Cost Of Living In Southampton For Students: Budget Tips & Affordable Accommodations
Live smart, study well your 2025 guide to student expenses in Southampton.
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The cost of living in Southampton is considered moderate compared to larger United Kingdom cities, offering a comfortable balance between affordability and quality of life for students. With top institutions like the University of Southampton (Highfield Campus) and the Winchester School of Art, the city blends academic excellence with a vibrant student atmosphere.
On average, students can expect their Southampton cost of living to range between £1,100 and £1,600 per month in 2025. Rent remains the largest expense, but other essentials like groceries, entertainment, and public transport are reasonably priced, especially if you take advantage of student discounts and passes.
Southampton’s appeal lies in its convenient layout and waterfront lifestyle. Most student accommodations in Southampton are located within easy reach of major university campuses, cafes, and high streets, keeping daily commutes short and manageable. Whether you’re after cheap student accommodation in Southampton or prefer modern studios near the city centre, there’s something for every budget and lifestyle.
If you’re preparing to move here, this guide will help you understand the cost of living in Southampton for students, covering housing, food, utilities, and transport expenses. To make your university experience even smoother, explore our latest post on thetop MBA universities in the UK for insights into academic choices and opportunities.
Average Cost of Living in Southampton
Getting a clear picture of the cost of living Southampton helps you plan your student budget before moving in. On average, students spend between £1,100 and £1,600 per month, depending on their lifestyle, accommodation type, and proximity to the city centre. Rent remains the biggest expense, followed by groceries, transport, and utilities.
The Southampton living cost is considerably lower than in larger UK cities like London or Oxford, roughly 20–25% more affordable. Students who share flats, cook at home, and use local buses or cycling routes can manage comfortably within a mid-range budget.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the average Southampton living cost for international students to help you plan:
| Expense Category | Budget (£) | Mid-Range (£) | Premium (£) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | £550 – £750 | £850 – £1,050 | £1,100 – £1,300 |
| Food & Groceries | £180 – £240 | £270 – £340 | £380 – £460 |
| Transport | £40 – £60 | £70 – £90 | £100 – £120 |
| Utilities & Internet | £70 – £90 | £100 – £120 | £130 – £150 |
| Entertainment & Miscellaneous | £70 – £110 | £120 – £160 | £180 – £250 |
| Health Insurance (for international students) | £50 – £80 | £90 – £110 | £120+ |
| Phone Plan | £10 – £20 | £25 – £35 | £40 – £50 |
Students opting for cheap student accommodation in Southampton, particularly near Universities, and preparing most meals at home can easily maintain a comfortable lifestyle for around £1,200 per month without cutting back on essentials.
Housing and Accommodation Costs
Accommodation forms the largest part of the cost of living Southampton, often accounting for more than half of a student’s total monthly spend. Rent prices depend on the neighbourhood, property type, and facilities offered. Students can find everything from cheap student accommodation in Southampton and shared flats to modern studios near the University of Southampton Highfield Campus or Winchester School of Art.
Living close to the city centre or near Portswood and Highfield usually costs more, but nearby areas like Swaythling, Shirley, and Freemantle offer more affordable options without compromising on accessibility. These neighbourhoods are well-connected by Unilink buses and cycle routes, making daily commutes easy. Below is a quick look at average weekly rent costs across popular student areas to help you estimate your Southampton living cost more accurately.
| Affordable Neighbourhood Options | 1-Bedroom (£/week) | 2-Bedroom (£/week) | 3-Bedroom (£/week) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Swaythling | £170 – £240 | £290 – £420 | £450 – £550 |
| Portswood | £180 – £260 | £320 – £460 | £500 – £600 |
| Highfield | £190 – £280 | £340 – £480 | £520 – £650 |
| Shirley | £160 – £230 | £280 – £410 | £460 – £570 |
| Freemantle | £170 – £250 | £300 – £440 | £480 – £600 |
Students opting for shared flats or cheap student accommodation Southampton typically spend £160 to £240 per week, while private en-suites and studios range from £250 to £400 per week. Choosing a place near your campus or along Unilink routes can help lower your Southampton living costs and save time on travel.
Food and Grocery Costs
Food contributes significantly to the living expenses in Southampton for students, and how much you spend depends on your eating habits. Cooking at home is the most effective way to manage your cost of living in Southampton, especially with access to student discounts and budget-friendly supermarkets.
