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Aberdeen, known as the “Granite City,” offers a unique blend of rich history and modern living, making it an attractive destination for students and professionals alike. As the third largest city in Scotland, it possesses a bright student community, particularly due to its esteemed institutions like the University of Aberdeen and Robert Gordon University. Understanding the cost of living in Aberdeen is essential for anyone considering a move or study here. Living expenses range from £600 to £900/INR 64,446 – ₹96,669 per month which allows students to live a comfortable and yet affordable lifestyle.
These features combined with the city’s welcoming atmosphere and stunning coastal landscapes, makes Aberdeen an appealing choice for those looking to balance quality education with a reasonable cost of living.
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 Aberdeen – An Overview
Aberdeen is often celebrated for its stunning coastal scenery and vibrant student life, and offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other UK cities. For students and young professionals, understanding the financial landscape is crucial for planning a comfortable lifestyle. When it comes to the cost of living in Aberdeen, a student can expect to spend between £800 and £1,200 per month (approximately ₹85,000 to ₹1,28,000).
Cost Of Food In Aberdeen
Aberdeen possesses a vibrant culinary scene that reflects its rich heritage and diverse influences. Known for its fresh seafood, particularly due to its coastal location, the city offers a variety of dining options ranging from upscale restaurants to cozy cafes. That being said, the cost of food in Aberdeen ranges from £6 to £90/INR 780 to 9,487, which is suitable for students looking to curb various cravings by being in their desired budget.
| Restaurant Type | Cost Range (GBP) | Cost Range (INR) |
| Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant | £10 – £30 | ₹1,688 – ₹3,162 |
| Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course | £40 – £90 | ₹6,316 – ₹9,487 |
| McMeal at McDonald’s (or Equivalent Combo Meal) | £6 – £8 | ₹780 – ₹844 |
Cost Of Groceries In Aberdeen
When it comes to managing your budget while living in Aberdeen, understanding the cost of groceries is essential. The city offers a variety of supermarkets, including Tesco, Morrisons, and Lidl, where you can find a range of food items at competitive prices. On average, a single person can expect to spend around £45 to £55/ INR 4,833.45 – ₹5,985 per week on groceries. Below is a breakdown of common grocery items and their prices in Aberdeen, providing a helpful guide for your shopping needs:
| Grocery Item | Price Range (£) | Price Range (INR) |
| Milk (regular), (1 litre) | 1 – 2 | 107 – 214 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | 1 – 2 | 107 – 214 |
| Rice (white), (1kg) | 1 – 5 | 107 – 535 |
| Eggs (regular) (12) | 2 – 3 | 214 – 321 |
| Local Cheese (1kg) | 4 – 11 | 428 – 1,176 |
| Chicken Fillets (1kg) | 4 – 12 | 428 – 1,283 |
| Beef Round (1kg) (or Equivalent Back Leg Red Meat) | 5 – 20 | 535 – 2,142 |
| Apples (1kg) | 1 – 3 | 107 – 321 |
| Banana (1kg) | 1 – 3 | 107 – 321 |
| Oranges (1kg) | 1 – 7 | 107 – 750 |
| Tomato (1kg) | 2 – 4 | 214 – 428 |
| Potato (1kg) | 1 – 2 | 107 – 214 |
| Onion (1kg) | 1 – 2 | 107 – 214 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | 1 – 1 | 107 |
| Water (1.5 liter bottle) | 1 – 2 | 107 – 214 |
PS: The pound-to-INR conversion rate is subject to rise or fall. As of today, it is 107.41 INR~
Cost Of Transport In Aberdeen
The cost of transportation in Aberdeen is essential for budgeting your daily expenses, especially for students and newcomers to the city. Aberdeen offers a range of public transport options, making it relatively easy to get around. However, prices have seen some fluctuations recently, reflecting broader economic trends.
| Transportation Item | Price Range (£) | Price Range (INR) |
| One-way Ticket (Local Transport) | 2 – 6 | 214 – 642 |
| Monthly Pass (Regular Price) | 65 – 217 | 6,955 – 23,206 |
| Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) | 3 – 5 | 321 – 535 |
| Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff) | 1 – 2 | 107 – 214 |
Cost Of Leisure and Fitness In Aberdeen
The city offers a range of recreational facilities, from fitness clubs to sports courts and entertainment venues. Students have a range of options when it comes to exploring and experimenting with activities that help them stay fit and happy, The table below lists the range students can expect to pay when utilising these resources.
