Urban Student

Studying in Manchester

Manchester is one of the UK’s largest and most popular student cities, with a huge student population, a celebrated music, arts, and football scene, and a strong graduate job market in tech, media, and finance — all at a fraction of London’s cost.

Universities and major institutes

  • University of Manchester
  • Manchester Metropolitan University
  • Royal Northern College of Music
  • University of Salford (neighbouring Salford)

Cost of living

Manchester is markedly cheaper than London. A room in a shared house typically runs £500–£800 per month, with a compact, walkable centre and good tram and bus links.

Neighbourhoods for students

  • Fallowfield / Withington — the classic student belt south of the city.
  • Rusholme — close to the University of Manchester, famous “Curry Mile”.
  • Northern Quarter — central, creative, café and bar culture.
  • Salford / MediaCityUK — modern flats, BBC and ITV studios nearby.

Institutions in Manchester