The UK always tops the list when hunting for the right study-abroad destination. International students consider studying in top cities like London, Birmingham, Manchester, Cambridge, and Oxford, to name a few. In recent years, many students have considered living in Birmingham, as the list of reasons is endless- including a high-quality education system, plenty of employment opportunities, an affordable and safe city, a vibrant and bustling lifestyle and much more.
However, looking at one side is only part of it. One must explore the flip side too to make sensible decisions. In this blog, we will cover the pros and cons of living in Birmingham as an International student.
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Living in Birmingham
There are many things to know before moving to Birmingham and acquaint yourself with life in the city. Life in Birmingham for an international student is a worthwhile experience. It offers amazing opportunities for an individual to expand their horizons and step out of their comfort zone to try new things. Outstanding universities in the city let international students be a part of clubs and societies and explore the city’s culture.
International students living in Birmingham become accomplished and independent individuals as they proceed in their study-abroad journey. They achieve goals in this high-spirited city and become more open to new experiences that come their way.
Let’s dive deeper into the reasons that make Birmingham a good place to live while also exploring the cons of living in Birmingham.
Pros of Living in Birmingham, UK
Birmingham is popular for its welcoming and inclusive environment for international students. Its thriving manufacturing and tech industries are revealing many job opportunities for the expats. Favourable student accommodations in Birmingham also make it easier for international students to live in the city comfortably. Read on to find more about the pros of living in Birmingham as an international student-
Also Read: Check out the costs of studying in the UK and pursuing education in one of the most sought-after study abroad destinations.
High-ranking Universities
Birmingham is the second largest city in the UK and home to many first-class universities that have high rankings. Some of them are the University of Birmingham, Aston University, Birmingham City University, Newman University, and University College Birmingham.
Universities in Birmingham offer varied courses to international students in the fields of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, creative arts, and more. This makes it one of the top reasons to live in Birmingham and pursue global dreams.
Job Opportunities
With such amazing universities in the city that offer high-quality education, students excel in their academics and become capable of getting themselves good-paying jobs in Birmingham. Also, the manufacturing, technology, finance, tourism and engineering industries are expanding rapidly. They are hiring young professionals in varied job roles helping international students secure a disciplined career.
Also Read: Find the perfect match for you as you explore the highest-paying jobs in the world and embark on a suitable career path.
Affordable City
Birmingham is making efforts to be at par with London and be an alternative to the city with affordable housing options. The living expenses in the city make it favourable for international students to manage their study-abroad expenses easily. Students can find fully furnished and the cheapest student accommodation in Birmingham with all basic amenities offering high living standards. Monthly expenses that they expect range from GBP 1,350 to 1,400 at maximum (INR 1.41 lakhs to 1.46 lakhs).
Vibrant Lifestyle and Culture
Great educational facilities, amazing job opportunities and affordable housing are not just enough. Birmingham offers more than these advantages to international students. It’s the city’s vibrant lifestyle and an inclusive culture welcoming students from all over the world with open arms.
This multicultural city allows students to experience food and festivals making the transition easy. Students can experience community living and plan weekend getaways from Birmingham with their friends to relax.
Popular Attractions
One of the best things about Birmingham is that there’s so much to do in the city. From exploring the clubs, cafes, and restaurants to visiting the best places in Birmingham, international students can never get bored in the city. One can enjoy theatres, musical fests, scenic parks, museums in Birmingham, art galleries and much more. This green city offers amazing scenic views and excellent destinations for Instagrammable pictures.
Cons of Living in Birmingham, UK
Now that we know about the good side of living in Birmingham, let’s explore some of the factors that affect your routine life. Let’s have a look at all the cons of living in Birmingham-
Weather Conditions
Though one can experience all four seasons in Birmingham, the weather conditions are extreme. Unpredictable weather and harsh winter conditions make it challenging for international students to manage daily chores. The summers are short, making it a less favourable city to live in for those who adore long summers and beach tans.
Traffic and Parking
Traffic and parking are common problems if you are using housing in the United Kingdom and using personal or public transport. Similarly, Birmingham experiences traffic congestion. This can make travelling difficult during rush hours and particularly stressful when you have to attend lectures on time. Traffic and parking issues in this busy city can be dealt with by using public transportation.
Also Read: Shoplifting is a serious offence. Check all about shoplifting laws in the UK and be aware of penalties and fines for shoplifting.
Transportation
Birmingham has a well-connected network of roads and railways for students to travel in and around the city. Transportation is one of those factors that is advantageous to international students, however, it might not be the best choice as it is not available everywhere. Also, being the second-largest city in the UK, it lacks a subway system.
High Cost of Living
While Birmingham is more affordable than London, the cost of living can still be high for international students. Expenses like rent, groceries, and transportation can quickly add up, especially if you live in the city centre. Students need to budget wisely and explore options like shared accommodation and student discounts to manage their expenses effectively.
Limited On-Campus Accommodation
Many universities in Birmingham offer on-campus housing, but availability is limited, especially for international students. This means many students have to find private rentals, which can be more expensive and require dealing with landlords and tenancy agreements. It’s important to start the housing search early to secure a good and affordable place to stay.
Why Choose Birmingham?
Birmingham, the UK’s second-largest city, is a dynamic and multicultural hub that has become increasingly popular among international students. Its combination of world-class universities, affordable living, and a vibrant cultural scene makes it an ideal choice for students. But beyond just education, Birmingham offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity, all within a student-friendly atmosphere. Here’s why international students might choose Birmingham:
A Thriving Academic Hub
Birmingham is home to several prestigious universities, including the University of Birmingham, Aston University, and Birmingham City University. These institutions are renowned for their high academic standards, diverse range of courses and strong research outputs. The city’s educational institutions cater to international students with specialized programs, support services, and vibrant campus life.
