A survey released by banking group Halifax has shown that not only are university students in the UK battling the effects of a recession but that their living costs continue to rise.

The figures for the 2009 academic year show a 5 per cent increase in average weekly expenditure from £183.80 to £193.50, an increase of almost £10.

The hardest hit students are those studying in the capital with the latest figures showing that students in London spend on average £1,000 a month on living costs at £247.90 per week.

The figures are sure to spark strong debate following news last week of a report which estimated that students beginning university this year face graduating with up to £23,000 in debt.

Commenting on the figures Halifax current account manager Mike Regnier said: ‘Our research shows that many students are spending over £200 on weekly living expenses, despite thinking that they are cutting back.

‘At the moment it’s more important than ever for students not only to set a budget and stick to it, but also to minimise the cost of any borrowing.’

The greatest average expense for students is rent with the UK national average £77.20 per week. This figure is however considerably higher in London with the average student accommodation costs in the capital reaching £94.80.

In addition to this London students spend the most on their weekly food shops with the average grocery bill costing £55.80.

The most economical region in the country for university students looking to minimise their expenditure is the north east where the total average weekly spend is just £157.50, a full £90 cheaper per week than studying in London.  

Expenses for students in almost every category have risen from last year with the report indicating that learner’s pay more for accommodation, food, alcohol, transport, utility bills, social activities, coursework books and equipment.

The only area that saw a decline in spending was cigarettes with the average weekly expenditure dropping from £1.70 to £1.60.

The most expensive regions for students are:
1. London
2. South East
3. Eastern
4. South West
5. Scotland
6. West Midlands
7. North West
8. Wales
9. Yorkshire
10. East midlands
11. Northern Ireland
12. North East