How can I use a household budget planner to manage the higher living costs in London?

Start with your household’s monthly take-home income, then list fixed costs such as rent or mortgage, council tax, energy, broadband and travel. Allow separately for flexible spending, including food, socialising, clothing and irregular bills, and check your figures against recent bank statements. A London budget may need extra detail for commuting, childcare and higher rents, so use realistic local figures rather than national averages. Review the planner each month and consider checking official guidance, such as GOV.UK’s council tax information, when estimating household costs.