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Edinburgh is a captivating and affluent big city with much to offer residents regarding quality of life and career opportunities. Situated in the picturesque Lothian region of Scotland, Edinburgh city is renowned for its stunning architecture, rich history, vibrant culture and wondrous gardens. The city is also home to a number of excellent universities and companies, making it a great place to live and work. In this blog, we will explore some of the best places to live in Edinburgh city, taking into account a variety of factors such as affordability, safety, public transportation links and amenities.
Table Of Contents
Best Areas Of Edinburgh
If you’re thinking about living in Scotland, Edinburgh is one of the first places that comes to mind. These are the best areas to live in Edinburgh.
1. Stockbridge
Stockbridge is one of the most picturesque and affluent areas of Edinburgh. Stockbridge is situated north of New Town, in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle.
The area is popular with tourists and locals due to its charming Georgian architecture, independent local shops and small-village feel. It is also home to many pubs, restaurants and cafes, especially on Ann Street.
Stockbridge is just a short walk away from the city centre, making it a prime location for people who want to live a busy lifestyle.
Stockbridge also has a lot of green open spaces to offer. Walking up the Leith riverside, you’ll end up at the beautiful Royal Garden of Edinburgh.
Next to the Royal Botanic Garden is Inverleith Park, perfect for a young and active family.
The average house price in Stockbridge is high, so it might not be for everyone, but it is an excellent place if you can afford it.
2. New Town
New Town is one of the two areas of Central Edinburgh.
New Town is one of the oldest construction projects dating back to the 18th century, and it shows, with its historic architecture and cobbled streets, it’s truly a product of its times.
There is plenty to see while driving down George Street. Furthermore, the attractions of New Town are the National Monument of Scotland, Dugald Stewart Monument, Charlotte Square, Melville Monument, etc.
New Town’s population is partly made of young families, and for a good reason. It has plenty of green space and sports facilities for young and growing families. Places like the Queen Street Gardens and Princes Street Gardens are amazing parks in and near New Town.
If you like the idea of living in a beautiful, history-filled area while having everything within walking distance, New Town is for you.
3. Leith
Leith is a bustling port area of Edinburgh.
It has lots of modern developments as well as old Victorian-style buildings, so there are all sorts of property types able to suit your tastes.
Leith has plenty of waterfront property, and young families can enjoy fine seaside dining while young professionals can enjoy quirky bars and clubs in the vibrant area of Leith.
It also contains excellent schools. Amongst popular ones are Leith Academy, St Peters R C Primary School and Fettes College.
If you want pet-friendly or family-friendly activities, Leith has Leith Links Park, which also has a children’s playground.
What’s also great about Leith is that it has relatively affordable house prices, going only slightly above Edinburgh’s average. So if you’re a fan of fresh air, great outings and wonderful seaside areas, Leith is the place for you.
Scotland’s most populated city, Glasgow, is a beautiful jewel of west Scotland, today considered one of the cultural capitals of Europe. Glasgow is undoubtedly one of the best places in the UK, offering some of the prettiest sights, the most wonderful people and outstanding living quality. If you’ve ever visited and seen the beauties of Glasgow, or even seen it online and thought to yourself, ‘I want to live there.’ then we’ve got just the thing to help you make a choice and take that step. We’ve created a list of the best places to live in Glasgow. So, without further ado, let’s dive in.
4. Corstorphine
Positioned in west Edinburgh, Corstorphine is an area that’s just fifteen minutes away from both Edinburgh Airport and the city centre.
Corstorphine is an area of Edinburgh that has a lot to offer. It is one of the best suburbs in Edinburgh, with its good schools such as Royal High School.
Royal High School was founded in 1829, and it’s one of the oldest schools in Scotland.
Also, there are many green spaces that are perfect for picnics or just relaxing on a bench with a book.
Corstorphine is also home to some great local produce like Corstorphine Bakery’s delicious cakes, and with its busy high street, there is plenty to see, do and try.
