Cost of living in Glasgow

Groceries

Glasgow is home to many major grocery stores that cater to all budget types, perfect for students looking to find local or international dishes and ingredients at affordable prices. Student favourites include Aldi, Marks & Spencers and Sainsbury's, offering a range of options to suit different tastes and budgets. Whether you're shopping for essentials like bread, milk, and vegetables, or looking for specialty items, you'll find plenty of choices to keep your grocery costs manageable.  

Restaurants  

Dining out? Glasgow offers plenty of options for all budgets. Many restaurants provide student discounts, making it easier to enjoy a meal without breaking the bank. One standout is Civerinos, which offers £10 bottomless pizza from 9-11pm every Monday. Whether you're looking for a casual meal at a mid-range restaurant or a quick, budget-friendly bite from the city's eclectic street food scene and cafés, there are numerous choices to satisfy your cravings.  

Sport, entertainment and culture

From cinemas and gyms to live music and football matches, Glasgow has an endless choice of lifestyle options. In particular, Glasgow is well known and loved for its music scene; you can almost guarantee your favourite artists will be performing live in one of the city’s many amazing venues. The city also boasts a lively art scene, so you won’t struggle to find affordable, or free, options to enjoy. Expect world-class museums and galleries showcasing everything from contemporary art to historic masterpieces.
The Social Hub Glasgow offers an onsite gym for students to use 24/7 removes the need to search or pay for a monthly membership at a gym in the city, which are often overpriced and busy.

Transportation

Getting around Glasgow is both affordable and convenient. Bus travel is free for Scottish residents under 22, making it an excellent option for younger commuters. For subway travel, a single ticket costs £1.85, a return ticket is £3.50, and an all-day travel pass is £4.45. Additionally, purchasing a 16-25 railcard for £30 per year provides a third off train travel across the UK, offering significant savings for frequent travelers.
If you prefer cycling, the city’s Nextbike service allows you to rent bikes either pay-as-you-go or via a monthly subscription.

Education

For students, Glasgow offers some of the best value in education. Tuition fees for local students are covered by the Scottish government, while international students can expect to pay various fees depending on the course. Additionally, you can access student discounts on everything from travel to entertainment, helping to keep the cost of living in Glasgow down.

Read our guide to studying in Glasgow for international students here.

Accommodation, utilities and bills

Rent in Glasgow is still more affordable compared to cities like Edinburgh or London. Utility costs in Glasgow are relatively standard, contributing to the overall affordability of living in the city. When you factor in utilities such as gas, electricity, broadband internet, and council tax, the average total cost of living in Glasgow, including utilities, is about £750–£1,300 per month. Information on the average cost of health insurance can be found here.
Hopefully by now you have a better understanding of the question: is Glasgow expensive?
When studying in Glasgow, don’t forget to embrace every opportunity to meet and connect with others. If you choose to stay at The Social Hub, take part in the community experiences – most of which are free – and enjoy making new connections while having lots of fun!
Read our travel guide here to uncove Glaswgow's best kept secrets.

Student Stays at The Social Hub Glasgow

Situated in the bustling, cobblestoned Merchant City, The Social Hub Glasgow redefines a student stay by blending comfort and convenience with a fun, sociable environment. Our student accommodations are more than just rooms – they're lovingly designed spaces equipped with modern amenities. Each fully furnished room features a spacious layout, a modern bathroom, a dedicated study area with high-speed Wi-Fi, and thoughtful touches like bed linen and towels provided. Monthly cleaning services ensure an inviting environment without the hassle, allowing you to focus on your studies and making new friends.

Extended stays

For extended stay , The Social Hub offers flexible living arrangements tailored to individual needs. Choose from a variety of room types, designed to cater to different preferences and stay durations. All accommodations include access to shared kitchens where you can cook and socialise, coworking spaces ideal for study sessions, and lively communal areas that foster a sense of community.
With support services available round-the-clock and a prime location near universities and public transport, The Social Hub Glasgow is more than just a roof over your head – it's a place where students thrive and connect.
Considering Glasgow's affordability and diverse offerings, living herer promises a balanced lifestyle without an overbearing financial strain. Get the most out of Scotland’s biggest city – affectionately known as The Dear Green Place – when you choose The Social Hub Glasgow.