What it costs to live in Manchester

With London now ranking as the most expensive city in Europe, you'll be pleased to know that the cost of living in Manchester is on average 1/3rd cheaper than in the capital city.

Listed below are the average prices for everyday items that will help you plan your budget.

Rent

Self catering house share = £50 - £60 per week

One bedroomed flat = £90 - £150 per week

Food & Drink

  • Big Mac = £2
  • Can of Coca-Cola = £0.50
  • Loaf of bread = £0.50
  • 6 eggs = £0.90
  • Pint of milk = £0.40
  • Whole chicken = £3
  • Jar of coffee = £3
  • Bottle of wine = £3 - £8

Utility Bills

If you are living alone in a one bedroomed flat the average that you will pay per week is as follows:

  • Gas (for heating and cooking) = £5
  • Electricity = £3
  • Water = £3

Entertainment

  • Glass of wine in pub = £2
  • Lunch in pub = £4 - £6
  • Dinner in restaurant = £10 - £20
  • Cinema ticket = £3 - £6
  • Club entrance = £4 - £10
  • Museum & gallery entrance = Usually free

Travel

  • Bus - weekly learner pass = £4.50
  • Metrolink - day return = £2 - £4.50
  • Coach - Manchester London return = £18 - £30
  • Train - Manchester London return = £30 - £60

Getting used to the culture

Unless you visit the UK regularly you may experience a period of adjustment at the beginning of your stay where you will be adapting and learning to live within a culture that could be different from that of your home country.

Listed below are a few handy pointers that will help you adjust to life in Manchester more easily.

  • The frequent use of "please", "thank you" and "sorry" are a commonplace in everyday language.
  • A great way to start a conversation in the UK is to comment about the weather. We often use this subject matter when we are stuck for something to say.
  • Whilst we love to chat to strangers in a pub or bar, we often restrict conversation on public transport to polite requests.
  • It is considered rude to ask someone you don't know very well about how much they earn or what something cost.
  • It's not a good idea to ask a woman how old she is or comment upon her size.
  • Punctuality is important. Always try to be at least five minutes early for appointments and lessons. If you're late at least try to think of a plausible excuse!
  • We love to queue! Anyone pushing-in will probably be ignored but at worst may receive some disapproving looks.