With £5 flat whites, average flat prices exceeding half a million, and TfL fares rising once again - the Big Smoke has priced out most of its residents. Amid the cost-of-living crisis, where and food prices remain sky-high, it can be tempting for Southerners to ditch their London lifestyle and head up to the good old North. Even if it means they have to smile and say hello to strangers on the street.

If you're looking to move, Home for Global Students has compiled a list of the 15 cheapest places to live in the UK. The city of topped the list thanks to its affordable housing, travel passes, and utility bills. Located in northeast England, just 45 minutes south of Newcastle upon Tyne, Durham attracts a whopping 4.4 million tourists every year thanks to it's rich history and links to a cult-classic film.

READ MORE:

Durham Cathedral, encircled by the River Wear, is a must-see attraction. You can climb the central tower's 325 steps for stunning views of the city and take a tour of the oldest cathedral in England - the resting place of Saint Cuthbert. You might find some of the secluded walkways (known as The Cloister) familiar, and that's because they were used as filming locations for two of the films.

"Beautiful gardens and a maze may be found at Crook Hall, a 13th-century mansion located north of Norman Castle," . "Durham University is located south of the river and features an Oriental Museum with an abundance of Asian, Egyptian, and Middle Eastern artefacts on show, as well as breathtaking views of tropical and woodland vegetation in its Botanic Garden."

Want big news with big heart? Get the top headlines sent straight to your inbox with our

Durham's prestigious University is consistently placed amongst the top 10 in the UK, and came 89th in the QS World University Rankings for 2025. Famous alumni include Bond star Roger Moore and Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen.

U Homes states the average house price for the city is £130,413, while the (ONS) says the average price for the whole of County Durham is £139,000 - with first-time buyers splashing out just £123,000. These estimates are more than half the average price of a flat in London. "In Durham, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is £650, whereas outside the city, it is £360," U Homes adds. "A monthly travel pass is £55, and basic utilities are about £235 per month. The average cost in Durham per month is about £1,230."

Do you have a story to share? Email us at yourmirror@mirror.co.uk for a chance to be featured