Is the UK on your list of places to move to?
We understand how difficult it can be to choose the right place to call home.
Fortunately, the housing market in the UK is beginning to return to normal following the pandemic.
However, many people are afraid to make the move because of affordability.
This guide will help you decide on the best place in the UK to relocate to based on the average cost of living in each location and housing prices.
This will ensure that you receive the best bang for your buck.
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13 of the Cheapest Places to Live in The UK
1. Durham, North East England
First on the list for being one of the most affordable places to live in the UK is Durham.
Durham is located just northeast of England.
Durham got its name from the River Wear that circles Norman Castle and Durham Cathedral.
Durham is known to be one of the most popular and affordable places to live in the country.
The average rent paid for a one-bedroom apartment in Durham is $810 per month.
If you want to live outside the city, it is much cheaper, around $448 per month.
But what about those who are thinking about buying a home in Durham?
The average cost of a home in the city is $162,634.
Popular attractions in Durham include the Durham Cathedral, the Oriental Museum, and Durham Castle.
2. Belfast
Belfast is known for being the capital of Northern Ireland.
It’s also famous for being where the RMS Titanic was built.
So, if you’re considering moving to this popular town, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment is $617 per month.
If you plan on moving outside the city, it would be much cheaper, typically around $405 per month.
And for those contemplating buying a home in Belfast, the average cost of a home here is $293,759.
Top attractions in Belfast include the Titanic Belfast, St. George’s Market, and the Botanic Gardens.
3. Leicester
If you’re looking for a town in the UK that’s affordable and rich in both culture and history, then Leicester is the perfect location.
Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Leicester costs around $592 per month.
For utilities, plan on paying around $124 per month.
In addition, the housing market in Leicester is healthy.
The average cost of a home in the city is around $270,546.
For those looking for things to do around town, check out the National Space Centre, the Leicester Museum and Art Gallery, and The Guildhall Museum.
4. Stirling
Located in central Scotland and also known as one of the cheapest places to live in the UK is Stirling.
It’s also located just 26 miles from Glasgow.
Stirling is a fairly upbeat town with a lot to offer those living here.
A single person living in Stirling would spend about $872 per month on expenses, not including rent.
The average rent paid for a one-bedroom apartment in the city is roughly $769 per month. $260,400 is the average cost of a home in Stirling.
There are plenty of things to do in Stirling, including the Stirling Smith Art Gallery & Museum, Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park, and Allanwater Brewhouse.
5. Lancaster
Lancaster is also worth mentioning, as it should be considered if you’re looking for an affordable place to live in the UK.
For those considering renting, the average monthly rent paid for a one-bedroom apartment is $707, while $548 is the average rent paid per month for those looking for a place outside the city.
Utilities on average cost around $214 per month. Moreover, Lancaster offers student housing, markets, and restaurants, all of which are affordable.
If you’re looking for something fun to do in Lancaster, check out the Lancaster City Museum, Williamson Park, or Lancaster Castle.
6. Cardiff
Cardiff is known as the capital of Wales.
It is also a pretty large town, with nearly 290,000 people living there.
On average, people pay around $826 per month for a one-bedroom apartment within the city.
If you want to get an apartment outside the city, you will pay around $628 per month.
In addition, utilities cost around $251 per month. You can take advantage of low transportation, entertainment, and sports costs.
The top sights in Cardiff are the National Museum Cardiff, Bute Park, and St. Fagans National Museum of History.
7. Newcastle
Newcastle is located in the northeastern part of the UK. Once upon a time, Newcastle was well-known as a hot spot for manufacturing and shipbuilding.
Currently, it has transitioned into the perfect location for business, science, and art.
Everything about Newcastle is affordable, from restaurants and entertainment to healthcare.
If you’re looking for a place to rent within the city, you will pay about $810 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
The average amount paid for utilities each month is $162.
The average home sale price is $252,215.
There are many things to do for fun in Newcastle. Check out St. James Park, the Great North Museum, and the Biscuit Factory.
8. Coventry
Coventry is located in central England and is also considered an affordable place to live in.
