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Loughborough is a lively town situated in the heart of the East Midlands region of England, within the county of Leicestershire. It is widely known for its prestigious Loughborough University which attracts a large volume of student population.
Loughborough is a charming market town located in Leicestershire, England, known for its rich history and vibrant community. The town possesses a blend of historical significance and modern amenities, featuring the world’s largest bell foundry and a bustling market that dates back to the 13th century. Situated conveniently between major cities like Leicester and Nottingham, Loughborough offers residents easy access to urban attractions while maintaining a close-knit, small-town atmosphere. Loughborough cost of living provides a relatively affordable range that is typically between £800 and £1,400/INR 85,912 and 1,50,374 per month. Loughborough provides a balanced lifestyle that allows students to enjoy both their studies and the vibrant community without breaking the bank.
The average monthly costs in Loughborough range between £1,200 – £1,400 to cover expenses like accommodation, transport, groceries and other important expenses. In this guide, we’ll help you understand expenses on varied aspects that comprise the overall cost of living in Loughborough.
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 |
Cost Of Living In Loughborough: An Overview
Loughborough is a vibrant town in Leicestershire, England, recognised for its prestigious university and rich history. With a population of around 66,000, it offers a blend of academic excellence, particularly through Loughborough University, and a lively community atmosphere. Loughborough provides a range of amenities, green spaces, and cultural activities, making it an appealing destination for students and families. The cost of living in Loughborough is an aggregate of multiple factors that can be understood in the diagram below:
The cost of living in Loughborough is determined by a range of expenses such as housing, meals, shopping, and other miscellaneous costs. Here is a table showing the same information to give you a clear understanding of the average monthly expenses per person:
| Expense | Monthly Cost (£) |
| Off-Campus Accommodation | 531 |
| On Campus Accommodation | 720 |
| Transportation | 64 |
| Food | 420 |
| Entertainment | 40 |
| Groceries | 108 |
| Clothes | 70 |
| Total Cost of Living with Off Campus Accommodation (Per month) | 1,233 |
| Total Cost of Living with On Campus Accommodation (Per month) | 1,422 |
Note: The costs mentioned above may fluctuate and are subject to change.
Loughborough Living Costs For Indian Students
The expenses in Loughborough include food, accommodation, travel, as well as other costs in addition to tuition fees. Below is a breakdown of the expenses Indian students can expect to face during their time studying at Loughborough:
| Expense | Monthly Cost (INR) |
| Off-Campus Accommodation | 55,888 |
| On Campus Accommodation | 75,776 |
| Transportation | 6,735 |
| Food | 44,202 |
| Entertainment | 4,209 |
| Groceries | 11,366 |
| Clothes | 7,367 |
| Total Cost of Living with Off Campus Accommodation (Per month) | 129,763 |
| Total Cost of Living with On Campus Accommodation (Per month) | 149,654 |
Note: The costs mentioned above may fluctuate and are subject to change.
Cost Of Tuition Fees
Loughborough University is an esteemed institution in the city with undergraduate fees of around £22,000 per year for international students. Loughborough College is an another prominent institution with average undergraduate programme fees of around £12,000 per year. The cost of tuition fees is greatly influenced by the university and the programme that you choose to go for.
Cost Of Student Accommodation In Loughborough
The prices of student accommodation in Loughborough can vary depending on factors such as location, amenities, and the type of housing. Accommodation is a major contributor towards the cost of living in Loughborough for students. Purpose-built student accommodations which are often inclusive of the utility bills can range from approximately £110 to £170 per week, depending on the property type.
| Loughborough Accommodation | |||
| Particular | Student Accommodation | Private Accommodation | University Accommodation |
| Cost | 110-170 GBP/Per Week | 250 GBP/Per Week + Utility bills (If not inclusive of the rent) | 200 GBP/Per week |
| Safety | These are gated communities with utmost safety & 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 | 192 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. |
There is a plethora of student housing choices in Loughborough which offer a broad assortment of contemporary amenities and access to communal area facilities. Most of these residences feature on-site gyms, lounge and study spaces, bike storage facilities and many more. Let us explore the varied student accommodation options Loughborough has to offer:
| Property | Average Prices Per Week |
| The Print House | £115 |
| Bonington Student Village | £110 |
| The Foundry | £125 |
| Optima | £163 |
| The Student Block | £147 |
You can book these purpose-built student accommodations in Loughborough through UniAcco.
Loughborough: Student Housing, Close to Campus – From £110/week!
