Leicester has earned a reputation as one of the UK’s most culturally diverse cities. High-quality education, particularly at the University of Leicester and De Montfort University, has made it a sought-after destination for students. Moreover, vibrant green spaces, various architectural sites, and an expansive food scene all ensure that there’s something for everyone.

Student Life in Leicester

Living in Leicester ensures that students get the best of both worlds: an authentic UK experience and affordable city living. It’s located in the middle of England and is a walkable, compact, and safe city, perfect for students who prefer convenience with lower costs. It’s well-connected by train to major UK cities, including London, Birmingham, and Nottingham.

In your free time, you can explore what the city has to offer: museums, art galleries, theatres, shops, or relax at parks or cafes. With its lively multicultural scene and student-friendly atmosphere, Leicester offers more than just education.

That said, the estimated cost of living in Leicester is £766, excluding rent, which is cheaper compared to the estimated cost of living in London, at £ 1,057.40. 

According to East Midlands Business Link, Leicester has been ranked the 20th city in the PwC Good for Growth City Index, which measures 12 economic factors assessed by the public, including health, income, jobs, housing, safety, work-life balance, environment, high street shops, and more. 

Key factors, such as housing, safety, and work-life balance, are crucial for students navigating their studies, part-time jobs, and social life. Leicester performs well across all three, and the city’s overall quality of life makes it a supportive environment for studying and living.

Cost of Living in Leicester for Students

How Much Does Food Cost in Leicester?

Here’s a list of the average costs of some basic food staples, as listed by Numbeo: 

Leicester Student Budget Tips

Fortunately, Leicester is one of the most budget-friendly cities for students, allowing you to enjoy life there without having to cut corners. From cheap eats and grocery deals to low-cost accommodation and transport options, saving money is easier than you think. 

Affordable Casita Leicester Student Accommodation Options

There are many student accommodation options in Leicester, and here are the most affordable ones:

Ben Russell Court

This Leicester student accommodation is the most affordable, as the cheapest room in Ben Russell Court is a single room. The accommodation also features en-suite and studio options. Central Leicester is a 14-minute walk from this property.

Unite Students St Martins House

This student accommodation is slightly more expensive than Ben Russell Court. Unite Students St Martins House offers en-suite and studio rooms.

York House Leicester

York House Leicester, a student accommodation in Leicester, is also a suitable option for students. It features single and en-suite rooms, as well as studios. It’s also close to Central Leicester, a ten-minute walk.

Cheapest Shopping Brands

You can find the cheapest prices on groceries at Aldi or Lidl, with Aldi claiming the top spot for being the most affordable in 2025. On average, customers paid £133.73 at Aldi for 79 items and £134.43 at Lidl. 

For fresh fruits, vegetables, and local produce, try Leicester Market and Asian or local greengrocers. Additionally, Iceland’s Food Warehouse is great for bulk and frozen bargains.

Most Affordable Mode of Transport in Leicester

To cater to every need, Leicester offers a range of public transport options for students.

Walking is the most popular mode of transportation for getting around the city, especially since Leicester is a compact city, and student areas are conveniently close to universities. 

Cycling is also a reliable mode of transportation as the city supports cyclists with dedicated lanes, bike-hiring services, and secure storage.

Buses also connect students to campuses, accommodation, shops, and other surrounding areas with tickets as low as £2 or £3.

Trains are ideal for travelling to cities, with Leicester Railway Station offering direct links to cities including London, Birmingham, and Nottingham.

Leicester vs London

Leicester offers a significantly more affordable lifestyle for students. Although London is known for its world-class universities and urban life, it comes with a price tag, as the cost of living can be as high as £1,057.40 per month.

The estimated cost of living in Leicester is approximately £766 per month, excluding rent. Daily expenses, such as groceries, transportation, and entertainment, are also considerably cheaper.  For students seeking a quality education and a comfortable lifestyle without financial pressure, Leicester offers a budget-friendly alternative to London.

Cost of Living in Leicester vs London

Although Leicester is smaller compared to London, its cost of living is significantly more affordable for students. Keep in mind that the cost of living can vary based on lifestyle choices.

Leicester is a student city that embodies cultural diversity. If you’re looking for quality education, affordable accommodation, green spaces, and independent shops, with many places within walking distance, then Leicester is the city for you. 

If you’re looking for student accommodation in Leicester, check out Casita or contact our multilingual team for more information.

Feel free to explore other cost of living guides, such as the Cost of Living in Liverpool: Living in Liverpool as Students and Cost of Living in Australia vs UK: A Comprehensive Guide blogs, as well as other relevant resources like UK University Interview Tips and Tricks.