Cambridge vs Oxford: Cost of Living Compared
A side-by-side comparison of rent, daily expenses, and quality-of-life factors in Cambridge (U.K.) and Oxford (U.K.). Data sourced from official government statistics, updated 2026.
Bottom line: Oxford is about 3% cheaper than Cambridge on a typical 1-bedroom — averaging £1,570 versus £1,625 per month. Full side-by-side breakdown below.
| Category | Cambridge | Oxford |
|---|---|---|
| Country | U.K. | U.K. |
| Currency | GBP (£) | GBP (£) |
| 1BR Rent Range | £1,180 - £2,070 | £1,140 - £2,000Cheaper |
| 2BR Rent Range | £1,610 - £2,820 | £1,550 - £2,730Cheaper |
| Groceries / mo | £480 | £468Cheaper |
| Transport Pass / mo | £140 | £137Cheaper |
| Dining Out / mo | £320 | £312Cheaper |
| English Level | 5/5 (Excellent) | 5/5 (Excellent) |
| Neighborhoods Tracked | 3 | 3 |
| Healthcare System | NHS (Public) | NHS (Public) |
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Overall, Oxford 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 Oxford
3 neighborhoods, rent data, and full cost breakdown in U.K.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cambridge or Oxford cheaper to live in?
On a typical 1-bedroom, Oxford is about 3% cheaper than Cambridge — averaging £1,570 versus £1,625 per month. Overall, Oxford 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 Oxford?
In Cambridge, 1-bedroom rents range from £1,180 to £2,070 per month across 3 neighborhoods. In Oxford, 1-bedroom rents range from £1,140 to £2,000 per month across 3 neighborhoods.
How do transport costs compare in Cambridge vs Oxford?
A monthly public transport pass costs £140 in Cambridge and £137 in Oxford. Both cities have well-developed public transit systems.
Which city is better for expats, Cambridge or Oxford?
Cambridge has an English proficiency rating of 5/5 (Excellent) and Oxford rates 5/5 (Excellent). Cambridge uses NHS (Public) healthcare, while Oxford uses NHS (Public). Both factors are important for expats considering a move.