Cost Of Transportation in Loughborough
Estimated monthly cost of transportation in Loughborough: £87/INR 9,345
In Loughborough, transportation is both accessible and affordable, making it easy for students to navigate the town and surrounding areas. The town is well-served by bus services, primarily operated by Kinchbus and Arriva, with a Kinchbus Unirider term pass costing around £210, which allows unlimited travel within Loughborough and nearby regions. For those who prefer trains, Loughborough’s central train station offers direct services to major cities like Leicester and Nottingham, with single fares as low as £4 to Leicester and £9 to London when using a railcard.
Loughborough offers easy connectivity to the major university campuses along with convenient transportation alternatives to travel within and around the city such as:
Bus: Loughborough is well-served by frequent bus routes operated by Kinchbus and Arriva. A Kinchbus Unirider term pass costs around £210 allowing unlimited travel in Loughborough and surrounding areas for students.
Trains: Loughborough has a central train station offering direct services to Leicester, Nottingham, and London. Single fares with a railcard could be £4 to Leicester and £9 to London.
Bikes: Cycling is an eco-conscious and cost-effective way to cover shorter distances. For Santander Cycles, the first 30 minutes of each rental are included. Afterwards, each additional half hour will be charged at £1.
Cost Of Utilities
Estimated monthly cost of utilities in Loughborough: £169/INR 18,152
The cost of utilities is a total of your accommodation’s lifeline. Missing out on any one will make your life harder than it deserves to be (I mean when is life easy for anyone?). Many student accommodations such as UniAcco offer all-inclusive bills, which can simplify budgeting. For those living off-campus, utility costs can vary depending on usage and the size of the accommodation. Electricity and gas are essential for heating and cooking. Internet access is also a vital utility, with various providers offering plans that cater to different needs and budgets.
Cost Of Leisure
Estimated monthly cost of leisure in Loughborough: £152/INR 16,326
Students can enjoy numerous free or low-cost activities, such as exploring local parks or participating in university clubs and societies, which often host free events. For those looking to catch a movie, the ODEON cinema provides an affordable outing with regular screenings of the latest films. Nightlife in Loughborough is vibrant, featuring several bars and clubs that frequently host student nights with reduced entry fees and drink specials. That being said, the cost of leisure and entertainment in Loughborough is fairly affordable – providing the students a well-deserved break.
Cost Of Education In Loughborough
The cost of education, particularly Loughborough University, is a significant consideration for both domestic and international students. Known for its strong emphasis on engineering, business, and sports science, the university offers a variety of postgraduate or Master’s programmes that are highly regarded both nationally and internationally. Tuition fees can vary based on the level of study and the specific programme chosen. Below is a table highlighting some of the top universities in Loughborough, along with their notable Master’s programmes and associated fees.
| University | Top Master’s Programmes | Tuition Fees (GBP) |
| Loughborough University | MSc Mechanical Engineering | £25,000 |
| MSc Computer Science | £25,000 | |
| MSc Sports Science | £25,000 | |
| MBA | £30,000 | |
| MSc Civil Engineering | £25,000 | |
| MSc Business Analytics | £25,000 |
Cost Of Food In Loughborough
Estimated monthly cost of food in Loughborough: £225/INR 24,167
No matter which corner of the UK you go to, the options of restaurants, bars and fine dining outlets will surprise you. With supermarkets and local vendors on the sides, students who love to cook or experiment in their kitchen, whether it is to save up extra money, are there too. an The average weekly spend of around £30, making it easy to prepare affordable meals at home. Popular spots for quick bites include fast-food chains, such as Sonny’s Street Food, or McDonalds, where a combo meal typically costs about £6.50. For mid-range dining, you have options such as Harvester Wheatsheat, Old Bulls Head Woodhouse Eaves, White Hart, Caravelli and more can range from £30 to £50, with several eateries offering diverse cuisines to satisfy different palates, providing a new experience every time you try a new spot.
