Edinburgh's cost of living is higher than other Scottish cities but more affordable than London.
Research shows Edinburgh’s cost of living index at 74.57, compared to London’s 83.89.
This balance makes Edinburgh ideal for students seeking quality education without London’s high expenses.
Edinburgh offers a unique blend of rich history, culture, and a lively student community. However, as a student planning to study in the UK, understanding the cost of living in Edinburgh for students is crucial. On average, you can expect to spend around £1,167 to £2,330 per month (INR 1.1L to INR 2.2L) on living costs, depending on your accommodation and lifestyle.
If you're aiming for one of the top universities to study in Edinburgh, this guide covers everything you need to know about the cost of living as an international student. From rental prices and food expenses to tips for reducing costs, it will help you budget effectively and make the most of your study abroad experience.
An Overview of Cost of Living in Edinburgh for Indian Students
Living in Edinburgh as an Indian student typically costs between £1,500 and £2,000 per month (INR 1.7L to INR 2.2L), covering rent, food, transportation, and personal expenses. Accommodation is often the largest expense, with prices ranging from £1,200 to £1,300 (INR 1.3L to INR 1.4L) per month for student accommodation.
To get a clear picture, here’s a summarized overview table of the cost of living in Edinburgh for students from India:
Expense Category
Cost Range (GBP)
Cost Range (INR)
Rent (1 bedroom)
GBP 900 - 1500
INR 1.1L - 1.7L
Food
GBP 200 - 300
INR 22K - 34.2K
Transportation
GBP 50 -70
INR 5.7K - INR 7.9K
Clothing and Shoes
GBP 50 - 120
INR 5.7K - INR 13.6K
Personal Expenses
GBP 100 - 180
INR 11.4K - INR 20.5K
Note: These are approximate monthly costs and may vary depending on lifestyle and location.
With a clear understanding of your living expenses, it’s important to also consider the cost of studying in Edinburgh. Let’s now look at the tuition fees and additional charges international students can expect when pursuing their education here.
Cost of Studying in Edinburgh for International Students
Studying in Edinburgh requires a significant financial commitment, reflecting its world-class education. For instance, undergraduate tuition at the University of Edinburgh starts at around £28,000 (INR 26.8L) per year. On top of tuition, students must budget for compulsory fees like student services, health insurance, and visa-related costs.
Below is a breakdown of the average tuition fees by degree level along with other essential costs for international students.
Degree Level
Approximate Tuition Fees (Euro)
Approximate Tuition Fees (INR)
Bachelor's (Undergraduate)
£28,000 – £36,800
INR 31.8L– INR 41.8L
Master's (Postgraduate)
£30,500 – £43,300
INR 34.6L – INR 49.1L
Note: Tuition fees are approximate and can vary based on the specific program and institution.
In addition to tuition and living expenses, there are a few other mandatory costs you should keep in mind. These include:
Note: These fees are subject to change and may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the student.
Now that you have a clear understanding of the costs associated with studying in Edinburgh, it's equally important to consider the most affordable top universities. Let's explore the 5 cheapest universities in Edinburgh for Indian students.
Cheapest Universities in Edinburgh for Indian Students
Studying in Edinburgh offers a rich academic experience, and while tuition fees can vary, several universities provide quality education at more affordable rates. For example, Heriot-Watt University is renowned for its strong business and engineering programs, offering competitive fees for international students.
Below is a comparative overview of some of the most cost-effective universities in Edinburgh, ensuring that you get great value without compromising on quality.
Each university offers unique programs and support for international students. Now, let’s explore the cost of living across different areas of Edinburgh for students.
Cost of Living in Edinburgh: City List
With 10% of Edinburgh’s population being students, the city has earned a strong reputation as a top student destination. Understanding the cost of living in Edinburgh for students will help you choose the right suburb that fits your budget and lifestyle, making your stay comfortable and affordable.
The below breakdown will help you understand where to live based on your budget, distance from major universities, and available commute options.
