Best Places to Live in the UK (2025–2026) | Top Cities Ranked for Quality of Life
Choosing where to live in the UK isn’t just about picking a spot on a map. It’s about finding a place that fits your lifestyle, your budget, and what’s really important to you – great schools for the kids, exciting job opportunities, or simply a safe and welcoming community.
In this guide, I’ve put together my top picks for the best places to live in the UK right now, based on affordability, local jobs, safety, and how enjoyable life is there. I’ve covered a mix of cities and towns that are perfect for families, professionals, retirees, and anyone in between.
You’ll find everything from cultural hubs like Bristol and Manchester, to historic gems like York and Winchester, and some peaceful places like Harrogate and Exeter. There are even tips at the end to help you figure out which place is right for you – because there’s no one-size-fits-all.
Basically, this is the best information for you about where to settle in 2025, with honest facts and without any obscenity.
What Makes a Place the Best to Live?
Let’s be honest — “best” can mean different things to different people. But for this list, I’ve focused on five core factors that matter most to UK residents and newcomers alike:
1. Affordability
From rent and house prices to groceries and council tax, cost of living can make or break a location. We’re spotlighting areas where your money stretches further without sacrificing quality of life.
2. Job Opportunities
Especially important for professionals, we’ve considered areas with strong employment markets — from tech and finance hubs to towns thriving in education, healthcare, and creative industries.
3. Safety & Community
It’s not just about low crime rates. We’re looking at friendly neighbourhoods, strong community spirit, and access to support services — the kind of places where people actually want to stay.
4. Education & Family Life
For families, schools matter — and so do parks, playgroups, and safe spaces for kids to grow up in. We’ve selected areas that offer the full package.
5. Lifestyle & Access
Whether you want coastal walks, historic charm, or fast trains to London, lifestyle is key. We’re covering locations that balance leisure, culture, and connectivity.
Top 10 Best Places to Live in the UK in 2025
1. York, North Yorkshire
Who it’s best for: Families, history lovers, professionals who want a blend of city and countryside.
York is a city that wears its history on its sleeve — from the stunning medieval walls to the iconic York Minster, it’s a place where past and present coexist beautifully. Beyond the charm, York boasts excellent schools, low crime rates, and a strong sense of community, making it ideal for families.
Cost of living: While property prices are above the national average, they’re still reasonable compared to London or Cambridge. You get great value for the quality of life.
Job market: The city has a thriving tourism sector, but also a growing financial services industry and tech startups, especially around the university.
Lifestyle: If you love walks along cobbled streets, cosy cafes, and access to the Yorkshire Dales nearby, York is a winner. Transport links to Leeds and London are solid, too.
2. Edinburgh, Scotland
Who it’s best for: Professionals, students, culture seekers, and retirees.
Scotland’s capital is more than just the home of the famous Edinburgh Festival — it’s a vibrant city packed with green spaces, historic architecture, and excellent healthcare services. Edinburgh’s universities and thriving tech scene keep it buzzing with energy year-round.
Cost of living: Higher than the Scottish average but more affordable than many English cities like London or Oxford.
Job market: Strong in finance, tech, education, and tourism — making it attractive for a range of career paths.
Lifestyle: From hiking Arthur’s Seat to exploring world-class museums and restaurants, Edinburgh offers a dynamic but relaxed lifestyle.
3. Cambridge, Cambridgeshire
Who it’s best for: Academics, tech professionals, and families who want a high-quality education environment.
Cambridge is synonymous with its prestigious university, but it’s also a hub for innovation and technology. The city blends stunning historic architecture with cutting-edge science parks, creating a unique vibe that’s hard to match.
Cost of living: On the higher side, especially for housing, but the salaries here generally balance that out.
Job market: Booming in technology, research, and education sectors.
Lifestyle: Beautiful riverside walks, excellent schools, and plenty of green spaces make Cambridge ideal for those prioritizing quality of life.
4. Bristol, South West England
Who it’s best for: Young professionals, creatives, and families who enjoy a vibrant cultural scene.
Bristol is a lively city known for its thriving arts scene, excellent restaurants, and a strong sense of community. It balances urban energy with access to beautiful countryside and coastlines nearby.
Cost of living: Above the national average, especially housing, but offers great career opportunities that often justify the price.
Job market: Strong in aerospace, creative industries, tech startups, and financial services.
Lifestyle: With festivals, music venues, and plenty of green spaces like Ashton Court, Bristol suits those who want both culture and nature.
5. Harrogate, North Yorkshire
Who it’s best for: Retirees, families, and anyone seeking a peaceful yet well-connected town.
Harrogate offers a charming blend of historic elegance and modern comforts. Known for its spa heritage, the town boasts beautiful parks, excellent healthcare, and a low crime rate.
