Is Manchester Actually Affordable? A 2026 Student Budget Breakdown
Is Manchester actually affordable for the 2026 academic year? Today, I have broken down the real costs of living in the North West’s student capital to help you plan your budget without the stress.
Manchester 2026: The Quick Cost Check
The Vibe in Manchester
Manchester is a hotbed of culture, music, and food, and we know you will love being here. Whether you are studying at the University of Manchester, Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU), or UCEN Manchester, the city offers a supportive and energetic environment that is perfect for starting your next chapter. While it is one of the more popular UK cities, it remains significantly more affordable than London, particularly when you factor in our all-inclusive student homes.
How Much is Student Rent in Manchester?
Rent is likely your biggest outgoing, but choosing purpose-built student accommodation can actually save you money because your water, electricity, and high-speed internet are all bundled into one price.
For the 2025/26 academic year, you can expect the following weekly averages:
- Shared Housing (Private): Prices typically range from £115 to £150 per week, depending on whether bills are included.
- Ensuite Rooms: These are popular for a reason because they offer a private bathroom while keeping you in the heart of a social flat, with prices starting around £180 to £200 per week.
- Studio Apartments: For those who prefer their own space, studios in the city centre or near Oxford Road can start from £200 and go upwards of £275 per week.
Is Getting Around Manchester Expensive?
The short answer is no, because the Bee Network has made commuting much easier for your bank balance.
- Bus Fares: All bus fares in Greater Manchester are frozen until the end of 2026. You can get anywhere for a flat £2 single fare, which is a “hopper” ticket that allows you to change buses within one hour at no extra cost.
- Young Person Discounts: If you are aged 18 to 21, you can get half-price bus travel, while 16 to 18-year-olds living in Greater Manchester can often travel for free with “Our Pass”.
- Walking: If you live in areas like Rusholme or Victoria Park, you are within an 11 to 20-minute walk of the main campuses, meaning your transport cost could be nothing.
Insider Tips for Manchester Students
- The Curry Mile: Located in Rusholme, this is a legendary spot for affordable, diverse eateries and late-night takeaways that won’t break the bank.
- Affordable Groceries: While there are plenty of city centre shops, heading to the Aldi in the heart of Fallowfield or the Lidl in Rusholme for your weekly shop will keep your food budget under control.
- Free Culture: Many of the city’s best spots, like The Whitworth Art Gallery or the leafy Platt Fields Park, are completely free to enjoy.
Conclusion
Manchester is an incredible city that balances a big-city feel with manageable living costs. By booking your accommodation early and making the most of the frozen Bee Network fares, you can enjoy everything this city has to offer without constant money worries.
Ready to find your room? Search our options for student accommodation in Manchester today.
Common Questions
What is included in student accommodation bills? At Homes for Students, your rent typically covers all your utilities (electricity, water, and heating), high-speed Wi-Fi, and contents insurance, so you don’t have to worry about separate monthly payments.
When should I start looking for student accommodation in Manchester? Manchester is a high-demand city, so it is always best to start looking as soon as you have your university offer or as early in the booking cycle to secure the best rates and your preferred location.