I love it! NIghts out pretty good, and because most of the clubs/pubs etc are close together, theres never far to go and you dont have to decide where to go before going out. RGUnion, the best place to start a night out. End of.
As for employment, everywhere (esp supermarkets) offer holidays, so book in advance and your fine. And, you might be able to get dual store, ie, work here in term time, and in your home store at summer!
But yeh, its great. As everyone has already said, cost wise it depends on you. Go out at weekend and you'll spend a fortune, any other time and your good. More or less the same as most cities for shopping! Only real cost is rent if your in a flat, that can be pricey! Best of luck with whatever you choose to do!