Cost of living, salaries, tax rates & quality of life
Quick FactsKey stats and figures for United Kingdom
Capital
London
Languages
English
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Cost of Living
2% below US
Avg. Salary
£ 31k/yr
Timezone
UTC+0/+1
Population
68 million
Expats
11.4 million
Based on Numbeo Quality of Life Index
Compare expenses and earning potential across major cities
| City | Rent | Total |
|---|---|---|
| London | £2,337 | £3,204 |
| Manchester | £1,200 | £1,800 |
| Edinburgh | £1,300 | £1,920 |
Rent based on 1-bedroom apartment in city center. All values in GBP/month.
Key tax information for United Kingdom
20%-45%
25% (19% for profits under £50k)
18%-24%
20%
Non-domiciled residents may qualify for remittance basis
What to expect when living in United Kingdom
IELTS or equivalent for visa applications
Different language requirements by visa type and tier
Before You Go
Essential reading for anyone considering the move
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Last updated: April 2026
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general guidance only and should not be considered legal or financial advice. Cost of living, salary, and quality of life data are estimates based on third-party sources and may vary. Always verify current information with official government sources before making immigration decisions.