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 cities in the UK.

Cost of accommodation in Leeds

Accommodation in Leeds is certainly cheaper than in the likes of London and Edinburgh, although still among the most expensive in Northern England. The economic boom in Leeds has led to 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. Cheaper options can be found in outlying suburbs, with the city centre being the priciest option.

Finding Rental Accommodation in Leeds
Best Areas and Suburbs in Leeds

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. Rising fuel costs and the expensive parking in the city make this a pricey proposition. Commuting via public transport is affordable, especially if you purchase advance tickets and monthly passes. A free and healthy alternative is cycling, which is fast gaining popularity in Leeds.

Getting Around in Leeds

Cost of groceries in Leeds

The cost of groceries in Leeds will largely depend on where you shop. Discount supermarkets such as Aldi and Lidl are good places to save a few pounds, while the high-end shops, including Waitrose and Marks & Spencer, offer speciality goods at higher 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 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 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 the city, such as Roundhay Park and Golden Acre Park, provide free entertainment for locals in the form of picnics, hiking, cycling, and leisurely strolls.

Shopping and Entertainment 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.

Education and Schools in Leeds

Cost of Healthcare in Leeds

New arrivals to Leeds can benefit from free public healthcare from the National Health Service (NHS), provided they are either British citizens or permanent residents. ‘Ordinarily resident’ expats in the country are also able to use NHS services, albeit at a yearly cost (the Immigration Health Surcharge, or IHS). High-quality private healthcare facilities are also available in Leeds, but require comprehensive health insurance to be financially viable for most expats.

Healthcare in the United Kingdom