Best Cities in the UK for Indian Students 2025: Study, Work, and Settle

Kritika Pandey

12 min read

Updated On May 9, 2025

Best Cities in the UK for Indian Students 2025: Study, Work, and Settle

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11 Best Cities in the UK for Students 2025
How to Identify Best Cities in the UK for Indian Students in 2025 ?
Need Help Choosing the Best City to Live in the UK? Seek GetGIS

The best cities in the UK for Indian students in 2025 include London, Edinburgh, Manchester, Glasgow, Newcastle Upon Tyne, and more.

Best cities in the UK for Indian students are becoming increasingly popular as the UK welcomed over 140,000 Indian students in 2023, a 54% rise compared to previous years. Despite some recent changes in the visa approvals, demand is growing again in 2025, with Indian students acceptances up by 11% for the January intake compared to the previous year.

The best cities in the United Kingdom for students and expats also provide affordable living options and cultural familiarity, making adaptation easier. In this article we will explore the top 11 UK cities for students 2025 along with comparing factors like cost of living, education & opportunities, safety, etc.

11 Best Cities in the UK for Students 2025

Considering moving to the UK? Some of the top priority factors when choosing the best place to live in the UK include not just job opportunities and educational institutions but also account factors like welcoming community, safe environment, etc. The comprehensive list of top cities in the UK to live includes:

City	Indian Students Population (as according to 2025)
London	542,857
Edinburgh	25,600
Manchester	99,967
Glasgow	36,178
Newcastle Upon Tyne	14,000
Coventry	56,500
Bristol	22,000
Birmingham	112,251
Nottingham	33,674
Leeds	45,908
York	9,100

1. London

London, the capital city of the United Kingdom is a hot spot of cultures and one of the most diverse cities in the world. The city offers unmatched opportunities, renowned universities, and a welcoming environment for Indians with numerous cultural events, Indian restaurants and community centers.

2025’s Key Highlights of London

London is ranked as the best city in the United Kingdom to live in the world by QS Best Student Cities ranking 2025.
The best places to live in London UK include - Camden Town, Notting Hill, Islington, North Greenwich, Putney, Brixton
Near proximity to various top universities in the world like Imperial College London, University College London (UCL), London School of Economics (LSE).

Particulars	Details (2025)
City Name	London
Unemployment Rate in London	6.3% (Nov 2024 – Jan 2025, latest official data)7
Average Annual Income in London	Approx. GBP 39,000 (latest available estimate)
Average Cost of Living in London	For 1 Person: GBP 1,640–1,764/month (GBP 19,680–21,171/year) For Students: GBP 2,300–2,500/month (GBP 27,600–30,000/year) For a Family of 4: Typically GBP 4,000–5,000/month (estimate based on current trends)
Current Indian Population in London	542,857 (latest available)
Major Industries in London	Finance, Technology, Creative Industries

Also Explore: Complete Breakdown of the Cost of Living in London, UK

2. Edinburgh

Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland that combines stunning architecture and rich history with a thriving economy, especially in sectors like finance and technology. The city's top-tier universities, and high quality of life along with the benefits of a relatively low cost of living compared to cities like London make it ideally best cities in the UK for Indian students and professionals.

2025’s Key Highlights of Edinburgh

Edinburgh is known as the second-largest financial center in the UK.
QS Best Cities Ranking 2025 ranks Edinburgh as the 13th best country in the world.
Near proximity to various top universities in the UK like the University of Edinburgh, Heriot-Watt University.

Particulars	Details (2025)
City Name	Edinburgh
Unemployment Rate in Edinburgh	4.2% (Scotland-wide, Dec 2024–Feb 2025)
Average Income in Edinburgh	Approx. GBP 41,688/year (median full-time gross pay: £801.7/week)
Average Cost of Living in Edinburgh	For 1 Person: GBP 1,300–1,400/month For a Family of 4: GBP 3,600–3,800/month
Current Indian Population in Edinburgh	25,600
Major Industries in Edinburgh	Finance, Technology, Sustainable Industries, Creative Industries

Also Read: UK Work Visa for Indians in 2025: Eligibility, Process & Fees

3. Manchester

With a robust economy and thriving cultural scope Manchester is an ideal destination for professionals and students alike. This is one of the best cities to live in the UK for Indians thanks to its lower cost of living compared to London combined with excellent job opportunities in various sectors.

2025’s Key Highlights of Manchester

Manchester is known as a major economic center in the UK and hosts numerous businesses across various sectors.
QS Best Cities Ranking 2025 ranks Manchester as the 27th best country in the world.
Near proximity to various top universities in the UK like the University of Manchester, and Manchester Metropolitan University.

