Top 10 best places to live in the UK 2024

Wondering where to live in the UK? We'll show you the 10 best places to live in the UK. Each city offers a unique blend of charm, affordability, and lifestyle.

Jale

7 minute read

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16 Aug 2024

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Living

When it comes to finding the best places to live in the UK, there’s a wealth of choices across bustling cities, charming towns, and picturesque villages. Whether you’re a young professional, a family, or an international newcomer, the UK has something to offer everyone.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the top places to live in the UK, considering factors like affordability, amenities, safety, and overall quality of life.

As one of the most popular cities in the UK, London is a dynamic, multicultural metropolis. While it may not be the cheapest city to live in the UK, it offers unparalleled opportunities for work, education, and entertainment. London’s diverse neighbourhoods, from trendy Shoreditch to leafy Richmond, each have their unique charm. The city’s extensive public transport system, including buses, trains, and the famous Underground, makes commuting convenient. Although rent can be high, the sheer variety of amenities, cultural attractions, and career prospects make London one of the best cities to live in the UK for both locals and internationals. Whether you're exploring world-class museums, dining in Michelin-starred restaurants, or enjoying a walk through one of its many parks, London has something for everyone.

Here’s an overview of average rental prices for a studio, a 1-bedroom apartment, and a room.

• Studio: £1,500 - £2,000 per month
• 1-bedroom apartment: £1,800 - £2,500 per month
• Room: £700 - £1,200 per month

For those who appreciate a mix of historic charm and modern convenience, Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK. With its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene, it’s no wonder that Edinburgh is often ranked as one of the top cities in the UK. The city offers a variety of housing options, from Georgian townhouses in the New Town to more affordable flats in Leith. Public transport is efficient, and the city’s compact size makes it easy to get around on foot or by bike. With a strong sense of community, excellent schools, and numerous green spaces, Edinburgh is also considered one of the best places to live in the UK for families. The city is particularly welcoming to internationals, with a diverse population and a thriving expat community.

Here’s an overview of average rental prices for a studio, a 1-bedroom apartment, and a room.

• Studio: £900 - £1,200 per month
• 1-bedroom apartment: £1,000 - £1,500 per month
• Room: £450 - £800 per month

Manchester is often ranked as the best city in the UK for young professionals, thanks to its thriving job market, particularly in the tech and creative industries. It’s also one of the best places to move to in the UK if you’re looking for a vibrant social scene, with countless bars, restaurants, and cultural venues to explore. Housing is more affordable than in London, making it one of the best places to live in England for those seeking a balance between city life and budget-friendly living. Public transport is well-connected, with trams, buses, and trains providing easy access to both the city centre and surrounding areas. With its friendly locals and a growing international community, Manchester offers a welcoming environment for newcomers.

Here’s an overview of average rental prices for a studio, a 1-bedroom apartment, and a room.

• Studio: £800 - £1,100 per month
• 1-bedroom apartment: £900 - £1,300 per month
• Room: £400 - £700 per month

Known for its artistic flair and independent spirit, Bristol is one of the top places to live in the UK for those who value creativity and community. The city boasts a strong economy, particularly in the aerospace and media sectors, making it a great place to work and live. Housing ranges from stylish apartments in the city centre to family homes in the suburbs, with rent prices more affordable than in London or Edinburgh. Bristol’s compact size means you can easily explore its many neighbourhoods on foot or by bike, while public transport links to the rest of the UK are excellent. The city’s inclusive atmosphere and strong sense of community make it one of the best cities to live in the UK for internationals.

Here’s an overview of average rental prices for a studio, a 1-bedroom apartment, and a room.

• Studio: £900 - £1,200 per month
• 1-bedroom apartment: £1,000 - £1,400 per month
• Room: £500 - £800 per month

York, with its cobbled streets and medieval architecture, is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK and a fantastic place to call home. The city is known for its rich history, friendly community, and excellent schools, making it one of the best places to live in the UK for families. Housing in York is varied, with options ranging from historic townhouses to modern developments, and while it isn't the cheapest place to live in the UK, it offers good value for money considering the quality of life. Public transport is reliable, with regular trains connecting York to major cities like London and Edinburgh. The city’s welcoming atmosphere and slower pace of life make it a great option for internationals seeking a more relaxed lifestyle.

Here’s an overview of average rental prices for a studio, a 1-bedroom apartment, and a room.

