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Trinity Laban

Cost of living

Planning your budget

We recommend that you plan to budget £19,296 – £28,500 per year for accommodation and living expenses.

Below are average weekly, monthly and yearly amounts for housing and living expenses (as of April 2026) to give you an idea of the cost of living in London. Although it’s a big city, there are a huge range of activities and opportunities available free of charge or at low cost, and many venues, arts organisations and retailers offer student discounts.

Costs are calculated for an academic year (44 weeks per year) apart from rent for private accommodation. Most private rental accommodation contracts will be for 52 weeks a year.

You can spend varying amounts on accommodation and living expenses. We cannot say exactly how much money you’ll need while studying at Trinity Laban. Everyone has different expectations, needs and budgeting styles. This information should be used as a guide to create your own budget. We also recommend carry out your own research and shop around for prices most appropriate to your financial situation.

The figures given are average ranges of spending for one person. Our Student Services can also provide advice and support with managing your money.

We have included essential and non-essential costs in the budget below. When budgeting it is important to be realistic and understand all your costs.  You should bear in mind additional costs you might incur by moving to London,  listed under ‘other costs to consider when planning your budget’.

 

Housing Costs

Weekly Average

Monthly Average

Accommodation (Private – South East London)

£207 – £277

£900 – £1200

Accommodation (Student accommodation – based on local rates)

£203 – £350

£893 – £1540

Yearly Private accommodation budget (52 weeks): £10,800 – £14,400
Yearly Student accommodation budget (44 weeks):  £8,932 – £15,400

 

Typical Monthly Living Costs

Expense Category

Monthly Average

Groceries & food shopping

£160

Eating out & takeaways

£39

Socialising & nightlife

£27

Local travel & transport

£67

Household bills & utilities

£69

Streaming & digital subscriptions

£13

Phone & mobile data

£15

Clothes & personal shopping

£40

Health and wellbeing

£24

Course materials & supplies

£20

Holidays, trips & special events

£32

Gifts for family & friends

£17

Loan or credit card repayments

£15

Other personal expenses

£28

Please note that these figures are average estimates. Actual costs can vary depending on your lifestyle and accommodation type. For example, some students may report £0 household bills because utilities are already included in their rent.

 

Course, Insurance & Travel costs

Expense Category

Monthly Average

Course costs (books, stationery, instrument maintenance etc.)

£52 – £86

Health insurance (BHSF)

From £6.60

Instrument insurance (Lark) (based on £500 – £2000 value)

From £3-£8

Travel and Transport (including railcards or coach cards)

£80 – £180

Other costs to consider when planning your budget:

  • Tuition fees

  • Bed linen and bedding, crockery, cutlery, etc. (if renting)

  • Renters or contents insurance

  • For students who require a VISA national countries VISA renewal (from £558) and the Health Surcharge (£1035 per year)

  • Travel to/from non-term time address e.g. flights, train, ferry and transfers

  • External events or other opportunities (intensives, courses etc.)

  • Dietary requirements

  • Digital technologies and software (e.g. laptop or tablet)

  • Clothing specific to training