives you access to seasonal fruits, vegetables, and local treats at reasonable prices. If you’re into meal prepping or home cooking, you can easily stay under £40–£50 per week for groceries. And even if you eat out once or twice a week, Bangor’s modest café and takeaway prices mean you won’t burn a hole in your budget. Here’s a quick look at food and grocery costs in Bangor in 2025: 

How Much Should Students Budget for Transportation in Bangor?

Getting around Bangor is not only easy, but also incredibly budget-friendly. With the city being compact and student-oriented, most students don’t need to rely heavily on public transport. In fact, over 70% of Bangor students either walk or cycle to class, according to the Bangor University Student Life Report 2024. Bangor University and most student accommodations are within a 0.5 to 1-mile radius, which means your daily commute could be just a 10–15-minute walk.

For students who live slightly farther out or frequently visit nearby towns like Menai Bridge or Caernarfon, affordable student bus passes from Arriva Wales make travel hassle-free. And don’t worry about owning a car — Bangor’s public transport network is well-connected and designed to support student life. Here’s a look at what students can expect to spend on transport in Bangor in 2025:

What Are the Entertainment and Leisure Costs in Bangor for Students?

Good vibes don’t have to come with a high price tag — especially in Bangor! This Welsh coastal city is packed with budget-friendly fun, making it one of the best-value cities for student entertainment in the UK. From live gigs and pub nights to peaceful hikes in Snowdonia National Park or sunset strolls by Bangor Pier, the city’s natural landscape offers a free playground for those looking to unwind without spending a fortune. Plus, student discounts are available at most cinemas, gyms, and even cafés around the city — allowing you to enjoy your weekends without worrying about your wallet. Here’s a realistic look at what you might spend on leisure in Bangor in 2025:

How Expensive Are Utility Bills and Internet Costs for Students in Bangor?

If your student accommodation in Bangor doesn’t come with all-inclusive bills, don’t panic — utility costs here are still among the most affordable in the UK. For most students in shared flats or houses, monthly utilities add up to £60–£90 per person, depending on usage and the size of the property. But here’s the best part — most modern student accommodations in Bangor come with all bills included in your rent.

That means Wi-Fi, heating, electricity, water, and even contents insurance is sorted, making budgeting super easy. Here’s a breakdown of typical utility and internet costs in Bangor for students renting in shared private housing:

Tips to Save Money as a Student Living in Bangor

Bangor might already be one of the most affordable university towns in the UK, but that doesn’t mean you can’t stretch your budget even further! From discounted student bus fares to two-for-one meals at local pubs, Bangor is filled with smart savings if you know where to look. And with over 11,000 students calling the city home, most businesses around town are more than happy to offer student-friendly prices — you just need to flash that ID! Here’s a roundup of student-tested, budget-approved ways to save money while living your best uni life in Bangor:

Conclusion

Living in Bangor as a student in 2025 means you get the best of both worlds—affordable living and a high-quality student life. With lower-than-average rent, walkable access to everything you need, and discounts around nearly every corner, Bangor makes it easy to enjoy your university years without constantly stressing about money. 

From grabbing fresh veggies at Bangor Market to hiking in Snowdonia without spending a penny, this charming city lets you save smart while living well. So go ahead—make the most of your student ID, cook a few meals at home, and embrace all the budget-friendly perks Bangor has to offer! 

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