Explore the 2025 cost of living for University of Exeter students. Get details on rent, bills, food, transport & lifestyle with budgeting tips.
The University of Exeter is one of the UK's top universities, known for its strong academic reputation, vibrant student community, and stunning campuses. Located in Exeter, Devon, the university offers students a mix of city life, beautiful countryside, and affordability compared to London or other major cities.
While Exeter is not the cheapest student city, its living costs are moderate and manageable with good planning. For 2025, students should budget carefully to balance rent, food, and lifestyle expenses while making the most of Exeter's student-friendly environment.
This blog provides a detailed breakdown of living costs for Exeter students in 2025, including accommodation, utilities, groceries, transport, and social activities.
Accommodation is the biggest expense, but Exeter offers a wide range of university halls and private rentals.
| Accommodation Type | Weekly Rent (£) | Annual Cost (40 weeks) |
|---|---|---|
| Shared Bathroom | £155 – £180 | £6,200 – £7,200 |
| En Suite | £185 – £220 | £7,400 – £8,800 |
| Studio / Premium | £230 – £280 | £9,200 – £11,200 |
👉 Average student rent: £500 – £850/month
Most university halls include bills, but private renters should budget separately.
👉 Utilities (private housing): £90 – £130/month
Food costs in Exeter are moderate, with a mix of budget supermarkets and local shops.
👉 Total: £160 – £220/month
💡 Tip: Cooking at home and shopping at Aldi/Lidl can reduce grocery costs by £30–£40/month.
Exeter is a compact city, so transport costs are low compared to larger cities.
👉 Transport budget: £30 – £60/month
Exeter has a vibrant student nightlife, sports clubs, and cultural activities, all relatively affordable.
👉 Lifestyle costs: £120 – £200/month
| Category | Monthly Cost (£) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 500 – 850 |
| Utilities (if private) | 90 – 130 |
| Food & Groceries | 160 – 220 |
| Transport | 30 – 60 |
| Lifestyle & Social | 120 – 200 |
| Study Materials | 20 – 40 |
| Total | £950 – £1,500 |
👉 Annual cost (excluding tuition): £11,500 – £17,500
The University of Exeter offers students a well-balanced lifestyle, combining quality education, vibrant social opportunities, and moderate living costs. With monthly expenses between £950 and £1,500, Exeter is significantly cheaper than London while still offering strong career and cultural opportunities.
By living close to campus, cooking at home, and budgeting carefully, students can keep costs under control and enjoy all that Exeter has to offer in 2025.