As with most comparisons, the 'Cost of Living in the UK' really does depend on each individual's situation. However, often a person only staying a few years in the UK can effectively minimise major expenses, like rent and car, by sharing a house and using public transport. That leaves only a few other major expenses like weekends away, accommodation, entertainment and transport. Usually that leaves you with more than enough to save for bigger trips.

Cost of Accommodation in UK
Flat-Share Rental per month		One Bedroom Flat Rental per month
East London	£400	East London	£600
West London	£500	West London	£700
South London	£400	South London	£600
North London	£500	North London	£700

Cost of Food & Drink in UK
Average weekly grocery bill	£60
Average pub meal	£6
Average restaurant meal	£18
Pint of beer	£2.50 - £3
Average bottle of wine	£8
Average meal for two in mid-priced restaurant	£40

Cost of Transportation in UK
Weekly Zone 1-6 Travelcard	£30
Monthly Zone 1-2 Travelcard	£70
Train trip to Edinburgh	£92
Train trip to Cambridge / Brighton	£20
Avg mid-sized car rental for a weekend	£70
Return budget flight to Spain	£150
Eurostar return ticket to Paris	£110
Return flight to Ireland	£100

Cost of Entertainment in UK
Movie	£7-£10
West End play	£25

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*In general, for areas outside of London, these costs can be reduced by about a third.