Student Experience - Budgeting as a Student in Ipswich

Living in Ipswich has taught me the importance of balancing my budget while still enjoying student life. With affordable housing options and local markets, it's possible to save while also making the most of the vibrant student scene. The key is prioritising essentials and being mindful of small daily expenses.

As a student, managing your finances can be a bit of a juggling act. Living in Ipswich, I’ve learned how to balance my student life without constantly worrying about my bank account. Here’s a breakdown of my typical monthly budget, showing where I spend the most and how I keep things affordable.

 

Accommodation

Rent is always the biggest expense, but thankfully, Ipswich offers some affordable housing options. I live in a shared flat with a couple of friends, which helps keep the costs down. Depending on the location, rent can range between £450-£550 for a room in a shared house or flat, which is fairly reasonable for the area.

Food 

Grocery shopping can be tricky, but with careful planning, it’s possible to eat healthily without overspending. I usually shop at Aldi or Lidl for the best deals on fresh produce, grains, and snacks. I also love going to the Ipswich Farmers' Market on weekends for affordable fresh fruits and vegetables. On average, I spend about £120 to £150 a month on food, including the occasional takeaway or meal out. To save more, I meal prep every week to avoid unnecessary expenses.

Transport

Getting around Ipswich is pretty easy, and I try to walk or cycle whenever I can to save money on transport. However, I do use public transport occasionally, especially when I need to travel outside of the town for university. A monthly bus pass costs me around £40, and if I need to take a train, I use student discounts to keep costs low. So, my transport budget is usually between £40 and £60 a month.

Entertainment

Being a student, I still like to enjoy my social life without overspending. Ipswich offers plenty of free and low-cost activities, like visits to local parks, museums, and events. I also enjoy grabbing a coffee with friends at budget-friendly spots like The Foundry Café or Tinto Lounge. On weekends, I might splurge on a cinema trip or a night out, but I tend to keep it in check to stay within my £50-£80 entertainment budget.

Miscellaneous

This category includes things like toiletries, cleaning supplies, and the occasional emergency purchase. I’ve learned that planning for small, unexpected costs helps avoid financial stress later in the month. My miscellaneous expenses range from £50 to £70 per month, depending on any last-minute needs.

Total Monthly Budget

So, when I tally it all up, my monthly expenses usually come to between £710 and £950. It can fluctuate depending on how much I eat out, transport needs, or if I decide to treat myself to something special. By planning my spending and being mindful of my choices, I’ve found that it’s possible to manage my finances and still enjoy my student life in Ipswich.