Is Aberystwyth Actually Affordable? A 2026 Student Budget Breakdown
The big question for anyone heading to the Welsh coast this year is, is Aberystwyth actually affordable? For the 2026/27 academic year, the answer is generally yes. While living costs are rising across the country, Aberystwyth remains one of the most budget-friendly locations for students in the UK.
Thanks to the town being so compact, you can save a significant amount on transport, and the variety of student accommodation options means you can find something that fits your maintenance loan.
| Budget Category | Typical Weekly Spend | Smart Value Strategy |
| Accommodation | £99 to £196 | Book all-inclusive to keep your monthly outgoings predictable. |
| Food & Groceries | £35 to £50 | Shop at local markets for seasonal produce to save on basics. |
| Transport | £0 to £7 | Most things are walkable, but use the mytravelpass for discounted bus fares. |
| Social Life | £20 to £35 | Check out the Students’ Union for the best local deals. |
How Much is Student Rent in Aberystwyth?
As a student, rent is your biggest essential cost. This means that getting it boxed off early is a smart move. In Aberystwyth, you can typically find rooms starting from around £99 per week for shared facilities, while private studios or premium en-suites can cost up to £196 per week.
At Homes for Students, we believe in making life as hassle-free as possible. When you book with us, your electricity, gas, water, WiFi, and contents insurance are usually included in your rental costs. This should be helpful for your budget as it means no nasty surprises when the heating stays on longer than expected.
What are the Best Ways to Save Money in Aberystwyth?
Living in a smaller university town like Aberystwyth gives you a few bonus ways to save that you won’t often find in big cities:
- Walking: Most student accommodation is within a 10 to 15-minute walk of the Aberystwyth University Penglais Campus. You can save roughly £15-£20 a week just by ditching the bus.
- The Welsh Transport Discount: If you do need the bus, look into the mytravelpass. It typically offers significant discounts for young people in Wales, making longer trips much simpler.
- Student Union Perks: The Aberystwyth University Students’ Union is the centre of student deals. From cheap event tickets to discounted food, you’ll find it is often the most relaxed place to socialise without breaking the bank.
- Shop Smart: While there are multiple supermarkets in town, the local independent shops often have great deals on bulk essentials.
Is Aberystwyth Affordable Compared to Other Cities?
Generally, your money goes much further here than in places like Cardiff or Bristol. Because there is less big city attractions and lower average rents, many students find they have more left over for the things they actually enjoy.
Whether you are a first-year or a postgrad, the local cost of living is one of the biggest reasons people fall in love with life on the Welsh coast.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, choosing to study here means your budget is likely to go further than it would in almost any other UK university town. By taking advantage of local travel schemes and choosing accommodation that covers your essential bills, you can focus more on your degree and less on your bank balance.
Aberystwyth offers a brilliant balance between a high quality of life and a manageable cost of living. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone starting university during the 2026/27 academic year.
Related Questions
What is included in student accommodation bills?
Typically, PBSA providers include your water, electricity, heating, and high-speed WiFi in one weekly price. This makes it much easier to manage your budget compared to a private house, where bills often cost extra.
When should I start looking for student accommodation in Aberystwyth?
It is a good idea to start looking during the autumn or winter before you start university. Booking early helps you secure the best value rooms before the most popular spots are boxed off.
Ready to find your room? Discover our range of Aberystwyth student accommodation options and make Wales your new home from home in 2026.