Cost of Living in London for Expats

Cost of Living in London: A Practical Guide for Expats

London is one of the world’s most dynamic cities—home to global business hubs, rich culture, and endless opportunities. For executives earning £70,000+ and relocating to the UK capital, understanding the cost of living in London is key to planning a smooth transition.

Whether you’re moving alone, with a partner, or with your family, expenses in London can vary significantly. Below, we break down the average cost of living in London per month, including housing, utilities, food, and lifestyle costs, so you know what to expect before making the move.

Cost of Moving to London

Relocating to London involves more than just booking a flight. You’ll need to factor in:

• Visa & Immigration Fees – Depending on your visa type, costs can range from £610–£1,500 per person. Healthcare surcharge fees (£624 annually per adult) also apply.
• Shipping & Relocation Costs – International shipping can range between £3,000–£6,000 depending on the volume of belongings. Many executives opt for serviced apartments initially, which reduces the need to move heavy furniture immediately.
• Temporary Accommodation – Staying in a serviced apartment or rental before securing a long-term home can cost between £2,000–£4,000 per month.

Planning for these moving to London costs ensures you’re financially prepared before your first paycheck arrives.

Living Expenses in London: What to Expect

Your average living expenses in London will depend on your lifestyle, location, and household size. Broadly speaking, here’s what expats can expect:

1. Housing Costs

• Central London (Zones 1–2): £2,500–£4,000 per month for a 1–2 bedroom apartment.
• Outer London (Zones 3–4): £1,800–£2,800 per month for similar properties.
• Family Homes (3+ bedrooms): £3,500–£6,000+ depending on location and amenities.

Housing is the single biggest factor affecting the average cost of living in London UK. Many executives choose serviced apartments to simplify their relocation and enjoy flexible leases.

2. Utilities & Bills

The average bills per month in London include:

• Electricity, gas, and water: £150–£250
• Internet & mobile: £60–£100
• Council tax: £100–£250 (varies by borough and property value)

For a family home, expect bills closer to £300–£400 monthly.

3. Food & Groceries

The average cost of food in London varies depending on whether you cook at home or eat out:

• Weekly grocery shop for one person: £50–£70
• Dining out at mid-range restaurants: £40–£70 for two people
• Coffee & casual lunch: £10–£15

On average, a single person spends £250–£400 monthly on groceries, while a family may spend £600–£1,000.

4. Transport

London offers an excellent public transport system:

• Oyster/Travelcard (Zones 1–2): £156 per month
• Zones 1–4: £243 per month
• Black cabs and ride-hailing apps are convenient but costly.
• Many executives use a mix of public transport and taxis for flexibility.

5. Lifestyle & Leisure

London has endless opportunities for culture, entertainment, and fitness. Typical monthly spends include:

• Gym membership: £60–£150
• Theatre or concerts: £50–£200 per ticket
• Private schooling (for families): £15,000–£25,000 annually per child
• Weekend getaways and dining: highly variable, but budget £500–£1,000 monthly for a comfortable lifestyle.

Cost of Living in London per Month

Here’s a quick breakdown of the average expenditure in London per month for different household types

This means the annual cost of living in London for a single professional is roughly £40,000+, while a family may spend £90,000–£100,000+.

Key Takeaways

• The average cost of living in London England is high, but manageable for executives earning £70,000+.
• Housing will be your biggest expense, so choosing the right area is crucial.
• Living alone is significantly cheaper than relocating with a partner or family, especially once schooling is factored in.
• Using serviced apartments at the start can simplify relocation, save on moving costs, and provide immediate comfort.

Download the full Guide

Planning ahead is the best way to settle in quickly and confidently. We’ve created a Comprehensive Moving to London Guide that covers everything from choosing the right neighbourhood to understanding UK healthcare and setting up your finances.

Download the guide to make your move stress-free and ensure you’re prepared for life in London.