Report by Araminta Gordon
Students at Newcastle University are increasingly feeling the strain of the UK’s ongoing cost of living crisis, with rising rent, food prices and everyday expenses forcing many to rethink how they live and study.
Recent data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows that UK inflation peaked at 11.1% in October 2022 and, while it has since fallen, prices remain significantly higher than previous years (ONS, 2023). For students, whose maintenance loans have not kept pace with inflation, this has created growing financial pressure.
Many students say accommodation costs are their biggest concern. According to the National Union of Students (NUS), the average student rent has increased substantially in recent years, taking up the majority of maintenance loans (NUS, 2023). In cities like Newcastle, demand for student housing has also contributed to rising prices.
Second year student Alexandra Williamson gives a firsthand experience of how the cost-of-living prices are affecting young people. “My rent has gone up this year, but my maintenance loan hasn’t really changed, so it feels like I’m constantly trying to catch up. By the time I’ve paid rent and bills, there’s barely anything left for food or anything else.”
In addition to rent, the cost of food has risen sharply. ONS figures show that food prices increased by over 19% in 2023, one of the highest annual increases in decades (ONS, 2023). Students report cutting back on groceries, switching to cheaper brands or going as far as skipping meals simply to save money.
Many are also taking on part-time work to cope with rising expenses. However, balancing a job with academic responsibilities can create additional stress and impact study time. Student Poppy Johnson explains how she has had to take on a job to help manage her financial pressures, however it is adding new pressures to her livelihood. “I’ve had to get a part-time job alongside uni just to afford basic things. It’s manageable, but it definitely takes time away from studying and socialising. I often feel as though I am having to choose between money and my degree.”
Landlords argue that rent increases reflect wider economic pressures, including higher mortgage rates and maintenance costs. Interest rates in the UK rose significantly between 2022 and 2024, increasing costs for property owners.
A Jesmond based Student Housing Landlord has commented on the difficult situation that they feel they are in: “I understand students are under pressure, but landlords are dealing with rising costs as well. Mortgage rates, maintenance, and energy costs have all increased, so rents have had to reflect that. It’s not as simple as just keeping prices the same.” (This source would prefer to stay anonymous)
Newcastle University has acknowledged that financial pressures can affect student wellbeing. Universities across the UK have expanded hardship funds and support services, but demand continues to grow.
According to a 2023 NUS survey, over 50% of students reported that the cost-of-living crisis had negatively affected their mental health (NUS, 2023). Financial stress is also linked to concerns about academic performance and student retention.
While the cost-of-living crisis is a national issue, its impact on students highlights the particular challenges faced by those relying on fixed incomes. With little immediate relief in sight, many Newcastle students are continuing to adapt their lifestyles in order to stay afloat.
