Best Places To Live In England: South-west England’s picturesque countryside, coastline, and cosmopolitan cities and towns make it one of the most desirable areas to live.
The region is home to some of the country’s most desirable cities, such as Bristol and Bath. The Cotswold’s and Devon coastline are also some of its prettiest villages.
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Which city in the UK is best for Indians?
It won’t be fair to choose just one! London, Manchester, and Birmingham have been popular choices for Indian immigrants in the past due to their large Indian populations, and wide range of job and lifestyle opportunities
Where is the friendliest place to live in the UK?
One of the friendliest cities in the world, Glasgow makes Scotland proud with its hospitality towards strangers.
A vibrant and welcoming community makes the city a popular destination for city vacations.
Is England a good place to raise children?
According to the World Economic Forum, the UK is the 11th best country for raising kids. England has a strong education system, excellent infrastructure, and a high standard of living.
A great place to raise a family, it also has plenty of cultural and recreational activities for kids.
Among the many charming British towns and cities, here are the 7 best places to live in England for families and young professionals. Each has their own unique energy and personality.
I recommend you consider an extended visit to the listed options before taking a decision.
#7 Norwich
Located in East Anglia, Norwich offers easy access to the picturesque countryside and stunning Norfolk coast. The history-rich medieval city of Norwich offers a unique living experience.
It has low crime rates, good transport links, and affordable housing, making it one of the best locations to live in England.
An abundance of job opportunities, good, affordable housing , excellent transportation links, a vibrant cultural scene, and a wide variety of outdoor activities contribute to Norwich’s high standard of living.
The city is noted to be safe for families and has a strong sense of community and culture with low crime rates.
The cost of living in Norwich is relatively low, with an estimated monthly cost of 2,956.5$ (2,463.2£) for a family of four, and 845.8$ (704.7£) for a single person, not including rent.
Residents have access to plenty of green spaces and the countryside. People can stay active in the city thanks to the biking, walking, and hiking trails the city offers.
The city’s Riverside Park has a five-mile walking and biking path, with scenic views of the downtown area and the surrounding countryside.
Cromer on the coast is 45 minutes away by car, Cambridge is 1 hour 20 minutes away, and London is 2.5 hours away by car.
The Greater Anglia line provides train service from Norwich to Ipswich in 41 minutes, Chelmsford in 1 hour 21 minutes, and London Liverpool Street in less than two hours.
Life in Norwich is like living in a quaint place, where cobblestone streets and historic buildings transport you to a charming atmosphere that feels like you have stepped back in time.
#6 Reading
The idyllic city of Reading is nestled in the leafy Thames Valley and is becoming increasingly popular with expats who relocate to the UK. A quarter of a million people call Reading home. Formerly an industrial town, the city has reinvented itself into a lively center for shopping and recreation.
Reading is just 20 minutes from London. With a thriving economy and excellent transport links to London, Reading is an ideal location for employment.
The city is home to a highly regarded school system, several parks and green spaces, a bustling shopping district, and a wide selection of recreational opportunities. Cultural, retail, leisure, and dining scenes are well-planned and designed.
The cost of living in Reading, England is approximately 34% lower than in London. Housing costs in Reading are considerably lower than in neighboring upscale Windsor and exclusive Ascot.
Reading High School is the top rated school in the area and offers a variety of courses, from English and Maths to Art and Technology.
With Harris Arcade’s boutique shops as well as Oracle shopping center, there is no shortage of exciting and entertaining activities. The shopping center is also home to a wide variety of stores and restaurants.
The area has great connections to central London and a lot of outdoor activities, like rowing and cycling. Swimming lessons, aquatic fitness classes and free open swims are offered throughout the summer at the public pool.
Numerous Expats looking for a calmer environment can choose the Thames Valley as an alternative to London.
So if you’re looking for a place to live that’s not too far from London but still has plenty of activities to do, then locations near Thames Valley should be your first choice – just don’t forget your swimsuit!
#5 Oxford
Oxford’s dreaming spires have enchanted some of the world’s greatest minds for centuries. Thanks to its world-famous university,the city continues to be one of the best places to live in the United Kingdom.
The entire city exudes effortless English-ness, from the cozy cafes of bohemian Jericho to the affluent streets of leafy Headington.
Family-friendly neighborhoods are available in many areas. In spite of its high cost, Summertown is one of the most popular neighborhoods in the city. Headington and Kidlington are also popular areas.
The cost of living in Oxford is also quite varied, with Jericho known as the most affordable and Headington as the most expensive area in the city.
Cost of living in Oxford can range from £1,290 to £1,840 per month, depending on your lifestyle. A basic meal in an inexpensive restaurant starts at £7, while a three-course meal in a mid-range restaurant costs around £30 per person.
#4 Plymouth
A seaside city in the South West, Plymouth offers a variety of amenities and attractions. This British Ocean city offers residents a high quality of life, a stunning waterfront location, a vibrant city center and a fascinating place to explore and discover.
The rich maritime heritage and stunning coastal walks contribute to this.
A city with a population of approximately 242,095, Plymouth ranks as the 15th largest in England and one of the largest on the south coast.