Top 5 Expensive Areas in Edinburgh
If you're planning to live in Edinburgh, some neighbourhoods like Stockbridge come with a higher price tag. These areas typically have monthly rents exceeding £1,000 (around 90K), driven by their close proximity to the city centre, historical charm, and access to top institutions like the University of Edinburgh.
Suburb / Zone
Rent Range (EURO) /month
Rent Range (INR) /month
Stockbridge
£1,050 to over £3,600
INR 1L - 3.4L
Marchmount
£1250 - £ 1590
INR 1.1L- 1.5L
Bruntsfield
£1250 - £1590
INR 1.1L - 1.5L
New Town
£1250 - £9125
INR 1.1L - 8.7L
West End
£1300 - £3951
INR 1.2L - 3.7 L
These high-demand neighborhoods offer close access to the city center and top universities, but come with premium rent prices. Now, let’s explore the more affordable options for students.
Top 5 Cheapest Areas in Edinburgh
If you're trying to manage your housing budget, rents in Edinburgh can start from as low as £750 (around INR 71K) per month in certain areas. Below are the top 5 most affordable neighbourhoods that offer budget-friendly living without sacrificing access to universities or public transport.
Suburb / Zone
Rent Range (EURO)
Rent Range (INR)
Dalry
£895 - £1,050
INR 85K - 1L
Gorgie
£895 - £1,175
INR 85K - 1.1L
Duddingston
£750 - £1,150
INR 71K - 1.1L
Brunstane
£925 - £1,267
INR 88K - 1.1L
Stenhouse
£895 - £1,175
INR 85K - 1.1L
Note: Rent prices are approximate and can vary based on the specific accommodation and time of year.
Choosing the right area in Edinburgh is crucial to balancing affordability with convenience. Whether you're looking for an area with a lively student atmosphere or one with quieter surroundings, Edinburgh offers a variety of options to suit different lifestyles. Let’s look into additional costs that you should consider while planning about Edinburgh.
Cost of Living in Edinburgh: Additional Costs
The cost of living in Edinburgh for students involves various expenses beyond rent. Understanding these costs is crucial for effective budgeting. According to Numbeo, the estimated monthly costs for a single person in Edinburgh are approximately £915.8 (INR 87.6K), excluding rent.
The following table provides an overview of your average monthly expenses in Edinburgh:
Expense Category
Average Monthly Cost (Euro)
Average Monthly Cost (INR)
Electricity, Heating, Water, Garbage
£276.57
INR 26.5K
Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data)
£32.58
INR 3K
Mobile Phone Plan (Prepaid, 1 min. Local Call)
£13.36
INR 1.2K
Groceries
~ £108
~ INR 10.3K
Dining Out (Mid-Range Restaurant, 3-Course Meal for 1)
~ £30
~ INR 2.8K
Fitness Club (Monthly Fee for 1 Adult)
£40
INR 3.8K
Health Insurance (NHS Surcharge)
£470
INR 45K
Note: The INR values are approximate and based on an exchange rate
Now that you have a clear understanding of the costs involved in living and studying in Edinburgh, it’s time to explore some practical tips on how to reduce your expenses.
How to Reduce Your Cost of Living in Edinburgh? Key Tips
The cost of living in Edinburgh for students can be expensive, but with thoughtful planning, you can significantly cut your monthly expenses. For instance, students have reported spending as little as £1,440 (INR 1.3L) per month, including rent, by adopting cost-saving strategies .
Here are some practical ways to save money and make your student life little more comfortable:
Consider shared housing: Renting a flat with others can cut rent costs by 30% to 50%. Shared accommodation can cost as low as £500(INR 48K) per month in some areas.
Take advantage of student discounts: On average, students save 20% to 30% on dining, transport, and entertainment with discounts available through student cards and apps.
Cook your meals: Eating out in Edinburgh costs around £10 to £20 (~INR 950 - 1.9K) per meal, while cooking at home can reduce food costs to £2 to £3(~INR 160 - INR 280) per meal on average.