There is a lot to love about Coventry, including the famous Coventry Cathedral, which was replaced following WWII when it was left in ruins.
Affordability in Coventry is not hard to come by.
Whether you decide to rent or buy a home in the city, you will pay a reasonable price.
For instance, the average rent paid for a one-bedroom is $614 per month.
Apartments in town cost $659 per month, while utilities cost around $225 per month.
For those wanting to buy a home, $294,888 is the average home sale price.
Several attractions worth checking out around town include the Coventry Transport Museum, Coventry Cathedral, and the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum.
9. Warwick
Warwick has always been highly favored and known as a town for those looking to get away from the city.
Warwick is full of gorgeous Georgian and Victorian-styled homes.
Compared to other cities, Warwick is a lot cheaper to live in.
A one-bedroom apartment costs around $953 a month to rent.
However, you’ll pay around $818 per month if you live outside the city.
Moreover, utilities cost around $166 a month.
This is the perfect town for both families and individuals looking for a budget-friendly town to live in.
Several attractions worth checking out in Warwick include Warwick Castle, Shakespeare’s Birthplace, and Jephson Gardens.
10. Lincoln
Next on the list for affordable living in the UK is Lincoln.
Lincoln is known for being a historic town and for having several popular attractions.
This is the perfect location for those who enjoy the perfect combination of old and new.
The average home sale price in Lincoln is $227,000.
Renting is also affordable in Lincoln.
One-bedroom apartments are typically around $766 per month, and $585 if you live outside the city.
You will also pay around $167 per month for utilities.
Popular attractions in Lincoln include Doddington Hall & Gardens, Lincoln Castle, and Hartsholme Country Park.
11. Nottingham
Another place worth considering if you’re looking for a cheap location in the UK to live is Nottingham.
Nottingham is home to so many excellent schools and attractions.
Living in Nottingham is nearly 35% cheaper compared to living in London.
The average rent paid for a one-bedroom in the city is $758 per month, and $586 if you live outside the city.
You can also count on paying $194 per month for utilities.
The average cost of a home in Nottingham is $284,000.
Top sights in Nottingham include the City of Caves, the National Justice Museum, and Nottingham Contemporary.
12. Liverpool
Liverpool is one of the most frequently visited places among tourists in England.
It takes about three hours by train to get to London from Liverpool.
Liverpool is also known as being the hometown of The Beatles.
If your dream is to live in Liverpool, renting is pretty affordable.
The average rent paid for a one-bedroom apartment in Liverpool is $814 per month.
And if you don’t mind living on the outskirts of Liverpool, you’ll pay around $609 a month for rent.
Several attractions worth checking out in Liverpool include The Beatles Story Museum, Anfield, and Sefton Park.
13. Manchester
Last on the list of being one of the most affordable places to live in the UK is Manchester.
Once upon a time, during the Revolution, Manchester was known for manufacturing large amounts of textiles and cotton.
Manchester is also the second-largest city in the UK.
So, if living here sounds like somewhere you can see yourself, consider the average rent and home sale price.
For a one-bedroom, the average rent paid is around $1032 a month.
You’ll pay around $680 a month outside the city. Utilities cost around $155 per month for a family of four.
Consider visiting the Science and Industry Museum, Manchester Art Gallery, or the People’s History Museum for fun entertainment.
United Kingdom Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: United Kingdom Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: LOW
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
- MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
- TERRORISM RISK: HIGH
- SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it cheaper to live in the UK compared to the U.S.?
Both countries have a cost of living that will change depending on the exact location you live in.
Overall, you can be certain that the cost of living is slightly higher in the U.S. compared to the UK.
The cost of living in the UK is 0.49% lower.
What is the average cost of living for families or single individuals in the UK?
One person or student can live in the UK for about $900 per month, not including rent.
The average cost of living for a family of four in the UK is $3,135 per month, minus rent.
Does the UK offer affordable housing options?
The UK does offer affordable housing options.
To qualify for this program, your total household gross income must be less than $99,765.
You will also not be able to buy a home at the market price in your local area.
