find your perfect postgrad program
Search our Database of 30,000 Courses

Refine courses

Posted March 20, 2025

Belfast – Student City Guide

With its buzzing social scene, multicultural vibe, affordable cost of living and the world class facilities of two institutions (including a prestigious Russell Group university), it’s no surprise that Belfast is the first choice for accessing undergraduate and postgraduate education opportunities.

The Northern Irish capital has flair and international flavour, while its sense of community and friendliness is undeniable. But, what’s it really like living in this vibrant yet laid-back city?

The cost of living at the heart of NI

The cost of living in your chosen postgraduate student city is pretty important. In fact, it could make or break your postgraduate experience.

Despite the increasing cost of living across the UK – 92% of higher education students reported that their cost of living had risen compared with the previous year according to this ONS study – the cost of studying in Belfast is one of the most palatable around!

The facts and figures of, what was recently named by the Natwest Student Living Index 2024, the UK’s most affordable student city speak for themselves. At last count, monthly rental costs were lower than any other UK student city, with students paying an average of £554 per calendar month, which pales in comparison to the UK national average of £689.43. Compare this to the monthly rent of a student studying in London (£1,032 on average) and there are some serious savings to be made by pursuing postgraduate study in Belfast.

Opportunities – part time, postgrad and beyond

Many students choose to top up their postgraduate funds with part-time work, and this figure is on the rise, much to the detriment of academic work as the Natwest Student Living Index 2024 details:

“Close to a third of students are seeking to boost their income with part-time employment. And they’re working significantly more hours as a result. Part-time working hours have surged by 153.5% since last year, from 18.3 a month to 46.39. Meanwhile, average time spent on academic work has fallen.”

Getting the balance between part-time work and study just right is the key to success. Thankfully, there are plenty of opportunities for flexible, part-time work in and around the city of Belfast.

Post-graduation, the opportunities to pursue your field of study professionally continue. Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) facilitates several graduate schemes, while their career consultants are also on hand to offer impartial, confidential information and guidance.

And when you’re not busy studying…

Belfast may excel in terms of affordability across many areas (including accommodation and other household bills), yet one thing that’s not cheap when studying postgraduate in Belfast is a night out.

The city is known and loved internationally for its nightlife, with its live music scene and famous Cathedral Quarter drawing a crowd from near and far. All the fun and frolics comes at a cost however. According to this research, an average night out is £11 more expensive in Belfast than the national average. Postgrads looking for a cheap night out should take advantage of student offers as well as the prices of drinks (and food) at their Student Union bars.

There is of course a long list of ways you can explore and enjoy Belfast without spending a penny. There are plenty of free walking tours and trails (including the Titanic Trail), while visits to the Naughton Gallery and Ulster Museum are also free.

Getting around as a Belfast postgrad

Exploring Belfast has never been so affordable. A day bus ticket costs as little as £2.35 and frequent travellers can save even more with a yLink smart card, which is valid for train and bus travel across Northern Ireland. For a greener way to travel, rent a bike or scooter for £1 for 30 minutes.

Make your move to Northern Ireland a reality by browsing our postgraduate courses in Belfast today.

Related articles

Top 10 Things To Do If You’re A Postgrad Student In Belfast

QUB – Queen's University Belfast

Belfast Proves To Be A Great Place To Be A PG Student

 

Leave a comment

All contributors must be over 16 year olds

By submitting your comment you agree to our privacy policy.

Categories