Cost of living in Swindon

How much does it cost to live in Swindon? This guide brings together the main costs – energy, water, insurance, transport, childcare, and everyday spending – and points you to our detailed articles and official sources so you can plan and compare.

Calculator and notepad – budgeting and cost of living
Understanding the cost of living in Swindon. Credit: Unsplash
Energy, water, insuranceMajor bills
Compare & switchOfgem, GOV.UK
Cheaper than Reading/OxfordSee our comparison
Cost of living – guides by category
CostOur guides
EnergyAverage bills, suppliers, cheapest deals
WaterWater supplier, water charges
InsuranceCar, home, landlord, business
TransportFuel, parking, commuting, car ownership
Childcare & foodChildcare, nursery, grocery costs

Quick links

Compare energy deals
Ofgem – Energy guide
Council Tax & support
Swindon Borough Council – Council Tax
Childcare costs & support
GOV.UK – Childcare costs

Utilities

Most Swindon homes are on the gas and electricity grid and can choose their supplier. Typical costs depend on usage, tariff, and whether you're on a fixed or variable deal. Thames Water is the regional water and sewerage company – you can't switch water supplier, but you can see how charges are set. Our guides cover energy suppliers in Swindon, average energy bills, water supplier for Swindon, and council water charges.

Insurance

Insurance is a significant part of household and business costs. Premiums vary by postcode, property type, and your circumstances. We have separate guides on car insurance costs in Swindon, home insurance costs, landlord insurance, and business insurance for Swindon SMEs. Always compare quotes and check what's included.

Transport costs

Getting around and commuting add up. Swindon has good road and rail links; fuel prices and parking vary. See average fuel prices in Swindon, cost of owning a car, and parking costs. If you commute by train, cost of commuting from Swindon to London breaks down fares and season tickets.

Everyday costs

Food, childcare, and groceries depend on household size and choices. We cover average grocery costs in Swindon, childcare costs, and nursery fees. For broadband and mobile, see cheapest broadband deals and best mobile coverage in Swindon.

Comparison and switching

Rates and deals change. Our comparison-style pages – cheapest energy deals in Swindon and the broadband guide above – explain how to compare and where to look. We don't recommend specific providers; use Ofgem-accredited comparison sites and always read the terms.

Is Swindon cheaper than nearby cities?

Many people ask how Swindon compares to Reading, Oxford, or Bristol for housing and day-to-day costs. Our article Is Swindon cheaper than Reading, Oxford or Bristol? summarises the main differences.

Compare energy deals

Ofgem price cap, typical use, switching.

Ofgem – Energy guide

Information correct as of February 2026. Prices and deals change. Use our guides as a starting point and always check provider and official sites for current figures.