| Leisure and Fitness Item | Price Range (£) | Price Range (INR) |
| Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult | 28 – 70 | 3,000 – 7,485 |
| Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour on Weekend) | 6 – 10 | 642 – 1,067 |
| Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat | 6 – 13 | 642 – 1,390 |
Cost Of Utilities
When budgeting to live in Aberdeen, it’s essential to consider the cost of utilities, which can significantly impact your monthly expenses. Utilities typically include essential services such as electricity, heating, water, and internet access.
| Utility Item | Price Range (£) | Price Range (INR) |
| Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 85m² Apartment | 200 – 470 | 21,420 – 50,209 |
| Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data | 10 – 45 | 1,071 – 4,818 |
| Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | 24 – 45 | 2,570 – 4,818 |
Cost Of Tuition In Aberdeen
The cost of tuition for master’s programmes at the University of Aberdeen, one of Scotland’s leading institutions offers a variety of postgraduate courses with tuition fees that vary based on the programme. Understanding these costs is essential for prospective students planning their education budget. Below is a table summarising the tuition fees for some popular master’s programmes:
| Programme | Tuition Fees (£) |
| Master of Business Administration (MBA) | 23,500 |
| MSc in International Business Management | 21,500 |
| MSc in Economics | 21,500 |
| MSc in Finance | 15,900 |
| MSc in Data Science | 20,700 |
| MSc in Biomedical Sciences | 20,700 |
| MSc in Computer Science | 20,700 |
| MSc in Business Management & Information Systems | 20,700 |
Minimum Wage In Aberdeen Vs Other Places
In Aberdeen, as in the rest of the UK, the government sets the minimum wage, which varies based on age and employment status. As of April 2024, the National Living Wage for workers aged 21 and over is £11.44/INR 1,226 per hour. For younger workers, the rates are lower, with those aged 18 to 20 earning £8.60/INR 923 and apprentices or those under 18 receiving £6.40/INR 687.
When comparing Aberdeen’s minimum wage to other regions, it generally aligns with national standards, as these rates are applicable across the UK. However, it’s important to consider the cost of living in different areas, which can affect how far a minimum wage salary stretches. For instance, while the minimum wage remains consistent, cities like London have a higher cost of living than Aberdeen, making it more challenging for workers to meet their daily expenses at the same wage.
Visa Costs For International Students
When considering studying in the UK, understanding the visa costs for international students is crucial for budgeting. As of July 2024, the application fee for a student visa has increased to £490/INR 52,608, reflecting a significant rise from previous years. This fee applies to both main applicants and dependents. Additionally, students must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which allows access to the National Health Service (NHS) during their stay. The IHS is charged £776/INR 83,295 per year for the duration of the visa, with a pro-rated fee for shorter courses.
Aberdeen is recognized as one of the most affordable places for student rentals in Scotland, with private accommodation averaging around £96 per week (about ₹10,300), significantly lower than in cities like Edinburgh or Glasgow. This affordability allows students to focus more on their studies and enjoy the vibrant culture and community that Aberdeen offers. While there are challenges, such as potential increases in rental prices due to rising demand, the supportive environment and rich experiences available make Aberdeen a fantastic choice for students looking to thrive both academically and socially. With UniAcco and our experts, you can understand much more about this city, as well as land excellent stay options that fit your budget.
FAQs
- Is Aberdeen a good place to live?
Aberdeen is considered a great place to live, offering a high quality of life with affordable housing and a strong sense of community. The city boasts beautiful natural surroundings, a robust economy, and excellent educational institutions, making it an attractive choice for residents.
2. How much does it cost to live in Aberdeen?
The cost of living in Aberdeen varies depending on individual lifestyle choices, but on average, a single person can expect monthly expenses to be around £1,594/INR 171,135. These estimates cover essentials such as accommodation, food, utilities, and transportation, making Aberdeen a relatively affordable option compared to other UK cities.
3. How reliable are the prices in Aberdeen UK?
The reliability of prices in Aberdeen can vary, with some estimates being more dependable than others. Recent studies suggest that Aberdeen is now considered one of the most affordable cities in the UK, with residents enjoying a high disposable income relative to their living costs.
4. Is Aberdeen less expensive than New York?
Yes, Aberdeen is significantly less expensive than New York. The average cost of living in Aberdeen is generally lower, with housing and daily expenses much more affordable than in New York City. For instance, while the average rent in Aberdeen is around £834/INR 89,648 per month, rents in New York can exceed £3,000/INR 322,230, highlighting a substantial difference in living costs.
5. How much does education cost in Aberdeen?
Education costs in Aberdeen can vary significantly depending on the institution and programme of study. For international students, tuition fees at the University of Aberdeen typically range from £19,000 to £26,000/INR 2,037,790 – ₹2,794,660 per year for master’s programmes.
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