Cost of Flexible Office Solutions in the UK
Date Published: 7 July 2025 | By Graham Solice, VP of GreenSpace Bank LLC, for Serviced Office Portal
Having worked in the commercial office space sector for over 25 years, I’ve seen trends come and go, but none have reshaped our industry quite like the rise of flexible office spaces. For businesses evaluating their options, understanding the cost of flexible office solutions in the UK is essential. This guide breaks down pricing models across major UK cities and sheds light on what you’re truly paying for.
What’s Included in Flexible Office Pricing?
Flexible workspaces, whether coworking spaces, serviced offices, or hot desks, offer more than just four walls. The pricing generally includes:
- Fully furnished workspaces
- High-speed internet and IT support
- Utilities (electricity, water, heating)
- Front desk/reception services
- Cleaning and maintenance
- Use of breakout areas and meeting rooms (varies by provider)
- Free tea/coffee/kitchen access
Average Monthly Costs by City & Region
Prices vary dramatically depending on the city, location within that city, and the amenities offered. Below is a breakdown by region:
London
Area | Serviced Office (per desk/month) | Coworking (monthly) | Hot Desk (daily) |
---|---|---|---|
Central London (Mayfair, Soho) | £800–£1,200 | £400–£600 | £30–£50 |
East London (Shoreditch, Hackney) | £500–£850 | £300–£500 | £20–£35 |
Outer Suburbs (Croydon, Wembley) | £300–£600 | £200–£350 | £15–£25 |
Manchester
Area | Serviced Office | Coworking | Hot Desk |
---|---|---|---|
City Centre (Spinningfields, Deansgate) | £350–£700 | £250–£450 | £20–£30 |
South Manchester (Didsbury, Chorlton) | £250–£500 | £150–£300 | £15–£25 |
Birmingham
Area | Serviced Office | Coworking | Hot Desk |
---|---|---|---|
Central (Colmore Row, Jewellery Quarter) | £300–£650 | £200–£400 | £20–£30 |
Suburbs (Selly Oak, Erdington) | £200–£400 | £150–£250 | £15–£20 |
Glasgow
Area | Serviced Office | Coworking | Hot Desk |
---|---|---|---|
City Centre (Merchant City, George Square) | £250–£500 | £180–£350 | £15–£25 |
West End (Hillhead, Partick) | £180–£350 | £120–£250 | £10–£20 |
How Costs Compare to Traditional Offices
Traditional office leases may appear cheaper on paper, but they often exclude internet, furniture, and services. When factoring these in, flexible offices are not only competitive—they’re often better value for SMEs and startups.
Chart: Cost Comparison
Choosing Wisely
It’s easy to get lost in cost spreadsheets, but the best workspace isn’t always the cheapest—it’s the one that fits your culture and supports your team’s productivity. That’s why our free impartial service is so valuable.
If you’re considering a move to a flexible space, explore London listings here or contact us to compare options in your city. We’ll make sure you’re not just getting a good deal—you’re getting the right one.