🎓 Introduction
The University of York, located in the historic city of York, is one of the UK's leading universities, known for its research excellence, diverse student community, and high graduate employability. York is a medium-cost city — more affordable than London or Edinburgh but slightly more expensive than smaller towns like Stirling or Lancaster.
In 2025, students can expect moderate living costs, with accommodation and food taking up most of the budget. This blog provides a detailed breakdown of the cost of living for York students in 2025, including accommodation, utilities, groceries, transport, and lifestyle expenses.
🏠 Accommodation Costs
Accommodation is the largest cost for students, and York offers both on-campus and private housing options.
🔹 University of York Halls (2025 Rates Approx.)
| Accommodation Type | Weekly Rent (£) | Annual Cost (40 weeks) |
|---|---|---|
| Shared Bathroom | £145 – £165 | £5,800 – £6,600 |
| En Suite | £170 – £200 | £6,800 – £8,000 |
| Studio / Premium | £210 – £250 | £8,400 – £10,000 |
🔹 Private Rentals in York
- Shared house/flat: £450 – £650/month (bills excl.)
- Studio flat: £700 – £950/month
- Private halls: £170 – £230/week
👉 Average accommodation cost: £500 – £850/month
💡 Utility Bills
University-managed halls include utilities, but private housing requires extra budgeting.
- Gas, electricity & water: £60 – £80/month
- Wi-Fi & internet: £25 – £30/month
- Mobile plan: £10 – £20/month
👉 Utilities (private housing): £90 – £130/month
🛒 Food & Groceries
York offers a mix of budget supermarkets (Aldi, Lidl) and premium ones (Sainsbury's, Waitrose).
- Groceries: £130 – £160/month
- Eating out (occasional): £40 – £70/month
- Coffee/snacks: £20 – £30/month
👉 Total: £150 – £220/month
💡 Tip: Shopping at Aldi and Lidl instead of city centre stores can save £30–£40/month.
🚌 Transport Costs
York is a compact and walkable city, so transport costs are relatively low.
- Student bus pass: ~£40–£50/month
- Cycling: Popular among students; second-hand bikes cost £80–£120.
- Walking: Many students live within 20 minutes of campus.
- Train to Leeds (25–30 mins): ~£7–£10 one way.
👉 Transport budget: £30 – £60/month
🎉 Lifestyle & Social Costs
York has a vibrant student nightlife and historic attractions, with costs lower than London but higher than smaller towns.
- Gym (University of York Sports Centre): £25 – £35/month
- Societies/clubs: £5 – £20/term
- Night out in York: £25 – £40
- Cinema/Theatre: £8 – £15
- Personal shopping & extras: £50 – £90/month
👉 Lifestyle costs: £120 – £200/month
📚 Academic & Study Costs
- Books & supplies: £20 – £40/month
- Printing & coursework: £10 – £15/month
- Laptop & tech: £500 – £800 (one-off if required)
📊 Total Monthly Budget Estimate (2025)
| Category | Monthly Cost (£) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 500 – 850 |
| Utilities (if private) | 90 – 130 |
| Food & Groceries | 150 – 220 |
| Transport | 30 – 60 |
| Lifestyle & Social | 120 – 200 |
| Study Materials | 20 – 40 |
| Total | £900 – £1,500 |
Annual Cost Estimate
£11,000 – £17,500 (excluding tuition fees)
💡 Budgeting Tips for York Students
- Walk or cycle – Saves on transport costs.
- Choose shared housing – Much cheaper than studios.
- Cook at home – Groceries in York are affordable compared to eating out.
- Use student discounts – Railcards, UNiDAYS, and TOTUM save on travel and shopping.
- Enjoy free activities – York's historic streets, museums, and river walks offer budget-friendly leisure.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How much does it cost to live in York as a student in 2025?
➡ Around £900 – £1,500/month, depending on lifestyle and housing.
Q2. Is York more affordable than London?
➡ Yes, York is around 30–40% cheaper for rent and daily expenses.
Q3. Can I live on £1,000/month in York?
➡ Yes, especially if living in shared accommodation.
Q4. Are utilities included in York halls?
➡ Yes, bills and Wi-Fi are included in university-managed halls.
Q5. What is the annual cost of living in York?
➡ Around £11,000 – £17,500/year, excluding tuition.
🌍 Conclusion
The University of York offers students a high-quality academic environment in a historic and student-friendly city. With living costs between £900 and £1,500/month, York is more affordable than London but slightly higher than smaller towns.
By choosing shared housing, cooking at home, and making use of free activities, students can enjoy York's charm and strong academic reputation without overspending.