Cost of living in London: the budget that won’t surprise you

London can be expensive, but “expensive” isn’t helpful unless you break it into categories that match real life.

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The big variable: rent

Rent is the major swing factor.

What changes the number:

• location vs commute time
• room share vs studio vs one-bed
• contract terms and deposit size

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Transport: build commuting into your budget

In London, transport is often the second-biggest line item after rent. Plan realistically:

• daily commuting
• occasional late-night travel
• travel to airports and stations

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Setup costs (the hidden month-one hit)

Plan for:

• deposit + first rent upfront
• basic household setup
• replacement items you didn’t think you’d need
• admin costs and identity checks if applicable

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The rule

Budget for:

1. a monthly baseline, and
2. a first-60-days setup runway.

If both are covered, London becomes manageable.