University of Bristol Cost of Living for Students in 2025 Complete Guide
Planning to study at the University of Bristol? Discover the 2025 cost of living for students – including rent, food, transport, bills, and budgeting tips.
🎓 Introduction
The University of Bristol is one of the UK's top Russell Group universities, known for academic excellence and a vibrant student culture. Situated in southwest England, Bristol is a popular city for both UK and international students.
However, alongside tuition fees, the cost of living in Bristol is something every student must carefully consider. While it's more affordable than London, it is still one of the pricier UK cities, especially when it comes to rent.
This blog explores the cost of living for students at the University of Bristol in 2025, covering accommodation, food, transport, utilities, and lifestyle expenses — plus tips on how to budget effectively.
🏠 Accommodation Costs in Bristol
Accommodation is the biggest expense for Bristol students. Options include university halls, private housing, and purpose-built student accommodation.
University Halls (2025): £150 – £230 per week (£600 – £920/month)
Shared private housing: £500 – £700/month per student
👉 Bills are usually included in university halls, but not always in private housing.
🍴 Food & Grocery Expenses
Food costs in Bristol are moderate compared to London, but eating out regularly will add up.
Groceries: £180 – £250/month
Eating out: £12–£20 per meal (restaurants), £6–£8 (takeaway)
Coffee & snacks: £3–£5
💡 Cooking at home can save up to £1,200 per year compared to daily takeaways.
💡 Utility & Household Bills
For students in private housing:
Electricity, gas, water: £60 – £90/month
Internet/Wi-Fi: £25 – £35/month
Mobile phone: £15 – £25/month
👉 Halls of residence usually include all bills.
🚍 Transport Costs
Bristol is well connected, but many students live close enough to walk or cycle to campus.
Bus pass: £55/month
Cycling: Used bikes cost ~£120–£150
Train to London: £25–£35 return
🎉 Lifestyle & Personal Expenses
Entertainment & nightlife: £80 – £150/month
Gym: £25 – £40/month
Shopping/clothes: £50 – £100/month
Books/study materials: £20–£40/month
📊 Average Monthly Student Budget – Bristol 2025
Expense Category
Monthly Cost (£)
Accommodation
600 – 960
Food & groceries
180 – 250
Utilities & bills
80 – 120
Transport
40 – 60
Lifestyle/social
120 – 200
Study materials
20 – 40
Total
1,000 – 1,300
💡 Tips to Save Money in Bristol
Live in shared housing to cut rent.
Use student railcards for discounted travel.
Shop at budget supermarkets (Aldi, Lidl).
Use apps like Too Good To Go for cheap meals.
Take advantage of student discounts (UNiDAYS, Student Beans).
❓ FAQs
Q1. How much do Bristol students need monthly?
Around £1,000 – £1,300/month, mainly depending on rent.
Q2. Are university halls cheaper than private housing?
Yes, but availability is limited. Shared private housing is usually the most cost-effective.
Q3. Is Bristol more expensive than London?
No, but it is one of the more expensive UK cities after London.
Q4. Can students work part-time?
Yes, most visas allow up to 20 hours/week.
Q5. What's the cheapest way to live in Bristol?
Shared housing outside the city centre.
📝 Conclusion
The University of Bristol offers an excellent academic and social experience, but expect to spend around £1,000 – £1,300 per month on living costs. While not the cheapest city, with good budgeting and housing choices, students can enjoy all that Bristol has to offer without overspending.