Though above Edinburgh’s average property prices, Corstorphine is a fine area of Edinburgh, and one we’d wholeheartedly recommend.
5. Morningside
Morningside is an affluent residential neighbourhood south of the Edinburgh city centre.
Morningside is known for a plethora of charity shops, quirky cafes and the entertaining Dominion Cinema, which has IMAX support.
There are also sports facilities in Morningside, such as tennis courts, and Morningside Park is a quaint and nice place for your children to run wild.
For a feeling of security, plenty of hospitals are nearby, offering prompt treatment in emergencies.
The great schools in Morningside are amongst the best in Scotland, such as Strathaven Academy, St Andrew’s and St Bride’s High School and Dalziel High School.
If you’re considering moving to the very sought-after Morningside, be prepared to pay for it as Morningside is on the pricey side of Edinburgh, but it’s well worth the payment.
6. Marchmont
Another high-end area of Edinburgh, Marchmont is close to the city centre on the Old Town side.
One thing to see in Marchmont is the consistent and appealing Baronial architecture, with four- and five-storey buildings that look like miniature castles placed along the streets like terraces.
Near Marchmont is Bruntsfield, which has the Bruntsfield Links Green Area and Bruntsfield Links Golf Course.
On the topic of green spaces, Marchmont is close to the famed George Square Gardens, which hold plenty of Edinburgh’s festivals, and The Meadows, which also has an annual free festival with live music.
Marchmont also has many great restaurants, pubs and independent grocery stores.
Marchmont isn’t the most affordable area on this list, but we believe it to be one of the best places to move to in Edinburgh.
7. West End
Edinburgh’s West End is an area of breathtaking beauty with a chic atmosphere. Located in the west end of the city center, it offers stunning views and countless opportunities for relaxation or exploration.
West End is home to exciting shops, award-winning restaurants of all varieties, cosy cafe terraces and green spaces for outdoor adventure.
The area is well-connected, with good public transport links and many bus and tram stops, allowing you to go anywhere from the city centre to the Union Canal, botanic gardens and even Leith Port.
West End is also often a host to many events. Some of the buildings used for concerts, plays and movies are the Usher Hall, The Lyceum Theatre, Travers Theatre, Odeon Cinema, etc.
If you’re into living in a perfect and posh area, West End is the place for you. If you, for any reason, changed your mind about living in Edinburgh and want a more tranquil place, Forfar could be the right pick. In that case, our Forfar van hire services will help you move house.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Edinburgh Famous For?
Edinburgh is famous for its rich history and culture. The city is home to several iconic structures, such as Edinburgh Castle and St Giles’ Cathedral, as well as picturesque parks such as the Royal Botanic Garden and Harrison Park. In addition to its attractions, Edinburgh entices visitors from all over due to its many yearly festivities.
Is Edinburgh A Good Place To Live?
Edinburgh is a good place to live. Not only is Edinburgh beautiful and vibrant, but it also has many top-class amenities, such as excellent schools and restaurants, and it is one of the safest cities in the United Kingdom, which is a top priority for many people. For all this, Scotland’s capital city is definitely on top of the list.
Is Edinburgh Safe At Night?
Edinburgh is safe at night. Moreover, it is safe all the time. Edinburgh is the safest big city in the UK, according to Numbeo. If you want to move to a big city where you can be certain you will be fine and you and your family can roam free, Edinburgh is the right place.
Is Edinburgh Expensive?
Edinburgh is expensive when compared to other Scottish areas. When compared to England or even the UK overall, Edinburgh is slightly above the middle of the road, which doesn’t necessarily make the city expensive. Given Edinburgh’s many benefits, it stands way ahead of most cities, making the expense well worth it.
Conclusion
These are the best places to live in Edinburgh. One thing to note is that Edinburgh is such a great city that we’ve left many excellent areas out of the list, such as Colinton, Dean Village, Murrayfield and Ravelston. Nonetheless, we presented you with places that would best fulfil all your needs. Happy house-hunting!
