London it’s one of the best places in the world to be a student! But let’s be real: London is also one of the most expensive cities in the UK. From the price of rent in Zones 1 and 2 to how much you’ll spend on food, travel, and phone bills, there’s a lot to think about when planning your student budget. Still, thousands of international and UK-based students make it work every single year—and so can you. The key is knowing what to expect.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the cost of living in London for students in 2025—including average rent, food expenses, travel passes, and utility bills. Let’s get started—and help you feel more confident (and cost-aware!) before your big move.

How Much Does It Cost to Live in London as a Student in 2025?

Living in London as a student in 2025 can be exciting—but it also comes with a price tag. According to recent data from Save the Student UK and Numbeo, the average monthly cost of living in London for students is between £1,300 and £2,750. This includes everything from rent and groceries to travel and internet bills. In addition to this, London is consistently ranked among the top 3 most expensive student cities in the UK, with rent alone making up about 60–65% of a student’s monthly budget. That said, how much you spend each month really depends on:

• The area you live in (Zones 1 & 2 are pricier than Zones 3–6)
• Whether you live alone or share housing
• How often you eat out, travel, and spend on extras

But don’t worry—it’s absolutely manageable with smart budgeting, student discounts, and affordable student accommodation platforms like University Living, which helps students find verified, budget-friendly rooms near top universities in London. Following is average monthly student living expenses in London:

What Is the Average Tuition Fee for International Students in London?

Studying in London is a dream for many students worldwide as it is home to some of the UK’s most prestigious universities, including University College London (UCL), Imperial College London, King’s College London, and many colleges under the University of London umbrella. But with all that academic prestige comes a cost. In 2025, tuition fees for international students in London can range widely depending on the university, level of study, and subject. On average:

• Undergraduate programs cost between £10,000 and £38,000 per year
• Taught postgraduate programs (like MSc or MA) range from £15,000 to £45,000 per year
• Research programs (like PhDs) typically cost between £15,000 and £40,000 annually

Medical, law, and MBA programs often fall on the higher end of the tuition scale, especially at universities like Imperial, LSE, and London Business School. Following is the average annual tuition fees for international students in London:

How Expensive Is Student Accommodation in London in 2025?

In 2025, student accommodation in London remains one of the biggest monthly expenses for international and domestic students alike. With demand for housing high—especially around central university zones—rent prices can vary significantly depending on the neighborhood, type of housing, and whether or not bills and internet are included. According to UCAS, London students spend 35%–50% of their monthly budget on rent alone, with average accommodation costs being £1,000–£1,800/month. Following are the key details of various types of student accommodation in London: 

• On-campus halls offer convenience and are often bundled with bills and internet, but availability is limited. 
• Off-campus shared flats are a popular budget-friendly option, especially in zones 2–3. 
• Private studios or apartments are ideal for privacy but come at a premium, especially in central London (Zone 1). 

Following is the average monthly accommodation costs in London:

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

When it comes to food, your monthly cost in London will depend on how you eat—whether you’re a home cook, a fan of meal deals, or someone who loves eating out. In 2025, students in London spend an average of £200 to £500 per month on food, depending on their lifestyle and preferences.

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and Save the Student’s National Student Money Survey, food and grocery costs make up about 15%–25% of a student’s monthly budget in London. You can also avail student discounts from apps to save money on groceries and meals. Following is the average monthly food and grocery costs for students in London:

How Much Should Students Budget for Transport in London?

Getting around London as a student in 2025 is super convenient thanks to its world-class public transport system—including the Tube, Overground, buses, trams, and even bike rentals. The best part? Students get discounts on almost all public transit services through the 18+ Student Oyster photocard, which can save you 30% or more on weekly and monthly travel cards. According to Transport for London (TfL), the average London student spends £90–£130 per month on transportation, depending on how often and how far they travel. Following is the average monthly transportation costs for students in London: 

Are Utility Bills and Internet Expensive for Students in London?

If you’re staying in London as a student in 2025, one thing to keep in mind is that utility bills can vary a lot, depending on where and how you live. For example:

• If you stay in university-managed on-campus housing, utilities like water, heating, electricity, and even internet are often included in the rent.
• If you rent a shared flat or private accommodation off-campus, you’ll likely need to pay for utilities separately, which can add £100–£160 to your monthly budget.

Many students also opt for SIM-only phone plans from providers like Giffgaff, Voxi, or SMARTY, which offer unlimited data for £10–£25/month—perfect for staying connected without overspending. Following is the average monthly utility and internet costs for students in London: 

Conclusion 

Yes, London can be expensive—but it’s also full of opportunities, culture, and unforgettable student experiences. With clear budgeting, a few clever hacks (hello, Oyster discounts and supermarket deals!), and the right housing support, you’ll be well on your way to managing costs and enjoying life in one of the world’s most exciting cities. 

Whether you’re staying in a shared flat in Zone 3 or a student studio near your university, being aware of your monthly costs makes a huge difference. Don’t forget to take advantage of platforms like University Living to secure safe, student-friendly accommodation in London that fits your lifestyle and your budget. 

Frequently Asked Questions