Weekly Grocery Budget
| Household Size | Budget Range (£) | Premium Range (£) |
|---|---|---|
| Single Person | £35 – £65 | £85 – £120 |
| Couple | £70 – £110 | £140 – £190 |
Dining Out Costs
| Dining Type | Average Cost (£) |
|---|---|
| Breakfast cafes | £6 – £11 |
| Lunch specials | £10 – £18 |
| Dinner mains | £15 – £25 |
| Coffee | £3 – £4.50 |
| Fast food/takeaway | £6 – £10 |
Eating out at popular student-friendly spots like 7Bone Burger Co., The Rockstone, or Mettricks is always fun, but doing it too often can add up quickly. Cooking most meals at home while enjoying the occasional night out helps maintain a healthy balance between lifestyle and budget.
Money-Saving Tips:
1. Shop at Aldi, Lidl, or Asda for affordable groceries near Portswood and Highfield.
2. Visit Southampton City Centre Market or Shirley Market for fresh, local produce.
3. Use UNiDAYS or Totum discounts at cafes and restaurants to save more.
4. Meal prep in advance and share cooking duties with flatmates to reduce waste and cost.
Transportation Costs
Getting around Southampton is easy, affordable, and well-suited to student life. The city’s excellent public transport system, walkable layout, and strong cycling network make it simple to navigate daily commutes while keeping your cost of living Southampton in check.
The Unilink bus network, operated by Bluestar, connects major student neighbourhoods like Highfield, Portswood, and Swaythling directly to the University of Southampton Highfield Campus, the city centre, and the Winchester School of Art. For longer trips, Southampton Central Station offers fast and frequent train connections to London, Bournemouth, and Portsmouth with student discounts through Railcards.
Transport Type & Average Costs
| Transport Type | Average Cost (£) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Single Bus Trip (student fare) | £1.60 – £2.40 | With Unilink or Bluestar student discount |
| Weekly Bus Pass | £14 – £20 | Unlimited city travel on Unilink routes |
| Monthly Bus Pass | £52 – £68 | Ideal for regular commuting students |
| Train (Southampton to London) | £25 – £40 (one way) | Off-peak fares and Railcard discounts available |
| Taxi/Uber (short trip) | £6 – £12 | Based on 2–3 mile city journeys |
| Bike Rental | £12 – £20 per day | Many local hire points near the city centre |
| E-scooter Rental | £1 + £0.18/min | Available via Voi across central Southampton |
Many students prefer walking or cycling to university, especially those living near Highfield or Portswood. Most student accommodations in Southampton include secure bike storage, and Unilink buses make it easy to reach all major university campuses. Living close to key bus routes or train stations can further reduce your Southampton living cost for students while keeping your commute hassle-free.
Utilities and Internet Costs in Southampton
Utilities are an essential part of the cost of living Southampton, especially if you’re renting a private flat or house. Many accommodations now come with all-inclusive rent packages that cover electricity, water, heating, and Wi-Fi, making it much easier to manage your monthly budget. However, if your bills aren’t included, here’s what you can expect to pay on average per month:
| Utility | Average Monthly Cost (£) |
|---|---|
| Electricity | £75 – £130 |
| Gas | £40 – £80 |
| Water | £25 – £50 |
| Internet | £30 – £55 |
| Mobile Plan | £10 – £25 |
Money-saving tips:
1. Look for cheap student accommodation in Southampton that includes bills; it helps keep your expenses predictable.
2. Use smart meters and energy-saving bulbs to reduce your monthly energy spend.
3. Split costs fairly with flatmates and track bills using apps like Splitwise or Revolut.
4. Compare broadband and utility providers on sites like Uswitch or MoneySuperMarket for the best student deals.
Other Essential Expenses in Southampton
Aside from rent, food, and travel, there are a few recurring expenses students should factor in when estimating their Southampton living cost. These costs vary based on your lifestyle, course requirements, and how often you socialise, but planning can help you stay within budget.
| Category | Monthly Estimate (£) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Health Insurance | £55 – £95 | International students pay the NHS Immigration Health Surcharge; optional private coverage may add to costs. |
| Study Materials | £35 – £90 | Includes books, stationery, and software. Art and design students at the Winchester School of Art may need a slightly higher budget. |
| Entertainment | £60 – £140 | Covers cinema, clubs, local events, and social outings. Southampton’s nightlife and live music scene are student favourites. |
| Gym/Fitness | £25 – £55 | University gyms and fitness centres like The Gym Group offer discounted student memberships and flexible plans. |
These smaller expenses may seem minor, but they add up over time and are worth including in your Southampton cost of living plan. Balancing social life, academics, and budgeting will help you make the most of your student experience in this lively coastal city.
