Cost of Living in Manchester in 2025: For Students & Expats
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The cost of living in Manchester in 2025 has been rising steadily with average monthly rent for a one bedroom apartment has increased by 7.7% compared to May 2024, while the house prices have also witnessed an increase of 8.2% since April 2024.
Whether you're a prospective student, a young professional considering a move, or simply curious about the expenses involved in living in this vibrant city, we'll help you explore everything from housing and utilities to transportation and entertainment, providing you with valuable insights to help you budget and plan for Manchester life.
What is the Average Cost of Living in Manchester in 2025?
The average living expenses in Manchester are reasonable, making it a preferred choice over London for many professionals and students. Based on the latest data, the average yearly living expenses in the UK, Manchester amount to approximately £24,000 for individuals and £37,000 for households.
- The average cost of living in Manchester for a single person is £1,844 which is INR 1,94,076
- The average cost of living in Manchester for a family of 4 is £3,714 which is INR 3,90,889
Also Read: Best Cities in the UK for Indian Students 2025
Manchester Living Expenses in 2025
Living in Manchester offers a blend of affordability and quality of life, making it an attractive choice for residents. Housing costs, while still significant, are generally lower compared to other major cities like London.
Below we have given a detailed breakdown of overall living expenses in Manchester striking a balance between affordability and quality for those seeking a dynamic urban lifestyle without breaking the bank.
Cost of Living in Manchester with Rent
As you navigate your budget, accommodation will likely emerge as your primary expenditure. Fortunately, Manchester offers a more affordable alternative to London in terms of housing costs. The monthly cost of living in Manchester for rent ranges from £1,100 to £2,000, you'll find a variety of options to suit your budget and preferences.
|
Accommodation |
Cost in GBP |
Cost in INR |
|
Off-Campus Accommodation |
765 |
80,516 |
|
On-Campus Accommodation |
619 |
65,150 |
|
Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre |
1,934 |
2,03,554 |
|
Apartment (furnished accommodation) in an expensive area |
1,408 |
1,48,192 |
|
Apartment (furnished accommodation) outside the city center |
1,069 |
1,12,512 |
Explore: A Detailed Guide to Cost of Studying in UK
Average Utility Bill in Manchester
Manchester's utility costs align closely with the national average, aiding in assessing the city's affordability. Furthermore, given Manchester's fluctuating weather patterns, it's important to consider various factors when evaluating Manchester, UK's cost of living.
|
Utility Expenses |
Cost in GBP |
Cost in INR |
|
Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) |
259 |
27,257 |
|
Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls |
16 |
1,672 |
|
Internet (60 Mbps or More) |
30 |
3,107 |
Cost of Living in Manchester Per Month: Transportation Expenses
Buses are the primary mode of transportation in Manchester. Within Manchester city, the bus services are free and are linked to major public transport hubs and all intermediate stops. All buses are equipped with wheelchair accessibility.
Suggested Read: UK vs Canada: Which is best for Indian Students in 2025?
Ticket prices vary, starting from £1 for children and £2 for adults.
|
Transportation Expenses |
Cost in GBP |
Cost in INR |
|
Trams & Bus tickets |
2.00 |
210.50 |
|
Monthly Pass (Regular Price) |
70.00 |
7,367.50 |
|
Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) |
3.30 |
347.33 |
|
Taxi 1hour Waiting |
18.60 |
1,957.65 |
|
Gasoline (1 liter) |
1.51 |
158.93 |
Monthly Expenses in Manchester: Grocery Costs
Your choices when it comes to food and groceries impact your overall finances. Whether you opt for dining at restaurants or preparing meals at home, these expenses contribute significantly to your total food budget.
|
Grocery items in Manchester |
Cost in GBP |
Cost in INR |
|
Milk (regular), (1 liter) |
1.11 |
116.83 |
|
Fresh White Bread (500 gm) |
1.15 |
121.04 |
|
Rice (1 kg) |
1.52 |
159.98 |
|
Eggs (12) |
2.73 |
287.33 |
|
Chicken (1 Kg) |
5.71 |
600.98 |
|
Fruits (Apple, Banana, Oranges) |
3.00 |
315.75 |
|
Vegetables (Onion, Potato, Lettuce) |
4.00 |
421.00 |
|
Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range) |
8.00 |
842.00 |
Healthcare Costs in Manchester
In the UK, the National Health Service (NHS) provides universal healthcare coverage, spanning cities like Manchester and London. It offers free medical services, including ambulance rides, surgeries, and medications, to all residents.
Foreign residents can access NHS healthcare by obtaining an NHS number, that is required for appointments with a General Practitioner (GP).
|
Type of healthcare |
Cost in GBP |
Cost in INR |
|
Employer-sponsored health insurance |
45 |
4,736 |
|
Non-employer-sponsored health insurance |
76 |
7,983 |
Quick Tips to Save Money in Manchester in the UK
Manchester is undoubtedly a cost-effective city; however, it's still important to be resourceful and seek out ways to manage your finances efficiently. To assist you in navigating the average living cost in Manchester, we've compiled some practical tips to help you save money.
Here's how you can get started
- Utilize public transportation or consider cycling/walking
- Take advantage of free or low-cost entertainment options in the city
- Seek out student discounts for various services and attractions
- Pack your lunch instead of buying food on the go
- Keep track of your expenses and identify areas for saving with budgeting apps
- Shop smart by comparing prices and looking for deals online
- Consider renting a room in a shared accommodation to reduce housing costs
Also Read: UK Work Visa for Indians in 2025
Budget Your Cost of Living in Manchester with GetGIS
As we conclude our guide to the cost of living in Manchester for 2025, it's clear that the city offers a diverse and vibrant lifestyle at an affordable price. From housing and utilities to transportation and entertainment, we've covered all the essential aspects to help you budget and plan your life in Manchester.
Additionally, for those considering studying abroad, obtaining permanent residency, or seeking job opportunities, GetGIS offers a tech-based platform to streamline the process. With our expertise in Immigration services, we're here to support you every step of the way.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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