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Nottingham is a city and unitary authority area located in the heart of England. Affectionately called the “Queen of the Midlands”, it is an excellent place for students to pursue their higher education. Nottingham hosts the highest concentration of higher education providers in the East Midlands as the city is served by three exceptional universities – the University of Nottingham, Nottingham Trent University and the University of Law. If you’re planning to enrol at one of these universities, this article gives a detailed analysis of the cost of living in Nottingham for international students.
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 |
Nottingham attracts several international students from all over the world, thanks to its high-ranking universities. The city has a plethora of activities in store for students to do. This brings us to our next question: How much does it cost to live in Nottingham? The average cost of living in Nottingham ranges from £1,339 to £1,700, depending on your lifestyle and how you budget. While living costs are cheaper in Nottingham than in London, there are various factors that add to the entire cost apart from your tuition and study expenditures.
Budgeting for student life in Nottingham: Beyond tuition fees, expect to spend around £900 per month on average. This figure includes essential expenses such as rent, with private accommodation costs ranging from £115 to £300 per week, clothing (£50), course materials (£17), and laundry (£25), plus other miscellaneous expenses. Indian students in Nottingham should budget around ₹1,41,033 to ₹1,79,056 per month, including tuition fees, to cover all expenses. Read on to find out about these factors that influence your living expenses.
What Is The Cost Of Living In Nottingham?
The Cost of Living in Nottingham is quite close to the UK average. Check out the monthly breakdown of important living costs in Nottingham –
| Expense | Monthly Cost (£) |
| Off-Campus Accommodation | £660 |
| On-Campus Accommodation | £633 |
| Transportation | £76 |
| Food | £390 |
| Entertainment | £41 |
| Groceries | £112 |
| Clothes | £70 |
| Total Cost of Living with Off-Campus Accommodation | £1,349 |
| Total Cost of Living with On-Campus Accommodation | £1,322 |
Below is a breakdown of the cost of living in the Nottingham for Indian Students
| Expense | Monthly Cost (INR) |
| Off-Campus Accommodation | ₹69,374 |
| On-Campus Accommodation | ₹66,536 |
| Transportation | ₹7,988 |
| Food | ₹40,994 |
| Entertainment | ₹4,309 |
| Groceries | ₹11,772 |
| Clothes | ₹7,357 |
| Total Cost of Living with Off-Campus Accommodation | ₹141,798 |
| Total Cost of Living with On-Campus Accommodation | ₹138,960 |
Nottingham Student Housing: From £120/Week
Edinburgh Accommodation
| Particular | Student Accommodation | Private Accommodation | University Accommodation |
| Cost | 196 GBP/Per Week | 200 GBP/Per Week + Utility bills (∼ 62 GBP per week) | 159 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 | 143 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 wifi, microwave, electric Stove, fridge etc. | Based on landlord/location | Mostly all amenities are included like wifi, microwave, electric Stove, fridge etc. |
Note – Student housing is budget-friendly as it covers utilities, which is priced at £258 to £260 per month. That is around 10-15% of total living costs.
What Is The Average Rent In Nottingham?
As per our data, the average monthly rent in Nottingham is £660. Then again, the rent for student accommodation in Nottingham depends on the proximity to the city centre. The monthly rent for an 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished Nottingham accommodation in an expensive area will cost you £1,242 whereas, the monthly rent for an 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished Nottingham uni accommodation in a normal area will set you back £724.
Through UniAcco’s platform, you can get yourself a spacious en-suite room or student houses Nottingham, with all the latest and modern amenities for only £516 a month. Check out our website to know more.
How to Save Money on Student Accommodation in Nottingham
Saving money on student accommodation in Nottingham is possible with some strategic planning and smart choices. One option is to consider living in shared accommodation, such as student halls or shared houses, where you can split the rent and utility costs with roommates. Another way to save is by opting for accommodation further from the city centre or university campuses, where rental prices may be lower. Additionally, students can explore accommodation options that offer inclusive utility bills or perks such as free Wi-Fi or laundry facilities to reduce additional expenses. For this purpose, you should consider purpose-built student accommodations as the utility bills are inclusive of the property pricing. These student residences also offer a wide array of amenities to make student living a complete breeze.
The Best Student Accommodation in Nottingham
Premium Nottingham Accommodation
1. iQ NewLand House:
Nottingham NG1 6HE, United Kingdom
About iQ NewLand House
Get a taste of luxury living in Nottingham with iQ NewLand House. This student accommodation in Nottingham offers a wide range of studio rooms and two-bed apartments. Irrespective of your room choice, you can expect a WiFi connection, a bed and a wardrobe in every room. Communal amenities at iQ NewLand House include social events, a garden, a communal area, a study area, contents insurance, a CCTV security system and 24/7 dedication. What’s more, Nottingham Trent University and the University of Nottingham are just a few minutes away. With iQ NewLand House offering so much, we bet you think that the price tag is a bargain!