Cost Of Groceries In Loughborough
The most famous market in Loughborough, the Borough Market is unlike most markets in the UK. Students can not only purchase quality ingredients that will encourage them to get through their student life, but also the options to snack on various meals at an affordable rate is what makes it so appealing. Burgers, sandwiches, juices and more are available in demand. The table below will give students an idea of the cost of groceries in Loughborough:
| Grocery Item | Average Price (£) | Average Price (INR) |
| Milk (1 liter) | 1 – 2 | 106 – 212 |
| Bread (500g) | 1 – 2 | 106 – 212 |
| Rice (1 kg) | 1 – 2 | 106 – 212 |
| Eggs (12) | 2 – 3 | 212 – 319 |
| Chicken Fillets (1 kg) | 6 – 7 | 638 – 748 |
| Apples (1 kg) | 2 – 3 | 212 – 319 |
| Bananas (1 kg) | 1 – 2 | 106 – 212 |
| Potatoes (1 kg) | 1 – 2 | 106 – 212 |
| Onions (1 kg) | 1 – 2 | 106 – 212 |
Miscellaneous Expenses
Grooming services may cost around £10, depending upon the location and the salon. Loughborough has a lively entertainment scene with budget-friendly options including student club nights with £3 – £5 entry charge. Personal care supplies in Loughborough will cost around £20 – £50 per month, which can vary depending on individual preferences.
Is Loughborough Expensive To Live For Students?
Even though Loughborough is not the most affordable city in the UK for students, it provides a fairly affordable cost of living when compared to bigger cities. Numerous scholarships are available to provide financial aid to students for their educational expenses, which make up a significant portion of the overall costs. Factors such as the presence of inexpensive housing options, reduced student fares for transportation, and the availability of affordable grocery stores all contribute to making Loughborough a viable option for students.
Factors Influencing Cost Of Living In Loughborough
For students, the cost of living is influenced by a variety of factors depending on their lifestyle and needs. Here are some key factors that can impact the cost of living for students in Loughborough:
- Accommodation
- Transportation
- Food & Groceries
- Entertainment & Leisure
- Health care expenses
- Study supplies
- Miscellaneous costs
How To Save Money As A Student In Loughborough?
Saving money as a student in Loughborough can be challenging due to the higher living costs and several associated expenses. However, with some careful planning and mindful spending habits, it is possible to save money as a student. Here are some helpful and practical tips:
- Go 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.
- Utilise 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.
- Limit eating out and opt for home-cooked meals to adapt to a healthy lifestyle along with maximising savings.
Thus, Loughborough offers a relatively affordable cost of living for students in comparison to other larger cities in the UK. With a range of budget-friendly accommodation options, discounted transportation services, and access to reasonably priced supermarkets and food joints, students can effectively manage their cost of living here in this lively town.
Minimum Wage In Loughborough Vs Other Places
In Loughborough, the minimum wage aligns with the national standards set by the UK government, which are subject to annual reviews. As of April 2025, the National Living Wage for workers aged 21 and over will increase to £12.21 per hour, while those aged 18 to 20 will earn £10.00 per hour. For younger workers aged 16 to 17, the minimum wage will be £7.55, and apprentices will also receive this same rate. This structured approach ensures that workers in Loughborough are compensated fairly, reflecting the cost of living and economic conditions.
The cost of living in Loughborough presents a balanced mix of affordability and accessibility, particularly for students. With average accommodation costs, utilities, food, and leisure activities all falling within reasonable ranges, Loughborough offers a supportive environment for academic pursuits without overwhelming financial burdens. The presence of Loughborough University enhances the town’s appeal, providing high-quality education while maintaining a vibrant community atmosphere. Students can navigate their expenses effectively by making informed choices about housing, transportation, and leisure activities.
FAQs
Q1. Is Loughborough expensive to live in?
Ans – Loughborough is generally considered affordable compared to many other UK cities, with living costs that are close to the national average but lower than major urban centers like London. Students can expect reasonable expenses for accommodation, utilities, and food, making it a financially viable option for higher education.
Q2. Is Loughborough uni expensive?
Ans – Loughborough University is considered moderately expensive, especially for international students, with tuition fees for undergraduate programmes ranging from approximately £20,000 to £32,000 per year. Postgraduate courses can cost between £21,000 and £35,000 annually.
Q3. Is Loughborough a nice place to live?
Ans – Loughborough is widely regarded as a good area to live, especially for students, due to its vibrant community, affordable living costs, and excellent amenities. The town offers a friendly atmosphere with a variety of shops, restaurants, and leisure activities, making it convenient for daily life.
Q4. Where do students live in Loughborough?
Ans – Students in Loughborough primarily live in a variety of accommodation options, including university-owned halls of residence and private student housing. Many opt for on-campus living due to its convenience, with halls located within walking distance of classes and campus facilities.
Q5. What is Loughborough best known for?
Ans – Loughborough is best known for its prestigious university, renowned for its engineering, sports science, and business programmes. The town also has a rich history, highlighted by its historic bell foundry and vibrant community life.
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