Living Cost in Manchester (in 2024)

Manchester has a unique history, being the center of the Industrial Revolution in the 19th CE. Its moderate oceanic climate is chief among the many reasons to visit Manchester. Another positive aspect is that the cost of living in Manchester is relatively cheap for a big city. 

In pleasing contrast, the city is home to some of the top universities in the world. This is why Manchester attracts top eclectic students every year from all parts of the world. Students primarily travel to and from their universities via a light rail system known as the Manchester Metrolink. 

The system connects 99 stops and covers most of the city. Other modes of public transport, like trams and buses, fill in the gaps to ensure a smooth commute. 

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Why Choose to Live in Manchester 

Besides its rich history and popularity for Football and music, Manchester has much more to offer its residents. Listed below are five reasons students should consider moving to this city.

Climbing the Career Ladder 

Over the years, Manchester has emerged to be at par with cities like London in terms of its job market. Young aspirants often choose Manchester to move up the career ladder. Students can find job roles in IT, Finance, Retail, Construction, and more. 

Affordable Cost of Living 

The living expenses in Manchester are not exorbitant. Since it is more affordable than London, many students choose to move to this city. Students can choose to stay in university residences or rent an affordable apartment. Some top areas to rent include Wigan, Whitefield, Chorlton, and Tameside. Even purchasing an apartment in this city is cheaper than in London. 

Fun and Entertainment 

When it comes to shopping, the Northern Quarter and Market Street are the two top options. Designer labels are found in King Street. The music scene is big, with tight band gigs always on the run. 

Strong Transport Links

The city is well-connected with a strong network of buses, trams, and trains. 

Average Living Expenses in Manchester 

The average cost of living in Manchester might differ depending on their lifestyles. However, even those on a tight budget will find this city affordable. Listed below is an estimate of the most common costs –

Transportation- 

• Within the city center, the free bus provides a free ‘hop on, hop off’ service linking all of the main rail stations, shopping districts, and business areas.
• Trams and bus tickets are affordable, starting at £2
• Monthly Pass (Regular Price)-£70.00
• Taxi Start (Normal Tariff)- £ 2.30 
• Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff) – £1.29

Food and Dining- 

• Restaurant Meal for 1 – £15
• McMeal at McDonalds – £6

Utility Costs- 

• Electricity, Cooling, Heating, Garbage, Water- £212.20 per month
• Internet- £29.69 per month

Entertainment and Recreation

• Fitness Club- £26 per month (one person)
• Tennis Court Rental- £9.14 (1 hour)
• Movie Ticket- £9.75 (1 seat)

Housing- 

• The average cost to rent 2 BHK in the city is £1,127 per month
• The average cost to rent 2 BHK outside the city is £750-800 per month

5 Top Universities in Manchester 

The table below shows the top universities in Manchester, their QS World Ranking 2024, popular courses, and average tuition fees. 

University	Average Tuition Fees (Annual)	Accommodation	Stationery & Books
The University of Manchester	GBP 14,000 – GBP 33,000 depending upon the course level and type (full-time or part-time)	41 weeks or an undergraduate year – GBP 6,095	–
University of Salford	GBP 14,700 – GBP 17,100 for undergraduate courses    GBP 15,300 – GBP 18,990 for postgraduate courses	Peel Park Quarter – Cluster rooms begin at GBP 141.18 per week   John Lester and Eddie Colman Courts – Cluster rooms begin at GBP 123 per week	–
Manchester Metropolitan University	GBP 16,500 – GBP 18,000 for undergraduate courses    GBP 16,500 – GBP 18,000 for postgraduate courses	Total rent – GBP 1,500   Archway – GBP 170 per week Artisan Heights – GBP 190 per week  Birley – Starts from GBP 156 per week Briarfield – Starts from GBP 147 per week Cambridge – Starts from GBP 117 per week Cavendish – Starts from GBP 129 per week	GBP 36 per month
Royal Northern College of Music	GBP24,400 – GBP 29,100	Sir Charles Groves Hall – GBP 169.95 per week	–

Average Salaries in Manchester 

The average base salary for working professionals in Manchester, England, is GBP 31,000 per year. It differs based on the sector. On average, a software engineer can expect to earn GBP 35,343 annually. On the other hand, a teaching assistant may earn around GBP 15,144 per year. Some job roles like that of a project manager offer better than the average – GBP 40,904 per year. 

Some of the most popular employers in the city include – 

• Accenture 
• Barclays Bank PLC
•  BBC
• JD Group, and 
• Siemens 

Conclusion 

A study conducted by Time Out Index found that only 10% believed that Manchester was an expensive city to live in. The city was awarded the title of one of the least expensive cities in the world in 2022. 

It is a student-friendly city. Low Manchester living expenses are primarily why thousands of students flock to this city yearly. And this is one of the top reasons for you to consider this city. 

In fact, students planning to choose Manchester for overseas education benefit from good food, affordable living, top educational infrastructure, and lots of fun and entertainment. 

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