Particulars	Details (2025)
City Name	Manchester
Unemployment Rate in Manchester	6.5% (Oct 2023 – Sep 2024, up 1.7 percentage points from previous year)
Average Income in Manchester	GBP 46,400 (average annual salary, 2024) Median salary: GBP 37,200
Average Cost of Living in Manchester	For 1 Person: GBP 1,456–1,644/month (approx. GBP 17,500–19,700/year) For a Family of 4: GBP 4,835/month (approx. GBP 58,000/year)
Current Indian Population in Manchester	99,967
Major Industries in Manchester	Media, Finance, Technology, Higher Education, Creative Industries

Also Explore: UK Post-Study Work Visa (PSW UK): Unlocking Opportunities

4. Glasgow

Glasgow is also known as Scotland's cultural capital. The city is famous for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere and has a growing Indian community. Glasgow also provides diverse job opportunities in various leading industries, along with offering a good quality of life that makes it one of the best cities in the United Kingdom for Indian professionals and families.

2025’s Key Highlights of Glasgow

It is the largest city in Scotland and offers a diverse and multicultural environment.
QS Best Cities Ranking 2025 ranks Glasgow as the 33rd best country in the world.
Near proximity to various top universities in the UK like the University of Glasgow, and Glasgow Caledonian University.

Particulars	Details (2025)
City Name	Glasgow
Unemployment Rate in Glasgow	4.3% (2023, latest city-specific estimate); Scotland-wide: 4.2% (Dec 2024–Feb 2025)
Average Income in Glasgow	GBP 33,000 per year (2025 average)
Average Cost of Living in Glasgow	For 1 Person: GBP 1,100–1,200/month For a Family of 4: GBP 3,100–3,300/month (2025 estimate)
Current Indian Population in Glasgow	36,178 (latest available estimate)
Major Industries in Glasgow	Finance, Technology, Higher Education, Creative Industries

Also Explore: Mastering the UK Visa Interview Questions and Answers

5. Newcastle Upon Tyne

Newcastle Upon Tyne, commonly known as Newcastle, is a vibrant student city in Northeast England, known for its Friendly atmosphere affordability and thriving student culture It offers a strong epidemic environment with top institutions in a closed net Indian community, making it a welcoming destination for international students.

2025’s Key Highlights of Newcastle Upon Tyne

Ranked among the top 5 affordable and student friendly cities in the UK (39th as per QS Best Student Cities 2025 ).
Best places to live in Newcastle include Jesmond, Heaton, Sandyford, Gosforth, and Ouseburn.
Home to prestigious universities like Newcastle University and Northumbria University.

Particulars	Details (2025)
City Name	Newcastle Upon Tyne
Unemployment Rate in Newcastle	6.1% (2024, latest city-specific estimate)
Average Annual Income in Newcastle	GBP 41,500 (average salary, 2024) Median salary: GBP 35,100
Average Cost of Living in Newcastle	For 1 Person: GBP 1,100–1,200/month For a Family of 4: GBP 3,000–3,200/month (2025 estimate)
Current Indian Population in Newcastle	14,000
Major Industries in Newcastle	Digital Technology, Education, Health, Energy, Manufacturing, Finance, Science, Retail, Tourism, Construction

6. Coventry

Coventry city is renowned for its strong automotive and advanced manufacturing sectors. The city has a growing Indian community, offers affordable living along with the presence of many top universities makes it one of the best places to live in the UK for families and students.

2025’s Key Highlights of Coventry

Coventry offers one of the most affordable cost of living in the UK for students which is around GBP 1,108 - GBP 1,320 (excluding tuition fees)
QS Best Cities Ranking 2025 ranks Coventry as the 43rd best country in the world.
Near proximity to various top universities in the UK like the University of Warwick, and Coventry University.

Particulars	Details (2025)
City Name	Coventry
Unemployment Rate in Coventry	5.6% (2025 estimate; above the UK average of 3.8%)
Average Income in Coventry	GBP 33,878 per year (2025 average)
Average Cost of Living in Coventry	For 1 Person: GBP 1,050–1,150/month For a Family of 4: GBP 2,900–3,100/month (2025 estimate)
Current Indian Population in Coventry	56,500 (latest available estimate)
Major Industries in Coventry	Automotive, Advanced Manufacturing, Education, Health, Public Administration, Retail, Professional Services

Also Read: Ultimate Guide to Part-Time Jobs in UK for International Students

7. Bristol

Bristol is one of the best cities in the United Kingdom for students and expats known for its creative landscapes. Excellent universities and sustainability initiatives with a rich history and vibrant multicultural vibe. It is a preferred city for Indian students looking for probe academic growth and quality of life.

