University of Salford Cost of Living for Students in 2025 Complete Guide
Planning to study at the University of Salford? Discover the 2025 student cost of living guide — including rent, food, transport, and lifestyle expenses.
🎓 Introduction
The University of Salford, located in Greater Manchester, is a dynamic and career-focused institution attracting over 20,000 students from across the globe. With its prime location next to MediaCityUK — a hub for digital media, technology, and innovation — Salford offers students both excellent academic opportunities and an exciting city lifestyle.
But before you pack your bags, it's crucial to understand the cost of living in Salford in 2025. While tuition fees are fixed, everyday expenses such as accommodation, food, and transport vary depending on lifestyle and choices. The good news? Salford is generally more affordable than London, making it a great choice for students on a budget.
This guide explores the average student expenses in Salford, breaking down everything from housing to leisure, so you can budget your university life effectively.
🏠 Accommodation Costs in Salford
Accommodation is the biggest expense for most students. The University of Salford offers on-campus housing, and many students also choose private apartments in Manchester or Salford Quays.
Average Accommodation Costs in 2025:
University Halls (en-suite/shared): £120 – £170 per week (£480 – £680/month)
Private Student Accommodation (studios): £650 – £850 per month
💡 Most students save money by sharing houses in areas like Eccles, Salford Quays, or Ordsall — all well connected by tram and bus.
🍽️ Food & Grocery Expenses
Salford and Manchester have plenty of affordable supermarkets, restaurants, and cafés. Students who cook at home spend significantly less than those who eat out regularly.
Weekly groceries (Aldi, Lidl, Tesco): £30 – £45
Cheap student meal out: £8 – £12
Mid-range restaurant meal: £15 – £20
Coffee or takeaway snack: £3 – £6
💡 Batch cooking and meal prepping can save up to £80–100 per month.
💡 Utilities & Household Bills
If you're renting privately, you'll need to budget for bills:
Gas, Electricity & Water: £50 – £70 per month
Internet & TV License: £15 – £20 per month
Mobile Plan: £10 – £20 per month
✅ In university halls, these costs are usually included in the rent.
🚍 Transport Costs
Salford is part of Greater Manchester, meaning students can easily access both Salford and Manchester city centre.
Monthly Student Bus Pass (Stagecoach/First): £45 – £55
Tram (Metrolink student pass): £30 – £45/month
Train (Salford to Manchester Piccadilly): £3 – £4 single fare
Cycling/Walking: Free — many students walk between campus and nearby housing.
💡 Manchester offers a UniRider bus pass exclusively for students, saving money on daily commutes.
🎉 Lifestyle & Entertainment
Salford students benefit from Manchester's vibrant cultural and nightlife scene.
Gym membership (student rate): £20 – £30/month
Cinema ticket (student discount): £7 – £10
Night out (club entry + drinks): £20 – £35
Shopping & leisure: £50 – £100/month
💡 Manchester's student nightlife is among the UK's best, with regular student nights offering cheap entry and drinks.
📚 Study Materials & Miscellaneous
Books & Stationery: £20 – £40/month (many e-books available at the Clifford Whitworth Library).
Laptop/Software: One-time cost (£500 – £800 if needed).
Printing/Photocopying: £5 – £10/month.
📊 Average Monthly Budget for Salford Students (2025)
Expense Category
Cost Range (£)
Accommodation
480 – 680
Food & Groceries
120 – 180
Utilities & Internet
60 – 90
Transport
30 – 55
Lifestyle & Entertainment
100 – 150
Study Materials
20 – 40
Total Monthly Budget
810 – 1,195
💡 Most students manage comfortably on £900 – £1,000/month (excluding tuition fees).
💡 Tips for Saving Money in Salford
Use student discounts (UNiDAYS, Totum, NUS Extra).
Choose shared accommodation over private studios.
Buy second-hand books or borrow from the library.
Cook meals at home instead of eating out daily.
Get a student travel pass for unlimited bus/tram journeys.
Work part-time (retail, cafés, call centres in Manchester).
✅ Conclusion
The cost of living for University of Salford students in 2025 is relatively affordable compared to other major UK cities. With an average budget of £810 – £1,195 per month, Salford offers students a good balance between affordability and access to Manchester's vibrant city life.
By choosing shared accommodation, using student discounts, and budgeting wisely, you can enjoy both your studies and social life without financial stress.
❓ FAQs: Cost of Living at Salford (2025)
Q1. How much does accommodation cost near the University of Salford?
👉 £480 – £680/month for halls, £400 – £550/month for private housing.
Q2. Is Salford cheaper than Manchester for students?
👉 Yes, Salford is slightly cheaper, though most students enjoy both cities since they're well connected.
Q3. What's the average monthly student budget in Salford?
👉 Around £900 – £1,000, excluding tuition fees.
Q4. Can international students work part-time at Salford?
👉 Yes, international students on a Student Visa can work up to 20 hours/week during term.
Q5. What's the cheapest way to travel around Salford and Manchester?
👉 A student bus/tram pass is the most cost-effective for unlimited journeys.