Your Go-To Guide for Cost of Living in Glasgow​

Moving to Glasgow for university? Exciting times ahead! But before you pack your bags, it’s important to understand the cost of living in Glasgow​ . From rent and transport to groceries and entertainment, managing your budget is key to making the most of student life.
In this guide, we’ll break down the essential costs and share tips to help you live comfortably without overspending!

Universities in Glasgow

Glasgow is home to some of the best universities in the UK, offering a great mix of history, culture, and student life. Whether you’re looking for world-class research, creative courses, or strong career support, you’ll find the right fit in this city.

The University of Glasgow is one of the oldest in the UK, known for its stunning campus and top research. Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) is modern and career-focused, perfect for practical learning. The University of Strathclyde is famous for business, engineering, and innovation. The Glasgow School of Art is a top choice for creative minds.

Each university has a unique vibe, so whatever your passion, Glasgow has a place for you!

Cost of living in Glasgow​

Is Glasgow expensive for students?

Glasgow is one of the more affordable cities for students in the UK. While the cost of living in Glasgow​ depends on your lifestyle, many students find it manageable compared to places like London or Edinburgh.

Rent is the biggest expense, but there are options for different budgets, from university halls to shared flats. Public transport is student-friendly, with discounts and passes. Groceries and eating out can be affordable, especially if you shop at budget supermarkets and take advantage of student deals. Entertainment, including cinemas, pubs, and events, also offers discounts for students.

Overall, Glasgow provides a good balance of cost and quality of life, making it a great choice for students looking for an exciting but affordable city!

What is the average rent in Glasgow?

The cost of rent in Glasgow depends on the type of accommodation you choose. On average, students pay around £200-£250 per week, though it can be lower depending on location and facilities. There are different options to suit various budgets and preferences.

University halls are a popular choice for first-year students. They are close to campus and usually include all bills. Living here is a great way to meet new people, but rooms can be small, and rent is sometimes higher.

Private student accommodation offers modern living with en-suite rooms and shared facilities like gyms and study spaces. Rent includes bills, but it can be slightly more expensive than other options.

Shared flats or houses are often cheaper than student halls. This option gives students more independence, but they need to manage bills which can add up.

On average you can expect to spend between £180- £350 per week on rent depending on the type of amenities you are after.

What is the cost of groceries in Glasgow ?

The cost of groceries in Glasgow varies depending on where you shop and what you buy. On average, students spend around £30-£40 per week on groceries. Shopping wisely and comparing prices can help you save money.

There are several supermarkets in Glasgow where students can buy food and essentials. Lidl and Aldi are great for budget-friendly shopping, offering lower prices on fresh produce and everyday items. Tesco and Asda have a good mix of affordability and variety, with regular discounts and loyalty schemes. For more premium options Marks & Spencer offers high-quality products but at higher prices.

For fresh fruits, vegetables, and international foods, students can visit local markets, international stores, and independent grocers across the city.

What is the cost of travel in Glasgow?

Glasgow has many travel options, making it easy for students to get around the city. The main modes of transport are buses, trains and the subway.

Buses are a popular choice, with First Bus Glasgow operating across the city. A day ticket costs around £5-£8 depending on the area you are travelling in.

The Glasgow Subway is quick and affordable, and you can unlimited travel for a day with the Smartcard for around £3.20.

For longer trips, ScotRail trains offer discounts with a 16-25 Railcard, which saves a third on fares.

How much does eating out cost in Glasgow?

You cannot forget the expenses that comes with eating out when considering the cost of living in Glasgow​.

A meal at a casual restaurant in Glasgow costs around £12-£15, while fast food or street food options can be cheaper at £5-£8. Drinks usually cost £4-£6 depending on your choice.
If you eat out a few times a week, you may spend around £150-£200 per month. Adding coffee or snacks can bring the total to £250 per month.

To save money, students often use discounts like UNiDAYS or eat at student-friendly spots offering meal deals. Cooking at home is always the cheapest option, but Glasgow has plenty of affordable places to enjoy a meal without overspending.

Student Living in Glasgow

Glasgow is a lively city with plenty of places for students to explore. Kelvingrove Park is perfect for a walk, picnic, or study session outdoors. Next to it, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is free and filled with interesting exhibits.

For shopping and food, Buchanan Street has everything from high-street stores to small cafés. If you love books, visit The Mitchell Library, one of Europe’s largest public libraries.

Music lovers can check out King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut, a famous venue for live gigs. For a fun night out, Ashton Lane offers cosy pubs and great restaurants.

From museums to nightlife, Glasgow has something for every student to enjoy without spending too much!

We hope you found this blog on cost of living in Glasgow​ helpful. Glasgow is a fantastic city for students, offering affordable living, great universities, and plenty of things to see and do. With a range of accommodation options, transport discounts, and budget-friendly grocery stores, students can manage their expenses while enjoying city life.

Eating out, socialising , and exploring the city’s best spots don’t have to break the bank if planned wisely. Whether you’re studying, working, or just having fun, Glasgow has something for everyone.