Cost of living Liverpool: a students’ guide

With five universities in the city, Liverpool is a popular destination for students from around the globe. However, before committing to study in a city, it’s essential to understand the cost of living there so you can manage your budget effectively and ensure you can get by without difficulties. 

We’re breaking down the cost of living in Liverpool for students across key areas such as tuition, accommodation, transport, food, and entertainment, so you can decide whether this student experience is right for you. 

Average cost of living in Liverpool

Liverpool is generally considered an affordable place for students to live, particularly compared to other major cities in the UK. But of course, the average cost of living in Liverpool can vary depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices. 

For students, one of the largest monthly expenses you’ll face will be accommodation, which ranges from £400 to £640 a month depending on whether you choose to live in university halls, purpose built student accommodation or a shared house. Additionally, you should expect to spend around £100 to £200 on food and £40 to £70 on transportation. Other expenses, such as utilities, books, and personal items, can add another £50 to £100. Overall, students can expect to spend approximately £650 to £1,100 per month to cover their living costs in Liverpool. 

Tuition costs in Liverpool

Tuition fees are one of the most significant expenses for students. In Liverpool, these fees vary depending on the course and the institution. For undergraduate students from the UK, tuition fees are typically £9,250 per year. International students can expect to pay between £12,000 and £20,000 annually, depending on the course and university. It's crucial to check specific course fees on the university's website as they can differ.

Accommodation costs in Liverpool

Rent will take up a significant amount of your budget no matter where you live. There is lots of student accommodation in Liverpool to choose from. Depending on the area and type of accommodation you choose to live in, your rent will be different. 

1. University Halls

Typically, first-year students choose to live in university halls of residence. Some students in later years also choose to stay on. The cost can vary based on the location and type of room (standard, en-suite, or studio). On average, the cost of living in university halls in Liverpool ranges from £100 to £150 per week. Here’s a breakdown of the average weekly costs per university:

• Liverpool Hope University: The cost of university halls at Liverpool Hope University ranges from £105 to £135 per week, depending on the room type and facilities offered.
• Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU): Accommodation costs at LJMU range from £110 to £160 per week. LJMU offers a variety of options including shared flats and studio apartments, with some halls offering en-suite facilities and catered options.
• Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine: This institution partners with nearby universities for accommodation. Students typically pay between £110 and £150 per week depending on the hall and room type.
• The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA): LIPA students can expect to pay between £120 and £160 per week for university-managed accommodation. These halls are located close to campus and offer both standard and en-suite rooms.
• University of Liverpool: The cost of living in university halls at the University of Liverpool ranges from £100 to £155 per week. Options include catered and self-catered halls, with a variety of room types available.

2. Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)

Purpose built student accommodation (PBSA) refers to privately owned student residences. Think of them a little bit like halls, but owned by private companies rather than by a university. Typically, the buildings offer a range of facilities and amenities and are home to a community of students.

According to StuRents data, the average cost of PBSA in Liverpool is £128.90 per person per week, excluding bills. This type of accommodation often includes access to desirable amenities such as gyms, study rooms, and social spaces in the rent, which can justify the higher price.

3. Shared Houses

Many students choose to live in shared houses, particularly in their second and third years as it can be a more affordable option that offers the opportunity to live with friends. The average cost of living in a shared house in Liverpool is £111.44 per person per week excluding bills. 

Transport

Liverpool has an extensive public transport system. Students can benefit from discounted travel cards and schemes across the city:

• Bus: An Arriva student bus pass costs around £400 for the academic year but offers you unlimited travel on buses across the city.
• Train: The Merseyrail network provides good connectivity. A 16-25 Railcard offers a 1/3 discount on rail fares which can save you a significant amount.
• Bike: Liverpool is a bike-friendly city, and many students opt to cycle. The city has a bike-sharing scheme, with costs starting at £1 per hour.

Food

Food expenses can vary based on lifestyle and eating habits. On average, you’re likely to spend between £20 and £50 per week on groceries if you’re meal planning and cooking at home. Supermarkets like Aldi, Lidl, and Tesco all offer affordable options that can bring prices down. For those who prefer eating out, the cost is usually higher, with an average meal at a mid-range restaurant costing around £10 - £20.

Entertainment

Liverpool is well-known for its vibrant social scene. If you want to enjoy everything the city has to offer as a student, budgeting for entertainment is essential.

• Nightlife: Liverpool has a diverse nightlife, with lots of bars, clubs, and live music venues to enjoy. A night out can cost between £30 and £80, depending on how much you spend on entry fees and drinks.
• Cultural activities: The city has a rich cultural heritage, with many free or low-cost options. Museums and galleries often have free entry, while student discounts are available for theatres and cinemas.
• Sports and fitness: Many universities offer free or discounted gym memberships and sports facilities. Additionally, there are lots of parks and outdoor spaces which you can take advantage of for free.

Find out more about student living in Liverpool

By understanding the costs of tuition, accommodation, transport, food, and entertainment, students can budget effectively and make the most of their time in Liverpool. Whether you’re living in university halls, PBSA, or a shared house, Liverpool provides a range of options to suit different budgets and lifestyles. 



Need help deciding where to live? Check out our blog on the top 6 student areas in Liverpool.