Complete Guide to Cost of Living In Plymouth As A Student

Moving to Plymouth for university is exciting, but understanding the cost of living is important to plan your budget.

This blog breaks down everything you need to know about the expenses of living in this amazing coastal city. From rent prices and utility bills to food, groceries, and other.

By the end, you’ll feel confident about managing your budget and enjoying your university experience without unnecessary stress. Let’s dive into the details!

What are the universities in Plymouth?

If you are looking into the cost of living in Plymouth ,you are most likely a student.

Plymouth is home to excellent universities that attract students from all over the world. The University of Plymouth is the largest in the city and is known for its strong research, modern campus, and wide range of courses.

It offers everything from business and engineering to art and marine sciences, making it a top choice for many students.

Plymouth Marjon University (University of St Mark & St John) is another option, offering a friendly campus environment with courses in teaching, health, and sports.

Both universities are well-connected to the city centre and provide great facilities for learning and student life. With their supportive communities and diverse opportunities, Plymouth’s universities offer a fantastic experience for students looking to study in a coastal city.

Is Plymouth a cheap place to live?

Plymouth is considered one of the most affordable cities to live in the UK, especially for students.

The cost of rent is generally lower compared to larger cities like London or Bristol, with many options for student accommodation and shared housing.

Food and groceries are reasonably priced, and there are plenty of supermarkets and local markets to choose from. Public transport is also affordable.

While costs can vary depending on lifestyle, Plymouth offers a great balance of affordability and quality of life, making it a great choice for students if cost is a concern.

Is Plymouth cheaper than Exeter?

As of 2022,Plymouth was known to be one of the cheapest cities for students to live in , meaning it is definitely cheaper than Exeter.

While both the cities have their own charm , if you are primarily concerned about the cost of living in a city, then Plymouth would be the right choice.

What is the nicest area of Plymouth to live?

Plymouth has plenty of lively areas that you can live in as a student.

And here are some of the best areas to live in Plymouth according to Plymouth Live.

Stoke is one in the list with it being a lively neighbourhood with unique shops and a friendly community.

Peverell, near Central Park, is perfect for those who want green spaces while staying close to the city centre. It also has lovely local shops on Hyde Park Road.

Plymstock on the other hand is a quiet and peaceful area, great for families or anyone looking for a relaxed environment with easy access to the city.

And as always ,the city centre is always unmatched when it comes to its proximity to places and a bustling student life.

These neighbourhoods each have their own charm, so depending on that your preference is , Plymouth certainly has a place for you.

Cost of Living in Plymouth for Students

Rent

One of the major costs that contribute to the cost of living in Plymouth is rent.

How much it costs will come down to the type of accommodation that you opt for as a student.

University halls of residence are typically the first choice for first-year students. They’re close to campus and usually include bills in the rent.

Private accommodation, often managed by providers like Homes for Students, offer modern rooms with a range of amenities like gyms and study spaces. These can cost slightly more than university owned halls but the great facilities make up for it.

Shared student houses are also a popular and affordable option. Here, you rent a house with other students, sharing costs for rent and bills like electricity, water, and internet. Rent is usually cheaper but can vary depending on location and house size.

You can expect to spend between £120-£175 per week on rent if you are a student living in Plymouth. You can easily find options on the lower end of that range if you are looking for lesser amenities or okay with living further away from university.

Groceries

The cost of groceries in Plymouth is manageable, with most students spending around £25-£40 per week. This is similar to the average cost across the UK.

If you’re looking to save money, shopping smartly can make a big difference. Stores like Lidl and Aldi offer great value for everyday essentials, fresh produce, and snacks. Local markets and smaller shops are also excellent for finding affordable fresh fruits, vegetables, and other ingredients.

By planning meals, buying in bulk, and choosing budget-friendly options, you can easily stick to your weekly budget without compromising on quality.

Transport

Getting around Plymouth is easy and affordable, with several transport options available.

Plymouth Citybus is the main bus provider, with single tickets costing about £3 and day tickets ranging from £7 to £10, depending on your travel zones.

Trains are a great way to connect to nearby cities like Exeter, with ticket prices varying based on the journey and time of booking. Waterlinks ferries are another option with costs depending on your route.

On average, students can expect to spend around £20-£30 per week on transport if using buses daily and occasionally taking trains or ferries. Discounts are available for students, so it’s worth checking for passes or cards to save more.

Eating Out

Eating out in Plymouth is affordable for students, with meals costing around £12-£15 at most restaurants.

Local cafes and eateries often offer cheaper options, while high-end restaurants are available if you’re looking to splurge.

Drinks usually range from £5 to £10, depending on where you go. If you eat out once or twice a week and enjoy a few drinks, you can expect to spend around £100-£150 per month.

To save money, keep an eye out for student discounts or deals, especially during the week.

Exploring street food spots and smaller local places is also a great way to enjoy delicious meals without stretching your budget too far.

Plymouth offers a great lifestyle for students, making it an excellent place to live and study. From cost-effective student housing options to manageable grocery and transport expenses, it’s easy to stay within budget while enjoying everything the city has to offer.

Eating out and socialising is also wallet-friendly, with plenty of local spots and student deals available.

By exploring smart spending habits, such as shopping at budget supermarkets and using student discounts for transport and dining, students can make the most of their time in Plymouth without financial stress.