Price Range
£145 – £220/week
Mid-Range Nottingham Uni Accommodation
2. iQ NewTown House
Where?
Maid Marian Way, Nottingham NG1 6GQ, United Kingdom
About iQ NewTown House
If you have a balanced budget, then we recommend you go for iQ NewTown House. Their studio rooms have a premium feel to them but don’t carry the back-breaking rent rates. You get all your basic in-room amenities like a bed, a study desk & chair and a WiFi connection in every room. Students can also make use of the communal amenities like the on-site gym, social events, the theatre, the communal room, the study area, 24/7 dedicated service, CCTV security system and much more. Take a virtual tour of iQ NewTown House on our website.
Price Range
£172 – £211/week
Value For Money Student House Nottingham
3. iQ Exchange
Where?
143 Lower Parliament St, Nottingham NG1 1EE, United Kingdom
About iQ Exchange
Get the best bang for your buck at iQ Exchange. This unique student accommodation offers en-suite rooms, studio rooms and even two-bed apartments! iQ Exchange student accommodation is perfect for students of the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University. Many young students try their best at securing iQ Exchange months in advance, and it’s not surprising to know why. iQ Exchange, Nottingham offers fully furnished rooms and amazing communal amenities such as a common room, a laundry room, bike storage, social events, contents insurance and much more.
Price Range
£129 – £222/week
Cost Of Tuition In Nottingham
Close to 62,000 students attend the three most popular universities in Nottingham –
- Nottingham Trent University
- The University of Law
- The University of Nottingham
The average tuition fee for undergraduate students in Nottingham is around £14,570, which is cheaper than most cities in the UK. Furthermore, Telegraph, recently named the University of Nottingham as the second-cheapest institution for studying in the UK, with an average total weekly spend of approximately £180. So, if you’re thinking about studying in Nottingham, go ahead with it. You’ll be spending much less than students in other cities in the UK.
Cost Of Transportation In Nottingham
Prior to 2015, the public transport system of Nottingham won several awards for its largest publicly owned bus network in England. The government has invested heavily in upgrading and modernizing the transport system which has led to the re-opening of the Robin Hood Line and the construction of a light rail network, Nottingham Express Transit. Students who wish to study in Nottingham should strongly consider getting a monthly public transport pass for £57. Indian students at Nottingham Trent University (NTU) can enjoy affordable transportation with an academic year bus pass from Nottingham City Transport (NCT) and NET – Nottingham, priced at ₹30,439 for 2023/24. The Trent Barton West Notts College Travel Pass is also available at ₹27,279 for the same period, averaging to approximately ₹8,004 per month, providing cost-effective mobility in Nottingham.
In Nottingham, the cost of transport for students is notably affordable with options like the Robin Hood Line, buses, and the Nottingham Express Transit (NET) light rail network. The annual student travel pass, covering these services, is priced at £289 for the academic year 1st September 2023 to 31st July 2024, which averages to just over £76per month. This provides a budget-friendly solution for student transportation in Nottingham.
Cost of Personal Care
Nottingham offers a range of options for grooming, health, and self-care that cater to various budgets and preferences. If you’re looking to indulge in a little pampering, a basic manicure in Nottingham can cost around £15 to £25. For skincare and beauty treatments, Nottingham offers a range of options to suit your needs and budget. A basic facial treatment at a local salon or spa may start from £20 to £40. When it comes to health and fitness, Nottingham provides plenty of opportunities to stay active without breaking the bank. Monthly gym memberships in Nottingham vary depending on the facilities and services offered, with prices typically ranging from £20 to £40 per month for basic memberships at local gyms. Many gyms also offer student discounts or promotional rates, making it more affordable for students to prioritize their fitness.
Factors Influencing Cost of Living in Nottingham for Students
The cost of living in Nottingham for students is influenced by several key factors, which students should consider when budgeting for their expenses:
Accommodation Costs
The largest expense for students in Nottingham is typically accommodation. Factors such as the location, type of accommodation (shared apartment, student halls, private rental), and amenities offered can significantly impact rental prices. Living closer to university campuses or the city centre may come at a higher cost compared to suburban areas.
Tuition Fees
For international students or those attending universities outside their home region, tuition fees are a major consideration. Nottingham is home to several universities, each with its own fee structure for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Students need to budget for tuition fees, which can vary depending on the course of study and the institution.
Transportation Expenses
Getting around Nottingham involves various transportation options, including buses, trams, and cycling. Students should budget for transportation costs, including bus fares, tram tickets, or cycling expenses such as bike maintenance and repairs. Opting for student discounts or travel passes can help reduce transportation expenses.
Food and Groceries
Students need to budget for food and groceries, taking into account factors such as dietary preferences, cooking habits, and meal plans. Nottingham offers a range of supermarkets, local markets, and affordable dining options, allowing students to manage their food expenses effectively.
