🇬🇧 Cost of Living in Cambridge - 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
Cambridge is a moderately expensive city to live in or visit, with daily expenses ranging from $80-150 USD per day for a mid-range traveler.
Quick Facts
Cost LevelModerate
Daily Budget (Backpacker)$60-100 USD
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)$100-180 USD
Daily Budget (Comfort)$180-300 USD
CurrencyGBP
Tipping Customnot expected, but 10-15% in restaurants and bars is common
How Expensive Is Cambridge?
Cambridge is a city in the United Kingdom, known for its prestigious university and historic architecture. Compared to other major cities in the UK, Cambridge is relatively expensive, but still more affordable than London. The cost of living in Cambridge is influenced by its popularity among tourists and students, which drives up prices for accommodation and food. However, the city offers a unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment, making it a worthwhile destination for visitors. Overall, Cambridge is a moderately expensive city, with prices comparable to other major university towns in the UK.
In comparison to other European cities, Cambridge is more expensive than many Eastern European destinations, but less expensive than major Western European cities like Paris or Amsterdam. The city's prices are also influenced by its proximity to London, with many residents commuting to the capital for work or leisure. As a result, Cambridge has a relatively high cost of living, but still offers a range of affordable options for visitors and residents.
Accommodation Prices
Type
Price Range (USD/night)
Notes
Hostel/Budget
$30-60
dorm rooms and basic facilities
Mid-Range Hotel
$80-150
3-star hotels with standard amenities
Luxury/Resort
$200-350
4-5 star hotels with high-end amenities
Apartment Rent (monthly)
$1,200-2,500
city center apartments, prices vary depending on size and location
Food & Dining Prices
Meal Type
Price Range (USD)
Street Food / Local Eatery
$10-15
Casual Restaurant
$20-30
Mid-Range Restaurant (2 people)
$50-80
Fine Dining
$100-150
Beer (local)
$5-7
Coffee
$3-5
Water (1.5L bottle)
$2-3
Transport Costs
Transport
Cost (USD)
Local bus/metro ride
$2-3
Taxi (per km)
$2-3
Domestic flight
$100-200
Fuel (per liter)
$1.50-2.00
Monthly Budget Breakdown
Category
Budget ($)
Mid-Range ($)
Comfortable ($)
Rent
800-1,200
1,200-1,800
1,800-2,500
Food
400-600
600-900
900-1,200
Transport
100-200
200-300
300-400
Utilities
150-250
250-350
350-450
Entertainment
200-300
300-500
500-700
Total
1,750-3,150
3,150-4,650
4,650-6,300
Money-Saving Tips
Consider staying in a hostel or budget hotel to save on accommodation costs
Take advantage of free museums and galleries, such as the Fitzwilliam Museum
Use public transport or walk/bike to get around the city, rather than taking taxis
Eat at local eateries or street food stalls, rather than mid-range restaurants
Avoid visiting during peak tourist season (June-August) to save on accommodation and tourist attractions
Look for discounts and promotions at local shops and restaurants, especially for students and locals