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Bradford, a city in West Yorkshire, offers an affordable cost of living compared to many other UK cities, making it an attractive destination for students and families. With a rich cultural heritage and a diverse community, Bradford provides a balanced lifestyle that combines urban living with access to green spaces and amenities. Understanding the cost of living in Bradford is crucial for prospective residents, particularly students who need to budget for accommodation, food, transportation, and leisure activities. This guide will explore the various aspects of living costs in Bradford, helping you navigate your financial planning effectively.
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 |
Average Living Expenses In Bradford: An Overview
Bradford, located in West Yorkshire, is known for its rich cultural heritage and affordable living costs compared to other UK cities. As students and families consider moving to or residing in Bradford, understanding the average living expenses is crucial for effective budgeting. This overview provides a detailed breakdown of the typical living costs in Bradford, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other essential expenses.
Cost of Living Summary
The average cost of living in Bradford is approximately £1,100 to £2,200 per month for an individual, depending on lifestyle choices and accommodation type. For families, the total monthly expenses can range around £3,919, which includes rent and utilities. Below is a summary of key living expenses:
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (Approx.) |
| On-Campus Accommodation | £1,670 |
| Off-Campus Accommodation | £1,309 |
| Total (including rent) | £340 |
| Without rent | £790 |
| Rent & Utilities | £880 |
| Food | £523 |
| Transportation | £113 |
| Entertainment | £37 |
| Clothing | £95 |
Cost Of Groceries In Bradford
The cost of groceries in Bradford is generally affordable, making it accessible for residents and students. The city offers a variety of options for purchasing food, from local markets to supermarkets, allowing shoppers to find competitive prices on essential items. Below is a summary of average grocery prices in Bradford, highlighting the costs of common food items:
| Grocery Item | Price Range (£) |
| Milk (regular, 1 litre) | 1 – 2 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | 1 – 2 |
| Rice (white, 1kg) | 1 – 5 |
| Eggs (regular, 12) | 2 – 4 |
| Local Cheese (1kg) | 3.50 – 10 |
| Chicken Fillets (1kg) | 3 – 8 |
| Beef Round (1kg) | 7 – 19 |
| Apples (1kg) | 1 – 4 |
| Banana (1kg) | 1 – 2 |
| Oranges (1kg) | 1 – 3 |
| Tomato (1kg) | 1 – 4 |
| Potato (1kg) | 0.50 – 2 |
| Onion (1kg) | 1 – 2 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | 1 – 1 |
Cost Of Transportation
The cost of transportation in Bradford is generally affordable, making it accessible for residents and students who rely on public transport for their daily commutes. The city boasts a well-connected network of buses and taxis, providing convenient options for getting around. Below is a summary of average transportation costs in Bradford, highlighting the prices for common modes of transport:
| Transportation Item | Price Range (£) |
| One-way Ticket (Local Transport) | 2 – 4 |
| Monthly Pass (Regular Price) | 61 – 87 |
| Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) | 2 – 3 |
| Taxi per km (Normal Tariff) | 1 – 1 |
Cost Of Entertainment and Leisure In Bradford
The cost of entertainment and leisure in Bradford is generally affordable, providing residents and students with various options for staying active and enjoying their free time. The city offers numerous facilities for sports and recreational activities, allowing individuals to engage in fitness and leisure pursuits without straining their budgets. Below is a summary of average costs associated with entertainment and leisure activities in Bradford:
| Entertainment and Leisure Item | Price Range (£) |
| Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult | 17.99 – 56 |
| Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour on Weekend) | 8 – 15 |
| Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat | 5.99 – 13 |
Cost Of Education In Bradford
Bradford is home to several reputable educational institutions, offering a range of master’s programmes that attract both domestic and international students. The cost of education in Bradford is generally more affordable than in larger UK cities, making it an appealing choice for those seeking quality education without the high price tag. Tuition fees for postgraduate programmes typically range from £20,000 to £23,000 per year, depending on the course and university. Below is a table highlighting some universities in Bradford with notable master’s programmes, along with their respective tuition fees:
| University | Master’s Programme | Tuition Fees (£) |
| University of Bradford | Various Master’s Programmes | 20,000 – 22,180 |
| University of Huddersfield | MBA, MSc in Engineering | 16,999 – 19,860 |
| University of Salford | MSc in Business Management | 13,860 – 20,280 |
| University of Leeds | MSc in Data Science | 24,500 |
| University of York | MSc in Environmental Science | 22,850 |
Cost Of Utilities In Bradford
The cost of utilities in Bradford is generally reasonable, providing residents with essential services at competitive rates. Monthly utility expenses typically include electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage collection, which can vary based on the size of the apartment and individual usage. Understanding these costs is crucial for budgeting effectively. Below is a summary of average utility prices in Bradford:
| Utility Item | Average Price (£) | Price Range (£) |
| Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 85m² Apartment | 215 | 150 – 340 |
| Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data | 14 | 10 – 25 |
| Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | 32 | 25 – 40 |
Minimum Wage In Bradford Vs Other Places
The minimum wage in Bradford aligns with the national standards set by the UK government, which were set to increase on April 1, 2025. The new rates are:
- National Living Wage (21 and over): £11.44 per hour
- 18-20-Year-Old Rate: £8.60 per hour
- 16-17 Year Old Rate: £6.40 per hour
- Apprentice Rate: £6.40 per hour
These rates reflect a significant increase aimed at improving living standards for workers across the UK, including Bradford. Compared to other regions, Bradford’s minimum wage remains consistent with national rates, ensuring that workers receive fair compensation regardless of location. This adjustment is part of a broader effort to address the rising cost of living and support economic stability for individuals and families throughout the country.
Visa Costs For International Students
The costs associated with obtaining a visa for international students in the UK have seen significant adjustments recently. As of July 1, 2025, the application fee for a student visa has increased to £490, reflecting a 35% rise from previous rates. This fee applies to both main applicants and child students. Additionally, students must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which allows access to the National Health Service (NHS) during their stay in the UK. The IHS is charged £776 per year, with a proportionate fee for courses lasting less than a year.
Here’s a summary of the key visa costs for international students:
| Visa Type | Application Fee (£) | Immigration Health Surcharge (Annual) (£) |
| Student Visa (Main Applicant and Dependants) | 490 | 776 |
| Child Student | 490 | 776 |
| Short-term Student Visa (up to 11 months) | 200 | N/A |
These fees are critical for prospective international students to consider when planning their education in the UK, as they contribute significantly to the overall cost of studying abroad. Understanding these financial requirements will help students budget effectively and ensure compliance with UK immigration regulations.
FAQs
Is it expensive to live in Bradford?
Yes, living in Bradford is relatively affordable compared to many other UK cities. The average monthly cost of living is around £1,670, which places it in the top 32% of the most expensive cities globally, but it remains lower than cities like London and Manchester.
How much do international students spend on living in Bradford?
International students in Bradford typically spend around £650 per month on living expenses, excluding tuition fees. This includes costs for accommodation, food, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses, making Bradford one of the more affordable cities for students in the UK. Accommodation costs can range from £450 to £550 per month, depending on the type of housing chosen.
Is Bradford a good place to live in the UK?
Bradford can be considered a good place to live in the UK, offering an above-average livability rating due to its affordable cost of living, cultural diversity, and strong community spirit.
Is Bradford cheaper than Leeds?
Yes, Bradford is generally cheaper than Leeds. Living costs in Bradford are lower, with average monthly expenses around £1,670, compared to Leeds, where costs are higher due to increased accommodation and living expenses.
How much do Indian students earn in the UK?
Indian students in the UK typically earn between £20,000 and £30,000 annually after graduation, depending on their field and job market conditions. Additionally, part-time jobs during studies can yield around £1,200 to £2,500 per month.
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