Cost of living: Moderate, with property prices more affordable than many southern cities.
Job market: More limited than big cities, but there are opportunities in healthcare, education, and small businesses.
Lifestyle: Perfect for those who value tranquillity, quality schooling, and easy access to the Yorkshire Dales.
6. Manchester, Greater Manchester
Who it’s best for: Professionals, students, and sports fans.
Manchester has undergone a remarkable transformation, becoming one of the UK’s most exciting cities to live in. It’s known for its diverse culture, strong music and arts scene, and world-class universities.
Cost of living: More affordable than London but rising as the city grows in popularity.
Job market: Booming in media, finance, technology, and education.
Lifestyle: From football matches to buzzing nightlife and green spaces like Heaton Park, Manchester has something for everyone.
7. Glasgow, Scotland
Who it’s best for: Young professionals, artists, and families looking for affordable city living.
Glasgow offers a rich cultural scene with theatres, galleries, and live music that rivals anywhere in the UK. It’s also known for its friendly locals and affordable housing compared to other major cities.
Cost of living: Generally lower than Edinburgh and most English cities, making it a great option for budget-conscious movers.
Job market: Strong in creative industries, engineering, and education.
Lifestyle: Vibrant nightlife, extensive parks like Kelvingrove, and a welcoming community make Glasgow a lively yet comfortable place to call home.
8. Winchester, Hampshire
Who it’s best for: Families, retirees, and history enthusiasts.
Winchester is a historic city with beautiful architecture, excellent schools, and a calm, safe environment. It’s perfect if you want small-city charm but with good transport links to London.
Cost of living: On the higher side, reflecting its desirability and quality of life.
Job market: Local employment in education, healthcare, and retail, with many commuting to London.
Lifestyle: Quaint streets, traditional markets, and plenty of green space offer a peaceful lifestyle with culture on the doorstep.
9. Exeter, Devon
Who it’s best for: Families, outdoor lovers, and retirees.
Exeter boasts a mild climate, stunning nearby countryside, and a historic city centre. It’s a great base for those who enjoy outdoor activities, from coastal walks to countryside cycling.
Cost of living: More affordable than southern cities like London or Bristol.
Job market: Growing in education, healthcare, and digital industries.
Lifestyle: Friendly community, excellent schools, and a balance between city amenities and nature.
10. Belfast, Northern Ireland
Who it’s best for: Professionals, families, and culture seekers.
Belfast has transformed itself into a vibrant city with a strong arts scene, rich history, and booming tech sector. It’s becoming increasingly popular for its affordability and welcoming atmosphere.
Cost of living: One of the lowest among the UK’s major cities.
Job market: Growing opportunities in tech, finance, and creative sectors.
Lifestyle: From Titanic Quarter attractions to scenic coastal drives, Belfast offers a unique blend of city life and natural beauty.
Location | Region | Average House Price (Approx.) |
York | North Yorkshire | £280,000 |
Edinburgh | Scotland | £290,000 |
Cambridge | Cambridgeshire | £480,000 |
Bristol | South West England | £350,000 |
Harrogate | North Yorkshire | £320,000 |
Manchester | Greater Manchester | £220,000 |
Glasgow | Scotland | £190,000 |
Winchester | Hampshire | £400,000 |
Exeter | Devon | £300,000 |
Belfast | Northern Ireland | £160,000 |
Honourable Mentions
While the Top 10 are standout choices, there are several other places worth considering depending on your personal needs and lifestyle. These include:
- Norwich, Norfolk: A historic city with a strong cultural scene and affordable living.
- Leeds, West Yorkshire: A growing financial and cultural hub with great transport links.
- Bath, Somerset: Stunning architecture and spa heritage with a strong tourist economy.
- St Albans, Hertfordshire: Ideal for commuters to London wanting a quieter lifestyle.
- Newcastle upon Tyne: Vibrant nightlife and strong universities, great for young professionals.
These locations might not have made the Top 10, but they still offer fantastic quality of life for many.
Tips for Choosing the Right Place to Live in the UK
Choosing the right place to call home is a big decision — here are some tips to help you make the best choice:
1. Define Your Priorities
List what matters most to you — be it job opportunities, schools, safety, or access to nature.
2. Visit Before You Decide
Spend time exploring potential areas, talk to locals, and get a feel for the community.
3. Consider Future Growth
Look at economic and infrastructure developments that might affect property values and quality of life.
4. Check Transport Links
Whether you commute daily or travel occasionally, good transport connections make a huge difference.
5. Think Long-Term
Is the area good for your current needs and future plans? For example, will it suit a growing family or retirement?