A flourishing economy, excellent education system, world-class healthcare, a vibrant cultural scene, and a wide range of outdoor activities make it a desirable place to live and work.
The cost of living in Plymouth is also quite affordable. You can rent a 729 sq. Ft. apartment for just $440 a month, with high ceilings, efficient appliances, and large closets.
Approximately 21,000 students live in student rentals at the University of Plymouth. Student rentals are most prevalent in Greenbank, which is located near the university, as well as Lipson and Mutley.
From the Drake Circus Shopping Centre to the historic Barbican and the independent stores of North Hill, Plymouth provides a vibrant and diverse shopping scene for locals and tourists alike.
Thanks to excellent transport links throughout Devon, Cornwall and beyond, Plymouth is well located. A sense of history and relaxation await you there.
You’ll never run out of fresh air or relaxation in the city, because it’s also surrounded by beautiful countryside, beaches, and a historical coastline.
And if you ever do, there’s always the local fish ‘n chips shop for a quick pick-me-up!
#3 Manchester
A city noted for its industrial past, world-class football teams, and musical heritage, Manchester is a city of distinction. The city also boasts excellent education, healthcare, a thriving cultural scene, plenty of green spaces, and transport infrastructure, making it a great option for families.
Manchester is home to over 20 libraries, museums, galleries, and theatres, making it an ideal destination for culture and learning. The University of Manchester is highly ranked in world rankings and is one of the UK’s most prestigious universities.
It also has over 80 other educational institutions. For those looking to stay active, the city also offers over 90 parks and playgrounds ideal for outdoor activities and adventure.
With everything from affordable properties to luxury apartments, the city features a diverse range of housing options. The average price for a property in Manchester is around £286,314.
The Northern Quarter is known for its trendy cafes, bars, and art galleries, offering a bohemian atmosphere. Didsbury is home to many affluent residents and is popular with young professionals.
It is worth noting that the Manchester Metrolink tram system is the largest outside of London in the UK. This provides an efficient and convenient transportation method.
From its Victorian town hall to the shimmering waterfront developments at nearby Salford Quays, the city offers a non-stop mix of old and new. But don’t worry, no matter how fast the trams go, you’ll never outrun the seagulls!
#2 Bristol
The modern economy of Bristol is built on a foundation of creative industries, media, technology, aerospace, and engineering. The UK’s strongest digital ecosystem outside of London makes it an ideal incubator for new businesses.
With its unique rhythm, Bristol is the UK’s only European Green Capital, one of the best places to live outside of London listed in The Times Best Places to Live in the UK, was the first cycling city in the UK, and one of the finest cities in the world.
Located north of Bristol city centre, Bishopston and nearby Henleaze are popular choices for families with excellent transport links, a low crime rate, and excellent schools.
You can find some of the best Victorian terraced and semi detached homes in Bishopston. Family activities, dining options, and culture abound here!
Bristol has a lower cost of living than many other cities, at 92.2% of the national average.
The mild climate and proximity to the coast also make it an attractive place to live. In addition, it has excellent transport links, making it easy to get around the city.
Public and private schools in the city are highly rated, offering excellent educational opportunities. Bristol University and the University of the West of England both offer a range of degree and certificate programs.
The floating harbour is right in the middle of the city, so take a leisurely harbour cruise with friends. You can also explore the historic SS Great Britain, or paddle under your own power by renting a canoe or kayak.
With a proud emphasis on independent eateries and locally-sourced ingredients, the city boasts a variety of cuisine to tempt every palate.
As UK Vegan Capital for three consecutive years, Bristol also has a great reputation for vegetarian restaurants. And for those who don’t have a palate, there’s always the local takeout!
#1 Cardiff
Wales’ capital city Cardiff is located in the south on the Bristol Channel and roughly an hour from the English border and home to thriving Welsh businesses. Food and nightlife are buzzing, and museums and art galleries are everywhere.
The city is home to several prestigious schools, and universities including Cardiff High School, Cardiff Sixth Form College, Cardiff University and Cardiff Metropolitan University, which attract young professionals from around the world,making it an attractive destination for families with children.
Shopping, restaurants, and cultural attractions are plentiful in the city center, while Bute Park and Roath Park offer plenty of green space.
Living in Cardiff is affordable and offers a high quality of life. Popular neighbourhoods for families include Pontcanna, Llandaff, and Radyr, while students often live in Cathays, Roath, and Cardiff Bay.
Two-bedroom flats go for £900 to £1,200 a month in Cardiff, while houses go for £1,200 to £1,500 a month.
Cardiff has a diverse job market, with opportunities in finance, technology, and creative industries.
The city is home to several large employers, including Admiral Group, Legal & General, and BBC Cymru Wales, as well as many small and medium-sized businesses.
Cardiff has also undergone significant regeneration in recent years, with the development of the Cardiff Bay area and the construction of new office and residential buildings.
This has helped attract new businesses and investment to the city, creating more job opportunities for its residents.
Living in Cardiff is like breathing in fresh air after opening a window – the city has been revived and energized by the influx of capital and new opportunities, transforming it for the better.