UK's top 10 most expensive uni towns revealed – is yours on the full list?

Experts have calculated which are the ten most expensive towns to go to university in, and it might impact the choices prospective students make about where to apply

When you are deciding where to apply for university, the most important way you create your shortlist will be based on which institutions are known to be the best for your dream course. However, knowing that you will like the location itself, and enjoy spending a few years living in that town is also another crucial factor.

Many people look back at their days as undergraduates as some of the happiest and carefree of their lives - that brought them memories they will treasure for a lifetime, along with the satisfaction of working hard and achieving academically. It's really important that you are spending time somewhere that has the kind of atmosphere and social activities you'll enjoy, but cost is another important factor. If you are looking to avoid starting your studies in a seriously pricey city or town, or if you are curious to see how costly your uni town is now, then make sure you read this list.

Experts have calculated the top ten most expensive cities and towns for university students in the UK. L&C Mortgages used local rents, energy costs, transport, and a myriad of other student expenses to figure out just how much your potential university town might set you back in living expenses - but don't worry, they also calculated what are the cheapest options too.

1. London

First up, which will likely surprise few people, London is the most expensive place in the country you could embark on your studies, with students forced to spend a whopping £1,542.44 on average each month to survive, with the bulk of that going on an average rent of £1,006.75. Whilst the capital city is home to some incredible universities, and filled with unmatched culture, and arts, you might want to look into some alternative options if you are concerned about costs.

2. Brighton

The second most expensive University town is Brighton, home to Sussex University and Brighton University, the seaside town is a popular choice, but it doesn't come cheap. You might get beaches and a great music scene, but on average you will be forking out £1,410.33 a month, with £764 of that on rent.

3. Oxford

Taking the third most expensive spot is Oxford, rich with history and home to the elite Oxford University as well as Oxford Brookes University, this city will cost you £1,291.13 a month on average, with rents even higher than Brighton at £775.81. If the allure of Oxbridge is just too tempting for any ambitious students out there - make sure you have saved before you go because Oxford University "strongly advises" that students don't have jobs because the workload is so high, and if you need a job you will have to clear it with your college tutor.

4. Bristol

The fourth most expensive city is Bristol, a colourful city with more than enough to keep you entertained throughout your studies - if you can afford it. The average cost of living here for students is £1,286.31 per month, with rent around £733.81.

5. Guildford

Coming in at 5th is Guildford, home to the University of Surrey, which is currently ranking 21st in the UK, according to the Good University Guide, and it's one of the best in the world if you are looking to study Hospitality and Tourism Management. On average studying in Guildford will set you back £1,271.15 every month, and rent will be about £705.90.

6. Buckingham

Buckingham comes in at number six on the list of the most expensive university towns, with rent finally dipping under a £700 average, at £650.75. Overall monthly costs will be about £1,257.03.

7. High Wycombe

Buckinghamshire New University has a campus in High Wycombe, and those tempted to apply will be looking at monthly costs of £1,250.22 and rents of £650.75 - the same as Buckingham.

8. Cambridge

The slightly cheaper half of Oxbridge, if you are desperate to apply to either Oxford or Cambridge, this one is definitely going to break the bank less. Average monthly costs in this picturesque town come in at £1,246.50, with rent a large chunk of this at £753.77.

9. Reading

Close to London, and with great transport links, Reading is number nine in the priciest university towns list, costing students £1,227.43 on average each month, £645.27 of which will be spent on rent.

10. Edinburgh

The only city in the top ten list outside of the South of England, Edinburgh will set you back as a student. Historic and stunning, the Scottish capital is many people's dream university location, but the gorgeous setting and great pubs don't come cheap: average monthly living costs come in at £1,217.68 and rent will set you back about £658.74. If these figures are putting you off applying, the experts have also figured out which are the very cheapest places to live as a student, with Middlesborough, Sunderland, and Hull all costing on average less than £800 per month.

Do you have a story to tell? Email: emma.mackenzie@reachplc.com