Best Places to Live in 2026
As we move into 2026, several UK cities and towns have emerged as top choices for their blend of affordability, quality of life, and economic opportunities. Here’s a look at some standout locations:
1.Plymouth, Devon
Plymouth is experiencing a significant economic revival, thanks to a £4.4 billion investment in its dockyard and a flourishing university. The city offers affordable living, access to Dartmoor, and a growing job market in advanced manufacturing and education.
2. Winchester, Hampshire
Known for its rich history and vibrant community, Winchester remains one of the happiest places to live in Britain. With excellent schools, cultural heritage, and proximity to London, it continues to attract families and professionals alike.
3. Folkestone, Kent
Folkestone is undergoing a £20 million transformation, including a new central park and improved infrastructure. Its vibrant art scene, coastal charm, and affordable housing make it an appealing choice for creatives and families.
4. Mid Dunbartonshire, Scotland
For retirees, Mid Dunbartonshire offers excellent healthcare, green spaces, and a strong sense of community. Towns like Milngavie and Bearsden provide a peaceful environment with easy access to Glasgow.
5. Redbourn, Hertfordshire
Topping the list of the best places to live in England, Redbourn is a picturesque village with a rich history. Its strong community, excellent schools, and proximity to London make it a desirable location for families.
How Do People Feel About Their City?
People living across the UK often share a strong sense of pride and connection with their hometowns. Whether it’s the historic charm of York, the mix of city and nature in Edinburgh, or the vibrant culture of Manchester, people appreciate what makes their cities unique. Of course, there are challenges like the cost of living or traffic, but overall, there’s a deep affection and sense of community that makes these places feel like home.
Cost of Living and Property Prices
When choosing where to live, cost is often a major concern. Property prices vary widely across the UK — from affordable cities like Glasgow and Belfast to expensive places like Cambridge and Winchester. Rents and everyday costs also vary, so it’s important to balance the lifestyle and amenities of a place with your budget. Generally, larger cities tend to cost more but have more job options, while smaller towns can offer better value and a better quality of life.
What Are the Best Places to Live and Work in the UK?
The best places to live and work combine a high standard of living with a strong job market. Cities like London, Manchester, and Edinburgh lead the way with a range of career opportunities in finance, technology, healthcare, and the creative industries. Meanwhile, cities like Cambridge and Bristol attract professionals thanks to their growing tech scenes and excellent universities.
If affordability is important, places like Glasgow, Belfast, and Leeds offer good jobs with a low cost of living. For families and retirees, cities like York, Harrogate, and Winchester offer safe communities, good schools, and a more relaxed pace of life.
Ultimately, the best place to live depends on your career goals, lifestyle preferences, and budget — but these locations offer a winning balance of work and life.
What Is the Happiest Place to Live in the UK?
Winchester, Hampshire is often rated as the happiest place to live in the UK, according to recent research and surveys. Its beautiful historic setting, excellent schools, strong community spirit, and easy access to both the countryside and London make it a great choice. Residents consistently report satisfaction with their quality of life, safety, and local amenities.
Other cities that often score highly for happiness include Harrogate, York, and St Albans — all known for their welcoming communities, good services, and balanced lifestyles.
What Is the Best and Safest Place to Live in the UK?
Safety is a top priority when choosing where to live, and fortunately, the UK has many places known for low crime rates and strong community support. Towns like Harrogate and St Albans consistently rank among the safest, offering peaceful neighbourhoods, excellent schools, and plenty of green spaces.
Other cities such as York, Winchester, and parts of Bath are also praised for their safety combined with great quality of life. These places not only provide security but also a welcoming atmosphere, making them ideal for families and retirees alike.
Ultimately, the best and safest place depends on your specific needs, but these locations regularly top the charts for both safety and livability.
What are the most affordable places to live in the UK?
From my experience traveling to the UK, places like Glasgow, Belfast, and Plymouth stand out as affordable options. The cost of living, especially rent and groceries, is noticeably lower than in London or the Southeast. These cities offer a good balance between affordability and quality of life, with good job opportunities and plenty to do. If you’re looking to stretch your budget without sacrificing comfort, these places are definitely worth considering.
Which cities in the UK have the best job opportunities?
Based on what I’ve seen and heard, cities like London, Manchester, and Edinburgh lead the way when it comes to job options. London’s huge economy means there’s work in almost every sector, with Manchester and Edinburgh offering growing markets, particularly in technology, finance, and the creative industries. These cities are vibrant and have good transport links, making them popular with professionals in the UK or overseas. If you are planning a career change, these places are smart choices for you.
We hope this guide is very useful to you and helps you find a place you love. But remember, we’re human and can make mistakes too — so when you’re choosing where to live, be sure to do your own research and testing to find the best place in the UK before buying a home or any property.