Cost of Living in Sheffield for Students in 2025

If you're planning to study in the UK, Sheffield is one of the most popular and student-friendly cities to consider. Home to two major universities – the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University - it attracts students from all around the world for higher education and better career opportunities. 

Before moving into their student accommodation in Sheffield, students must consider their budget and plan accordingly. Sheffield is an affordable city, and students can enjoy their university experience without worrying about financial burdens if they plan smartly, control their expenses, and make the most of student discounts and budgeting tools. One of the most common questions students ask is, Is Sheffield expensive to live in? So in this blog, we will discuss the expenses and cost of living in Sheffield for students, so you can plan your budget and avoid surprises. 

How Much Does It Cost to Live in Sheffield?

Compared to other major UK cities like London, Manchester, or Edinburgh, Sheffield is generally more affordable. It gives you the buzz of a big city with the comfort of a small town, so you get everything you need without spending too much.

Here’s a basic breakdown of monthly student expenses in Sheffield:

Groceries – £140-£160/month

Groceries are one of the biggest regular expenses for students. Luckily, Sheffield has a wide range of supermarkets, including Tesco, Aldi, Lidl, and Sainsbury’s. Many students prefer shopping at budget-friendly stores like Aldi or Lidl, where you can get good-quality food for less.

For around £140-£160 per month, you can cover basics like bread, milk, eggs, fruits, vegetables, rice, pasta, and some snacks. If you’re into cooking, this can also save you money compared to regular takeaways.

Here are the prices for food products for your reference:

Transport – £60-£80/month

Public transport in Sheffield is pretty student-friendly. Buses and trams are commonly used, and there are travel passes available for students. With a student bus pass or a multi-trip ticket, you can manage transport for about £60- £80 a month. If you’re living close to campus or in the city centre, you might not even need public transport every day. Walking or cycling is also common, thanks to the compact nature of the city and the availability of cycle lanes. Some students invest in a second-hand bike, which cuts down transport costs even further. 

Students in Sheffield can travel across the city for just £1.70 on buses and trams, with extra discounts for those aged 22 and under through the Zoom Beyond pass. If you use public transport often, consider a weekly, monthly, or termly travel pass - these can offer even bigger savings and are usually cheaper when bought through the First or Stagecoach apps. Some passes even cover trams and trains, making them a great value for regular travellers.

Recreational outings – £40-£60/month

Student life isn’t just about studying, and Sheffield knows how to balance fun and academics well. The city has a buzzing nightlife, music scene, and cafes that suit student budgets. Clubs like Corporation and Code are popular student spots that often have cheap or free entry nights. Plus, local pubs and gigs give you a break from the routine. 

Takeaways and Eating Out – £30-£50/month

While cooking at home is cost-effective, sometimes you just want a break. Whether it’s a quick pizza, some Chinese takeaway, or grabbing a burger on the way home. Sheffield has plenty of budget food options, especially around the university areas. You can check out the best budget-friendly restaurants in Sheffield to explore more choices. You’ll find meal deals, street food, and budget eateries that are student favourites. If you use apps like Too Good To Go, you can even get discounted meals and save more.

Clothes and Shopping – £20-£40/month

This one really depends on personal habits, but on average, students spend around £20-£40 per month on clothes and miscellaneous shopping. Sheffield has shopping centres like Meadowhall and high-street shops where you can find everything you need. If you’re thrifty, the city also has some great vintage and charity shops where you can grab unique items at low prices.

Mobile Phone – £15-20/month

Most students go for SIM-only deals, which are much cheaper than full mobile contracts. Providers like GiffGaff and VOXI offer flexible plans for around £15/month, including plenty of data, texts, and call minutes. Wi-Fi is widely available on campus and in student accommodation, so you probably won’t need a massive data plan anyway.

Sheffield Student Accommodation

One of the most important parts of your student budget is accommodation. The cost of Sheffield student halls can vary depending on the location, type, and facilities offered.

Here are some rough ranges:

• University Halls: £340 – £840 per month 
• Private Halls: £300 – £800 per month 

Many areas like Broomhill, Crookes, Ecclesall Road, and Walkley are popular among students and close to university campuses. If you're still deciding where to stay, check out the best areas to live in Sheffield for students to find the perfect spot for your lifestyle and budget. When looking for accommodation, it’s smart to check what’s included, such as internet, electricity, water, heating and wifi, so you can budget more accurately.

Tips to Save Money in Sheffield

To keep your expenses to a minimum, you can follow some simple practices mentioned below. These will help you avoid spending unnecessarily and save some extra cash. Start by tracking your daily spending to identify where your money goes. Set a monthly budget and stick to it, making sure to separate your needs from your wants. Look for discounts, offers, and cashback options while shopping. Small changes in your habits can lead to meaningful savings over time. You can also use our cost of living calculator to help manage your budget more effectively.     

1. Get a student discount card – You can use your student ID or sign up for cards like UNiDAYS and TOTUM to get discounts on food, shopping, and entertainment.
2. Use public libraries – You can use public libraries and avoid spending on books. You can also borrow them from your friends, or you can buy second-hand books to save money.
3. Buy second-hand – Whether it’s clothes, bikes, or furniture, Sheffield has a strong second-hand culture.
4. Share accommodation – Splitting rent and bills can make a big difference.
5. Avoid expensive gym memberships – Many universities and student accommodation options offer free or cheaper gym access for students.
6. Attend free events – Instead of spending on tickets, you can look out for university or city events that are free and still great for socialising.
7. Buy in bulk – For essentials like toiletries and dry groceries, bulk buying can reduce costs in the long run.
8. Avoid impulse shopping – wait 24 hours before buying non-essential items to see if you really need them.

Conclusion

The city’s supportive environment and student-friendly atmosphere make it a great place to live and study. Whether you're studying at an undergraduate or postgraduate level, Sheffield offers a good balance of affordability and quality of life. Living in Sheffield can be affordable if you plan wisely and make the most of the resources available.