2025’s Key Highlights of Bristol

Ranked among the top 10 student cities in the UK by QS Best Student Cities ranking.
Best places to live in Bristol include Clifton, Redland, Bishopston, Southville, and Strokes Croft.
Bristol is home to leading universities like University of Bristol and University of West of England (UWE)

Particulars	Details (2025)
City Name	Bristol
Unemployment Rate in Bristol	3.6% (year ending December 2023; remains below the UK average of 4.4% in early 2025)
Average Annual Income in Bristol	GBP 33,000 (latest available estimate)
Average Cost of Living in Bristol	For 1 Person: GBP 1,300/month

8. Birmingham

Birmingham, known for its rich industrial heritage and strong Indian community offers affordable living and a growing job market, especially in manufacturing and financial services. This is one of the best cities in the UK for Indians students as the residents actively celebrate various Indian festivals creating a home-like atmosphere for Indian residents

2025’s Key Highlights of Birmingham

Birmingham is known as the Second City of the UK, is also a key hub for manufacturing industries like Jaguar, Land Rover, etc, and also has a burgeoning service sector.
It is ranked as the 48th best student city in the world, and the 8th best city in the UK to live as per the QS Best Student Cities ranking 2025.
Near proximity to various top universities in the UK like University of Birmingham and Aston University

Particulars	Details (2025)
City Name	Birmingham
Unemployment Rate in Birmingham	14.4% (March 2025 claimant rate, highest among UK core cities)3
Average Annual Income in Birmingham	Median: GBP 34,037 (2023); Average: GBP 28,000–34,000 (latest estimates)
Average Cost of Living in Birmingham	For 1 Person: GBP 1,100–1,300/month For a Family of 4: GBP 3,200–3,400/month (2025 estimate)
Current Indian Population in Birmingham	112,251
Major Industries in Birmingham	Manufacturing, Financial Services, Education, Technology, Retail, Green Economy

Also Read: Documents Required For Applying For UK Student Visa in 2025

9. Nottingham

Nottingham is one of the best cities to live in Britain, known for its historical heritage and innovation in life science and technology, offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. The city has a vibrant Indian community, offers affordable living, and good job prospects that make it an attractive city for families and young professionals alike.

2025’s Key Highlights of Nottingham

Nottingham is well connected by public transport, including trams and buses, making it easy to navigate the city.
QS best cities ranking 2025 ranks Nottingham as the 51st best country in the world.
Near proximity to various top universities in the UK like the University of Nottingham, and Nottingham Trent University.

Particulars	Details (2025)
City Name	Nottingham
Unemployment Rate in Nottingham	3.0% (early 2025, city area); 6.5% (2023, previous year)
Average Income in Nottingham	GBP 28,000–32,000 per year (2025 average)
Average Cost of Living in Nottingham	For 1 Person: GBP 1,100–1,200/month For a Family of 4: GBP 3,000–3,600/month
Current Indian Population in Nottingham	33,674
Major Industries in Nottingham	Life Sciences, Technology, Education, Creative Industries

10. Leeds

Leeds is a dynamic city with a strong economy driven by finance, law, and digital industries. Its affordable housing, excellent education system, and constantly growing Indian community make it a great place for Indians seeking a balance between career growth and quality of life.

2025’s Key Highlights of Leeds

Leeds is a major city in West Yorkshire with a rapidly growing economy.
QS Best Cities Ranking 2025 ranks Leeds as the 53rd best country in the world.
Near proximity to various top universities in the UK like the University of Leeds, and Leeds Beckett University.

Particulars	Details (2025)
City Name	Leeds
Unemployment Rate in Leeds	3.0% (April 2025, lowest in years and below the UK average of 3.8%)
Average Income in Leeds	GBP 31,000–33,000 per year (2025 estimate)
Average Cost of Living in Leeds	For 1 Person: GBP 1,150–1,250/month For a Family of 4: GBP 3,200–3,400/month (2025 estimate)
Current Indian Population in Leeds	45,908
Major Industries in Leeds	Finance, Law, Technology (including FinTech, software, cyber security, and creative industries)

Also Read: Top 10 Highest-Paying Jobs in the UK in Various Industries

11. York

York boasts one of the largest Indian communities in the UK making it a culturally vibrant city to live in the UK for Indians. The city is known for its affordable living, strong sense of community, and for actively celebrating Indian festivals on a grand scale.

2025’s Key highlights of York

York has a population of approximately 201,700 with a population density of 761 people per square mile.
The employment rate in York is as high at 8.6% for people aged 16 to 64, with more males employed than females.
York has close to 9,100 students, who constitute 38.8% of the economically inactive population aged 16 to 64.

