Cambridge vs Cardiff: Cost of Living Compared
A side-by-side comparison of rent, daily expenses, and quality-of-life factors in Cambridge (U.K.) and Cardiff (U.K.). Data sourced from official government statistics, updated 2026.
Bottom line: Cardiff is about 35% cheaper than Cambridge on a typical 1-bedroom — averaging £1,055 versus £1,625 per month. Full side-by-side breakdown below.
| Category | Cambridge | Cardiff |
|---|---|---|
| Country | U.K. | U.K. |
| Currency | GBP (£) | GBP (£) |
| 1BR Rent Range | £1,180 - £2,070 | £810 - £1,300Cheaper |
| 2BR Rent Range | £1,610 - £2,820 | £1,100 - £1,750Cheaper |
| Groceries / mo | £480 | £230Cheaper |
| Transport Pass / mo | £140 | £65Cheaper |
| Dining Out / mo | £320 | £165Cheaper |
| English Level | 5/5 (Excellent) | 5/5 (Excellent) |
| Neighborhoods Tracked | 3 | 5 |
| Healthcare System | NHS (Public) | NHS (Public) |
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Overall, Cardiff tends to be more affordable when comparing rent, groceries, transport, and dining costs. However, the two cities use the same currency, so exchange rates and local salary levels also play a significant role. Use our calculator to see what your specific salary means in each city.
Explore Cambridge
3 neighborhoods, rent data, and full cost breakdown in U.K.
View Cambridge detailsExplore Cardiff
5 neighborhoods, rent data, and full cost breakdown in U.K.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cambridge or Cardiff cheaper to live in?
On a typical 1-bedroom, Cardiff is about 35% cheaper than Cambridge — averaging £1,055 versus £1,625 per month. Overall, Cardiff is generally cheaper to live in across rent, groceries, transport, and dining, though costs vary by neighborhood and lifestyle.
What is rent like in Cambridge vs Cardiff?
In Cambridge, 1-bedroom rents range from £1,180 to £2,070 per month across 3 neighborhoods. In Cardiff, 1-bedroom rents range from £810 to £1,300 per month across 5 neighborhoods.
How do transport costs compare in Cambridge vs Cardiff?
A monthly public transport pass costs £140 in Cambridge and £65 in Cardiff. Both cities have well-developed public transit systems.
Which city is better for expats, Cambridge or Cardiff?
Cambridge has an English proficiency rating of 5/5 (Excellent) and Cardiff rates 5/5 (Excellent). Cambridge uses NHS (Public) healthcare, while Cardiff uses NHS (Public). Both factors are important for expats considering a move.
