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Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland, having a large economy. It also has the 3 highest GDP per capita compared to any of the cities in the UK.
Is Glasgow affordable to live in?
According to Time Out 2022, it has been designated as the world’s second most affordable city to live in.
It is 20% lower than the city of London, and 10% cheaper compared to the rest of the UK.
Is Glasgow safe to live and study?
Glasgow is a safe, friendly, welcoming, and hospitable city.
Overall Cost of Living in Glasgow
The cost of living in Glasgow is cheaper than most places in the UK. On average, your cost of living will be around £785 – £1,265 per month excluding tuition fees.
For more personalized information, use our cost of living calculator to estimate your desired area’s average cost of living.
Note: The costs can vary depending on your lifestyle etc.
Before we list the details of the cost of living in Glasgow, let’s brief you a little on the cost.
| Expenses | Cost (Average) |
| Average Tuition Fees | £19,925 – £53,460 / Year |
| Accommodation | £350 – £810 / Month |
| Transportation | £101 / Month |
Costs of Tuition Fees
Tuition fees are fees which are charged by the university. The cost of your fees will depend on the course and university you decide to study.
| Undergraduate Tuition Fee | Post-Graduate Tuition Fee |
| £19,925 – £53,460 / Year | £20,000 – £45,000 / Year |
Student Accommodation Costs in Glasgow
Student accommodation in Glasgow for students is available within the campus and outside campus. If you want to stay on campus, you can choose university Halls. Otherwise, you can opt for student housing or private apartments.
Student Housing
Student housing offers the best and most affordable rooms. One is an en-suite, which you can share with a friend, while a studio is a single-occupant room that is more private. Universities are usually located within easy reach, as they are in the city centre.
Most of the student accommodations are at a distance of under 3 miles. While the ones outside of the city center are upto 20 miles.
| Student Housing | Price |
| Ensuite/ Studio | £350 – £645 / Month |
Private Apartment
If you like staying in a free space alone or sharing it with close friends, it’s a good choice! They come in so many styles, prices, and amenities, providing a safe and comfortable stay at the same time.
| Apartment | Price |
| Monthly | £645 – £805 / Month |
[Also Read: Top 5 Student Accommodations in Glasgow]
Food
It depends on what and where you eat. On average, the cost of food will be around £35-40 per day. Breakfast meals are usually cheaper than lunch or dinner. A meal in an expensive restaurant will start at £15, while a pint of beer will come to £4.
Utility Bills
Any student housing covers all your utility bills. As for university halls, some cover your bills while others do not. So you will need to inquire before you move in!
Transportation
You can use public transport to get around the city. The subway is cheap and the easiest way to travel with the city, the south side, or even the west end of Glasgow. It runs every 4 mins taking a round of 15 stations.
Ways to live on a budget as a student in Glasgow
- Assess your monthly spending, plan, and organise your budget.
- Visit thrift shops for shopping.
- Don’t use a credit card unless it’s an emergency.
- Find affordable accommodations in Glasgow.
- Use student discount cards.
- Use public transportation.
- Look out for free activities and entertainment.
- Cook meals at home.
- Share a room with friends.
