Cost of Living in Liverpool: A Comprehensive Guide
Living in Liverpool!
Table of Content
As if classes weren't enough, now you need to pay bills and maintain a house! Managing your money is one of the hardest things you'll have to do as a student. To help you plan out your budget, we've broken down the cost of living in Liverpool for students so you can get started on your new chapter with ease.
About Liverpool
Liverpool is the fifth-largest city in the United Kingdom. An excellent place for students, the city has a population of around 500,000, with students making up a significant share due to multiple universities. In terms of safety, Liverpool has a moderate safety index of around 55–60, with student areas considered generally safe when basic precautions are followed. The city also scores reasonably well on quality-of-life measures, with a happiness and life-satisfaction score close to the UK average, supported by good public transport, healthcare access, and a vibrant social scene.
Cost of Living in Liverpool England Overview
Liverpool, a city renowned for its rich history, culture, and thriving music scene, offers a living cost that is affordable compared to other major UK cities such as Manchester. Whether you're a student, a professional, or a visitor, it's important to have an overview of the average living expenses you might encounter in the cost of living in Liverpool for students. From student accommodation in Liverpool and transportation to dining out and entertainment, understanding the grocery costs and overall Liverpool living expenses can help you plan your finances effectively. and make the most of your time in this dynamic city. The average cost of living in Liverpool, UK is £700 – £1,300 per month. This should be enough to pay your rent, food, and transportation expenses. By understanding the Liverpool cost of living, you can effectively plan your budget and make informed decisions about your expenses.
| Category | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | £350 – £700 | Depends on room type & location |
| Groceries & Food | £120 – £200 | Weekly spend: £30–£40 |
| Transportation | £55 – £100 | Student travel passes available |
| Utilities & Internet | £50 – £120 | Often included in student housing |
| Entertainment & Leisure | £50 – £150 | Nightlife, movies, events |
| Personal Care & Misc. | £50 – £130 | Clothing, toiletries, gym, etc. |
Common Expenses And How To Save On Them
Liverpool is a city that offers an exciting lifestyle without breaking the bank. Whether you're a student, professional, or just exploring, it's important to manage your transportation costs, gym memberships, and spending wisely. Here's a guide on how to spend and save on living expenses in Liverpool to help you make the most of your time and money in this wonderful city. Living in Liverpool as a student offers several ways to enjoy student living and the lifestyle to the fullest while keeping your budget in mind. By following these cost-saving tips, you can make the most of your time in this city and create unforgettable memories while keeping your wallet happy.
1. Grocery Expenses
Living in Liverpool as a student offers a wide range of options for grocery shopping. The cost of living in Liverpool can vary depending on your preferences and where you choose to shop. On average, a single person can expect to spend around £30 - £40 per week on food costs and groceries. Popular supermarket chains like Tesco, Asda, and Sainsbury's offer competitive prices and a diverse selection of food products. Additionally, local markets and independent stores provide fresh produce and affordable options for budget-conscious shoppers.
| Category | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Weekly grocery spend | £30 – £40/week | Most students fall within this range |
| Milk (1 litre) | £0.80 – £1.20 | Cheaper at supermarkets |
| Bread loaf | £0.70 – £1.50 | Store-brand options save more |
| Eggs (12 pack) | £1.50 – £2.50 | Price varies by brand |
| Rice/Pasta (1 kg) | £1 – £2.50 | Bulk buying recommended |
| Fresh fruits & vegetables | £1 – £3/kg | Lower at local markets |
| Chicken (1 kg) | £4 – £7 | Depending on the cut/brand |
How can you save on your grocery expenses?
To save on groceries and reduce your cost of living in Liverpool, consider buying in bulk and managing your utility bills, comparing prices between different stores, and opting for store-brand products that are often cheaper without compromising on quality.
2. Travel Expenses
Living in Liverpool as a student has an extensive public transport system that includes buses, trains, and ferries. For daily commuting within the city, a monthly bus pass can cost approximately £55-£65. Train fares depend on the distance travelled, with prices ranging from £2-£6 for short journeys. Taxis are also available, with fares starting at around £2.80 per mile. Liverpool is a walkable city with a walkability score of 90, and many popular areas can be reached on foot, making it a cost-effective option for shorter distances and hence helping in reducing the cost of living in Liverpool.
| Category | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Bus Pass | £55 – £65 | Best value for daily commuting |
| Train Fare (Short Journey) | £2 – £6 | Depends on distance & zones |
| Taxi Fare | From £2.80/mile | Peak hour charges apply |
| Ferries | £3 – £5 | Limited scenic routes |
| Walking | Free | Highly walkable city |
How can you save on your travel expenses?
