Somewhere in London | March 7
If London’s high costs are daunting, consider moving to a city outside the capital. Cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds offer a lower cost of living while still providing excellent job opportunities, cultural attractions, and a high quality of life.
In this guide, we’ll explore the cost of living in cities outside London, helping you decide where to settle.
1. Housing Costs Outside London
Housing is significantly cheaper outside London.
- Rent:
- Manchester: A one-bedroom flat in the city centre costs around £800-£1,000 per month.
- Birmingham: Similar properties cost £700-£900 per month.
- Leeds: Rents are even lower, at £600-£800 per month.
- Buying Property:
The average house price in Manchester is £250,000, while in Birmingham it’s £220,000.Use the UK House Price Index for detailed data.
2. Transportation Costs
Public transport is cheaper outside London.
- Manchester: A monthly bus pass costs around £60.
- Birmingham: A monthly travelcard for buses and trams costs £70.
- Leeds: A monthly bus pass costs £55.For local transport information, visit Transport for Greater Manchester or West Midlands Network.
3. Food and Groceries
- Groceries: A weekly shop for one person costs around £25-£40.
- Eating Out:
- A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs £10-£15.
- A three-course meal for two costs £40-£60.
4. Utilities and Bills
- Gas and Electricity: Average monthly costs are £80-£120.
- Internet and Mobile: Broadband costs around £20-£30 per month.Use Ofgem’s energy comparison tool to find the best deals.
5. Healthcare
The NHS provides free healthcare across the UK. Prescription costs are the same as in London (£9.65 per item).
Learn more on the NHS website.
6. Childcare and Education
- Childcare: Full-time nursery costs around £800-£1,000 per month.
- Schools: Public schools are free, and private schools cost £10,000-£20,000 per year.Use GOV.UK’s childcare calculator for support.
7. Entertainment and Lifestyle
- Gym Membership: £20-£40 per month.
- Cinema Ticket: £8-£12.
- Pint of Beer: £4-£5 in a pub.
Is Living Outside London Worth It?
Absolutely! Cities like Manchester and Birmingham offer a lower cost of living, vibrant cultures, and strong job markets. Plus, you’re never far from London if you want to visit.