Cost of living crisis: The UK cities worrying the MOST, search volume data reveals

In July, the UK recorded a 10.1% inflation rate increase compared to July 2021’s rate of 2.1%, heightening the growing cost of living concerns nationwide. With rising energy bills and food costs, affordability for everyday essentials brings uneasiness to many. 

But which UK cities are the MOST worried about cost of living? 

Interested to find out, Claims.co.uk utilised Ads.google.com to collect the average search volume for relevant cost of living phrases by internet users* in each UK city, to determine which cities are the most worried about the cost of living crisis.

Top 10 UK cities MOST worried about cost of living:

Please find the complete set of data for all 65 UK cities analysed within this data sheet.

Claims.co.uk can reveal that the UK city with the biggest cost of living worries is Durham. Accumulating over 8,087 searches per 100,000 users over the last 12 months as residents grow weary over finding alternatives for cheaper energy suppliers and cost of living support. 

Swansea ranks as the second most concerned city, amassing over 7,301 searches per 100,000 users in the last year, as many residents look for advice to tackle the cost of living crisis. An estimated monthly cost for a family of four in Swansea could amount to over £2,252 excluding rent, whilst for a single resident, this could add up to over £634. 

The UK city with the third biggest cost of living concerns is Sunderland, as it racked up over 4,288 searches per 100,000 users in the last 12 months. With the soaring energy price cap set to increase by 80.06% this October, fears arise among the local residents as the colder months looms ahead.

Top five UK cities LEAST worried about cost of living:

Claims.co.uk can reveal that Norwich residents are the least worried about the cost of living crisis with only 143 searches per 100,000 users over the last 12 months.

George Patton, spokesperson from Claims.co.uk has also provided some guidance on consumers awareness, amid cost of living concerns:

1. Double check the products – Ensure that you are double checking your purchases beforehand. Check expiration dates to guarantee the food will last long enough before consumption, as this can help prevent food waste and ensure you’re being smart with where you spend your money. 
2. Check return policy and product warranty – Shopping has never been more convenient as  many of us turn online to find everyday essentials. Before placing your orders, check the shop’s return policies, and warranty for the products you intend to buy. This helps to verify that any faulty products are returnable at no cost, or for a small fee and ensures you can get your money back.
3. Seek for better deals – Whether you’re shopping to replace a broken vacuum cleaner or looking around for a cheaper energy supplier, conduct careful research and compare various options first to find the best deals that work for you.
4. Cost of living support –  You can also check if you are eligible to apply for extra financial support offered by the UK government, such as Universal Credit or the cost of living scheme implemented back in May.  

Credit to  https://www.claims.co.uk who conducted the research