Particulars	Details
City Name	York
Unemployment Rate in York	2.4% (2025, below the national average of 3.8%)
Average Income in York	GBP 32,000–33,000 per year (2025 estimate)
Average Cost of Living in York	For 1 Person (student): GBP 1,204–1,524/month Average: GBP 1,614–1,901/month (depending on accommodation)
Current Indian Population in York	Data not specified, but York is a top student city with a diverse international community
Student Population in York	9,100 (students make up 38.8% of the economically inactive population aged 16–64)
Major Industries in York	Education, Tourism, Rail & Transport, Digital & Creative Industries, Financial & Professional Services

How to Identify Best Cities in the UK for Indian Students in 2025 ?

Choosing the right city can significantly enhance the students overall academic journey. Living in a student friendly city in the UK allows Indian students to immerse themselves in a global environment, attend international events, enjoy cultural activities and gain exposure to some of the world's top companies. Together, these aspects shape a truly enriching and holistic student experience. Some of the key factors that make a city favourable for students include:

Factor	Description (2025)
Presence of Top-Ranked Universities	Cities with globally ranked universities (e.g., London, Manchester, Edinburgh) offer a robust academic environment, have access to world-class faculty, and hoards strong research and networking opportunities. This increases both learning and future career prospects.
Affordability	Affordability is essential, especially for international students. Cities like Coventry, Newcastle, and Manchester have lower living costs compared to London, making them attractive for Indian students who want quality education without excessive financial strain. Average monthly costs can range from £810 to £1,410 in these cities, while London averages £1,500 or more.
Entertainment and Lifestyle	Student-friendly cities provide vibrant lifestyles, including nightlife, festivals, shopping, and cultural activities. London, Manchester, and Bristol are known for their diverse entertainment options, while cities like Newcastle and Edinburgh offer a blend of history and modern student life.
Career and Employment Prospects	Cities with powerful job markets and fit to top employers-such as London (global financial hub), Birmingham (manufacturing and finance), and Manchester (media and tech)-offer ample part-time jobs, internships, and post-study work opportunities, making them highly attractive for career-focused students.
Safety and Security	Safety must be top priority for international students. Cities with low crime rates, secure neighborhoods, and welcoming communities (e.g., York, Edinburgh, Coventry) are preferred. These cities are known for being student-friendly and supportive environments.
Student Mix and Diversity	A high proportion of international students, especially from India, reflects a city’s openness and cultural diversity. London, Birmingham, and Manchester have large Indian student populations and active Indian communities, making adaptation easier and fostering a sense of belonging.
City Infrastructure	Reliable public transport, good connectivity, affordable and accessible housing, and essential civic services are crucial. Cities like London, Manchester, and Leeds offer excellent infrastructure, making daily life convenient and student-friendly

Also Read: Cost of Living in the UK for Indian Students & Immigrants

Need Help Choosing the Best City to Live in the UK? Seek GetGIS

While considering moving to the UK, one of the most important factors to consider is the city that offers not only abundant job opportunities, access to or in proximity to quality education institutions but also the welcoming community and safe environment.

Hope our comprehensive list of the 11 best cities in the UK for Indians students & working professionals could help you locate your right fit. For further details and personalized assistance for immigrating to the UK look no further than GetGIS. Our experts are here to ensure all your queries are answered to make you comfortable and confident about your UK immigration.

Limited-time offer : Access a free 10-Day IELTS study plan curated for you

Frequently Asked Questions

Which UK city has the highest number of Indian students?

London is home to the largest Indian population in the UK. Its cultural diversity and vibrant Indian community makes it an ideal destination for Indian students seeking both academic excellence and a connection to their roots

Which is the most affordable city in the UK for Indian students?

Glasgow, located in Scotland, is considered one of the most budget friendly major city in the UK. With a lower cost of living compared to cities like London and Edinburgh and with the presence of prestigious universities like the University of Glasgow the city is a popular choice for international students looking for budget friendly options

Is studying in the UK expensive for Indian students?

The average monthly cost of living for Indian students in London is around GBP 1,300 to GBP 1,400. While in other cities, it ranges between GBP 900 to GBP 1,300. The expenses include accommodation, food, transport and could vary based on individual spending priorities

Do Indian students in the UK have to pay taxes?

Yes. Indian students working part time or during holiday in the UK. Are required to pay income tax and national insurance if their earnings exceed the tax free threshold just like the UK residents

What is the average salary for Indian students after graduation in the UK?

In 2025 the average salary for Indian graduates in the UK (freshers) is expected to range from GBP 22,000 to GBP 45,000 per year, depending on the industry and job role.