Cost of living in Leeds

The UK’s fourth largest city, Leeds boasts a thriving and vibrant economy drawing in new arrivals from all over the country and beyond. Newcomers will be pleasantly surprised to find that the cost of living in Leeds is quite reasonable compared to other major UK cities.

Cost of accommodation in Leeds

Accommodation in Leeds is certainly cheaper than in the likes of London and Edinburgh but is also among the most expensive in Northern England. Thanks to the economic boom in Leeds, the city has seen an uptick in new arrivals seeking to take advantage of employment opportunities. As a result, demand for housing has shot up and currently outweighs supply, which has of course led to high prices.

Cost of entertainment in Leeds

As a bustling cosmopolitan city, Leeds has plenty to offer in terms of nightlife, eating out and shopping, but these activities often add up quickly, so newcomers should budget accordingly.

Leeds, the birthplace of cinema, boasts a burgeoning arts and culture scene with multiple music venues and theatres for new arrivals to enjoy. During the summer months, the many green spaces in Leeds, such as Roundhay Park and Golden Acre Park, provide free entertainment for locals in the form of picnics, hiking, cycling and leisurely strolls.

Cost of groceries in Leeds

The cost of groceries in Leeds will largely depend on where new arrivals shop. Discount supermarkets such as Aldi and Lidl are where shoppers can save a few quid, while the high-end stores, including Waitrose and Marks & Spencer, offer speciality goods at hefty prices.

Newcomers looking to bolster their savings should consider buying local produce at one of Leeds’ popular markets and in-house brands to avoid the rising costs of imported goods.

Cost of transport in Leeds

Leeds is a compact city with excellent public transport infrastructure, so most residents living in and around the city centre don’t deem it necessary to own a car, especially considering the rising fuel costs and the expensive parking in the city. Commuting via public transport is affordable if travellers purchase advance tickets and monthly passes. A free and healthy alternative is cycling, which is fast gaining popularity in Leeds.

Cost of education in Leeds

Leeds has a diverse range of public and independent (private) schools, many with ‘outstanding’ ratings from the UK’s Office for Standards in Education (Ofsted). Private schools tend to be in the outlying areas of the city and are often costly, while public schools are free to attend with admission depending on catchment zones.