A Truly International City
One of the key draws of Birmingham is its cosmopolitan nature. The city has a rich cultural diversity, with people from all over the world calling it home. It is one of the most multicultural cities in the UK, with large communities from South Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. This multicultural environment fosters an inclusive atmosphere.
Central Location and Connectivity
Birmingham is strategically located in the heart of the UK, making it an excellent base for exploring the rest of the country. The city’s transport network is highly developed, with excellent train, bus, and tram services. This central location makes Birmingham an ideal place to live for students who want to explore the UK while studying, whether for a weekend trip to historic cities or a quick visit to the countryside.
Affordable Living Compared to London
One of the biggest advantages of choosing Birmingham as an international student is its affordable cost of living compared to cities like London. Rent, groceries, and transportation are significantly cheaper. Many students opt for shared accommodation or student halls, which further helps in managing expenses.
Exciting Student Life and Career Opportunities
Birmingham offers a vibrant student life with countless activities, clubs, and societies at universities. Whether you enjoy nightlife, music, arts, or sports, there’s always something happening in the city. Birmingham is also a major business hub, home to leading industries in finance, technology, and engineering. It provides excellent internship and job opportunities for students.
Cost of Living in Birmingham for International Students
Birmingham is one of the most affordable student cities in the UK, making it a great choice for international students. While costs depend on lifestyle and accommodation choices, Birmingham offers cheaper rent and living expenses compared to cities like London. Below is an estimated breakdown of monthly expenses:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (GBP) |
|---|---|
| Rent (Shared Apartment) | GBP 400 – GBP 700 |
| Groceries | GBP 150 – GBP 250 |
| Public Transport (Student Pass) | GBP 40 – GBP 80 |
| Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet) | GBP 100 – GBP 150 |
| Mobile & Internet | GBP 30 – GBP 50 |
| Entertainment & Dining Out | GBP 100 – GBP 200 |
| Total Estimated Cost | £800 – £1,200 |
Tips for International Students Moving to Birmingham
Moving to a new country can be exciting but also overwhelming. As an international student, you might have many questions about settling into a new city. Understanding the pros and cons of living in Birmingham will help you prepare better and make your transition smoother. Here are five essential tips to help you settle in:
Plan Your Budget Wisely: Birmingham is more affordable than London, but living costs can still add up. Research average expenses for rent, food, transport, and utilities to create a realistic budget. Use student discounts and explore cost-effective grocery stores to save money.
Choose Your Accommodation Carefully: From university halls to private rentals, Birmingham offers various housing options. Stay close to your university or near well-connected transport links. Websites like Rightmove and SpareRoom can help you find budget-friendly accommodation.
Get Familiar with Public Transport: Birmingham has an extensive bus, train, and tram network, but it lacks a subway system. Get a student travel pass to save money on daily commutes. Walking and cycling are also great options for short distances.
Adapt to the Weather: The weather in Birmingham can be unpredictable, with frequent rain and chilly winters. Pack warm clothes, an umbrella, and waterproof shoes to stay comfortable. Enjoy the short but pleasant summers when the city comes to life.
Explore the City and Network: Birmingham is a multicultural city with vibrant festivals, restaurants, and social events. Join student groups, attend networking events, and explore attractions like the Birmingham Library, Cadbury World, and Bullring Shopping Centre to make the most of your time.
FAQs
Yes, Life in Birmingham for an international student is a worthwhile experience. It offers amazing opportunities for an individual to expand their horizons and step out of their comfort zone to try new things.
Birmingham is popular for its welcoming and inclusive environment for international students. Its thriving manufacturing and tech industries are revealing many job opportunities for the expats. Favourable student accommodations in Birmingham also make it easier for international students to live in the city comfortably.
Living in Birmingham has some disadvantages- like the weather conditions are unpredictable and the short summer span makes it less favourable among people who love summers. Besides, the city lacks a subway system for connectivity and experiences traffic and parking issues.
Monthly expenses that international students can expect while living in Birmingham range from GBP 1350 to 1400 at maximum (INR 1.41 lakhs to 1.46 lakhs).
Both cities are the most preferred options to study abroad. Each of them has their own set of pros and cons. Birmingham is an affordable city while London offers unique universities with a high reputation and worldwide recognition. Both cities offer a great lifestyle, an amazing cultural experience, and a thriving student life.
Birmingham has an excellent public transport system, including buses, trams, and trains. A student travel card or a contactless payment system (such as a Swift Card) can be used for discounted fares. The city is also walkable, with many areas close to universities and student accommodations.
Birmingham experiences a temperate maritime climate, which means cool, wet winters and mild summers. It can often be rainy and overcast, especially in the winter months, so it’s a good idea to pack an umbrella and warm clothing.
Yes, Birmingham hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including the Birmingham International Film Festival, the Birmingham Literature Festival, and the Frankfurt Christmas Market. There are also numerous music festivals, art exhibitions, and cultural celebrations to enjoy.
International students are eligible for healthcare services through the National Health Service (NHS) if they are registered with a GP (General Practitioner). It’s recommended to register with a local GP upon arrival for easier access to medical services.
Birmingham is home to a large international student community, and universities often organize events and societies where students can meet people from their own country or other parts of the world. Joining student clubs, attending international student orientations, or participating in university social events are great ways to meet new people.
This was all about the pros and cons of living in Birmingham. Apart from the above-discussed factors, there might be other reasons that might either make or break an international student’s decision to live in Birmingham. Thus, it is important to make a city’s comparison with other cities and then decide.
Hope you liked the blog. For booking the best accommodation abroad to start your study abroad experience you can contact Fly Homes at 1800572118.
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