About Leicester City, UK
Leicester, U.K., is ranked among the Top 5 most affordable cities in England, after Sheffield, Newcastle, and Coventry. Based on the Numbeo data, the cost of living in Leicester is 26.5% lower than it is in London without rent, and the rent cost in Leicester is 183.6% lower in London. Home to around 350,000 people, Leicester offers a high quality of life with numerous parks, cultural venues, and recreational facilities. With its high value of quality life, studying and living in Leicester will give the most impressive memory, which makes Leicester a student-friendly and popular city among students.
This paper will give you more information about the cost of living in Leicester and hope to give you a comprehensive guide on the cost of your academic journey as a student.
Cost of Living in Leicester: Overall View
Leicester is one of the most livable and affordable cities in the UK. Known for its cost-effectiveness, Leicester offers significant financial benefits for residents. The average monthly cost of living in Leicester without rent ranges from £675 to £800, though actual expenses can vary based on individual lifestyles. For international students, a monthly budget of £1,200 to £1,600 is recommended to cover living expenses comfortably. Privately rented accommodation typically costs between £340 and £920 per month. This guide provides detailed information on the various expenses international students might encounter in Leicester and some tips on how to save money, ensuring you can plan your budget effectively while enjoying your city life.
Life Expenses for Students
When referring to the cost of living in Leicester for students, the cost of utilities is a common but essential item for everyone. It also depends on what lifestyle you choose but generally speaking, the utility we mentioned points to water, electricity, heating and cooling, internet and your mobile phone. The life expenses of utilities range from £230-£462 monthly. Beyond this energy cost, for your own, you need to put your eyes on grocery, transportation, housing options, personal care like clothing, entertainment and healthcare.
Grocery Expenses
Grocery expenses are what you choose to eat and drink every day. The price of the food in Leicester is reasonable, not too expensive, but if you can cook by yourselves, you will save more money and get more delicious dishes. Thus, if you have the cooking needs, you prefer to search for the purposed-built-student-accommodation (PBSAs), which rooms you rent will give you a furnished cooking zone and a living room for you and your friends to share the dishes.
| Cost of Grocery Expenses in Leicester（Resource from NUMBEO） | |
|---|---|
| Expense | Cost(£) |
| Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant | 15.00 |
| McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal) | 7.00 |
| Milk (regular), (1 liter) | 1.28 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | 1.2 |
| Rice (white), (1kg) | 1.76 |
| Eggs (regular) (12) | 2.48 |
| Local Cheese (1kg) | 8.92 |
| Chicken Fillets (1kg) | 7.33 |
| Beef Round (1kg) | 8.47 |
| Apples (1kg) | 1.50 |
| Banana (1kg) | 1.19 |
| Oranges (1kg) | 2.23 |
| Tomato (1kg) | 2.25 |
| Potato (1kg) | 1.00 |
| Onion (1kg) | 1.09 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | 0.62 |
| Water (1.5 liter bottle) | 1.15 |
| Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range) | 7.00 |
| Domestic Beer (0.5 liter bottle) | 2.41 |
| Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle) | 1.97 |
| Domestic Beer (0.5 liter bottle) in resturant | 4.15 |
| Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle) in resturant | 4.50 |
| Cigarettes 20 Pack (Marlboro) | 11.50 |
Transportation Expense
Leicester is a small town, so as a student, if you commute within Leicester city around your schools and city centre, then bikes and buses would be your first choice. Moreover, living in student housing in Leicester, you can go anywhere in the town on foot. If you would like to travel within the city, then you can check the methods and budgets:
- One-way Ticket Bus– £3.10
- Monthly Pass Bus– £54.00
- Taxi Start — £3.20
- Taxi 1km — £1.09
- Taxi 1hour Waiting — £15.00
If you want to travel near Leicester, then you can take the train. Several routes passing through Leicester are mainly operated by East Midlands Trains and CrossCountry Trains. It only takes 15 minutes to walk from the University of Leicester to Leicester Railway Station.
- East Midlands Trains: The line can reach London, Nottingham, Derby, Sheffield and small towns in the East Midlands area.
- CrossCountry Trains: The line can reach Birmingham, Peterborough and Cambridge.
Housing Options in Leicester
As international students, you can find on-campus accommodation and off-campus accommodation. In addition, the privately rented student accommodation built for students is another good choice for you. For example, the rent for a house with nearly 80 m2 (860 sqft) zone is £787 per month, but you need to pay another nearly £388 for monthly utilities. However, PBSAs (purposed-built-student-accommodation) include all bills in the rent and will provide you with more free extra services like the gym or security service, and the rooms are fully furnished. Besides, the location of these student housing units in Leicester is outstanding, and there are more popular cafes and restaurants downstairs, which are more convenient and safe.
Best Student accommodation in Leicester
All Leicester Student accommodations are fully furnished; you can also find other amenities you prefer, such as gyms, study rooms and installations like Wi-Fi, laundry room and inclusive bills, which can pleasure your study life more.
