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Aberdeen, known as the “Granite City,” offers a unique blend of rich history and modern living, making it an attractive destination for students and professionals alike. As the third largest city in Scotland, it possesses a bright student community, particularly due to its esteemed institutions like the University of Aberdeen and Robert Gordon University. Understanding the cost of living in Aberdeen is essential for anyone considering a move or study here. Generally, living expenses range from £600 to £900/INR 64,446 – ₹96,669 per month, which includes accommodation, food, transportation, and leisure activities.
Compared to larger cities like London and Edinburgh, Aberdeen is often considered more affordable, with costs being approximately 19.8% lower than London. This affordability, combined with the city’s welcoming atmosphere and stunning coastal landscapes, makes Aberdeen an appealing choice for those looking to balance quality education with a reasonable cost of living.
Cost Of Living Calculator
| Description | Cost (£) |
|---|---|
| Total Cost of Accommodation | 100 |
| Total Cost of Transport | 50 |
| Total Cost of Utilities | 30 |
| Total Cost of Food | 70 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 250 |
Aberdeen is home to more than 20,000 students. Is Aberdeen a good place to live? Yes! Students are drawn to this coastal town every year, where there are enough prospects for young people who are planning to settle their careers. The University of Aberdeen (3rd) and The Robert Gordon University (12th) are in the top 15 of Scotland’s best universities, according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings for 2020. How much does it cost to stay in Aberdeen? The average cost of living in Aberdeen for students ranges between £971 and £1,283 per month. Here is a detailed breakdown of the living costs for international students in Aberdeen. When considering the cost of living in Aberdeen, Students should budget approximately £55 per week for personal expenses like clothes, travel, sports, and social activities. Allocate around £50-60 per week for essential items such as food and toiletries. Additionally, for academic necessities like books and stationery, expect to spend up to £500 over the academic year.
What Is The Cost Of Living In Aberdeen?
Aberdeen, often celebrated for its stunning coastal scenery and vibrant student life, offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other UK cities. For students and young professionals, understanding the financial landscape is crucial for planning a comfortable lifestyle. When it comes to the cost of living in Aberdeen, a student can expect to spend between £800 and £1,200 per month (approximately ₹85,000 to ₹1,28,000). This budget typically covers rent, utilities, groceries, and leisure activities. Renting a room in shared accommodation usually costs around £400 to £600 (about ₹42,500 to ₹64,500), making it a more affordable option for students. Weekly grocery bills can range from £30 to £50 (roughly ₹3,200 to ₹5,400), depending on dietary preferences and shopping habits.
| Particulars | Expenses (Per Month) |
| Off-Campus Accommodation | £553 |
| On-Campus Accommodation | £680 |
| Transportation | £76 |
| Food | £359 |
| Entertainment | £30 |
| Groceries | £112 |
| Clothes | £70 |
| Total Cost of Living with Off-Campus Accommodation | £1,200 |
| Total Cost of Living with On-Campus Accommodation | £1,327 |
Note: The costs mentioned above may fluctuate and are subject to change.
Below is a breakdown of the cost of living in Aberdeen for Indian Students
The living costs in Aberdeen are inclusive of various expenses including food, accommodation, travel and many others that are beyond the tuition fees. As an Indian student pursuing your education in Aberdeen, your average monthly expenses can range between INR 1,40,000 – 1,56,000 which covers a wide assortment of costs. Here is a representation of the average total expense that Indian students will have to incur while pursuing their studies in Aberdeen:
| Expense | Monthly Cost (INR) |
| Off-Campus Accommodation | 58,182 |
| On Campus Accommodation | 71,537 |
| Transportation | 7,995 |
| Food | 37,766 |
| Entertainment | 3,157 |
| Groceries | 11,782 |
| Clothes | 7,364 |
| Total Cost of Living with Off Campus Accommodation (Per month) | 126,243 |
| Total Cost of Living with On Campus Accommodation (Per month) | 139,604 |
Note: The costs mentioned above may fluctuate and are subject to change.
Cost Of Tuition Fees
Here’s an overview of the cost of tuition for master’s programmes at the University of Aberdeen, one of Scotland’s leading institutions. The university offers a variety of postgraduate courses with tuition fees that vary based on the programme. Understanding these costs is essential for prospective students planning their education budget. Below is a table summarising the tuition fees for some popular master’s programmes:
| Programme | Tuition Fees (£) |
| Master of Business Administration (MBA) | 23,500 |
| MSc in International Business Management | 21,500 |
| MSc in Economics | 21,500 |
| MSc in Finance | 15,900 |
| MSc in Data Science | 20,700 |
| MSc in Biomedical Sciences | 20,700 |
| MSc in Computer Science | 20,700 |
| MSc in Business Management & Information Systems | 20,700 |
Cost Of Student Accommodation In Aberdeen
The prices of student accommodation in Aberdeen can vary depending on factors such as location, amenities, and the type of housing. Purpose-built student accommodations can range from approximately £97 to £200 per week depending on the property type.
