Student Guide to Cost of Living in Leicester
Thinking about studying in Leicester? Great choice! Whether you’re a first-year fresher or a postgrad on a budget, understanding the cost of living in Leicester is key to planning your student life.
From rent and groceries to nights out and transport, this guide breaks it all down to help you make smart choices. Leicester isn’t just affordable, it’s packed with culture, community, and opportunities to explore.
If you’re the kind of person who loves a good deal, wants to know where your money’s going, or just needs to budget better, you’re in the right place. We’ve gathered the need-to-know info so you can balance your spending, enjoy the city, and still have money left over for that weekend adventure.
Is it expensive to live in Leicester?
Leicester is one of the more affordable student cities in the UK, especially compared to places like London or Oxford. Rent tends to be lower, with many student accommodations and shared houses offering good value.
Groceries, transport, and nights out are also reasonably priced, making it easier to stick to a budget. Of course, costs can vary depending on your lifestyle. If you cook at home, use student discounts, and take advantage of free events, you’ll find your money goes further.
While prices have gone up slightly in recent years due to inflation, the cost of living in Leicester remains manageable for most students. It offers a balance of low living costs and a high quality of life.
Is Leicester a good place to live in UK?
Yes, Leicester is a great place to live in the UK, especially for students. It’s a friendly, multicultural city with a strong sense of community and a vibrant student scene. You’ll find a mix of historic charm and modern convenience, with plenty of green spaces, independent shops, and diverse food options.
The city centre is easy to get around on foot or by bike, and public transport is affordable.
With two major universities, there’s a constant buzz of events, activities, and nightlife. Leicester also has a lower cost of living than many UK cities, making it ideal for students on a budget. Whether you’re into sports, culture, or socialising, there’s always something to explore or get involved in.
Cost of Living in Leicester
Rent
Rent in Leicester varies depending on the type of accommodation you choose, but overall it’s affordable compared to many other UK cities. Students have several options, including university-owned halls, private student accommodation, and shared student houses.
University-owned halls are a popular choice for first-years, offering a safe, social environment close to campus. They usually include utilities, Wi-Fi, and sometimes even meal plans.
Private student accommodation often comes with modern facilities like en-suites, gyms in Leicester, and social areas. It’s great if you want a bit more independence while still enjoying community perks.
Shared student houses are typically the most cost-effective. These usually include basic furnishings, kitchen appliances, and shared bills depending on the provider.
Students in Leicester can expect to spend around £100 to £180 per week depending on the location and the amenities.
Groceries
Grocery shopping in Leicester is budget-friendly and offers plenty of choice. On average, students spend around £25 to £40 per week on food, depending on diet and shopping habits.
Big supermarkets like Tesco, Asda, Morrisons, and Sainsbury’s are easy to find across the city and offer regular discounts or deals.
For those looking to save even more, Aldi and Lidl are great for low-cost essentials and fresh produce. Leicester also has a vibrant market in the city centre, perfect for affordable fruit, vegetables, and spices.
If you prefer international food options, you’ll find specialist Asian, African, and Middle Eastern stores throughout the city. With smart shopping, meal planning, and occasional bulk buying, it’s easy to keep your food costs low.
Transport in Leicester
Getting around Leicester is easy and affordable for students. The city is compact, so walking or cycling is often enough for daily travel. For longer trips, buses are a popular choice.
A single bus ticket usually costs around £2, making it budget-friendly for occasional journeys. If you travel often, a student bus pass with Arriva or First Leicester can save money, costing roughly £50-300 for travel during the academic year, varying depending on duration.
Taxis like Uber are also available for added convenience, especially late at night. Leicester’s train station offers direct links to major cities like Birmingham and London, ideal for weekend getaways. With a little planning, transport won’t take a big bite out of your budget.
Things to Do in Leicester
Leicester is packed with fun things to do, offering something for every student. History lovers can explore the King Richard III Visitor Centre or walk through the medieval Guildhall. The New Walk Museum and Art Gallery is free to enter and great for a quiet afternoon.
If you enjoy nature, Abbey Park and Victoria Park are perfect for picnics, sports, or study breaks outdoors. For shopping, Highcross and Leicester Market offer everything from big brands to local finds.
Music fans will love gigs at O2 Academy, while foodies can explore diverse restaurants in Leicester along Narborough Road. There’s also a buzzing nightlife scene with bars, clubs, and student nights across the city. Whether you’re social, curious, or adventurous, Leicester has plenty to explore.
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Part-Time Work in Leicester
Finding part-time work in Leicester is relatively easy for students, thanks to the city’s busy retail, hospitality, and service sectors. Shops in Highcross, cafés, restaurants, and supermarkets often hire students for flexible shifts.
Many also find roles on campus, such as library assistants, student ambassadors, or catering staff, which can be more convenient during term time. Most students work between 10 to 15 hours per week to fit around lectures and coursework.
The universities offer job boards and career support to help you find suitable roles. Online platforms like Indeed are also useful. If you’re an international student, make sure to check any visa work limits. With the right balance, part-time work can ease finances and build experience.
Understanding the cost of living in Leicester is key to planning a stress-free student experience. From affordable rent and transport to budget-friendly groceries and part-time work options, Leicester offers a well-balanced lifestyle that suits a range of budgets. With plenty of things to do and see, you won’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy student life here.
Whether you’re watching your pennies or looking to make the most of your time, Leicester has something for everyone.
By managing your costs wisely and keeping an eye on the cost of living in Leicester, you can enjoy a fun, comfortable, and rewarding university experience in one of the UK’s most student-friendly cities.