• Studio: £700 - £900 per month
• 1-bedroom apartment: £800 - £1,200 per month
• Room: £400 - £600 per month

For those who love the coast, Brighton is undoubtedly one of the best cities to visit in the UK, and an even better place to live. Known for its bohemian vibe and vibrant arts scene, Brighton offers a unique blend of city living and seaside relaxation. Housing is pricey, especially in popular areas like The Lanes or Hove, but the quality of life is high, making it one of the best places to live in England. The city is well-connected by public transport, with regular trains to London, making it a popular choice for commuters. Brighton’s inclusive and diverse community is particularly welcoming to internationals, making it a great place to settle.

Here’s an overview of average rental prices for a studio, a 1-bedroom apartment, and a room.

• Studio: £900 - £1,300 per month
• 1-bedroom apartment: £1,000 - £1,500 per month
• Room: £500 - £900 per month

Cardiff is the best place to live in the UK if you’re looking for a mix of affordability and vibrant city life. As the capital of Wales, Cardiff offers a range of cultural attractions, excellent shopping, and a strong sporting tradition. Housing is more affordable than in many other UK cities, making it one of the cheapest cities to live in the UK. Public transport is efficient, with good connections to other parts of the UK, including regular trains to London. Cardiff’s friendly atmosphere and strong sense of community make it a welcoming place for both locals and internationals.

Here’s an overview of average rental prices for a studio, a 1-bedroom apartment, and a room.

• Studio: £600 - £900 per month
• 1-bedroom apartment: £700 - £1,100 per month
• Room: £350 - £600 per month

Cambridge, home to one of the world’s most prestigious universities, is one of the top cities in the UK for academics and professionals alike. The city’s historic charm, combined with its cutting-edge research and innovation, makes it one of the best places to live in the UK. Housing can be expensive, particularly in the city centre, but the high quality of life, excellent schools, and beautiful surroundings make it worth the investment. Public transport is good, and the city’s compact size means you can easily get around by bike or on foot. Cambridge’s diverse and international community adds to its appeal, making it a great place to live for people from all walks of life.

Here’s an overview of average rental prices for a studio, a 1-bedroom apartment, and a room.

• Studio: £900 - £1,200 per month
• 1-bedroom apartment: £1,000 - £1,500 per month
• Room: £500 - £800 per month

Birmingham, the UK’s second-largest city, is often overlooked, but it’s one of the best cities to live in the UK for those seeking a mix of affordability, opportunity, and culture. Housing is more affordable than in London or Manchester, making it one of the best places to live in England for families and young professionals. The city boasts a strong economy, with thriving industries in finance, manufacturing, and technology. Public transport is extensive, with buses, trams, and trains connecting the city’s various neighbourhoods and beyond. Birmingham’s diverse population and welcoming atmosphere make it a great place to live for internationals.

Here’s an overview of average rental prices for a studio, a 1-bedroom apartment, and a room.

• Studio: £700 - £1,000 per month
• 1-bedroom apartment: £800 - £1,200 per month
• Room: £400 - £700 per month

Oxford, like its rival Cambridge, is one of the top cities in the UK for academics and professionals. The city’s historic buildings, world-class university, and vibrant cultural scene make it one of the best places to live in the UK. Housing in Oxford can be pricey, particularly in the city centre, but the quality of life, excellent schools, and beautiful surroundings make it worth the cost. Public transport is good, and the city’s compact size means you can easily get around by bike or on foot. Oxford’s diverse and international community makes it a welcoming place for people from all over the world.

Here’s an overview of average rental prices for a studio, a 1-bedroom apartment, and a room.

• Studio: £900 - £1,300 per month
• 1-bedroom apartment: £1,100 - £1,600 per month
• Room: £500 - £900 per month

When searching for the cheapest places to live in the UK, affordability doesn’t have to mean sacrificing quality of life. Cities like Cardiff and Birmingham offer a perfect blend of budget-friendly living and vibrant city life. In Cardiff, the capital of Wales, you can enjoy a lower cost of living while still having access to excellent cultural attractions, green spaces, and a friendly community. Average rents here are significantly lower than in London or Edinburgh, making it an ideal choice for both young professionals and families. Birmingham, the UK's second-largest city, also stands out for its affordability. Despite being a major urban centre with thriving industries, the cost of renting in Birmingham is much more manageable compared to other big cities. With a wide range of amenities, strong public transport links, and a diverse, welcoming population, these cities rank high among the cheapest places to live in the UK without compromising on lifestyle or opportunity.

In conclusion, whether you’re looking for the safest place to live in the UK, the best place to live in the UK for families, or simply the most vibrant and exciting cities, the UK has something to offer everyone. From the bustling streets of London to the historic charm of York, these cities and towns represent the very best of what the UK has to offer.