Choosing where to live in the UK depends on your priorities, be it job access, lifestyle, or affordability. This region-by-region guide helps people compare UK locations based on employment prospects, property costs, travel links and overall quality of life, using the national average house price as a simple benchmark to support confident relocation decisions.
Relocating to the UK opens up a world of opportunity, but after you’ve established your visa route, one of the most important (and often most overwhelming) decisions is choosing where to live.
While the UK may seem small compared to many other countries, regions vary significantly in housing costs, employment opportunities, transport infrastructure and lifestyle.
Before scanning house prices or pinning your hopes on a postcard-perfect village, it’s worth taking a step back and asking a more fundamental question: Why are you moving to the UK and what do you need most from where you live?
For so many people moving to the UK, the move is career-driven. If you’ve already secured a job in London or need quick access to the capital’s employment market, proximity to London, and the associated property costs, will play a defining role.
In this case, areas within the commuter belt or with reliable transport links to London become natural options, even if they carry a premium.
Others may be relocating without a fixed role but with transferable skills, remote work flexibility, or a desire to explore new opportunities. In that case, a broader range of regions can be considered, prioritising quality of life, housing affordability, or access to growing regional industries.
Lifestyle-focused movers may be less concerned with transport and job markets, and more interested in scenic beauty, community atmosphere, or proximity to coast and countryside.
Whatever your motivation, being clear on your priorities will help you narrow down the areas that can genuinely support the life you want to build.
This region-by-region guide explores different UK regions through the lens of affordability, employment, connectivity, and lifestyle, using the UK average house price as a benchmark for comparison.
For the purposes of benchmarking, the average property price referenced was taken in May 2025 and is £269,000 according to The UK Government website: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-house-price-index-for-may-2025
London is the UK’s economic engine and one of the world’s most connected and cosmopolitan cities. If your job is based in London or requires regular in-person meetings, living in or near the capital will likely be essential. However, this convenience comes at a cost, property prices are among the highest in the country, and the cost of living reflects that. Still, for those with high-earning roles or generous relocation packages, London offers unbeatable access to global business, cultural diversity, and international travel.
The South East includes many towns popular with commuting and international families, offering international schools, high-quality housing, and excellent rail links to London. Areas like Oxford and Brighton have their own strong identities and employment bases, while counties like Surrey are known for affluent suburbs and large family homes.
It’s a good compromise for those who need London access but want a quieter or more spacious environment.
The South West is a favourite for lifestyle movers. Bristol stands out with its vibrant tech, aerospace, and creative sectors, while areas like Devon and Cornwall offer slower-paced living and access to some of the UK’s most beautiful natural landscapes. For people used to coastal living or rural open space, this region offers an attractive trade-off, though remote areas may lack quick travel links or large employers.
Cambridge is a major hub for education, research, and life sciences, home to a cluster of international firms and startups. The surrounding counties provide easy access to London while maintaining a rural, often affluent charm. However, limited transport options in more remote areas and higher-than-average prices can make some parts less accessible without a car or healthy budget.
The Midlands offer a compelling mix of affordability and opportunity. Birmingham, the UK’s second-largest city, has seen significant regeneration and is home to a growing financial and professional services sector. With multiple universities, strong transport connections, and a more manageable cost of living, it’s ideal for people who want urban amenities without the London price tag.
Manchester has become one of the UK’s most dynamic cities, with thriving tech, media, and logistics sectors. It offers excellent rail and air connectivity and has become a magnet for both businesses and younger professionals. Liverpool provides a similar mix with even lower property prices. For people used to vibrant city life, this region combines energy, community, and affordability.
This region offers some of the UK’s most picturesque and historic cities, including York’s cobbled streets, Newcastle’s riverside, and Leeds’ urban renewal projects. It also provides access to beautiful countryside and national parks. Though the job market can be more limited outside major cities, those working remotely or in education or healthcare will find a lot to like, especially with favourable property prices.
Scotland offers a different pace and feel, with its own legal and education systems. Edinburgh combines beauty with opportunity, especially in finance and government roles. Glasgow is more industrial but affordable and creative. The Highlands and islands attract those seeking a dramatic lifestyle shift, but often require careful planning due to remoteness.
Wales has grown in appeal thanks to remote work and its balance of low house prices and natural beauty. Cardiff is a capital city with a small-town feel and solid job prospects, especially in media, public services, and creative industries. North Wales and the Brecon Beacons attract retirees and families alike.
Property prices: Around 35 to 40% below the UK average
Best for: Budget-conscious movers, remote workers, and those with Irish roots or family connections
Consider if: You’re comfortable with a smaller job market and prefer close-knit communities. Also great if you want access to Ireland.
Northern Ireland offers some of the UK’s most affordable housing and beautiful landscapes. Belfast has a growing business services and tech sector, while the rest of the country offers a high quality of life, though infrastructure and interconnectivity can be more limited. It’s a solid choice for those who can work remotely or don’t need to travel often.
Choosing where to live in the UK depends less on finding “the best place” and more on identifying the right place for your circumstances. If your work is in London, proximity becomes a priority. If you’re job hunting, a region with strong growth, lower living costs, and solid infrastructure, like the Midlands or North West, might offer a better balance.
For lifestyle-focused movers, affordability and quality of life in places like Wales, the South West, or Scotland may take centre stage. Whatever your priorities, understanding how each region compares to the UK average in terms of property, connectivity, and opportunity is the first step toward making your move a successful one.
The begin your decision making process for where to live, create a checklist of the most important elements you are seeking from life in the UK, understand your budget limitations balanced against overall cost of living and then draw up a shortlist.
