Cost Of Living In Bristol For Students [Updated Prices 2023-24]

Moving to a new country and planning your budget in compliance with the existing rates can take a significant amount of time. And this, without a doubt, necessitates extensive research to ensure that your planning is on track. As we all know, the UK attracts several overseas students on a yearly basis for their higher education. Bristol is one of the highest-rated student cities in the UK, home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities as well as some of the most popular attractions in the United Kingdom. Understanding the cost of living in Bristol as an international student is an essential step when planning to migrate to the city.

Bristol is a city that offers students a high-quality life at a relatively low cost. The average cost of living in Bristol for international students ranges between £1,166 and £1,490 per month. There are several factors such as your student accommodation, food, transportation, clothing and more. Before we dive into each of these expenses, let’s take a look at Bristol as a student city.

About Bristol As A City

Bristol is known for its independent spirit, which extends to its storefronts. There are marketplaces with unique products that you won’t find elsewhere, along with captivating antique shops and boutiques. Bristol has a large and diverse student population and was titled the happiest city in the United Kingdom in 2019, so newbies will feel right at home in the city.

Bristol is among England’s most highly popular study destinations, with over 50,000 international students arriving each year. Bristol is home to a variety of prestigious universities, including the University of Bristol, University of Law, City of Bristol College, Bower Ashton UWE (City Campus), BIMM Bristol, and the University of West of England.

Estimated Cost Of Living In Bristol

Bristol, England’s largest city in the southwest, is a lively, cosmopolitan metropolis with a lot to offer students. Outside of London, it is one of the largest media hubs in the UK, and the city’s large number of creative firms means that there is a vibrant community of painters, designers, photographers, authors, gamers, and others. If you’re planning to relocate to the city, we have rough estimates of the cost of living in Bristol –

Particulars	Expenses (Per Month)
Off-Campus Accommodation	£416
On-Campus Accommodation	£740
Transportation	£74
Food	£290
Utilities	£200
Entertainment	£34
Groceries	£200
Clothes	£26
Total Cost of Living with Off-Campus Accommodation	£1,166
Total Cost of Living with On-Campus Accommodation	£1,490

Student Accommodation In Bristol

Bristol has a wide range of neighbourhoods, from the ‘coolest’ to the ‘hippest.’ Bristol is clearly one of the most sought-after destinations to live in the UK. The majority of student housing in Bristol is inclusive of all rates and provides pleasant, stylish, yet affordable en-suites, studios, and shared apartments. You can book your student accommodation in Bristol through UniAcco if you’re seeking budget-friendly houses located near the top universities. Here’s a list of a few of the popular student housing alternatives you should consider –

• Zed Alley
• Dean Street Works
• Hotwells House

Transportation

Bristol is strategically connected to every major public transportation system, making it easily accessible and within walking distance of any university and the city’s top attractions. Bristol students have a number of transportation alternatives, including the world-famous Bristol railway station, buses, and pleasant taxis. So you can reduce your cost of living in Bristol by carefully choosing your means of transportation.

Food

Students and staff can eat at the university’s catered halls throughout their three terms. If you opt to live in a private apartment, you may budget your food expenses and schedule your meals accordingly.

Utilities

Utilities are an unavoidable aspect when estimating the cost of living in Bristol for students. Your utility bills depend on the accommodation type, and its terms and conditions. Some properties include all the utility bills in the rent so students need not make a separate payment. On the other hand, bills are charged separately for other residences. 

Books & Printing

While estimating your living cost in Bristol, you will notice several expenses pertaining to sudden printouts, photocopies, books, journals, and more. They come in handy when preparing for exams or submitting paperwork.

Miscellaneous

If you have any extra interests or live a costly lifestyle, you’ll need to budget for them since that could impact your cost of living in Bristol. You should also set aside money for –

• Mobile phone bills
• Clothes & Shoes
• Travel & Touring
• Sports
• Entertainment
• Socialising

FAQs

1. Is it expensive to live in Bristol?

Compared to other UK cities, Bristol can be expensive, but it is often less expensive than London.  Living in Bristol can be an exciting experience for students, offering a combination of top-notch universities, a diversified cultural scene, and a friendly community. 

2. What salary do you need to live in Bristol?

According to Bristol Post, Bristol’s cost of living varies depending on lifestyle, family size, and location within the city, but a general range is between £30,000 and £33,737 a year.

3. What is the Cost of food in Bristol?

Food prices can also vary depending on whether you dine out or cook your meals at home. The monthly cost of food may range between £200- £290 in Bristol.

4. Is Bristol expensive to rent?

Bristol’s rental cost is fairly priced compared to other cities in England. The monthly on-campus accommodation rent ranges between £700 to £740, and off-campus accommodation rental costs range from £400 to £416 per month.

5. What’s Bristol famous for?

Bristol is well-known for its rich maritime heritage, the magnificent suspension bridge created by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, and its vibrant street art scene, which includes pieces by international artist Banksy.

Thank you for reading this blog on the Cost of living in Bristol. If you’d like to read more, here are some blogs that might be of interest to you –

• Some Of The Must-visit Cafes In Bristol
• Places To Visit In Bristol
• The Top Universities In Bristol UK

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