🇬🇧 Cost of Living in Brighton - Prices & Budget Guide
Last updated: March 2026
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$62,009 (2024)
Inflation Rate3.3% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$5,860 (2024)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend14.6% (2024)
Education Spend (% GDP)5.9% (2021)
Source: World Bank Open Data
The cost of living in Brighton is generally considered to be moderate to expensive, with a daily budget of $80-150 USD per person for mid-range travelers.
Quick Facts
Cost LevelModerate / Expensive
Daily Budget (Backpacker)$60-100 USD
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)$100-180 USD
Daily Budget (Comfort)$200-300 USD
CurrencyGBP
Tipping Customexpected (10-15%)
How Expensive Is Brighton?
Brighton is a popular tourist destination in the United Kingdom, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant cultural scene, and rich history. Compared to other major cities in the UK, Brighton is generally more affordable than London but more expensive than other smaller cities in the country. The cost of living in Brighton is influenced by its proximity to London, with prices for accommodation, food, and transportation tend to be higher than in other parts of the UK.
In terms of global averages, Brighton is considered to be a moderately expensive city, with prices comparable to those in other Western European cities. However, the cost of living in Brighton can vary greatly depending on the time of year, with prices tend to be higher during the summer months when tourism is at its peak. Visitors to Brighton can expect to pay around $100-150 USD per day for mid-range accommodation, food, and activities, although this can vary greatly depending on individual preferences and exchange rates.
Accommodation Prices
Type
Price Range (USD/night)
Notes
Hostel/Budget
$20-40
Basic dorm rooms and shared facilities
Mid-Range Hotel
$80-150
Comfortable rooms with en-suite bathrooms and breakfast included
Luxury/Resort
$200-300
High-end hotels with luxurious amenities and sea views
Apartment Rent (monthly)
$1,200-2,000
City center apartments with 1-2 bedrooms and modern amenities
Food & Dining Prices
Meal Type
Price Range (USD)
Street Food / Local Eatery
$8-12
Casual Restaurant
$15-25
Mid-Range Restaurant (2 people)
$40-60
Fine Dining
$80-120
Beer (local)
$5-7
Coffee
$2-4
Water (1.5L bottle)
$1-2
Transport Costs
Transport
Cost (USD)
Local bus/metro ride
$2-3
Taxi (per km)
$2-3
Domestic flight
$50-100
Fuel (per liter)
$1.50-2.50
Monthly Budget Breakdown
Category
Budget ($)
Mid-Range ($)
Comfortable ($)
Rent
800
1,200
1,800
Food
300
500
800
Transport
100
150
200
Utilities
100
150
200
Entertainment
200
300
500
Total
1,500
2,300
3,500
Money-Saving Tips
Consider visiting Brighton during the off-season (October to March) when prices for accommodation and tourist attractions tend to be lower.
Look for budget-friendly accommodation options such as hostels or guesthouses, which can be significantly cheaper than mid-range hotels.
Take advantage of Brighton's vibrant street food scene, with many affordable and delicious options available.
Use public transportation instead of taxis, which can be expensive in Brighton.
Consider purchasing a Brighton Visitor Card, which can provide discounts and savings on attractions, transportation, and other activities.
Look for free or low-cost activities such as visiting the Brighton Beach or exploring the Lanes, a historic neighborhood filled with narrow streets and unique shops.