Cardiff is one of the cheapest UK capitals. Here's what monthly life costs here and what salary lets you live well in Wales's capital city.
Cardiff is the cheapest of the four UK capital cities by a significant margin. If you're weighing up a move or a job offer in Cardiff, the cost of living picture is genuinely favourable — though salaries also tend to be lower than in London or Manchester.
| Expense | City centre | Suburbs (Roath, Canton) |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (1-bed flat) | £750–£1,050 | £600–£850 |
| Council tax | £100–£150 | £95–£145 |
| Utilities | £95–£140 | £90–£130 |
| Broadband | £25–£35 | £25–£35 |
| Groceries | £180–£260 | £170–£240 |
| Transport (Cardiff Bus monthly) | £55–£75 | £55–£80 |
| Phone | £20–£40 | £20–£40 |
| Eating out / socialising | £100–£220 | £90–£190 |
| Gym / subscriptions | £30–£60 | £28–£55 |
| Total (estimate) | £1,355–£2,030 | £1,173–£1,765 |
Cardiff is one of the most affordable options for UK professionals. At £26,000 gross (take-home ~£1,750/month) you can live comfortably in a 1-bed city centre flat with money left over. Areas like Roath, Canton, and Cathays offer excellent value with strong community feel.
The caveat with Cardiff's affordability is that salaries are generally lower than in London, Manchester, or Bristol. The average salary in Cardiff is around £31,000–£33,000, compared to £38,000+ in London. However, disposable income comparisons often favour Cardiff — particularly for people who don't need the specific opportunities that London offers.
See how your pay compares to Cardiff and UK median salaries.
Check Your Salary →Around £26,000 is sufficient for comfortable city centre living in Cardiff. In suburban areas like Roath or Canton, £20,000–£22,000 is workable.
Yes — Cardiff is the most affordable of the UK's four capital cities. Monthly living costs are typically 30–40% lower than Edinburgh and far below London.
A 1-bed flat in Cardiff city centre costs approximately £750–£1,050/month. Popular suburban areas cost £600–£850/month.