UK Cost of Living Calculator
Add up your monthly outgoings — rent, council tax, bills, food, transport — and see what's left over to save.
Last updated: 2026-08-14
Total monthly spend
£1845
Total annual spend
£22140
Left over each month
Add your income to see the savings rate
🔒Calculated in your browser. A rough monthly budget guide — your figures never leave your device.
The cost of living in the UK has climbed sharply in recent years, and it is easy to lose track of where the money goes. Enter your take-home pay and your regular monthly outgoings — rent or mortgage, council tax, energy, food, transport and the rest — and this adds it all up so you can see your total spend and how much you are actually saving.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to live in the UK per month?
It varies hugely by location. A single person outside London might spend around £1,500–£2,000 a month all-in; a family in London can spend £3,500 or more. Rent or mortgage is usually the biggest item, followed by food and energy. This calculator lets you plug in your own numbers to see your total.
What should my monthly budget include?
The big fixed costs are rent or mortgage, council tax, and gas/electric/water. Then come the regular variables: food and groceries, transport, broadband and phone, plus insurance, subscriptions and spending money. Add them all in and compare the total against your take-home pay.
How much should I save each month?
A common rule of thumb is the 50/30/20 split: 50% of income on needs, 30% on wants, and 20% saved. Many UK households find that hard right now — if you are saving 10% or more you are ahead of the average. The "savings rate" this calculator shows is the share of your income left after your listed expenses.
What is the average UK cost of living increase?
Energy and food prices drove UK inflation up sharply in 2022–2023, and although inflation has since cooled, prices remain well above pre-2021 levels. Council tax and rents keep rising each year. Rechecking your budget yearly against actual figures is a good habit.