Surrey living costs are putting pressure on households and businesses, residents and a brewery owner say, as they call for help with food prices, energy bills and taxes ahead of Chancellor John Healey’s first Budget on October 28, 2026.

Key Takeaways

  • Residents described struggling to cover essentials despite living in one of the UK’s wealthiest areas.
  • A Staines brewery owner called for lower business rates and VAT on hospitality.

Surrey living costs strain household budgets

Surrey has average house prices of around £500,000 and high rents. Lucy, a mother of two from Banstead, said that after paying essential bills she often has little left for her children. She relies on Banstead Pantry, run by the charity Good Company, and wants ministers to prioritise lowering food prices.

In Hersham, Jo Burton said food and school uniforms were becoming more expensive. Fellow resident James Stevenson said his household runs out of money before the end of each month despite budgeting carefully. He called for action on energy and petrol costs.

Elmbridge has some of the highest housing costs and has seen poverty rise. The Walton Charity says 68% of those living in poverty in the borough are part of working households.

Hospitality owner seeks tax relief

Andy Hayward, owner and head brewer at Thames Side Brewery in Staines, said hospitality businesses face tough conditions. He said live music helps draw people to his pub and venue, as fewer customers come in just for beer.

Hayward wants the government to reduce business rates, cut VAT on hospitality and introduce measures that leave the public with more money to spend.

A Treasury spokesperson said the government had removed VAT from electricity bills, capped bus fares in England at £2 in 2027, extended the 5p fuel duty cut, and frozen rail fares and prescription charges.

Next milestone

The next confirmed milestone is Healey’s Budget on October 28.

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