UK's Cost Of Living Crisis Deepens As Jobs Shrink And Bills Surge

Britain's cost-of-living crisis is intensifying, with rising rents, soaring grocery bills and mounting job cuts placing fresh pressure on households. Shop price inflation has hit its highest level in nearly two years, unemployment has climbed above 5%, and nearly one million young people remain out of work. In London and other major cities, students - including thousands from India - are grappling with steep living costs averaging around 1,250 pounds a month for essentials like rent, food and transport. Many are sharing flats, cutting back on meals out and cancelling subscriptions just to stay afloat. As businesses shed jobs and wage growth struggles to keep pace with inflation, real disposable incomes are shrinking. This report examines how the economic squeeze is reshaping lifestyles, opportunities and expectations across the UK.