Make a habit of walking around to get where you need to go and get fit while saving yourself a few extra bucks! If you anticipate using travel reasonably often, you can also look into buying combination passes or special term passes. Many public transport services often offer university students heavy discounts on travel. Check with your university and see whether there are any discounts you can avail of to cut down on your cost of living in Liverpool.
3. Student Accommodation/Housing
The cost of student accommodation is one of the major factors of the cost of living in Liverpool, and it varies depending on factors such as location, property size, and amenities. For students, university accommodations and private housing can range from £80-£150 per week, depending on the room type and facilities provided. Private rentals, such as apartments or shared houses, generally cost between £500-£900 per month, depending on the area and property size. If you're looking for convenient and comfortable student accommodation in Liverpool, then PBSAs are your best option. It's advisable to research different neighbourhoods and consider factors like proximity to amenities, transportation links, and safety when choosing a student accommodation in Liverpool. If you want to know more about each of the room types, you can watch amber's FAQ video about all the different room types and their features.
How can you save on your accommodation/ housing expenses?
Living with friends or finding a double occupancy room can help you cut your cost of living in Liverpool. Accommodation fees will also be cheaper the further away from the city centre. To reduce your cost of living in Liverpool, England, you can look for housing in a nearby residential area and commute to your university.
4. Food
Liverpool boasts a diverse culinary scene, offering a wide range of dining options as there are a range of best cafes in Liverpool that suit different budgets, helping manage the cost of living in Liverpool, England. Eating out at a mid-range restaurant can cost around £15-£25 per person for a main course, excluding drinks. For a more budget-friendly option, there are various affordable eateries, street food stalls, and fast-food chains where you can enjoy a meal for £5-£10.
| Category | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Street food / Fast food | £5 – £10 | Budget-friendly |
| Cafe meals | £7 – £12 | Casual student meals |
| Mid-range restaurant | £15 – £25 | Drinks excluded |
| Coffee | £2.50 – £4.50 | Loyalty cards help |
How can you save on your food expenses?
To cut down on your cost of living in Liverpool, you should try to cook as many meals as possible. Eating out will burn a hole through your pocket much quicker than you realise, especially if you're living in university halls. It may not be easy to fit cooking into your daily routine at first, but after a while, it'll get much easier and you may even start to enjoy it!
5. Personal Care/Clothing
Personal care and utility bills are also contributors to the cost of living in Liverpool, England. The cost of a haircut for men ranges from £10-£25, while women can expect to pay around £20-£40, depending on the salon and services chosen. Clothing prices vary depending on the brand, style, and quality, with options available to suit different budgets. High-street fashion stores like H&M, Primark, and Zara offer affordable clothing choices, while designer brands and boutiques cater to those seeking higher-end fashion items.
| Category | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Men's haircut | £10 – £25 | Varies by salon |
| Women's haircut | £20 – £40 | Extra services cost more |
| Clothing | £10 – £40 | High-street brands |
| Gym membership | £15 – £40/month | Student discounts |
| Toiletries | £10 – £25/month | Depends on brand |
How can you save on your personal care/clothing expenses?
Look for discounted or sale items when shopping for clothing and take advantage of student discounts offered by various retailers. Consider DIY options for personal care, such as cutting your own hair or exploring more budget-friendly salons, so that you can manage your cost of living in Liverpool, England.
6. Entertainment
Liverpool is renowned for its vibrant arts and entertainment scene, which contributes significantly to the cost of living in Liverpool for students. Numerous attractions, events, and venues cater to a wide range of interests, enhancing your student life. Prices for entertainment can vary significantly, from free events and exhibitions to paid tickets for concerts, theatre performances, and sports events at an affordable cost. On average, expect to spend around £10-£30 for a cinema ticket and approximately £40-£70 for a concert ticket. Keep an eye out for student discounts and special promotions, as they can help save money and plan your cost of living in Liverpool.
| Category | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Free attractions | £0 | Museums & galleries |
| Cinema ticket | £10 – £30 | Student discounts |
| Concert ticket | £40 – £70 | Artist dependent |
| Theatre/Sports | £20 – £60 | Student seats available |
| Streaming services | £5 – £15/month | Home entertainment |
How can you save on your entertainment expenses?
