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Cost of Living in Cambridge

Whether you’re a student, professional, or family, understanding Cambridge living costs is key to managing your finances and planning for the future. From rent to restaurant prices, we’ve got you covered - plus, we’ll show you how understanding these costs can help you make smarter financial decisions.

Cambridge is known for its world-renowned university, historic architecture, and picturesque riverside. But how much does it really cost to live here? In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about living expenses in Cambridge.

How much does it cost to eat out in Cambridge?

Inexpensive meal
Inexpensive meal
£16.00
Mid-range for 2
Mid-range for 2
£70.00
Cappuccino
Cappuccino
£3.64
Imported beer
Imported beer
£5.00
Pint of local beer
Pint of local beer
£6.00
Mineral water
Mineral water
£1.54

How much does it cost to get around in Cambridge?

Getting around Cambridge can be affordable, especially if you use public transport or cycle.

One-way ticket
£2.00
Monthly pass
£60.00
Petrol per litre
£1.43
Taxi start
£5.00
Taxi waiting (1 hour)
£40.00
Taxi per kilometre
£2.00

How much does a home cost in Cambridge?

Housing is often the biggest expense for most people, and Cambridge offers a range of options to suit different budgets.

Propery prices in Cambridge

Inner city price per square metre
£6591.67
Outer city price per square metre
£4983.75

Renting a 1 bedroom flat in Cambridge

Rent in the inner city
£1422.73
Rent in the outer city
£1144.23

Renting a 3 bedroom flat in Cambridge

Rent in the inner city
£2455.56
Rent in the outer city
£1795.00

Whether you’re renting or buying, your housing choice will significantly impact your monthly budget and ability to save for the future.

How much do bills cost in Cambridge?

Monthly utilities can add up, especially in winter. Here’s what you can expect.

Basic utilities (water, heating and electricity) for an 85 square metre flat
£222.98

How much does childcare cost in Cambridge?

For families, childcare can be a significant expense.

Cambridge offers a mix of private and public education options, with significantly different costs depending on your choice.

What are the lifestyle and entertainment costs in Cambridge?

Cambridge offers a range of entertainment options, from cinemas to sports clubs.

Fitness club
£39.48
Tennis court rent
£10.80
Cinema ticket
£11.00

Don't forget the many free activities in Cambridge, including punting on the River Cam or visiting the Fitzwilliam Museum.

What is the average salary in Cambridge?

Average net salary (after tax)
£3171.83

How living costs impact your pension

Rising cost of living in Cambridge can leave less room for saving for your future, especially your pension. It’s important to think long-term when managing your finances.

Plan smarter with a pension adviser

A pension adviser can help you make the most of your retirement savings. Benefits of working with a pension adviser include:

  • Maximise savings

    Maximise your savings despite rising costs

  • Personalised planning

    Create a personalised plan for your retirement goals

  • Track progress

    Ensure you're on track for a secure financial future

Learn more about pension advisers in Cambridge and take control of your future.

Money-saving tips for Cambridge residents

Here are some practical ways to reduce your living costs in Cambridge:

  1. Use public transport - Save on parking and fuel by using buses.

  2. Shop at local markets - Find fresh produce at lower prices.

  3. Take advantage of free activities - Cambridge’s parks and museums are budget-friendly options.

  4. Reduce energy bills - Insulate your home and switch to energy-efficient appliances.

  5. Track your spending - Use budgeting apps to monitor expenses and identify savings.

Redirecting these savings toward your pension can make a huge difference over time.

Final thoughts

Cambridge offers a fantastic quality of life, but understanding the city’s cost of living is essential for managing your finances. By making smart spending choices and planning for the future, you can enjoy life in Cambridge without compromising your financial security.

All cost of living data has been sourced from Numbeo, a user-contributed database, and was last checked January 2025.

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