How Much Do Students Spend on Transport in the UK?
Transport is an important part of student life, whether it’s commuting to university, travelling home, or getting around the city. Costs can vary depending on location and travel habits.
How much do students spend on transport in the UK?
The average student transport cost in the UK is:
👉 £30 to £100 per month
Costs are usually lower in student-friendly cities with good public transport.
Average student transport costs
| Transport Type | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Bus pass | £30 – £80 |
| Train travel | £50 – £150 |
| London travel (Oyster/contactless) | £80 – £150 |
| Occasional travel | £20 – £50 |
Student transport costs by location
- London: £80 – £150 per month
- Manchester: £40 – £80 per month
- Smaller cities: £30 – £60 per month
👉 See: Cheapest cities for students in the UK
Student discounts on transport
Students can save money with:
- 16–25 Railcard (up to 1/3 off rail fares)
- Student bus passes
- Discounted travel cards
Cost of running a car as a student
Owning a car is usually more expensive:
- Fuel: £80 – £150 per month
- Insurance: £100 – £250 per month (higher for young drivers)
- Maintenance: £30 – £80
👉 Total: £200 – £400+ per month
Cheapest ways to travel as a student
- Use public transport
- Walk or cycle where possible
- Car share with friends
- Book trains in advance
👉 See: Student budget UK
Example student transport budget
| Type | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Bus pass | £50 |
| Occasional travel | £30 |
| Total | £80 |