| Aberdeen Accommodation | |||
| Student Accommodation | Private Accommodation | University Accommodation | |
| Cost | 97-200 GBP/Per Week | 249 GBP/Per Week + Utility bills | 150 GBP/Per week |
| Safety | These are gated communities with utmost safety and all facilities included like CCTV, biometric entrance, etc. | Depends on the landlord and area | These are on the university campus with all the safety precautions |
| Utility Bills | Included | Not Included | Included |
| Home Insurance | Included in rent | 140 GBP per year | Included in rent |
| Proximity University | Walking distance to campus | Depends on area | Inside/nearby Universities |
| Other Amenities | Mostly all amenities are included like Wi-Fi, microwave, electric stove, fridge etc. | Based on landlord/location | Mostly all amenities are included like Wi-Fi, microwave, electric stove, fridge, etc. |
Cost Of Transport
Understanding the cost of transportation in Aberdeen is essential for budgeting your daily expenses, especially for students and newcomers to the city. Aberdeen offers a range of public transport options, including buses and taxis, making it relatively easy to get around. However, prices have seen some fluctuations recently, reflecting broader economic trends.
| Transportation Item | Price Range (£) | Price Range (INR) |
| One-way Ticket (Local Transport) | 2 – 6 | 214 – 642 |
| Monthly Pass (Regular Price) | 65 – 217 | 6,955 – 23,206 |
| Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) | 3 – 5 | 321 – 535 |
| Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff) | 1 – 2 | 107 – 214 |
Cost of Food and Groceries
Aberdeen’s food scene is a delightful blend of traditional Scottish flavours and contemporary culinary innovations, making it a haven for food lovers. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal or an elegant dining experience, the city offers a variety of options to satisfy your cravings. With charming eateries like The Silver Darling offering stunning views alongside exquisite seafood and bustling street food markets providing diverse flavours, Aberdeen truly caters to every palate and budget.
When it comes to managing your budget while living in Aberdeen, understanding the cost of groceries is essential. The city offers a variety of supermarkets, including Tesco, Morrisons, and Lidl, where you can find a range of food items at competitive prices. On average, a single person can expect to spend around £45 to £55/ INR 4,833.45 – ₹5,985 per week on groceries. Below is a breakdown of common grocery items and their prices in Aberdeen, providing a helpful guide for your shopping needs:
| Grocery Item | Price Range (£) | Price Range (INR) |
| Milk (regular), (1 litre) | 1 – 2 | 107 – 214 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | 1 – 2 | 107 – 214 |
| Rice (white), (1kg) | 1 – 5 | 107 – 535 |
| Eggs (regular) (12) | 2 – 3 | 214 – 321 |
| Local Cheese (1kg) | 4 – 11 | 428 – 1,176 |
| Chicken Fillets (1kg) | 4 – 12 | 428 – 1,283 |
| Beef Round (1kg) (or Equivalent Back Leg Red Meat) | 5 – 20 | 535 – 2,142 |
| Apples (1kg) | 1 – 3 | 107 – 321 |
| Banana (1kg) | 1 – 3 | 107 – 321 |
| Oranges (1kg) | 1 – 7 | 107 – 750 |
| Tomato (1kg) | 2 – 4 | 214 – 428 |
| Potato (1kg) | 1 – 2 | 107 – 214 |
| Onion (1kg) | 1 – 2 | 107 – 214 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | 1 – 1 | 107 |
| Water (1.5 liter bottle) | 1 – 2 | 107 – 214 |
| Restaurants | Price Range (£) | Range (INR) |
| Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant | 10 – 30 | 1,067.00 – ₹3,201 |
| Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course | 40 – 90 | 4,278.00 – ₹9,630 |
| McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal) | 6 – 8 | 642.60 – ₹854 |
Cost Of Leisure and Fitness In Aberdeen
The city offers a range of recreational facilities, from fitness clubs to sports courts and entertainment venues. Students have a range of options when it comes to exploring and experimenting with activities that help them stay fit and happy, The table below lists the range students can expect to pay when utilising these resources.
| Leisure and Fitness Item | Price Range (£) | Price Range (INR) |
| Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult | 28 – 70 | 3,000 – 7,485 |
| Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour on Weekend) | 6 – 10 | 642 – 1,067 |
| Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat | 6 – 13 | 642 – 1,390 |
Cost Of Utilities:
When budgeting to live in Aberdeen, it’s essential to consider the cost of utilities, which can significantly impact your monthly expenses. Utilities typically include essential services such as electricity, heating, water, and internet access.
| Utility Item | Price Range (£) | Price Range (INR) |
| Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 85m² Apartment | 200 – 470 | 21,420 – 50,209 |
| Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data | 10 – 45 | 1,071 – 4,818 |
| Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | 24 – 45 | 2,570 – 4,818 |
Is Aberdeen Expensive To Live For Students?
