GB London — cost of living

What it actually costs to live in London, United Kingdom. Monthly rent, utilities, groceries, and transit costs sourced from national statistical offices and municipal data.

Total monthly essentials: approximately €3,020/month for a single person in a 1-bedroom flat (rent + utilities + groceries + transit). Lifestyle and neighbourhood swing this 30–50% either way.

Cost breakdown

Item	Monthly / item cost	Source
1-bedroom flat, city centre	€2,300/mo	Rightmove Q4 2024 inner-London average ↗
Rent per square metre	€39.50/m²	Rightmove Q4 2024 London rental index ↗
Utilities (85m² flat)	€195/mo	Ofgem default-tariff energy 2025 + water + council tax ↗
Public transport pass	€205/mo	TfL Zones 1–3 Monthly Travelcard ↗
Groceries, one person	€320/mo	ONS 2025 basket + Kantar inflation adjustment ↗
Restaurant meal, average	€20	London mid-range dining estimate ↗

Figures reflect the most recent published statistical data; individual experience varies with district and lifestyle.

Visa routes for United Kingdom

Relevant residence permits to move to London. Full detail on the United Kingdom country brief.

VisaSkilled Worker visaQualified workers with a UK sponsor licence-holder employer.VisaHealth and Care Worker visaClinical and eligible care workers sponsored by UK health employers.VisaGlobal Talent visaLeading or promising researchers, academics, and tech founders.VisaGraduate Route (post-study)International students graduating from UK higher-education institutions.

Other cities in United Kingdom

CityBirmingham CityBristol CityEdinburgh CityManchester

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