Cost of Living in Derby for Students 2025/26

Derby is a city in Derbyshire, England, that also serves as a unified authority region. It has a history stretching over two millennia, making it one of the world’s oldest cities. Derby is surrounded by well-connected cities including Nottingham, Loughborough, and Leicester. Moreover, overseas students make up a significant portion of the city’s population. As one of England’s most popular foreign education destinations, it receives over 100,000 international students each year. So, if you’re wondering what the cost of living in Derby is for international students, this article has all the data you need.

The city of Derby has a large international student population so migrating to the city as a newcomer is easy. The Derby living costs for international students will depend on your lifestyle, but it’s important to remember that you’re not alone: there are thousands of other international students in this city! The average cost of living in Derby for students ranges between £1,038 to £1,282 per month. There are several factors that contribute to your overall living expenditures and they include housing, food, transportation, clothing, entertainment, and more. It is essential to keep track of your expenses and see what impacts your budget the most, and we’ve written this article to help you plan well.

Derby Student Living Costs: Budget £800-£1,000/month (excluding tuition), covering rent (£300-£550), food (£354), and transport (£56). Remember, your actual expenses may vary based on your lifestyle.

About Derby As A Student City

Derby is one of the most reasonable student destinations in the UK, and it is home to the University of Derby, which has received a gold rating from the Teaching Excellence Framework. The university, which is located in the heart of the UK, has around 20,000 students, many of whom chose Derby because of its emphasis on “real-world learning,” in which the university collaborates closely with companies to ensure that you get the best possible start in your future career.

What Is The Cost Of Living In Derby?

Derby has the benefit of being in the heart of the United Kingdom, making travel to other major cities a breeze. It’s fantastic to be able to move around the country as fast and conveniently as possible as an international student. On average, your cost of living in Derby will largely be impacted by your lifestyle and your choices. However, the approximate living costs in Derby can range from £1,000 to £1,500 or more depending on your budget and spending habits. Let’s look at the average cost of living in Derby.

Your expenses will majorly include the following –

• Accommodation
• Travel
• Food 
• Mobile Phone
• Leisure/Entertainment
• Study Costs
• Laundry
• Household Bills
• Miscellaneous

The table below shows the estimated costs that you will incur on a monthly basis in Derby –

Below Is a Breakdown of the Cost of Living in the Derby for Indian Students

*The accommodation costs are dynamic in nature and are based on property availability

Student Housing In Derby

Derby was a market town in the 18th century before booming during the Industrial Revolution owing to its cotton and silk weaving enterprises. It was voted the 23rd best place to live in the UK in 2015. On the border between the Midlands and the North of England, it is a well-connected commuter centre. Lansdale, The Croft, Friar Gate, Iron Gate, and Wardwick are the most preferred areas to stay in Derby. These areas are more reasonably priced making the cost of living in Derby budget-friendly.

Popular student accommodation in Derby provided by UniAcco in Derby for international students to check out would include –

• Abbey Lodge Student Village
• The Croft
• Roman House
• Iron Gate

Transportation

Derby is well-connected to all main modes of transportation and is within walking distance of all the prominent universities. Students may get around Derby using a number of modes of travel, including the world-famous Derby ferries, designated bicycle lanes, and buses.

The average cost of transport in Derby is £56. From November 1st, 2023, students and young people in Derby and Derbyshire can access reduced bus fares at just £1.50 per single journey with b_line card-accepted operators, enhancing affordable travel in and around the city.

Groceries

Derby offers a large range of local supermarkets to suit all budgets, so your monthly shopping bill won’t be too hefty. Every week, the local supermarkets all have wonderful deals and give excellent value for money. Students spend about £40 on groceries every ten days, which is a huge saving when compared to the expenses in other UK cities.

Derby student food costs depend heavily on habits. Eating out can cost £10-25 per meal, while groceries average £200/month. Food expenses for Indian students vary based on individual habits, with the average monthly food cost typically around ₹37,285. Ultimately, your food budget is determined by your own eating preferences and spending habits.

Socialising

For students, the city centre is a big magnet for socialising during their free time or on weekends. It has a busy nightlife with events practically all of the time, thanks to its numerous bars and clubs. You may also take advantage of student discounts in most places, lowering your cost of living in Derby as a student.

Thank you for reading this blog on The Cost Of Living In Derby. If you’d like to read more, here are some blogs that might be of interest to you –

• University Of Derby: A Complete Uni Guide
• How To Study In The UK Without IELTS
• 8 Things To Do In Derby, You Have Missed Out On
• Cost of Living in Nottingham