Starling says UK student living costs jump 47% in decade, outpace inflation

• Starling market research dated Aug. 11, 2026 showed UK student living costs rose 47% over 10 years, outpacing 41% inflation.
• Average annual student living cost reached GBP 10,227, up from GBP 6,966, implying a GBP 2,600 shortfall versus GBP 7,600 maintenance loans.
• Maintenance loan income increased 32% over the decade, widening the gap between costs and loans to 35% from 21%.
• Cost pressure concentrated in living expenses up 55%, public transport up 51%, accommodation up 44%.
• Survey of 2,000 students found 83% reported academic impact from financial stress; 23% relied on hardship funds or bursaries.

Disclaimer: This news brief was created by Public Technologies (PUBT) using generative artificial intelligence. While PUBT strives to provide accurate and timely information, this AI-generated content is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as financial, investment, or legal advice. Starling Bank Ltd. published the original content used to generate this news brief on August 11, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained therein.