Entertainment and Leisure
Nottingham offers a variety of entertainment and leisure activities, including cinemas, theatres, sports events, and cultural attractions. Students should budget for leisure activities to ensure they can enjoy socialising and exploring the city while managing their expenses responsibly.
Job Opportunities in Nottingham for Students
Nottingham offers a range of job opportunities for students, providing valuable work experience and extra income while studying. Some popular job opportunities for students in Nottingham include:
Retail
Nottingham has a bustling retail sector, with numerous shops, department stores, and shopping centres offering part-time and seasonal employment opportunities. Students can work as sales assistants, cashiers, or stockroom associates in clothing stores, supermarkets, electronics retailers, and more.
Hospitality
With its buzzing nightlife and thriving food scene, Nottingham offers plenty of opportunities for students to work in the hospitality industry.
Customer Service
Many companies in Nottingham hire students for customer service roles, both in-person and remote. Students can work as customer service representatives for retail stores, call centres, or online businesses, assisting customers with inquiries, orders, and complaints.
Event Staffing
Nottingham hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, sports matches, and conferences. Students can work as event staff, helping with event setup, ticketing, merchandise sales, and other event-related tasks.
Office Administration
Nottingham has a thriving business sector, with many companies hiring students for administrative and office support roles. Students can work as receptionists, administrative assistants or interns, gaining valuable experience in a professional environment.
Cost Of Food And Other Necessities In Nottingham
There are several hundred restaurants in Nottingham that serve dishes from all over the world. But don’t be tempted to eat out on a daily basis. Preparing your own food will help you save a lot of money. Here is a rough breakdown of the cost of basic food in Nottingham –
- Milk (regular), (1 litre) – £0.90
- Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) – £0.90
- Rice (white), (1kg) – £0.73
- Eggs (regular) (12) – £2.14
- Local Cheese (1kg) – £6.08
- Chicken Fillets (1kg) – £5.64
- Apples (1kg) – £2.48
- Banana (1kg) – £0.89
- Oranges (1kg) – £1.37
- Tomato (1kg) – £3.48
- Potato (1kg) – £0.92
- Onion (1kg) – £0.85
- Lettuce (1 head) – £0.67
- Water (1.5-litre bottle) – £0.87
- Domestic Beer (0.5-litre bottle) – £1.86
- Imported Beer (0.33-litre bottle) – £2.00
Cost Of Entertainment And Recreation In Nottingham
Nottingham hosts several multicultural events all throughout the year. The city has hosted an annual Asian Mela every year in summer since about 1989. There’s also the parade on St Patrick’s Day, fireworks at the Chinese New Year, Holi in the Park and several Sikh events.
Nottingham also has several large music and entertainment venues including Rock City, the Royal Concert Hall, the Nottingham Arena (Social centre) and Nottingham Royal Concert Hall (2,500-capacity).
Galleries and museums are aplenty in Nottingham. Visit the National Justice Museum, City of Caves, Nottingham Castle Museum and Nottingham Natural History Museum.
There is truly no end to entertainment opportunities in Nottingham. Use your free time to explore all the entertainment hubs in the city – Victoria Centre, Broadmarsh, and Lace Market.
Here are some costs associated with entertainment and recreation in Nottingham.
- Basic dinner out for two in a neighbourhood pub – £41.00
- Dinner for two at an Italian restaurant in the ex-pat area including appetisers, main course, wine and dessert – £65.00
- Two tickets to the movies – £22.00
- One cocktail drink in a downtown club – £8.00
- Cappuccino in ex-pat area of the city – £3.80
- One beer in neighbourhood pub (500ml or 1pt.) – £4.03
Sources: UniAcco data, Expatistan, Numbeo.
FAQs
1. Is living in Nottingham expensive?
According to a recent study by TotallyMoney, Nottingham is the second cheapest city in the UK for student living costs. In order to rank universities, this was based on eight crucial living parameters such as rent, the cost of a taxi, the cost of a pint, and more. Nottingham’s cost of living is quite close to the UK national average.
2. Does Nottingham have a good student life?
Nottingham is a vibrant, multicultural city rich in history. Living in Nottingham provides you with first-class shopping, fantastic sports facilities, and distinct local culture. The city is also well-known for its safe, diversified, and entertaining nightlife.
3. Is Nottingham safe for international students?
Nottingham is known to be safe and student-friendly. Hence, living in the city will provide you with a plethora of unique experiences. With the University of Nottingham holding a strong reputation, you will find a huge number of international students in and around this city.
4. What is a good price for student accommodation in Nottingham?
Approximately, student residences in Nottingham start from around £150 a week or £600 a month. However, the rent largely depends on the location. If your housing is located in or within the vicinity of the city centre, it could be more expensive when compared to the rest of the city.
5. What is Nottingham famous for?
Nottingham is well-known for its ancient castle and connections to the fabled bandit Robin Hood. Additionally, it is renowned for its rich cultural history and tradition of manufacturing lace.
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