Planning to study at York St John University? Discover the 2025 cost of living guide — including rent, food, travel, and lifestyle tips for students.
York St John University, located in the historic city of York, is a popular choice for both UK and international students. Known for its welcoming campus and supportive community, the university offers a high-quality student experience in one of the UK's most picturesque cities. However, while York is more affordable than London, it can still be pricey compared to smaller towns.
Understanding the cost of living in 2025 is crucial for students to plan their budget and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. This blog breaks down the average expenses — from accommodation and food to transport and leisure — along with smart saving strategies.
Accommodation is usually the largest expense for York St John students. The university offers a range of halls of residence, while private housing is also common.
| Accommodation Type | Weekly Cost | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| University Halls (self-catered, en-suite) | £150 – £185 | £600 – £740 |
| Private Student Halls | £160 – £200 | £640 – £800 |
| Shared Private Housing | - | £400 – £600 |
| Budget Options (shared rooms/outer York) | - | £350 – £450 |
Food costs vary depending on whether students cook at home or eat out.
| Food Category | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Groceries (Aldi, Lidl, Asda) | £110 – £150 |
| Mid-range supermarkets (Tesco, Sainsbury's) | £150 – £180 |
| Eating out: Meal deals | £4 – £6 per meal |
| Restaurants | £12 – £18 per meal |
| Coffee | £2.80 – £3.50 |
York is a compact, walkable city, and many students live within 20 minutes of campus.
| Transport Type | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Local Bus Pass (First Bus York) | £50 – £60 |
| Cycling | Free (bike-friendly city with rental schemes) |
| Walking | Popular, especially for students living near campus |
| Train (occasional trips to Leeds/Manchester) | £12 – £25 return with 16–25 Railcard |
Most essential learning resources are provided by York St John, but some additional costs apply.
| Study Expense | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Books & Stationery | £20 – £35 |
| Printing & Coursework | £5 – £10 |
| Laptop/Software | Free Microsoft Office 365 and library e-resources available |
York is a historic city with a lively student atmosphere, full of pubs, restaurants, and cultural spots.
| Entertainment | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cinema | £8 – £12 |
| Gym Membership | £20 – £30/month (student discounts at York Sport) |
| Night Out | £20 – £35 |
| Monthly Entertainment Budget | £90 – £130 |
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | £600 – £800 |
| Food & Groceries | £120 – £160 |
| Transport | £45 – £60 |
| Study Materials | £20 – £35 |
| Entertainment & Lifestyle | £90 – £130 |
| Total | £875 – £1,185 |
The cost of living for students at York St John University in 2025 averages between £875 – £1,185 per month, depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices. While York is not the cheapest UK city, it balances affordability with a rich cultural and academic environment.
By making smart choices — like living in shared housing, cooking at home, and using student discounts — students can enjoy an affordable and fulfilling university experience in one of the UK's most charming cities.