The University of Greenwich offers a unique London experience without the central London price tag. Located in a historic Royal Borough, it provides a vibrant campus life with excellent transport links. This guide breaks down the estimated monthly costs for students in 2025, covering everything from accommodation and bills to food, transport, and social activities.
Summary: Expect to budget between £1,200 and £1,700 per month to live comfortably as a student at the University of Greenwich.
Accommodation Costs
Accommodation will be your biggest expense. Greenwich offers a range of options, from university halls to private rentals.
University Halls of Residence (Approx. 2025)
| Campus | Accommodation Type | Weekly Rent (£) | Annual Cost (40 weeks) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Greenwich | Standard Single | £180 - £220 | £7,200 - £8,800 |
| Avery Hill | En-suite | £190 - £240 | £7,600 - £9,600 |
| Medway | Standard Single | £150 - £190 | £6,000 - £7,600 |
Private Rentals: A room in a shared house in Greenwich or nearby areas like Deptford and Lewisham typically costs £650 - £900 per month, excluding bills. A one-bedroom flat can range from £1,200 - £1,600 per month.
Typical monthly spend: £700 - £1,000 depending on your choice of housing.
Utility Bills
If you're in private accommodation, you'll need to budget for utilities. In university halls, these costs are usually included in your rent.
Typical Monthly Costs (per person in a shared house)
- Gas and Electricity: £60 - £90
- Water: £15 - £25
- Broadband Internet: £10 - £15
- TV Licence: £13.25 (if applicable)
Total utilities (private housing): £90 - £150 per month.
Council tax is not usually paid by full-time students, but always check with the local council.
Food and Groceries
Your food costs will vary depending on your eating habits. Cooking at home is the most budget-friendly option.
- Weekly grocery shop: £40 - £60
- Monthly groceries: £160 - £240
- Occasional meals out/takeaways: £50 - £80 per month
Total: £210 - £320 per month.
There are several large supermarkets in and around Greenwich, including Sainsbury's, Asda, and Lidl, offering a range of prices.
Transport Costs
Greenwich has excellent transport links, including the DLR, Southeastern trains, and numerous bus routes.
- Student Oyster Card/Contactless: A monthly travelcard for Zones 1-3 is around £130 with a student discount.
- Buses: A single bus fare is £1.75 with a daily cap of £5.25.
- Cycling: A great way to save money and stay active.
Typical transport costs: £50 - £130 per month, depending on how often you travel into central London.
Lifestyle and Socialising
This is where your budget can be most flexible. London offers endless entertainment, but there are plenty of free and cheap options too.
- A pint of beer: £5 - £6.50
- Cinema ticket: £10 - £15 (student discounts available)
- Gym membership: £20 - £40 per month
- Nights out: £30 - £60 per event
Typical lifestyle costs: £150 - £300 per month.
Academic and Study Costs
Don't forget to budget for course materials.
- Books and stationery: £20 - £40 per month
- Printing and photocopying: £5 - £10 per month
- Course-specific equipment: Varies by program
Total Monthly Budget Estimate (2025)
| Category | Monthly Cost (£) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 700 - 1,000 |
| Utilities (private housing) | 90 - 150 |
| Food & Groceries | 210 - 320 |
| Transport | 50 - 130 |
| Lifestyle & Social | 150 - 300 |
| Study Materials | 25 - 50 |
| Total | £1,225 - £1,950 |
Estimated annual living cost (excluding tuition): £14,700 - £23,400
Budgeting Tips for Greenwich Students
- Get a Student Oyster Card: Save 30% on travelcards.
- Cook in Bulk: Meal prepping saves time and money.
- Explore Free Attractions: Greenwich Park, the National Maritime Museum, and walking the Thames Path are all free.
- Student Discounts: Use apps like UNiDAYS and Student Beans for discounts on food, fashion, and more.
- Part-time Work: Greenwich has plenty of part-time job opportunities in retail and hospitality.
FAQs
Is Greenwich an expensive place to live for students?
It is more affordable than central London but more expensive than many other UK cities. Budgeting is key.
How much money do I need per month as a student in Greenwich?
We recommend a budget of at least £1,200 per month to cover all essential costs.
Are the university halls worth the cost?
Halls are a great way to meet people and have bills included, which simplifies budgeting. They can be more expensive than some private options but offer convenience and security.
Conclusion
Living as a student at the University of Greenwich in 2025 requires careful financial planning, but it is an achievable and rewarding experience. By creating a realistic budget and taking advantage of student discounts, you can enjoy all that this historic and vibrant part of London has to offer.