Cardiff vs Edinburgh — which is cheaper for students?

Cardiff: +£505/mo
Edinburgh: +£538/mo
£33/month better off in Edinburgh
£1,188 over 3 years

Monthly breakdown

Under-22 students in Edinburgh travel free on buses, saving ~£55/month — not reflected in the loan figure above.
CardiffEdinburgh
Maintenance loan£1,171/mo£1,171/mo
Cheapest halls−£411/mo−£433/mo
Transport−£55/mo−£0/mo
Food (estimate)−£200−£200
Monthly balance+£505+£538
Work hours/week0 hrs0 hrs
Over 3 years+£18,180+£19,368
Loan rateStandardStandard

Based on maximum maintenance loan (household income under £25,000). Halls figure uses the cheapest option at any university in that city. 2025/26 rates.

The verdict

The financial difference between Cardiff and Edinburgh is small — just £33/month. Other factors (course quality, career outcomes, where you want to live) should carry more weight.

Universities in each city

Compare Cardiff University vs University of Edinburgh →

Student stories

Edinburgh

Orla's story

What it's actually like to be a student in Edinburgh

Read Orla's story →

After university — what do graduates earn?

Estimated monthly take-home pay after income tax and National Insurance, at starting salary.

CareerCardiffEdinburgh
Software engineer£2,394/mo£2,394/mo
Nurse (Band 5)£2,034/mo£2,034/mo
Teacher (M1)£2,093/mo£2,093/mo

Salaries in London are often higher, but so is the cost of living. Net financial position varies by career and employer. Starting salary figures. After-tax estimates only — excludes pension contributions.

Student guide to Cardiff →Student guide to Edinburgh →

Choosing between Cardiff and Edinburgh?

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