Affordability Tips: How To Live Comfortably In The UK

Chances are, you’re planning on moving to the UK or you’re already here. Either way, you might be wondering how much money you’ll need to live comfortably. This is because not everyone can afford the luxurious lifestyle the country has to offer. As a result, we’ve compiled this detailed article, providing affordability tips on how to live comfortably on a budget in the UK. Without further delay, let’s get started!

How Expensive Is The UK In Comparison To Nigeria?

Though the cost of living is largely determined by your choices and way of life, living in the UK is undoubtedly higher than in Nigeria. According to Living Cost, the average monthly expense for someone to live in Nigeria is about $355, whereas in the UK, it’s around $2183. This implies that the overall living expense in the UK is about 84% higher than in Nigeria. These figures highlight the significant difference in the cost of living between the two countries.

Affordability Tips To Live Comfortably in The UK

Despite being one of the most expensive countries in the world, the UK remains a popular choice for many visitors. People choose the UK for both temporary stays and permanent relocations. Regardless, here is our advice on how to manage your budget and live comfortably in the UK.

Read Also: How To Manage Finances In The UK

Affordability Tips In The UK: Housing Expenditures

Bear in mind that the most expensive city in the UK is London, and housing (either renting or purchasing) here is extremely expensive. For instance, a one-bedroom flat near central London may rent for over £1,500 a month on average. That’s over 3 million Nigerian currency (considering the exchange rate as of August 2024). But how can you secure something less pricey?

First off, it all depends on the proximity to the city center. The closer you are, the costlier the houses are; the farther you are, the less expensive they are. The idea here is to look outside the major cities and rent an apartment that is far away from the city centre. For instance, outside central London, you can secure a one-bedroom flat for, or even more than, £1,200 per month. 

Read Also: Finding Student Accommodation in the UK as a student

Aside from the tip above, there are other ways in which you can find affordable housing, they include:

1. Government Schemes: The UK government offers various schemes that help individuals purchase houses more easily. These schemes include Help to Buy, Shared Ownership, and Right to Buy. 
2. Negotiation: If you’re renting and not buying, don’t hesitate to negotiate with the landlord. Negotiating the price is another easy way to secure a house affordably and live comfortably. Besides, negotiating is not a crime in the UK, so don’t act flashy!

Affordability Tips In The UK: Transport Expenditures

In UK cities, driving is frequently rather slow, so taking public transit is a wise decision. Large cities have a well-developed public transit system; however, tickets can be expensive. In addition, we compiled a detailed guide on the transport system in the UK, providing insight into the various transport options. ensure to check it out.

That said, monthly passes for public transport typically cost £94.90, whereas monthly costs for automobile fuel (diesel) typically range from £30 to £50. All of these things should be considered while creating a budget. particularly when calculating the monthly amount required to pay for living expenses in the UK.

Read Also: Networking Strategies for Career Growth in the UK

Affordability Tips In The UK: Grocery Expenditures

A typical grocery shop for one person might cost around £34.4 a week, depending on the type of food purchased. Purchasing organic or luxury items could cost much more than buying budget products. Therefore, reduce your spending on organic or luxury items. Also, avoid non-essential spending because it can strain your financial state.

One of the best affordability tips for grocery shopping, especially if you’re living on a tight budget, is buying used goods. This strategy will reduce your expenses and help you save in the UK, as they are inexpensive.

Are you moving to the UK to study? Check out our guide: “Cuisine Survival Guide: Eating On a Student Budget In The UK,” which provides tips on how to manage your food expenses as a student.

Summary

The passage provides tips for living comfortably on a budget in the UK, particularly in expensive cities like London. Key advice includes understanding and managing transport costs, housing and grocery. 

FAQs

How much money do I need to live comfortably in the UK?

In the UK, you should budget between £1,500 and £2,000 a month to live comfortably. Usually, this sum pays for housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, and recreational activities.

What are some ways to save money on groceries in the UK?

Purchasing in bulk, cooking from scratch instead of pre-made meals, using coupons or promo codes, and choosing low-cost goods over luxury ones are some ways to save money on groceries. 

Is public transport in the UK cost-effective?

Public transport can be a smart and efficient option, especially in cities. While it can be pricey, using student discounts and planning your journeys wisely can help reduce costs.

How can I effectively manage my budget in the UK?

Managing your budget involves tracking your expenses, setting savings goals, and using budgeting apps to identify areas where you can cut costs. It’s also helpful to use comparison websites to find the best deals.

What are some investment options to consider while living in the UK?

Investing is a great way to grow your wealth over time. It’s important to plan carefully and research the best investment opportunities that align with your financial goals.