While Aberdeen offers a bustling student life and top-notch educational institutions, the cost of living can be a significant consideration for those on a tight budget. Fortunately, the city provides various affordable options for students. Additionally, many scholarships offer financial assistance for students to cover their educational expenses which contribute to a major chunk of the costs. Thus, with the right planning, the living costs as a student in Aberdeen can be managed well.
Factors Influencing Cost Of Living In Aberdeen
For students, the cost of living is influenced by a variety of factors specific to their lifestyle and needs. Here are some key factors that can impact the cost of living for students in Aberdeen:
- Accommodation
- Transportation
- Food & Groceries
- Entertainment & Leisure
- Health care expenses
- Study supplies
- Miscellaneous costs
How To Save Money As A Student In Aberdeen?
Saving money as a student in Aberdeen can seem to be challenging due to the higher living costs and several associated expenses. However, with some careful planning and mindful spending habits, there can certainly be scope for savings. Here are some helpful and practical tips:
- Look for purpose-built student accommodations as they are inclusive of the utility bills in the property pricing which makes them cost-effective and convenient.
- Travel through public transportation to reach your university campus and explore areas within and around the city.
- Leverage your university library resources such as textbooks and online study materials.
- Always ask for student discounts and deals at restaurants, retail outlets and gym memberships.
- Opt for home-cooked meals instead of dining out frequently as a healthy swap while also saving money.
Aberdeen: Earn £200 Cashback on Your Student Accommodation!
Minimum Wage In Aberdeen Vs Other Places
In Aberdeen, as in the rest of the UK, the government sets the minimum wage, which varies based on age and employment status. As of April 2024, the National Living Wage for workers aged 21 and over is £11.44/INR 1,226 per hour. For younger workers, the rates are lower, with those aged 18 to 20 earning £8.60/INR 923 and apprentices or those under 18 receiving £6.40/INR 687.
When comparing Aberdeen’s minimum wage to other regions, it generally aligns with national standards, as these rates are applicable across the UK. However, it’s important to consider the cost of living in different areas, which can affect how far a minimum wage salary stretches. For instance, while the minimum wage remains consistent, cities like London have a higher cost of living than Aberdeen, making it more challenging for workers to meet their daily expenses at the same wage.
Visa Costs For International Students
When considering studying in the UK, understanding the visa costs for international students is crucial for budgeting. As of July 2024, the application fee for a student visa has increased to £490/INR 52,608, reflecting a significant rise from previous years. This fee applies to both main applicants and dependents. Additionally, students must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which allows access to the National Health Service (NHS) during their stay. The IHS is charged £776/INR 83,295 per year for the duration of the visa, with a pro-rated fee for shorter courses.
Aberdeen is recognized as one of the most affordable places for student rentals in Scotland, with private accommodation averaging around £96 per week (about ₹10,300), significantly lower than in cities like Edinburgh or Glasgow. This affordability allows students to focus more on their studies and enjoy the vibrant culture and community that Aberdeen offers. While there are challenges, such as potential increases in rental prices due to rising demand, the supportive environment and rich experiences available make Aberdeen a fantastic choice for students looking to thrive both academically and socially. With UniAcco and our experts, you can understand much more about this city, as well as land excellent stay options that fit your budget.
Working In The United Kingdom
International students who study for any longer than 6 months are allowed to work for 20 hours a week throughout the term, but this can be extended during the holiday season. The Students’ Association will help you find part-time jobs and provide other advice related to employment. Please notice that this must not be seen as a way to support your funding for the study. Students coming to study for just one semester (less than 6 months) are not generally permitted to work.
FAQs
- Is Aberdeen a good place to live?
Aberdeen is considered a great place to live, offering a high quality of life with affordable housing and a strong sense of community. The city boasts beautiful natural surroundings, a robust economy, and excellent educational institutions, making it an attractive choice for residents.
2. How much does it cost to live in Aberdeen?
The cost of living in Aberdeen varies depending on individual lifestyle choices, but on average, a single person can expect monthly expenses to be around £1,594/INR 171,135. These estimates cover essentials such as accommodation, food, utilities, and transportation, making Aberdeen a relatively affordable option compared to other UK cities.
3. How reliable are the prices in Aberdeen UK?
The reliability of prices in Aberdeen can vary, with some estimates being more dependable than others. Recent studies suggest that Aberdeen is now considered one of the most affordable cities in the UK, with residents enjoying a high disposable income relative to their living costs.
4. Is Aberdeen less expensive than New York?
Yes, Aberdeen is significantly less expensive than New York. The average cost of living in Aberdeen is generally lower, with housing and daily expenses much more affordable than in New York City. For instance, while the average rent in Aberdeen is around £834/INR 89,648 per month, rents in New York can exceed £3,000/INR 322,230, highlighting a substantial difference in living costs.
5. How much does education cost in Aberdeen?
Education costs in Aberdeen can vary significantly depending on the institution and programme of study. For international students, tuition fees at the University of Aberdeen typically range from £19,000 to £26,000/INR 2,037,790 – ₹2,794,660 per year for master’s programmes.
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