Cost of Living 2025: What You Really Need to Pay For

Thinking about moving or traveling in 2025? You probably wonder how much everyday life will actually cost. Forget vague numbers – let’s look at the nuts‑and‑bolts: rent, food, transport, utilities and those little extras that add up fast.

Most of the data we use comes from recent surveys, expat forums and official price indexes. The figures are for a single adult living alone, but they give a solid baseline for anyone budgeting a new life abroad.

Breakdown of Main Expenses

Rent: In 2025, a one‑bedroom apartment in a city centre still eats up the biggest chunk of a budget. In Dubai, you’ll find prices ranging from £900 to £1,600 a month depending on the neighbourhood. Smaller cities or suburbs can drop that to £600‑£900.

Utilities: Electricity, water, gas and internet usually total around £100‑£150 monthly. Summer months in hot climates can push the electricity bill a bit higher, so plan for a seasonal bump.

Food: Groceries for one adult sit at roughly £200‑£300 a month if you shop at local supermarkets and cook at home. Eating out three times a week will add another £150‑£250.

Transport: Public transport passes are cheap in most places – about £40‑£60 a month. If you need a car, factor in fuel (£1.30 per litre on average), insurance (£300‑£500 a year) and parking (£100‑£200 monthly).

Health & Insurance: Basic health insurance for an expat costs around £70‑£120 a month. Add a few extra pounds for occasional doctor visits and prescription meds.

Leisure & Misc: Gym memberships, streaming services, and occasional outings can easily reach £100‑£200 a month.

Tips to Stretch Your Budget

Now that you know where the money goes, here are some quick ways to keep the total lower without sacrificing comfort.

1. Share your space. A flat‑share cuts rent by half and often includes shared utilities. Look for reputable listings on trusted platforms.

2. Shop local markets. Fresh produce at street markets is cheaper than supermarkets, and you’ll get a taste of the local culture.

3. Use transport cards. Many cities offer discounted monthly passes or pay‑as‑you‑go cards that save a few pounds each ride.

4. Cook in bulk. Preparing meals for several days reduces waste and saves on both groceries and energy.

5. Track your spending. Simple budgeting apps can show you hidden leaks – a coffee run here, a subscription you forgot about there.

By keeping an eye on these categories and tweaking habits, you can live comfortably on a realistic budget in 2025. Whether you’re eyeing Dubai’s high‑rise lifestyle or a quieter town, the numbers stay the same: know your costs, plan ahead, and enjoy the move without money stress.