Keep an eye out for free or discounted events to manage your monthly expenses, use discount codes or student IDs to access reduced ticket prices, and consider subscribing to streaming services for entertainment at home. Look for happy hours or early bird specials when dining out. Follow all of these tips, and they might help you reduce your cost of living in Liverpool.
7. University/Tuition
Liverpool is home to several prestigious universities, attracting students from around the world. Tuition fees can vary and depend on the course and the institution. On average, undergraduate tuition fees for domestic students range from £9,000-£9,250 per year, while international students may expect to pay higher fees, typically starting from £13,000 per year. It's important to research scholarships and financial aid options to help offset the estimated cost of living in Liverpool. Here are some of the top universities mentioned below:
1. University of Liverpool
Established in 1881, The University of Liverpool is one of the best universities in the city. The university is one of the top choices for students looking to study in Liverpool, with a range of courses to choose from and an employment rate of 94%.
| Student Type | Average Annual Tuition Fees | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Home Students | £9,000 – £9,250 | Standard UK tuition range |
| Undergraduate International Students | From £13,000 | Varies by university & course |
| Postgraduate Home Students | £10,000 – £12,000 | Depends on program & credits |
| Postgraduate International Students | £14,000 – £25,000 | Higher for medicine, business & engineering |
| Additional International Deposit | £4,000 (approx.) | Required by some universities before enrollment |
2. Liverpool John Moores University
Named after a businessman and philanthropist, theLiverpool John Moores University is a large university in Liverpool with over 25,00 students. The university has three campuses within the city, spanning over 18 acres. With such a big student community spread across the city, findingstudent accommodation near Liverpool John Moores University is never a problem. In addition to the fees mentioned below, international students will all have to pay a £4,000 deposit to the university.
| Course | Tuition £/year |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate International Student Fees | £15,600 – £16,200 |
| Undergraduate Home Student Fees | £9,250 |
| Postgraduate International Student Fees | £16,000 – £17,000 |
| Postgraduate Home Student Fees | £7,500 – £9,500 |
3. Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts
Founded by legendary musician and Beatles member Paul McCartney, with the help of educator and entrepreneur Mark Featherstone-Witty, theLiverpool Institute of Performing Arts is perfect for any student looking to learn about the arts.
| Course | Tuition £/year |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate International Student Fees | £17,000 – £19,000 |
| Undergraduate Home Student Fees | £9,250 |
| Postgraduate International Student Fees | £19,500 – £22,000 |
| Postgraduate Home Student Fees | £10,500 – £12,000 |
How can you save on tuition fees?
Tuition fees are pre-decided by the university; however, there are different scholarships you can apply for if you plan to study at one of these universities. Scholarships are a great way to reduce your total cost of living in Liverpool. Check with your university to see whether they provide students with any scholarship opportunities. There are also a few government-funded scholarships you can apply for. One of the most well-known UK scholarships is the Chevening Scholarship, which is popular among international students.
Managing your finances isn't always easy, which is why we've tried to break down your cost of living in Liverpool to make planning your stay easier. We hope you've found this helpful and can use this as a guide while mapping out your budget. Living in Liverpool as a student is a great experience, and purpose-built student accommodation in Liverpool helps you get a chance to study here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the cost of living in Liverpool higher than London?
The cost of living in Liverpool is around 50% lower than the cost of living in London.
How much money do you need in Liverpool?
There are a number of cost-cutting measures you can take to reduce your cost of living in Liverpool. Excluding their expenditure on rent, a person should be able to sustain themselves on a budget of around £700 a month.
What is the average salary in Liverpool?
The average salary in Liverpool for a postgraduate ranges from about £35,000 to £40,000.
Is it cheaper to live in Manchester or Liverpool?
Living expenses in Liverpool are roughly 25% cheaper than the average cost of living in Manchester.
Which city has the highest cost of living in the UK?
Although the cost of living in Liverpool is high, London is by far the most expensive to live in in the UK.