Cost of living in Northampton

Located in the East Midlands of England, Northampton is the perfect base if you want to enjoy living in a more rural area. It’s just a short drive or train ride from key commercial centres.

The cost of living in Northampton is reasonable, while the town offers a high quality of life.

Cost of accommodation in Northampton

Accommodation in Northampton is more affordable than in places like London or Birmingham, but you should still be prepared to spend a significant part of your earnings on housing. Recent data shows property prices in Northampton have seen a slight decline.

If you’re considering buying, it’s worth noting that Northampton has a mix of affordable and more expensive areas. More affordable spots include locations like NN2 6, whereas the pricier areas are around NN3 6. Renting is also an option and may be a better choice for many. The average rent is quite competitive across the board.

Accommodation in Northampton

Cost of transport in Northampton

Getting around Northampton is painless and affordable, thanks to the town’s reliable and efficient transport links. The bus and rail network offers an economical option if you’re near the town centre. If you’re living in the countryside, you’ll likely need a car, and costs such as petrol and maintenance can add up.

Walking is also becoming more popular due to Northampton’s compact layout and the ongoing improvements to pedestrian infrastructure. Weather permitting, it’s also possible to navigate Northampton’s streets on two wheels, with plenty of dedicated cycle paths and racks available.

Getting Around in Northampton

Cost of groceries in Northampton

The cost of groceries in Northampton is quite comparable to other towns in the East Midlands. Discount supermarkets like Aldi and Lidl provide significant savings, particularly on staple items. Basic goods such as milk, bread, rice, and eggs can be found at reasonable prices.

On the other hand, premium supermarkets such as Marks & Spencer and Waitrose stock a range of speciality and imported products. While these items might cost a bit more, the quality often justifies the price tag.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Northampton

Northampton is an excellent place for a night out, offering plenty of lifestyle options. Thanks to its status as a university town, you’ll find a number of budget-friendly student pubs and bars.

Northampton boasts 170 parks spanning over 1,180 acres. The nearby River Nene also offers plenty of free outdoor activities. You can enjoy leisurely strolls, picnics, cycling, and even swimming without spending a penny. Northampton also hosts seasonal festivals such as the Diwali Festival, the Northampton Music Festival, and the Annual Fireworks Display, all offering residents a chance to enjoy the lively community atmosphere at little or no cost.

Northampton has seen some exciting new additions to its culinary and entertainment scene. The annual event, ‘The Taste of Northampton’, showcases over 30 local restaurants and breweries, celebrating the best local fare. There are also new dining establishments that offer a variety of international cuisines, enhancing the city’s vibrant food scene.

Lifestyle in Northampton

Cost of education in Northampton

Northampton offers a diverse range of educational options. Independent schools often come with higher fees but offer smaller class sizes and more personalised attention. While private education may have its perks, Northampton’s public schools have consistently demonstrated high quality, making them a viable option for many families.

Schools in Northampton

Cost of healthcare in Northampton

Public healthcare in Northampton is provided by the National Health Service (NHS). Although waiting times can be quite long depending on the severity of your medical issues, the NHS generally offers good quality service.

If you’re a non-UK national, you’ll need to pay a healthcare surcharge to access the NHS if you plan to stay in the UK for over six months. This fee is paid when you apply for a visa, but once you are granted indefinite leave to remain (meaning you become a permanent resident), the fee is no longer required, and you can continue accessing the NHS.

Private healthcare is also available in Northampton. Private healthcare is more costly, but for many, the convenience of timely treatment makes it a worthwhile investment. Remember that if you’re not a permanent resident, you’ll still need to pay the healthcare surcharge, even if you’re privately insured and have no intention of using the NHS.