The cost of living in Canterbury, Kent, UK, is one of the important factors in determining whether to study there. Canterbury, renowned for its rich history and prestigious universities, offers a unique blend of academic excellence and vibrant student life. But how much does it cost to live in this charming city? This guide will provide an in-depth look at the various expenses you can expect as a student in Canterbury.
Is It Expensive to Live in Canterbury?
Living in Canterbury is not very expensive. However, individual spending habits and lifestyle choices must be considered when evaluating the affordability of living in Canterbury. The cost of living in Canterbury, UK, is influenced by several elements, such as accommodation, dining, transportation, and healthcare. Data from Numbeo suggests that the cost of living in Canterbury is higher than the national average by approximately 9% but much more affordable compared to larger cities like London.
As a student, it’s important to budget wisely and take advantage of discounts and student offers. It is recommended that students maintain a monthly budget of £1,100 to £1,300 (excluding tuition fees) to live in Canterbury comfortably. Let’s break down the main expenses you’ll encounter.
Cost of Living in Canterbury: Accommodation
Accommodation is usually a significant part of the cost of living. Canterbury rent is slightly higher than the UK average, but it is more affordable than that of big cities like London. There are many options for houses to rent in Canterbury, including on-campus accommodation, off-campus student accommodation, and social housing. Each category has its own advantages and disadvantages.
| On-campus Accommodation | Off-campus Student Accommodation | Social Housing | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Approximate Price | £150/week | £180/week | £210/week |
| Location | In or near universities | Walking distance to universities | Depends on area |
| Personnel | Students | Students | Mixed personnel |
| Safety | On the university campus with all the safety precautions | 24-hour security, video surveillance systems, ect. | Not guaranteed |
| Utility Bills | Included | Included | Not Included, approximate £60/week |
| Amenities | Mostly all amenities are included | Mostly all amenities are included | Depends on the landlord and area |
Student Accommodation in Canterbury
In fact, on-campus accommodation is the cheapest but limited in quantity, so most students choose off-campus student accommodation. To help find houses to rent in Canterbury, uhomes.com offers many options for safe and convenient student accommodation in Canterbury. Click to view details.
| Student Accommodation | Price |
|---|---|
| Palamon Court | From £195/week |
| Alma Court | From £184.5/week |
| Pavilion Court | From £163/week |
| Parham Student Village | From £127/week |
| Canterbury Student Village | From £141/week |
| Riverside | From £182/week |
| Rhodaus Court | From £190/week |
| Currus Court | From £185/week |
| Canterbury Student Manor | From £183/week |
Cost of Living in Canterbury: Education
Canterbury is home to prestigious universities, including the University of Kent, Canterbury Christ Church University, and the University of the Creative Arts Canterbury Campus. Thanks to the cutting-edge facilities and high-quality education these institutions provide, students worldwide flock to Canterbury every year. Undergraduate tuition at Canterbury’s universities will probably be £9,250 per year, capped in line with British government guidelines.
University of Kent
The following table provides an approximate tuition fee for the University of Kent. The tuition fees for different courses may vary based on this foundation. For more detailed data, please refer to the University of Kent’s official website.
| Types of Students | Tuition (per academic year) | |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Students | UK Students | £9,250 |
| International Students | £18,600 | |
| MS Students | UK Students | £14,700 |
| International Students | £23,900 | |
| PhD Students | UK Students | £4,786 |
| International Students | £18,600 | |
Canterbury Christ Church University
University of the Creative Arts
All fees are currently correct, but they may change due to changes in government policy on tuition fees, entitlement to fee reductions, and tax or benefit rules. You can check for the latest information on the university’s official website.
| Types of Students | Tuition (per academic year) | |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Students | UK Students | £9,250 |
| International Students | £16,950 | |
| Postgraduate Students | UK Students | £12,500 |
| International Students | £18,500 | |
Cost of Living in Canterbury: Food
When planning your stay in Canterbury, it’s essential to budget for daily food expenses. The dietary costs in Canterbury vary greatly, depending on your dietary habits and where you eat. The average cost of food and groceries in Canterbury is about £400 per month.
Eating Outside
Canterbury town centre and its surrounding areas offer a wide range of dining options, from cosy cafes to upscale eateries. The following data is for reference.
- Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant £15.00
- Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course £70.00
- McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal) £7.45
- Domestic Beer (0.5-litre draught) £5.00
- Imported Beer (0.33-litre bottle) £4.00
- Cappuccino (regular) £3.32
- Coke/Pepsi (0.33-litre bottle) £1.67
- Water (0.33-litre bottle) £1.40
Cooking by Yourself
Cooking on your own is undoubtedly more cost-effective than eating outside. Here are some price references for common items.
- Milk (regular), (1 litre) £1.37
- Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) £1.48
- Rice (white), (1kg) £1.00
- Eggs (regular) (12) £3.18
- Local Cheese (1kg) £7.03
- Chicken Fillets (1kg) £7.36
- Beef Round (1kg) (or Equivalent Back Leg Red Meat) £13.67
- Apples (1kg) £1.88
- Banana (1kg) £1.51
- Oranges (1kg) £2.00
- Tomato (1kg) £2.00
- Potato (1kg) £1.16
- Onion (1kg) £1.27
- Lettuce (1 head) £0.52
- Water (1.5-litre bottle) £0.81
- Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range) £8.50
- Domestic Beer (0.5-litre bottle) £2.03
- Imported Beer (0.33-litre bottle) £2.53
Cost of Living in Canterbury: Transportation
Getting around Canterbury by public transport is straightforward and cost-effective. A regular bus service operates between the town and university campuses. A one-way ticket costs around £2.50. If you’re going to be using the bus every day, then it makes sense to buy a travel pass. Stagecoach busses offer a semester travel card for around £160. It’s worth picking up a student railcard if you’ll be travelling around the country by train since these save you 1/3 of all tickets. For those who prefer driving, there are additional costs to consider, including fuel and parking. The following table is for reference.
