فارسی 
Русский 
Türkçe 
العربية 
中文 
ქართული 
The UK is expensive, especially London: the average one-bedroom rent in London in 2026 is about £1,760 a month, and over £2,000 in the centre. Rents are noticeably lower in cities such as Manchester, Birmingham or Glasgow. On top of living costs, migrants pay visa fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
Costs at a glance
| Item | Approximate cost |
|---|---|
| One-bedroom, London (average) | About £1,760 a month |
| One-bedroom, central London | Over £2,000 a month |
| Other cities | Usually much lower than London |
| Council tax | Monthly, by area and property |
| IHS for most visas | £1,035 a year per person |
Costs specific to migrants
- Visa fees and IHS, usually paid upfront for the whole visa period
- Proof of funds held in an account for some visas
- Rental deposit (usually about 5 weeks' rent)
Frequently asked questions
What salary do you need to live in London?
For one person, the Skilled Worker minimum (£41,700 a year) supports a moderate life in London; sharing a flat makes it easier.
What are the cheapest UK cities?
Cities in the north of England, Wales and Scotland are usually cheaper than London and the south-east.
What is the IHS?
A fee most applicants for visas over 6 months pay to use NHS healthcare.
Figures are approximate for 2026. See routes to the UK.
Request a free consultation and case review
Send us a message and our experts will contact you within one business day.
