What’s the Cost Living in Belfast?

Belfast is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the UK. Located on the River Lagan and surrounded by stunning scenery and countryside, the city is renowned for its vibrant culture, fantastic food and friendly people. For those wanting to adventure further, Belfast also serves as a great launching pad to visit nearby cities such as Newry, Derry and Dublin. With all this on offer, you may be wondering what is the cost living in Belfast?The cost of living in Belfast can vary depending on your lifestyle choices and needs. According to Numbeo.com – the largest database of user-contributed data about cities and countries worldwide – areas such as groceries, transportation, goods and services all make up the typical cost of living in any city. When it comes to Belfast, the meter doesn’t come cheap.In this article, we’ll be looking at the cost of everyday goods and services in Belfast, from apartments and housing costs to dining and entertainment options, to help you get a better understanding of what life in Belfast is like.

Rent for Accommodation in Belfast

Foremost, let’s take a look at accommodation prices in Belfast. According to Numbeo figures in June 2021, a person renting an 85m2 furnished apartment in an “expensive’ area costs around £997 per month; while those looking for a cheaper option can find a 45m2 unfurnished flat in a “normal’ area from around £589 per month. Belfast has a wide range of accommodation options available, from traditional homes and apartments to idyllic lofts, so everyone can find their own private space.

Cost of Groceries

When it comes to groceries, like most cities, Belfast has many options available at different prices. If shopping at local supermarkets such as Sainsbury’s or Tesco – choices that are favoured by locals – prices tend to range anywhere between £300-£400 per month. But also consider opting for budget stores such as Iceland or Lidl, where prices tend to be a bit lower. If you’re looking to cut costs even further, local markets held in the city offer fresh fruit and vegetables at reduced prices; however, these tend to be only available certain times of the year.

Costs for Eating Out

Eating out in Belfast is not cheap – you can expect to pay around £12-25 for a meal in a mid-range restaurant. But if you want something cheaper with just as much flavour, there are also plenty of pubs which offer roast dinners for about £8-9. Whether you’re looking for top-class fine dining or just a cheap snack to go, Belfast has plenty of options catered for all tastes and budgets.

Transportation Costs

Belfast may be compact compared to other major cities, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get around. Whether it is by bus or train, you can access nearly all parts of the city fairly easily. In terms of public transport costs, fares range between £1-£3 depending on the type of journey you take. Students eligible for discounts can usually get around the city with a reduced fare via Translink. Car drivers can also benefit from a University Of Ulster Discount Card which gives free travel at certain times of the day on Fridays and Saturdays on certain bus routes throughout Northern Ireland.

Utilities Costs

Homes with utility bills such as electricity and gas are expected to pay around £70-£80 per month if living alone, so it may be more beneficial to share costs with flatmates if looking for a more economical option.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of living in Belfast is fairly high in comparison to other parts of Northern Ireland, especially when it comes to rent and eating out. But with so much going on in the city – from festivals celebrating culture and music to events showcasing sports, there’s always something happening in Belfast with something for everyone no matter what your budget is. With some creative cost-cutting measures such using public transport or shopping at local markets, you can easily make ends meet without breaking the bank. Numbeo provides more great resources to help you plan your budget better and get an idea of what life is really like in Belfast cost-wise.

An Insider’s Guide to Belfast: Discovering Hidden Gems, Food Culture, and History

If you’re planning a trip to Belfast, you’re in for a treat! This city has something to offer everyone, from historic landmarks to trendy restaurants to off-the-beaten-path adventures. As an insider, I’m thrilled to share my personal favorites with you. Here’s an insider’s guide to Belfast, covering local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, a bit of history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems

While Belfast has plenty of popular tourist destinations, there are also some hidden gems that only locals know about. One such place is the Ulster Museum, which boasts an impressive collection of art, history, and science exhibits. Another is the Linen Hall Library, an iconic institution that houses the world’s largest collection of Irish and local studies literature. For a different kind of experience, visit the Golden Thread Gallery, which showcases contemporary art from local and international artists.

Dining Spots: Savoring Local Cuisine

Belfast’s diverse food scene is a delight to explore, showcasing a blend of traditional and modern cuisine. Gunsmoke Restaurant is a must-visit spot for seafood lovers, and Deanes Meatlocker will satisfy your cravings for steak. If you’re looking for something unique, try the famous Belfast pizza from Pizza Punks or indulge in a traditional Ulster Fry at Maggie Mays. Be sure to also try the Belfast Bap, a signature local bread roll!

Cultural Experiences: Getting to Know Local Traditions

Belfast is steeped in history and culture, and there’s no better way to immerse yourself in it than through a local experience. The Belfast Trad Trail is a fascinating walking tour that takes visitors to some of the city’s best-known pubs while also introducing them to Irish music and culture. The Black Box is another great venue that has live music, comedy, and theatre performances. To dive deeper into the city’s history, visit Crumlin Road Gaol, the former prison that now offers guided tours.

Local History: Uncovering Belfast’s Fascinating Past

Belfast has a rich, complex history that is well worth exploring. The Titanic Belfast museum is a must-visit for those interested in the iconic ship, and you won’t want to miss the chance to take a guided tour of the city’s murals. If you’re looking for something a bit different, check out the Great Light and the Titanic Walkway, which tells the story of Belfast’s industrial heritage and the importance of the lighthouse to its seafaring history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Going Beyond the Conventional

If you’re looking to stray off the beaten path, Belfast has plenty of options. For example, the Giant’s Ring is an ancient Neolithic site located just outside the city that will awe you with its stunning stone structures. Get your adrenaline fix at We Are Vertigo, an indoor trampoline park where you can jump, ninja-warrior style. For something more laid back, visit the Botanic Gardens and explore its stunning rose garden and greenhouses.

Ultimately, Belfast has surprises around every corner, and this guide merely scratches the surface of what this fascinating city has to offer. I hope that these insider tips help you experience the best of what Belfast has to offer and get you excited about discovering even more hidden treasures.