Safety and Proximity
Southampton is widely regarded as one of the safest and most student-oriented cities in the UK. According to 2025 Numbeo data, the city holds a Safety Index of 66.4 and a Crime Index of 33.6, indicating a generally secure environment with well-patrolled public areas. The Happiness Index of 7.5/10 reflects strong community ties and high satisfaction among residents, especially students.
Neighbourhoods like Portswood, Highfield, and City Centre are particularly popular with students for their proximity to universities, cafes, and essential amenities. Most student accommodations in Southampton are within a 10 to 20-minute commute to major campuses such as the University of Southampton Highfield Campus and the Solent University. Regular Unilink buses and bike-friendly routes make getting around affordable and stress-free.
In terms of employability, Southampton maintains a graduate employment rate of around 92%, supported by its thriving maritime, tech, and creative sectors. Many students also take up part-time jobs in the retail and hospitality industries located in and around the city centre.
Example Monthly Student Budget in Southampton
Here’s a practical mid-range estimate of the cost of living in Southampton for international students in 2025:
| Expense Type | Estimated Monthly Cost (£) |
|---|---|
| Rent (shared flat) | £850 |
| Utilities + Internet | £135 |
| Food & Groceries | £230 |
| Transport | £60 |
| Entertainment | £100 |
| Miscellaneous | £115 |
| Total | £1,490/month |
This reflects the average Southampton living cost in 2025. Your actual spending will depend on where you live, how you commute, and your daily lifestyle choices. Students staying in cheap student accommodation in Southampton or living near the University of Southampton Highfield Campus can usually keep expenses under £1,400 per month with careful planning.
Saving Tips for Students
1. Pick student accommodation that includes bills and Wi-Fi; it simplifies budgeting.
2. Use a Unilink bus pass or 16–25 Railcard to save on daily commutes around Southampton and trips to nearby cities.
3. Shop smart at Aldi, Lidl, or Asda, or visit Shirley Market for affordable, fresh produce.
4. Take advantage of UNiDAYS and TOTUM discounts at cafes, cinemas, and restaurants across the city.
5. Attend student events at the University of Southampton or Solent University; many are free or low-cost and help you enjoy the city’s social scene without overspending.
Conclusion
The Cost of Living in Southampton is moderate compared to other UK student cities, balancing affordability with lifestyle quality. Rent, transport, and entertainment remain reasonably priced, and most essentials are easily accessible. The city’s walkable layout, lively student population, and strong part-time job opportunities make it a great place for both local and international students. With help from amber, you can explore verified options for cheap student accommodation in Southampton, from shared flats near Winchester School of Art to modern studios close to the Highfield Campus.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost of living in Southampton for students?
The cost of living in Southampton typically ranges between £1,350 and £1,600 per month, depending on your accommodation choice, lifestyle, and how close you live to the city centre or university campus.
How much does student accommodation cost in Southampton?
Shared student flats usually range from £180 to £250 per week, while private studios and en-suites cost around £270 to £420 per week. Many student accommodations in Southampton include utilities and Wi-Fi, helping students manage their monthly budget better.
Is Southampton affordable compared to other UK cities?
Yes. The Southampton living cost is about 20 to 25% lower than in London and slightly more affordable than in other southern cities like Brighton or Oxford. Rent, groceries, and public transport are generally budget-friendly, especially for students.
How much should I budget for food and groceries in Southampton?
Students typically spend £200 to £270 per month on groceries if they cook at home. Eating out a few times a week can raise monthly food expenses by an extra £70–£120, depending on your dining choices.
Do students get transport discounts in Southampton?
Definitely. Students can save up to 30% on travel using the Unilink bus pass or the 16–25 Railcard for regional trains. These discounts make commuting between the University of Southampton Highfield Campus, Solent University, and nearby areas much more affordable.