- The Summit
- Filbert Village Leicester
- Merlin Heights Leicester
- The Tannery Leicester
- The Glassworks Leicester
The Summit: location as Eastern Boulevard, Leicester, England LE2 7JD. Studio rooms only, with the price of £155~£199.
The property boasts communal facilities catering to academic prowess and leisurely repose, featuring study rooms that encourage collaborative ideation and private study pods for deep focus. The on-site gym is outfitted with the latest equipment, seamlessly blending fitness into daily living. Social spaces, including a cinema room and games area, offer residents the perfect backdrop for relaxation and camaraderie.
Filbert Village: Located at Lineker Road, Leicester, England LE2 7FZ. Offer three types of residence halls: en-suites, studios and one-bedroom flats, with the price of £99 ~£185.
Popular with students because of its location, Filbert Village is the ideal place to study and live. It is situated on Lineker Way, between the River Soar and Leicester Tigers rugby stadium, and just 5 minutes by car from the bustling city centre.
Merlin Heights: location as 75 Bath Lane, Leicester, England LE3 5AU. Housing options are from en-suite bedrooms to spacious studio apartments, with the price from £89 to £204.
High-speed Internet access is available throughout the property, ensuring that academic pursuits and leisure activities are continuously supported. The common areas are designed with a visionary zest, providing inviting spaces for socialising, studying, and relaxation. They include a well-equipped gym, a cinema room, and study lounges, which have been incorporated to promote a well-balanced lifestyle.
The Tannery Leicester: 115 Bath Lane, Leicester, England LE3 5EU. Available in Ensuite and Studio rooms, with the price of £143 to £200.
The student accommodation also offers great spaces to enjoy at home, including a TV and games area, a large landscaped courtyard and a media room that doubles as a virtual gym and cinema room.
The glassworks Leicester: location as 60 Newarke Street, Leicester, England LE1 5AN. The apartment is luxury student accommodation in Leicester with ensuites and studios and they are prices from £153 to £203.
Check out more housing options in Leicester on uhomes.com and book now!
Cost of Personal Care
The cost of personal care for students in Leicester can vary widely depending on individual preferences and lifestyles. Some students may choose high-end brands for clothing and accessories, while others might opt for thrift shops. Basic self-care products typically cost around £5 to £10 per month, and skincare and beauty products range from £15 to £30 monthly.
As an international student at Leicester, planning a budget for personal care is essential. Here’s a breakdown of typical monthly costs:
- Haircuts: £10 to £20
- Clothing: £30 to £150
- Personal care products: £20 to £30
Overall, you should set aside approximately £60 to £100 per month for personal care. This allows for adjustments based on your specific needs and choices.
Entertainment
Most people know Leicester City from a fantastic football game. Living in Leicester will never bring you a boring life. As international students, find your entertainment when you choose your student housing in Leicester. It is easy for you to catch a game at the King Power Stadium, where Leicester City plays, or gather with your new friends in delicious restaurants and cafes and have a drink in pubs around your accommodation. To find more things to do in Leicester, start your charming exploration with your interests.
- Ticket to the movies: £8
- 1 cocktail drink in a downtown club: £10
- 1 beer in a neighbourhood pub: £3.03
- Regular Cappuccino: £3.06
- Soundhouse: A venue known for live music events. Entry fees typically range from £5 to £15 depending on the event.
- De Montfort Hall: Hosting concerts and performances, tickets can range from £20 to £50 based on the show.
- King Power Stadium: Watching a Leicester City football match can cost between £20 and £60 per ticket, depending on the match and seating.
- The Lanes: A vibrant area with cafes, bars, and quirky shops, where you can enjoy a casual day out. Costs will vary depending on your activities.
Healthcare
Leicester offers robust healthcare services for international students through the National Health Service (NHS), one of the world’s leading public health systems. As an international student, you have access to various medical facilities, including general practitioners (GPs), hospitals, and specialized services. When you arrive in Leicester, it is essential for you to register with a local GP (doctor) to access healthcare services. The University of Leicester provides assistance in finding a GP and completing the registration process. Registering with a GP is free and necessary for receiving non-emergency healthcare.
As an international student, you are required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of your visa application. This surcharge grants you access to the NHS services during your stay in the UK. Here are some key points regarding healthcare costs:
- GP Visits: Free of charge.
- Hospital Treatment: Covered by the NHS, provided you have paid the IHS.
- Prescriptions: A standard charge of £9.35 per item.
- Dental Care: Not all dental services are covered by the NHS. Basic dental treatments are available at subsidized rates, but more complex procedures may incur additional costs.
- Eye Care: Eye tests at opticians can cost around £20 to £30. Costs for glasses or contact lenses will vary.
Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities:
- Leicester Royal Infirmary (LRI): A major teaching hospital with a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments.
- Leicester General Hospital: Offers general medical services, surgery, and rehabilitation.
- Glenfield Hospital: Known for its cardiac and respiratory care, as well as other specialized services.
Education Expenses
Leicester City University and the Tuition Fee
Leicester is home to two distinguished universities: the University of Leicester and De Montfort University (DMU). Both institutions offer a diverse range of academic programs and a supportive environment for international students seeking quality education in the UK.
