Cost of Living Manchester 2025: Rent, Utilities & More

Average Monthly Cost of Living in Manchester

The average monthly cost of living Manchester for a single person, excluding rent, is around $851. However, this amount can vary depending on individual spending habits and location within the city. Below is an estimated monthly breakdown of living expenses in Manchester for 2025: 

This was the estimated average monthly cost of living in Manchester table. 

Why Choose Manchester?

Manchester is a compelling choice for many due to its vibrant culture, growing economy, diverse opportunities, and comparatively affordable cost of living. Here is a breakdown of the key reasons why this city stands out:

• High Livability:Manchester is consistently ranked as a highly livable city in the UK and globally, offering a dynamic environment that blends historical significance with modern appeal.
• Vibrant Nightlife and Food Scene: The city boasts a lively nightlife and a renowned food scene, with options ranging from Michelin-starred restaurants to cosy pubs and street food markets.
• Affordable Living:Compared to other cost of living UK cities, Manchester provides a more affordable lifestyle, particularly concerning housing and rentals. Renting a one-bedroom flat here is significantly cheaper than in London.
• Expanding Economy: The city's economy is growing, particularly in sectors such as media, technology, and healthcare, offering a wide range of employment prospects.
• Prestigious Universities:Manchester is home to reputable universities like the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University, known for their strong academic reputations and high graduate retention rates.
• Efficient Public Transport:The city’s integrated public transport network, which includes trams, buses, and trains, operates frequently and at reasonable costs.

Manchester offers a unique blend of cultural experiences, career advancement opportunities, and a comfortable lifestyle, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a dynamic and fulfilling life in the UK.

Key Factors Affecting the Cost of Living in Manchester

While Manchester is generally considered more affordable than London, the cost of living is influenced by several factors that can significantly impact resident's budgets:

1. Housing Costs

Housing costs are a primary driver of the cost of living Manchester. Key factors influencing these expenses include:

• Strong demand, limited housing supply (especially in central areas like Deansgate, Spinningfields, and the Northern Quarter), and economic pressures such as inflation and interest rates are driving up rental costs. For example, average rents for student accommodation Manchester were estimated at £959 for a one-bedroom, £1,180 for a two-bedroom, and £1,364 for a three-bedroom property in May 2025.
• Renting in the city centre or near universities generally costs more than in suburban areas.
• High mortgage rates are leading more people to rent, further increasing competition and pushing up rental prices.
• Manchester is experiencing increased demand for student accommodationin UK, but the supply of rental properties is not keeping pace, especially in desirable areas.

2. Utility Bills

Utility bills, including electricity, gas, water, and internet costs, significantly contribute to the Manchester cost of living, look below for breakdown:

• For a one-bedroom apartment in Manchester, average utility bills are estimated to be between £100 and £150 monthly in 2025.
• The cost of utilities can vary depending on the size of the property and energy consumption.

3. Food and Groceries

Food costs are another notable factor in the Manchester cost of living student. Here is a detailed breakdown:

• For students, average monthly grocery expenses are estimated to be between £150 and £250 in 2025.
• Eating out can range from £5 to £15 per meal depending on the establishment.
• The living expenses index indicates that food and non-alcoholic beverage prices rose by 4.4% in the 12 months leading up to May 2025.

4. Transportation

Getting around Manchester also adds to the cost of living:

• Public transport, including buses and trams, is relatively affordable, with a monthly pass typically costing between £60 and £80.
• Cycling is a cheaper alternative, and student discounts are available for transportation.

5. Economic Factors

Broader economic conditions also play a role in shaping the cost of living:

• Inflation and interest rates impact landlords' operational costs and mortgage rates, which can indirectly affect rental prices.
• The job market and average salaries influence the disposable income individuals have to cover their expenses.
• Government interventions related to housing supply and affordability can also impact the cost of living in the long term.

Conclusion

In summary, it is clear that Manchester offers a diverse and vibrant lifestyle at affordable prices. From housing and utilities to transportation and entertainment, we have covered all the essential aspects to help you budget and plan your life in this city. Moreover, if you are considering studying abroad, obtaining permanent residency, or seeking job opportunities, Gradding.com offers a tech-based platform to streamline the process. Our experts will support you every step of the way.

FAQs

1. Is Manchester Cheap to Live In?

Yes, cost of living Manchester is generally considered an affordable to live, especially compared to other major UK cities like London.

2. How Much Is Monthly Rent in Manchester?

The average rent in Manchester varies depending on the type of property and its location. Generally, rents range from £1,205 to £1,310. For example, the average rent for a one-bedroom flat is around £1,175, while a three-bedroom property costs about £1,750. Additionally, rental fees tend to be higher in the city centre compared to areas outside of it.

3. Is Manchester More Affordable Than London?

Yes, Manchester is typically more affordable than London, especially regarding housing costs. Although London offers higher salaries, the overall cost of living, including rent, is significantly lower in Manchester.

4. How Much Should a Student Budget Per Month?

Students should budget based on their individual needs, location, and spending habits. As a general guideline, a monthly budget for a student in the UK could range from £1,315 to over £2,500, excluding tuition fees. This variation depends on location and lifestyle. A common budgeting strategy is the 50/20/30 rule, which allocates 50% of income to needs, 20% to savings, and 30% to wants.

5. What's the Average Salary in Manchester?

The average salary in Manchester varies based on different sources and specific data used. However, reports indicate that the average wage for full-time employees in Manchester is between £37,175 and £46,400.