Cost Of Living In Portsmouth For Students 2025: Budget Tips & Affordable Accommodations

Portsmouth has that rare mix of students love a lively waterfront city vibe without the sky-high expenses. Whether you're grabbing groceries in Southsea, catching the ferry, or settling into your student accommodation, your monthly budget stretches further here than in many other UK uni towns. This lively coastal city blends historic naval heritage with modern student life, offering an experience that’s both enriching and affordable. While it’s cheaper than bigger United Kingdom cities like London or Bristol, Portsmouth living costs can still add up if you don’t plan.

This guide covers everything you need to know about the cost of living Portsmouth for students, from rent and groceries to transport, utilities, and entertainment. You’ll get up-to-date figures, local insights, and easy budgeting tips to help you live comfortably without compromising your student experience. Whether you’re studying at the University of Portsmouth or Highbury College Portsmouth, this breakdown of the Portsmouth cost of living gives you a clear picture of what to expect and how to make the most of your time in this energetic seaside city.

Average Cost of Living in Portsmouth

Before you settle into student life, it’s smart to get a sense of the cost of living Portsmouth. On average, students spend between £1,200 and £1,700 per month, depending on their lifestyle, accommodation type, and personal habits. Rent is typically the biggest expense, followed by groceries and transport.

Suppose you plan wisely, like sharing a flat, cooking at home, and choosing student accommodation in Portsmouth close to campus, you can easily keep your Portsmouth living cost for international students in check.

These figures represent average estimates for living expenses in Portsmouth for students in 2025. Your exact Portsmouth living cost will vary based on where you live, how you commute, and how often you eat out or travel.

Housing and Accommodation Costs

Accommodation makes up the biggest part of the cost of living in Portsmouth, often taking up more than half of a student’s monthly budget. Rent prices vary depending on how close you live to the Universities, the type of room, and what facilities are included. Students can find a wide range of student accommodation in Portsmouth, from modern studios and ensuite rooms to shared flats that make budgeting easier.

If you prefer living solo, expect to pay more for properties near the city centre or the seafront. Opting for shared apartments or student halls can reduce your overall Portsmouth living cost while still keeping you close to campus and social life. Below is a breakdown of the average weekly rent across some popular neighbourhoods in Portsmouth.

For students choosing shared or purpose-built student housing, shared apartments in Portsmouth usually range from £180 to £260 per week, while private studios cost around £300 to £420 per week. Choosing accommodation within walking or cycling distance of your university can help you save on transport while keeping your Portsmouth living cost low. To find verified, comfortable, and affordable options, explore student accommodation in Portsmouth, perfect for balancing convenience, community, and budget.

Food and Grocery Costs

Food plays a significant role in the cost of living in Portsmouth, and how much you spend depends on your eating habits. Cooking most meals at home can make your Portsmouth living cost far more manageable, while eating out regularly will add up quickly. Thankfully, students can find plenty of affordable supermarkets and local markets near Southsea, Fratton, and accommodation near University of Portsmouth.

Weekly Grocery Budget

Dining Out Costs

Dining out occasionally is fine, but frequent meals at restaurants can easily increase your overall cost of living in Portsmouth for students. Cooking in bulk or sharing meals with flatmates can keep your food budget in check while still enjoying the city’s great food scene.

Money-Saving Tips
1. Shop at Aldi, Lidl, or Asda for affordable essentials and student discounts.
2. Visit the Portsmouth Market or Southsea Food Festival for local produce at lower prices.
3. Use UNiDAYS or Totum for dining discounts around Gunwharf Quays and Commercial Road.
4. Meal prep on weekends to reduce waste and avoid last-minute takeouts.

Transportation Costs

Getting around Portsmouth is straightforward and student-friendly. The city is compact, walkable, and built for short commutes, helping you keep your cost of living in Portsmouth under control. Cycling is common among students, and the city’s reliable Stagecoach South and First Bus networks make public transport easy and affordable. Portsmouth also offers good rail connections to London, Southampton, and Brighton, perfect for weekend getaways or university trips.

Transport Type & Average Costs

Most students at universities prefer walking or cycling, as many key areas like Guildhall Walk, Southsea, and Fratton are close to campus. Living near the university or along main bus routes can significantly reduce your Portsmouth living costs for international students, making everyday commuting efficient and budget-friendly.

Utilities and Internet Costs in Portsmouth

Utilities make up a steady portion of the cost of living in Portsmouth, especially if you’re renting a private flat or sharing a house. Many student accommodations in Portsmouth now offer rent-inclusive packages covering Wi-Fi, electricity, water, and heating, which helps keep your monthly spending predictable. If bills aren’t included, here’s what students typically spend each month in 2025:

Money-saving tips:
1. Choose cheap student accommodation Portsmouth that includes bills to simplify budgeting.
2. Share costs equally with flatmates to keep your living expenses in Portsmouth for students consistent.
3. Compare broadband and utility deals on Uswitch or MoneySuperMarket for better rates.
4. Conserve energy, switch off lights, unplug chargers, and use timers to manage heating efficiently.

Other Essential Expenses in Portsmouth

Aside from rent, groceries, and transport, several smaller costs contribute to the overall cost of living in Portsmouth. These depend on your lifestyle, study needs, and leisure choices, but setting a clear monthly budget can help you stay in control of your spending.

Safety and Proximity

Portsmouth stands out as one of the safest and most student-oriented coastal cities in the UK. As per 2025 Numbeo data, it has a Safety Index of 64.3 and a Crime Index of 35.7, indicating a secure and welcoming community for both local and international students. The city also maintains a Happiness Index of 7.4/10, showing a strong sense of belonging and positive quality of life among residents.

The city’s compact layout means most student accommodations are within a 15-20 minute walk or short bus ride from university buildings, which helps keep your Portsmouth living costs low while maintaining convenience and a lively social life.

Example Monthly Student Budget in Portsmouth

Here’s a realistic mid-range breakdown of the cost of living Portsmouth for international students in 2025:

These numbers represent the average living expenses in Portsmouth as of 2025. Actual costs may vary depending on your location, lifestyle, and frequency of dining out or travelling around the South Coast.

Saving Tips for Students

1. Choose student accommodation in Portsmouth that includes bills and Wi-Fi to avoid unexpected monthly costs.
2. Use the First Bus Unilink or get a 16–25 Railcard for discounted travel within and beyond the city.
3. Shop smart at Aldi, Lidl, or Tesco Express near Southsea and Fratton for affordable groceries.
4. Make the most of UNiDAYS and Totum student discounts at restaurants, clothing stores, and gyms.
5. Explore free local attractions like Southsea Beach or join university clubs and societies to enjoy city life without overspending.

Conclusion

The cost of living Portsmouth is relatively affordable compared to major UK cities, making it an excellent choice for both domestic and international students. While rent and utilities account for the largest portion of your monthly budget, food, transport, and leisure costs remain manageable with smart planning. Portsmouth’s compact design, walkable neighbourhoods, and strong student community make it easy to balance comfort, convenience, and affordability.

With top institutions nearby, students enjoy great access to public transportation, seaside attractions, and a vibrant social life. If you’re preparing to move here, check out verified listings on amber to find student accommodation in Portsmouth that suits your needs. Whether you prefer budget-friendly shared flats or private studios near the university, there are plenty of comfortable options to match your lifestyle and budget.