1. University of Leicester
Founded in 1921, the University of Leicester is renowned for its research-led teaching and commitment to academic excellence. Situated on a beautiful campus, the university offers a wide array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across disciplines such as sciences, humanities, engineering, and social sciences.
Tuition Fees for International Students:
- Undergraduate programs: £15,000 to £22,000 per year
- Postgraduate programs: £16,000 to £25,000 per year
2. De Montfort University
Established in 1870, De Montfort University (DMU) is known for its innovative approach to education and strong links with industry. The university offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, emphasizing practical skills and employability.
Tuition Fees for International Students:
- Undergraduate programs: £13,250 to £15,750 per year
- Postgraduate programs: £14,600 to £16,500 per year
Tips for Saving Money for Students
The cost of living in Leicester depends on the personal choices of your lifestyle, but the students managing the budget can find some tips for saving money, such as finding some valuable cheap student accommodation in Leicester, hang-out with friends with some free things to do, get some part-time jobs to earn some pocket money and the essential thing for every international students: buy a medical insurance for yourself.
Cheap Accommodation Leicester for Student
Living in Leicester is affordable, and the rent in Leicester is much lower than in major cities like London, Manchester and Bringminham. Compared with the best housing options we just mentioned, the average rent of £150 per week, there are some top cheap student housing in Leicester near the universities for you, with the rent as low as £85 weekly:
Free Things to Do in Leicester
Here are some Top 6 popular but free things to do in Leicester for students:
- Visit Leicester Cathedral: Explore the historic Leicester Cathedral, known for its stunning architecture and as the final resting place of King Richard III. Admission is free, although donations are appreciated.
- National Space Centre Rocket Tower: While entry to the National Space Centre itself requires a fee, you can view the impressive Rocket Tower from outside for free. It’s a great spot for photos and to learn about space exploration.
- Abbey Park: Enjoy a relaxing day at Abbey Park, one of Leicester’s oldest and most picturesque parks. Enjoy a picnic by the lake, or take a leisurely stroll along the River Soar.
- Guildhall Historic Tours: Learn about its rich history dating back to the 14th century and its role in the city’s civic life. Tours are free but require booking in advance.
- Leicester Botanic Garden: Located within the University of Leicester, the Botanic Garden features a diverse collection of plants from around the world. Entry is free, and it’s a peaceful oasis perfect for nature enthusiasts.
- Great Central Railway Museum: Admission is free, and you can see vintage locomotives, carriages, and railway memorabilia.
Part-Time Jobs
Part-time jobs offer flexibility and opportunities to gain relevant experience while studying in Leicester, also, the extra pocket money.
- Retail Assistant: National Minimum Wage (currently £8.91 per hour for over 23s, lower rates apply to younger age groups). Timeline: Typically evenings and weekends, with flexibility around your class schedule
- Restaurant Server: National Minimum Wage, plus tips. Timeline: Evenings and weekends, especially busy during dinner times
- Tutor/Teaching Assistant: Varies, but typically around £10-£15 per hour depending on subject and experience. Timeline: Flexible, can be scheduled around your classes and availability
- University Ambassador: Hourly wage, often above National Minimum Wage. Timeline: Events typically occur during term time, evenings, and weekends
- Customer Service Representative: National Minimum Wage or higher, depending on the employer. Timeline: Shifts can vary, including evenings and weekends
Medical Insurance
Taking care of yourself in Leicester’s hospitals is expensive, and medical insurance will save your pocket. When choosing a medical insurance package, consider factors such as coverage for medical emergencies, doctor visits, prescriptions, and any specific healthcare needs you may have. Ensure the insurance plan meets the requirements of your visa and provides adequate support throughout your studies in Leicester. You can check more information through:
-
University-Sponsored Insurance: Check if the University of Leicester offers a specific health insurance plan for international students. Universities often have partnerships with insurance providers to offer comprehensive coverage at competitive rates.
-
NHS Coverage: International students are eligible for NHS services if they have paid the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of their visa application. This covers most medical treatments and emergencies, but it’s advisable to supplement NHS care with additional insurance for services not fully covered.
-
Private Health Insurance Providers: Consider reputable private health insurance providers in the UK that offer tailored packages for international students. Companies like AXA, Bupa, and Aviva provide various health insurance plans that can be customized to your needs and budget.
-
International Student Organizations: Some international student organizations or associations may offer group insurance plans specifically designed for students studying abroad. These plans often provide comprehensive coverage at affordable rates.
FAQ about Cost of Living in Leicester as a Student
Is Leicester a good place to live for students?
Yes, Leicester is good for students to live as for its high value. It is the more affordable city to live in UK and also the home of 2 major popular Universities: the University of Leicester and De Montford University.
What is the University of Leicester acceptance rate 2024?
It is 71.2%. The acceptance rate of the University of Leicester was last recorded in 2011. The acceptance rate was 71.2% at the time. You can take it as a reference and if you wonder the accurate rate, you can contact university.
What is the cheapest hotel in Leicester?
With uhomes.com, you can find the cheapest hotel in Leicester: Leicester City Apartment with the price of £95 per night.
