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Once the industrial capital of Yorkshire, Leeds is one of the biggest cities in Britain. Today it’s a city abundant with amenities, a place for both large families and young professionals alike. Leeds city is also one of the safest big cities in England and the UK, and with the fully developed transport links moving across the city and the nation, there are plenty of places you can go and see inside or outside of the city. If you’re considering moving to the jewel of West Yorkshire, we have compiled a list to help you. These are the best places to live in Leeds.
Best Areas To Live In Leeds
These are, without a doubt, some of the best places to live in Leeds.
1. Horsforth
One of the best places to live in Leeds is the affluent suburb of Horsforth. There’s a lot of hospitality all over, and you’ll be quick to make neighbours in this lovely Leeds suburb. It has lots of green spaces and great universities, such as Leeds Trinity University, and primary schools, such as Beecroft, Westbrook Lane, etc.
It’s also great for commuters with its local train station.
The place also has great eateries and bars but is mostly a quiet residential area. If you’re a family that can afford the move, we totally recommend it.
2. Chapel Allerton
Chapel Allerton, much like Horsforth, is a Leeds suburb loved by families and commuters alike.
Minutes away from the Leeds city centre, Chapel Allerton has plenty of local amenities, such as an Aldi store, and plenty of local bars and restaurants, such as the Mustard Pot, Boss Burgers, Sukhothai, etc.
There are also great schools, such as the St Urban’s primary school nearby, one of the best in the UK.
With the vast options of housing slightly more affordable than Horsforth, from detached and terraced to flats and lofts, there are plenty of choices for both families, young professionals and students.
3. Roundhay
Right next to the Chapel Allerton on its east side lies Roundhay, a beautiful and thriving suburb of Roundhay.
It’s most loved for its green space, Roundhay Park, which takes up over seven hundred acres of land within Roundhay.
The park itself is host to many events, such as a bonfire event with fireworks and live concerts on a regular basis.
Average house prices in Roundhay have been on the rise over the years as young professionals moved in and built more independent businesses.
4. Oakwood
This is one of the most affluent areas in Leeds, and for a good reason. The plethora of popular and successful local schools, both primary and secondary schools, is just a stone’s throw away and is ideal for a new and growing family.
It’s also extremely close to Roundhay Park, meaning that a lot of green space is at your fingertips as well.
As one of the best places to live in Leeds for large families, the market is small and expensive, so keep an eye out.
5. Leeds Waterfront
Leeds Waterfront is one of the most sought-after areas in Leeds. Located a short distance from the city centre, this neighbourhood offers access to a wide range of amenities.
The local shops in the centre have everything you’ll ever need, and the unique places, restaurants, cafes and popular bars have made the Waterfront one of the most popular areas in Leeds.
One thing to keep in mind is that most housing here are flats and apartments, and that it isn’t very cheap.
6. Alwoodley
Located at the edge of north Leeds, Alwoodley has a rural life feel, with all the shops and amenities you’d need for a city life.
Alwoodley is a verdant haven for nature lovers. It boasts not only an abundance of natural beauty but also multiple golf courses, including the picturesque Eccup Reservoir. We highly recommend this neighbourhood to families looking for a new home.
Alwoodley is quite an expensive place, with most sales being either detached or semi-detached homes.
7. Headingley
Slightly over two kilometres from the Leeds city centre lies the up-and-coming area of Headingley, known as the student area for its approachable pricing in accommodating students attending the local universities.
It has its own universities, but it’s also quite near the centre and the Kirkstall Bridge shopping park, giving it easy access to most desired institutions.
Although it’s significantly cheaper for students, the average house price is slightly above average if you’re not a renter, but it allows for easy business if you rent out.
8. Bramhope
The picturesque village of Bramhope is in the popular area of Adel and Wharfedale.
Bramhope is a desirable location for all who want a tranquil lifestyle that’s close to a lively centre in the city of Leeds, fifteen kilometres away.
It’s surrounded by nature, such as Golden Acre Park, while being close to the town centre.
This makes for a rather expensive and affluent area, but it also makes it worth it if a quiet and beautiful suburb is what you’re looking for.
If you don’t mind searching beyond Leeds, see the best places to live in Hull.
9. Otley
Another place within the Adel and Wharfedale area, situated northwest of Bramhope, we have Otley.
With Otley being surrounded by Yorkshire hills, and the buildings themselves carrying an old-fashioned charm of the Industrial and Victorian era, the landscape is stunning.
The old market town is a great place to visit, and with more than a dozen pubs and plenty of independent shops, Otley has all the necessities for any family or individual.
It’s not cheap, but it’s well worth it for a family who is looking for the ultimate peaceful lifestyle.
10. Meanwood
Meanwood is everything but mean. This charming suburb in north Leeds is filled to the brim with amenities, from educational facilities, to shops and independent cafes, all at a walking distance.
It has a busy high street with a lot of great local businesses, such as the Blackbird vintage furniture store, Alfred bar and many more eateries of the same calibre, with even some parks to bring your children or pets to.
Meanwood mostly consists of terraced and semi-detached housing, so if you’ve always seen yourself or your family in such a place, this is the one for you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Leeds A Good Place To Live?
Leeds is a good place to live in, by all means. It has some of the lowest crime rates in the UK despite the population. It is the second busiest financial and legal centre next to London. Leeds also has some of the most beautiful parks in the country, making it perfect for families.
Is Leeds Safe?
Leeds is safe. It is below many cities on the crime index. It mostly gets outshined by smaller and more relaxed places in the country, so out of the big cities, it’s without a doubt much safer than London, Liverpool, Glasgow, Manchester etc. Most cities safer than Leeds have a fraction of the population.
What Is The Cost Of Living In Leeds?
The cost of living in Leeds is less expensive than in most large towns and cities in the UK. It’s slightly edging out cities such as Newcastle, Liverpool, Edinburgh and Glasgow by anywhere from 5-15%, which means that it’s beating London by a wide margin of 35%, making it a great budget option.
What Are The Best Areas In Leeds To Buy A House?
The best areas in Leeds to buy a house are mostly in the northern quarter. Areas such as:
- Horsforth
- Chapel Allerton
- Roundhay
- Headingley
- Oakwood
- Alwoodley
- Bramhope
- Otley
- Meanwood
If you want to live in Leeds city centre, preferably in a flat or apartment, then the best place we’d recommend is the Leeds Waterfront.
Is Chapel Allerton A Nice Place To Live?
Chapel Allerton is a nice place to live, especially for families and commuters looking for a safe and beautiful area with all the amenities they could ask for. It has some of the best schools for young families, the best independent shops, bars and restaurants for people who love going out.
Conclusion
Now that you know the best places to live in Leeds, it should be easy to find a home. Leeds is brimming with opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds. If you’re looking to tap into these opportunities by moving to this vibrant city, you now know the best places to stay. Whether you’re searching for a bubbling community or a quiet neighbourhood, you’ll find it in this fantastic city.
