Cardiff vs London: Cost of Living Compared
A side-by-side comparison of rent, daily expenses, and quality-of-life factors in Cardiff (U.K.) and London (U.K.). Data sourced from official government statistics, updated 2026.
Bottom line: Cardiff is about 55% cheaper than London on a typical 1-bedroom — averaging £1,055 versus £2,350 per month. Full side-by-side breakdown below.
| Category | Cardiff | London |
|---|---|---|
| Country | U.K. | U.K. |
| Currency | GBP (£) | GBP (£) |
| 1BR Rent Range | £810 - £1,300Cheaper | £1,100 - £3,600 |
| 2BR Rent Range | £1,100 - £1,750Cheaper | £1,430 - £4,800 |
| Groceries / mo | £230Cheaper | £280 |
| Transport Pass / mo | £65Cheaper | £202 |
| Dining Out / mo | £165Cheaper | £240 |
| English Level | 5/5 (Excellent) | 5/5 (Excellent) |
| Neighborhoods Tracked | 5 | 18 |
| 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 Cardiff
5 neighborhoods, rent data, and full cost breakdown in U.K.
View Cardiff detailsExplore London
18 neighborhoods, rent data, and full cost breakdown in U.K.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cardiff or London cheaper to live in?
On a typical 1-bedroom, Cardiff is about 55% cheaper than London — averaging £1,055 versus £2,350 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 Cardiff vs London?
In Cardiff, 1-bedroom rents range from £810 to £1,300 per month across 5 neighborhoods. In London, 1-bedroom rents range from £1,100 to £3,600 per month across 18 neighborhoods.
How do transport costs compare in Cardiff vs London?
A monthly public transport pass costs £65 in Cardiff and £202 in London. Both cities have well-developed public transit systems.
Which city is better for expats, Cardiff or London?
Cardiff has an English proficiency rating of 5/5 (Excellent) and London rates 5/5 (Excellent). Cardiff uses NHS (Public) healthcare, while London uses NHS (Public). Both factors are important for expats considering a move.
