We've been named the 4th most affordable university in the UK, based on average costs of weekly rent, food, drink and transport (The Times 2023).
Cheap essentials
Food, accommodation and transport can all come at a relatively low cost compared to other cities. We have big discount supermarkets as well as local markets and international stores that sell reasonably priced food.
Sheffield is also one of the cheapest cities in the UK for student accommodation (Cushman and Wakefield 2023). And as a University, we have one of the most affordable portfolios of student accommodation outside of London (Unipol Accommodation Survey, 2022). That means you can spend more of your student budget on making the most of your student life.
Our Student accommodation is close to both campuses, so it’s possible to get around on foot to save money on transport. If you do prefer to catch a bus, student tickets can be as cheap as £1.50 for a single.
Student discounts
With two universities, Sheffield has a big student population – and a big student population means student-friendly businesses.
With your student ID and NUS cards, you can get money off everything from eating out to hitting the gym and heading to the cinema.
Free things to do
With 80 parks across the city and a number of galleries, there are lots of free places where you can relax and catch up with friends.
And if you fancy getting out of the city, head to the nearby Peak District National Park for some scenic runs and beautiful walks. The three-mile walking and cycling route from Hunter's Bar up the Porter Valley will get you to the edge of the Peaks for free.
You can also get involved in free activities through our Give it a Go programme. Try a new exercise or creative workshop or join in with volunteering. It’s a great way to have fun and meet new people – and best of all, it won’t cost a penny.