Budgeting is one of the most important parts of student life—and Preston is one of the best cities in the UK for students who want value without sacrificing lifestyle. Whether you’re new to UCLan or planning your move soon, here’s a clear look at what student expenses you can expect and how Urban Hub helps you keep costs low.
Monthly Rent
Shared student halls in Preston typically cost £400–£550 per month, while private flats can go higher. But most of these don’t include bills, meaning you’ll pay extra for Wi-Fi, electricity, and water.
At Urban Hub, rent is all-inclusive—covering utilities, high-speed internet, on-site gym access, and 24/7 security. This simplifies your budget and eliminates surprise bills.
Food and Groceries
The average student spends around £100–£150 per month on groceries. Cooking at home is cheaper than eating out regularly. Urban Hub provides shared kitchen spaces and private kitchenettes (depending on your room type), making it easy to eat affordably.
Transportation
Preston’s city centre and UCLan campus are walkable, especially from Urban Hub’s central location. That means you’ll likely spend little or nothing on buses or taxis. For longer trips, consider a railcard to save on train fares.
Books and Supplies
Budget around £20–£40 monthly, especially at the start of term. Don’t forget free access to UCLan’s library and online materials to cut costs.
Social Life and Leisure
Night outs, cinema, takeaways—it all adds up. Students in Preston typically spend £80–£120/month on social activities. The key is balance. Urban Hub’s social lounges, rooftop hangouts, and events provide cost-free ways to have fun right at home.
Gym and Wellness
Local gyms charge £15–£30/month, but you can save by choosing accommodation that includes fitness access. At Urban Hub, the on-site gym is free to use.
Quick Recap – Average Monthly Student Budget
- 💸 Rent (with bills): £550–£700
- 🍽 Food: £120
- 🚶 Transport: £10 (if any)
- 📚 Supplies: £30
- 🎉 Leisure: £100
- 💪 Gym: £0 (included at Urban Hub)
Save More by Living Smart
Living close to campus, cooking at home, and choosing all-inclusive accommodation like Urban Hub helps you avoid financial stress. Want more cost-saving ideas? Read our blog on saving money as a UCLan student.
Thinking short-term? Check Urban Hub’s flexible booking options or contact our team for current offers.