Derby named UK’s second-cheapest city for students as cost of living rise continues

Derby students have been found to have the second-lowest weekly spend of any in the country, according to new research. Analysis from private tutoring firm, Superprof, took into account the average weekly cost of rent and other university essentials – beer, coffee, and fast food – as well as the average cost of a five-mile taxi trip.

The figures show Derby comes out above big cities like Newcastle and Liverpool and other student cities like Stoke and Aberdeen. It offers the second-lowest student accommodation costs in the UK, at £90 a week, and the second most affordable coffee prices.

But it was pipped to the top spot by Wolverhampton, which was £9 a week cheaper in rent and around £13 cheaper a week overall. London, Bournemouth and Reading were found to be the most expensive cities to be a student in the UK, with students in the capital city spending more than double what they do in a week in Derby, according to Superprof figures.

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According to the figures, students in Derby spend:

  • Average weekly rent: £90
  • Five-mile taxi trip: £12.92
  • Beer (on average per week): £14
  • Coffee (on average per week): £4.88
  • Fast food (on average per week): £11.98
  • Weekly total: £133.80

A spokesperson for the University of Derby said: “The University of Derby is located in the centre of the country, with great transport links for students for trips home or days out. The University has a number of Derby sites, and it is a lively small city which offers plenty for students to do depending on their interests.

“From absorbing culture at historical sites such as the Museum of Making or winding down in the green spaces – there is a host of activities for students to enjoy. Several parks have been awarded Green Flag status, including Markeaton Park, close to the University’s Kedleston Road and Markeaton Street sites. The Peak District is also a short bus or train ride away, with beautiful scenery to explore.

“In addition, the Union of Students has a wide range of societies, which are a big part of University life. They offer an opportunity for students to meet like-minded people, develop a skill or try something new. There are also a huge range of sports clubs run by the Union of Students for students to take part in. There are options for students to play socially or competitively in everything from football, rugby and cricket to netball, American football and dodgeball.

“We are continually investing in our campuses to help students get the most from their studies. Cutting-edge teaching spaces and industry-standard classroom facilities ensure students are learning the latest techniques and skills, while social, sports and study areas provide everything they need for daily student life. On top of this, the University offers students the opportunities for volunteering, work placements, and work or study abroad to build their experience.”

Halls of residence at the University of Derby – which are all self-catered – are slightly more expensive, costing between £115.36 and £159.74 a week. That equates to between £461.44 and £638.96 a month. Students can apply for financial assistance through bursaries and scholarships, with international students also being eligible for further support.

Commenting on the overall findings, a spokesperson for Superprof said: “Undoubtedly, students are always looking to save money whilst living on a budget, so it is fantastic to see so many affordable areas in the UK where people at university can have a good time without having to break the bank.

“With cost-of-living currently on the rise, it is now more important than ever for students to know how to manage their money effectively. This ranking offers a valuable guide for prospective students into whereabouts in the UK their loan will stretch the furthest.”


https://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/news/cost-of-living/derby-named-uks-second-cheapest-7102980