Top 10 affordable cities in the UK for international students

As an international student, studying in the UK can come with real advantages: globally recognised degrees, strong graduate outcomes, and a huge choice of courses across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. But with so many options, one decision can feel surprisingly stressful:

Which UK city is the right fit for your budget and your university life?

The UK is a popular destination for international students, but costs vary a lot by city. London often ranks highly for student experience, yet it can be cost-prohibitive for many students. The good news is that there are plenty of other UK cities that offer a strong academic environment without the same price pressure.

Hallbookers helps students compare student accommodation near the university across the UK, using clear listings and student-focused information. Instead of scrolling through general rental sites, students can explore purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) and residence halls by city and location, and contact providers directly when ready.

If you are looking for student accommodation in the UK for the 2026–27 academic year, contact Hallbookers.

Some of the most affordable UK cities for international students

With the cost of living still a major topic in 2026, it helps to look at cities where students can keep their monthly spending more predictable. This post shares a student-friendly overview of typical costs and highlights UK cities that have historically been considered more affordable for students.

Typical student living costs

Student budgeting usually comes down to a few categories: rent, bills, food, transport, and day-to-day spending. Some students also factor in study costs (printing, books, materials) and social life.

Rent varies widely across the UK

Rent is usually the biggest cost. Prices change each year and vary by location, room type, and what’s included. Many student residences offer bills included, which can make budgeting simpler.

Explore UK options here: student accommodation listings on Hallbookers.

Energy and bills

Students in university halls or many PBSAs often have bills included. Students renting privately may need to budget separately for utilities, internet, and sometimes water. This can make monthly spending less predictable, especially in winter.

Transport costs

Transport depends on the city and how close accommodation is to the university. In many student cities, living near the university can reduce transport costs and daily time lost commuting.

Food and groceries

Food spending depends heavily on lifestyle. Students who plan shopping and cook most meals typically keep costs more stable.

Cheapest places to live in the UK (student-focused list)

One student-focused reference point is the NatWest Student Living Index, which has published affordability comparisons across UK student cities (based on cost-of-living measures for students for that year).

Based on affordability-focused student city comparisons, these are often highlighted as more budget-friendly choices:

1. Bournemouth (student accommodation in Bournemouth)
2. Cardiff (student accommodation in Cardiff)
3. Lincoln (student accommodation in Lincoln)
4. Portsmouth (student accommodation in Portsmouth)
5. Newcastle (student accommodation in Newcastle)
6. Manchester (student accommodation in Manchester)
7. Leeds (student accommodation in Leeds)
8. Birmingham (student accommodation in Birmingham)
9. Oxford (student accommodation in Oxford)
10. Leicester (student accommodation in Leicester)

How to choose the right UK student city

Choosing a city is personal. Some students prioritise the lowest possible monthly costs, while others prioritise course reputation, job opportunities, or student culture.

• Affordability: compare rent and bills, and check whether “bills included” is standard in your preferred accommodation type.
• Location: living in student accommodation near the university can reduce commuting costs and daily stress.
• Student community: larger cities often offer more social and networking opportunities, while smaller cities can feel easier to navigate.
• Accommodation choice: PBSA can offer more predictable budgeting; private renting may offer flexibility but can come with extra admin and bill management.

If budget is a key concern, the simplest strategy is usually to shortlist a few cities and then compare accommodation options side-by-side with what’s included.

Hallbookers is a UK student accommodation platform that helps students compare verified student residences (PBSA and halls) by city, see essential information in one place, and contact providers directly.

Need help? If you have questions about finding student accommodation in the UK, you can contact Hallbookers here: Contact us.

About Hallbookers
Hallbookers is more than a listing site. It helps students compare student accommodation near the university across the UK, using clear, student-focused information.
Students can explore residence halls and PBSA options by city, review key features, and contact providers directly when ready.