Welcome to our blog on cost of living Canterbury for students. If you are moving to Canterbury for university , get ready for an exciting student life in this historic and vibrant city! Whether you’re looking for the best student accommodation, affordable grocery spots, or easy transport options, we’ve got you covered. Canterbury is home to top universities, amazon cafés, and a friendly student community. But how much does student rent cost? Where’s the cheapest place to shop? And what’s the best way to get around? This guide will break it all down for you. From budgeting tips to fun things to do, consider this your all-in-one survival guide to student life in Canterbury. Canterbury View

Is Canterbury expensive to live?

One of the first questions you might have when considering the cost of living in Canterbury is if it is an expensive city. Canterbury is slightly more expensive than the national average for students, but it’s still more affordable than major cities like London. Accommodation costs can be higher, especially in the city centre, but shared housing often offers better value. Grocery prices are fairly standard, though shopping at discount supermarkets helps keep costs down. Eating out and social activities can be a little pricier, but student discounts make a big difference. Public transport is also reasonably priced compared to other UK cities. While Canterbury isn’t the cheapest student city, careful budgeting makes it manageable, and the cost of living is balanced by its smaller, student-friendly environment. Girl thinking about cost of living in Canterbury

Girl thinking about cost of living in Canterbury

Is Canterbury good for students?

Canterbury is an amazing place for students! It’s packed with history, buzzing with student energy, and full of exciting things to do. Whether you love cosy cafés, cool bars, or peaceful study spots, this city has it all. The student community is friendly, making it easy to meet new people. With stunning historic streets, beautiful green spaces, and a vibrant nightlife, there’s never a dull moment. Students having fun

Universities in Canterbury

Canterbury is home to some great universities, making it a fantastic place to study! The University of Kent is known for its beautiful campus, top research, and lively student life. It has amazing study spaces, fun societies, and plenty of green areas to relax. Canterbury Christ Church University is another great choice, especially for teaching, health, and creative courses. It has a friendly atmosphere and is right in the heart of the city. The University for the Creative Arts (UCA) is perfect for art, design, and media students who love creativity. With a strong student community, exciting events, and great career opportunities, Canterbury’s universities offer a fun and inspiring place to learn, grow, and make unforgettable memories! Canterbury Christ Church University building

Canterbury Christ Church University building

Cost of living in Canterbury

Rent

Rent in Canterbury depends on the type of accommodation you choose. University-owned accommodation is affordable and usually includes bills, but it can feel a bit more basic and less private. Private student accommodation is a great option with a range of exciting amenities while still being close to universities. Student houses are a great middle ground, offering shared living with friends and often more space, but you might need to manage your own bills and responsibilities. Rent prices range from about £120 to £250 per week, depending on things like location, amenities, and whether bills are included. Each option has its pros and cons, so it’s all about finding what works best for your budget and lifestyle! Person in a student accommodation

Groceries

When considering the cost of living in Canterbury , you cannot skip food expenses. While the grocery costs in Canterbury can vary, you can expect to spend around £30-£40 per week. Budget-friendly supermarkets like Aldi and Lidl offer great deals on essentials, making them the best choice for those looking to cut costs. For more variety, Tesco and Sainsbury’s are popular, though they can be slightly pricier. Planning meals in advance, buying in bulk, and cooking with friends are great ways to keep expenses low. Shopping at local markets for fresh produce can also help stretch your budget. With the right choices, students can manage their grocery spending while still enjoying a balanced and affordable diet. Girl grocery shopping

Transport

Getting around Canterbury is easy, thanks to several transport options. Buses are the most popular choice for students, with frequent routes connecting university campuses, the city centre, and nearby areas. A single bus ticket costs around £2, but students can save money with Stagecoach day tickets, which range from £4.50 to £6, depending on the area. Trains are great for travelling outside Canterbury, with two stations offering connections to London and other towns. Cycling is another budget-friendly option, as the city has bike lanes and plenty of parking spots. Since Canterbury is compact, walking is also a convenient way to get around. Bus in the UK

Eating out

Eating out in Canterbury can be affordable if you choose wisely, but it’s easy to overspend. A simple meal at a budget-friendly café or fast food spot is usually around £10-12 while a sit-down meal at a casual restaurant costs a bit more. If you're going for a night out, drinks can add up quickly, with cocktails being pricier than pints or soft drinks, but you can expect to spend at least £5 on drinks. Many restaurants and pubs offer student discounts, making meals and drinks more budget-friendly. On average, students who eat out regularly spend more than those who cook at home. A good balance between dining out and home-cooked meals helps keep costs low while still enjoying Canterbury’s great food scene! Students eating out at a restaurant

Things to do in Canterbury

Canterbury is packed with fun things for students to do! History lovers can explore Canterbury Cathedral or walk along the ancient city walls. If you love nature, take a relaxing stroll in Westgate Gardens or go for a picnic by the River Stour. For shopping and food, head to the city centre, where you’ll find cute cafés, pubs, and street markets. Cinema nights at Curzon or Odeon are perfect for a break from studying. The nightlife is lively too, with student-friendly bars and clubs. If you’re up for an adventure, take a short trip to the Kent coast for a beach day. Whether you love history, nightlife, or chilling with friends, Canterbury has something for everyone! Aerial view of Canterbury

Canterbury is an amazing place for students, offering a mix of history, culture, and a vibrant student community. While the cost of living in Canterbury can be higher than some other student cities, smart budgeting makes it manageable. Affordable accommodation, student discounts, and budget-friendly supermarkets help keep expenses under control. Transport is easy, and there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy. Whether you're exploring the city, dining out, or just enjoying uni life, Canterbury has something for everyone. With the right balance of spending and saving, students can make the most of their time in this beautiful city!

Canterbury

Student Life in Canterbury : Your All-in-One Guide