Cost of Living in Manchester

Big city life, with options for every budget

Manchester is one of the UK’s most exciting cities — but like most major cities, it comes with a higher cost of living than surrounding areas like Salford. That said, it’s still much more affordable than London or the South East, and there are ways to live comfortably at every price point.

This guide breaks down what to expect so you can plan ahead.

🏠 Rent

Rent in Manchester depends heavily on location. Living in or near the city centre is convenient but more expensive. Neighbourhoods like Levenshulme, Gorton, and Moston offer lower prices while staying well-connected.

Accommodation	Average Monthly Rent
Room in shared house	£500–£650
Studio flat	£700–£850
1-bedroom flat	£800–£1,100
2-bedroom flat or house	£1,000–£1,300
3-bedroom house	£1,200–£1,500+

💡 Rusholme, Longsight, and Levenshulme are popular with students and NHS workers for good value and access to shops.

💡 Utilities (Gas, Electricity, Water, Internet)

These are similar to Salford but can be slightly higher in larger or older flats.

Service	Average Monthly Cost (1 person)
Electricity & gas	£70–£110
Water	£35–£45
Broadband/Wi-Fi	£25–£35
TV Licence	£13/month (only needed if you watch live TV or BBC iPlayer)

💡 Bills are often not included in rent — always ask before signing.

🛍️ Groceries & Essentials

Supermarket costs are mostly the same across Greater Manchester. You’ll find more international options in Manchester, especially in Rusholme, Longsight, and Cheetham Hill.

Item	Estimated Cost
Weekly groceries (1 person)	£35–£55
Rice (1kg)	£1.50–£3
Cooking oil (1L)	£2–£4
Fruit & veg	Cheaper in local markets than supermarkets
Halal meat / specialty shops	Abundant in south Manchester (Rusholme, Longsight)

🛒 Best budget supermarkets: Aldi, Lidl, Asda, and open-air markets in Longsight or Cheetham Hill.

🚍 Transport

Manchester has one of the UK’s best public transport networks outside London, but it’s also more spread out — so you may spend more on travel if commuting from farther areas.

Transport	Cost
Monthly bus pass (TfGM)	£65+
Tram (Metrolink) pass	£60–£80 depending on zones
Train to Salford Crescent	£3–£6 per trip
Taxi (inner city)	£6–£10
Bee Network card	Discounts for local journeys

💡 Walking or cycling is possible in the city centre. Use the Free Bus routes for short hops.

📱 Phone & SIM

Identical to Salford. Low-cost providers are widely available.

Item	Cost
SIM with data (monthly plan)	£10–£20
International calls	Use Lebara, Lycamobile, or Giffgaff

🍽️ Eating Out & Social Life

Item	Cost
Coffee	£3–£4.50
Casual meal (takeaway)	£8–£12
Sit-down restaurant	£15–£25
Night out (drink + meal)	£25–£40
Cinema ticket	£8–£12

💡 Rusholme’s “Curry Mile” is famous for affordable South Asian food. Chinatown and Northern Quarter have good value options too.

💰 Monthly Budget Estimate (Solo in Manchester)

Category	Estimated Cost
Rent (shared flat)	£600
Bills & Wi-Fi	£100
Groceries	£180
Transport	£80–£100
Phone	£15
Occasional social life	£100
Total	£1,050–£1,200/month

💡 Sharing with a roommate, meal prepping, and using local markets can reduce this total significantly.