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| One-way Ticket (Local Transport) | £2.50 |
| Monthly Pass (Regular Price) | £166.67 |
| Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) | £2.60 |
| Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff) | £1.24 |
| Taxi 1hour Waiting (Normal Tariff) | £18.00 |
| Gasoline (1 liter) | £1.49 |
| Parking (per hour) | £1.50 to £2 |
Cost of Living in Canterbury: Others
Depending on the course you’re studying, you might find that you need to buy extra materials such as books, art supplies, equipment, or printing credits. You may also wish to participate in activities through university clubs and societies, sports teams, or perhaps a local gym. You will need the internet and mobile phones to connect with family and friends, as well as expenses such as shopping and entertainment. These can involve recurring monthly payments, so once again, factor this into your overall budget, and you can easily plan ahead. Some of these expenses are for your reference:
| Other Costs of Living in Canterbury | |
|---|---|
| Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data | £11.3 |
| Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | £28.4 |
| Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult | £32 |
| Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour on Weekend) | £25 |
| Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat | £12 |
| Clothing And Shoes (per month) | £70-120 |
| Healthcare (per year) | £470 |
Why Study in Canterbury?
Numerous compelling reasons make it a top choice for students seeking a vibrant and enriching academic experience when considering why you should study in Canterbury.
- Educational opportunities and academic excellence: Canterbury boasts a range of educational opportunities, including renowned universities such as Canterbury Christ Church University and the University of Kent, which offer state-of-the-art facilities, diverse academic programs, and research opportunities.
- Arts and culture scene: The city of Canterbury is rich in arts and culture, providing a creative environment that inspires innovation and expression among students pursuing various disciplines. Canterbury is a student-friendly city with a welcoming atmosphere, historic streets, and a vibrant community that fosters learning and growth.
- Affordability and safety: With its low crime rate and stable society, Canterbury, Kent, is one of the safest places in England. Compared to larger UK cities, Canterbury offers a more affordable cost of living while maintaining a high quality of life. In particular, there is a lot of cheap accommodation in Canterbury.
- Accessibility and connectivity: Canterbury is well-connected by public transport, making it easy to explore and travel. London is just an hour away by train, providing a quick escape to the capital’s attractions. Within the city, an extensive bus network and safe cycling routes make commuting hassle-free.
How to Save Money in Canterbury?
Being a student is an exhilarating time full of new experiences, opportunities, and challenges. However, managing finances can be tricky, especially in a vibrant city like Canterbury. Let’s see how to save money as a student in Canterbury without sacrificing the quality of your experience.
1. Accommodation
Student accommodation in Canterbury is often more affordable than private rentals, and they come with the added benefit of being close to campus. Plus, utilities and internet are usually included, simplifying your budget. Consider sharing a house or flat with friends to split the cost.
2. Food and Groceries
Plan your meals for the week to avoid impulse buying. Batch cooking can save time and money, allowing you to take advantage of bulk-buy discounts. Many supermarkets offer student discounts or loyalty cards; remember to carry your student ID. For fresh produce, don’t miss the local markets where you can often find bargains.
3. Transport
Canterbury is a compact city, making walking and cycling the most economical ways to get around. For longer journeys, students can benefit from discounted public transport. Consider getting a 16-25 Railcard, which offers a third off rail fare. Local buses operated by Stagecoach also provide student passes.
4. Entertainment
Canterbury offers plenty of free or low-cost activities. Explore the stunning Canterbury Cathedral, stroll through Westgate Gardens, or visit the Beaney House of Art & Knowledge. From cinemas to restaurants, many local businesses offer student discounts. Keep an eye out for special student nights and events. Websites like UNiDAYS and Student Beans are excellent for finding the latest deals.
5. Student Finance
You can cover your tuition fees by taking out a tuition fee loan from Student Finance. Another way to reduce education costs is to look for a scholarship or bursary from your university. This includes discounts on tuition fee payments, monetary stipends, course-related equipment access, and much more.
6. Part-Time Work
Conclusion
Living in Canterbury as a student offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities without the high costs associated with larger cities like London. By budgeting wisely and taking advantage of discounts and student deals, you can make your student experience both enjoyable and affordable. Whether finding suitable accommodation, managing education expenses, or exploring the city’s culinary delights, understanding the cost of living in Canterbury, UK, is key to a successful and stress-free university life. For more tips and detailed guides on student life in the UK, stay tuned to our blog. Check uhomes.com for cheap accommodation in Canterbury.
FAQ
Is Canterbury expensive for students?
Canterbury can be relatively expensive for students, primarily due to the higher costs of accommodation in the city. Despite these expenses, students can find ways to manage their budget through student discounts, shared accommodations, and careful financial planning to make their student experience in Canterbury more affordable and rewarding.
Is Canterbury a nice area to live in?
Yes. Canterbury is often regarded as a charming and picturesque city, making it a desirable place to live for many. Its rich historical significance, including the iconic Canterbury Cathedral, adds to the city’s appeal. The city offers a mix of modern amenities and traditional architecture, creating a unique atmosphere. Additionally, Canterbury is home to various cultural attractions, green spaces, and a vibrant student population due to the presence of the University of Kent and Canterbury Christ Church University.
What is the median rent in Canterbury?
The median rent in Canterbury can vary depending on the type of accommodation and location within the city. However, as of recent data, the median Canterbury rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around £750 to £900 per month. For shared accommodation or student housing, the median rent typically ranges from £400 to £600 per month per room.
