The Career Management Consultancy > FAQs > What are the costs of living against income in the UK?

London is an expensive place to stay, but earnings are usually a lot higher. Especially when first arriving the strength of the pound can make London seem more expensive. You should try to have enough money for your first month in the UK. Even after you find a job you are likely to have to wait at least a month before getting paid.

There is a good mixture of affordable places to stay, shop and eat – even in central London you can find cheap places to eat, £5 for lunch and £10 for dinner is usually more then enough. At the other end of the scale London has some of finest restaurants, bars and clubs in the world – with prices to match. Luxury shopping and lavish apartments are here too, for those that can!

Travelling in the UK on public transport is more expensive then in other cities. For example a daily London Underground ticket can be around £15 – weekly or monthly passes are cheaper, and just a bus pass cheaper still. Driving in London in particular can be pretty expensive. In central London you have to pay £10 for each day you drive in the “Congestion Zone”. Where you choose to live will greatly affect your costs. Living further from the center is cheaper – but you will need more money for travel.

The northern parts of the UK are generally cheaper then the southern cities, with earnings being higher in the South and different lifestyles the cost of living in the UK will vary vastly for every individuals.

However the ability to earn as a contractor or freelancer far exceeds the costs and although jumping and making the wrong decisions on accommodation can negate this generally the income gains of working in London far outweigh the costs. Contracting in London UK is a very attractive choice whatever the overseas exchange rate and earnings comparisons and those that commit to contracting will earn substantial contract rates.

The key is to work regularly and not be out of work and know your rates and this can be achieved with BITE through its Contractor marketing and advertising services and it’s personal branding CV service to position each contractor to maximize their earnings.

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