Use public transport: A monthly bus pass in Edinburgh costs about £83 (INR 7.9K), but students can save with the £25 (INR 2.4K) discount pass, reducing transport expenses by 70% compared to daily fares.
Select affordable internet plans: You can get broadband deals starting at £25/month (INR 2.5K/month), saving up to £10/month (INR 961/month) by opting for a student-specific plan.
Be mindful of utility consumption: Average monthly utility bills for a student apartment can reach £170 (INR 16.3K), reducing usage of electricity and water could save you £40 to £50(INR 3.8K - INR 4.8K) a month.
Buy groceries in bulk: Shopping in bulk for staples like rice, pasta, and vegetables can save you 10% to 15% compared to buying smaller quantities.
Evaluate your subscriptions: Subscriptions like streaming services can add up. On average, students save £50 to £100 (INR 4.8K - INR 9.6K) per month by cutting unnecessary subscriptions.
By implementing these strategies, you can effectively reduce your cost of living in Edinburgh and make the most of your student experience.
How Can upGrad Support Your Study Abroad Journey in Edinburgh and Beyond?
upGrad offers comprehensive support for students planning to study abroad, including expert guidance on university selection, course and program options, application assistance, visa support, scholarship guidance, pre-departure preparation, and career counseling. Their tailored services ensure you make informed decisions aligned with your academic and professional goals.
What is the average monthly rent in Edinburgh for students?
The average monthly rent for student accommodation in Edinburgh ranges between £1,200 and £1,300 (INR 1.3L to INR 1.4L). Rent costs depend on the type of housing and location, with shared accommodation being more affordable.
How much does food cost in Edinburgh for international students?
On average, international students spend around £400 to £500 (INR 38K - 48K) per month on food in Edinburgh. Cooking at home is more economical than eating out, which can be quite expensive in the city.
Are there any discounts available for students on transportation in Edinburgh?
Yes, students can avail discounted bus and tram passes, with monthly passes typically costing around £83 (INR 7.9K). Additionally, student travel cards offer significant savings on public transportation throughout Edinburgh.
What are the best areas to live in Edinburgh for students?
Popular areas for students in Edinburgh include New Town, Bruntsfield, and Stockbridge for more expensive options, and Leith, Craigmillar, and Pilton for more affordable living with good transport links to universities.
How much do utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet) cost in Edinburgh for students?
Monthly utility bills in Edinburgh can cost around £170 (INR 16.3K), which includes electricity, gas, water, and internet. It's essential to keep utility consumption in check to reduce this cost.
Are there any free or low-cost cultural events happening around the city?
Yes, Edinburgh hosts a variety of free or low-cost cultural events, including festivals, art exhibitions, and open-air concerts. You can check local listings or university noticeboards for such events throughout the year.
What are the additional costs that international students should consider when living in Edinburgh?
Additional costs for international students include health insurance, visa fees, and student services fees. Students should budget for these compulsory expenses to avoid any financial surprises during their stay.
How can I budget effectively as an Indian student living in Edinburgh?
Budgeting effectively involves setting aside a portion of your monthly income for rent, food, transport, and miscellaneous expenses. Use student discounts, avoid overspending on dining out, and consider shared housing to keep your costs low.
Are there any scholarships or financial aid options for international students in Edinburgh?
Yes, Edinburgh offers several scholarships and financial aid options for international students, including merit-based scholarships and country-specific funding. Check with your university or external scholarship providers for opportunities.
How expensive is public transportation in Edinburgh for students?
Public transportation in Edinburgh can be expensive, but students can save with monthly passes. A student pass costs around £83 (INR 7.9K) per month, offering unlimited travel on buses and trams within the city.
What is the cost of living in Edinburgh compared to other major UK cities?
Edinburgh’s cost of living is more affordable compared to cities like London but higher than other parts of Scotland. On average, students in Edinburgh spend around £1,500 to £2,000(INR 1.4L - INR 1.9L) per month, including rent and living expenses.
