How does spending in Bristol compare to the national picture? This page provides estimates based on ONS regional data and locally available cost information. Use it as context, not a benchmark.
| Category | Single person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent / mortgage | £1,000-£1,400 | £1,200-£1,700 | £1,400-£2,000 |
| Energy | £80-£130 | £100-£160 | £130-£210 |
| Council tax (Band C, Bristol) | £140-£170 | £140-£170 | £140-£170 |
| Food and groceries | £160-£270 | £290-£430 | £460-£700 |
| Transport | £70-£140 | £110-£200 | £130-£220 |
Bristol is one of the most expensive cities outside London. Housing in particular has outpaced wage growth significantly. ONS South West data understates Bristol-specific costs as it averages across the wider region including more affordable rural areas.
Aerospace (Airbus, Rolls-Royce), tech and digital (ITV), financial services, creative industries, NHS and education. Salaries are above national average but so are costs.
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Use the Regional Spending Context tool — see how you compare
Cost figures are estimates based on ONS Family Spending Survey regional data and publicly available cost information. They are provided as general context and may not reflect your specific circumstances. Individual costs vary widely based on housing choices, lifestyle and household composition.