Student life in Nottingham. The honest numbers.
£1,171/mo
Non-London loan max
£95/wk
Cheapest halls
+£759/mo
After cheapest halls
None
Work to break even
78
Affordability scoreThe monthly breakdown
Maintenance loan+£1,171
Halls (cheapest, £95/wk)−£412
After halls+£759
Transport−£55
Groceries−£195
Monthly balance+£509
✓ Budget works on max loan — no part-time work required for basics
Universities in Nottingham — affordability compared
NottinghamRussell Group
Cheapest halls: £95/wk (£412/mo) · Median: £130/wk
NTU
Cheapest halls: £95/wk (£412/mo) · Median: £130/wk
Halls vs private in Nottingham
🏠 University halls
Cost£95/week (£412/mo)
Bills includedYes ✓
Contract40–51 weeks
IncludesWiFi, contents insurance
Monthly surplus£759per month
🏢 Private rental
Cost£650/month
Bills+£98 estimated
Contract12 months (summer risk)
IncludesNothing
Monthly surplus£423per month
For first-year students, Nottingham halls are better value — you save £335/month and avoid a 12-month contract.
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