Choosing where to live in the UK can be very difficult. Every area in the country has its own unique character and advantages. Whether you are moving from outside the UK or you’re a local looking for a change of pace, choosing where to live is a tough decision that you should carefully consider.

Moving to a new place can be overwhelming if you don’t have any idea about the area. While uncertainties can be part of the adventure, you still wouldn’t want to move to a new location unprepared. Relocating to a new place only to regret it after can be a waste of time, money, and opportunities. Thus, you should consider all the factors first when you are deciding where to live in the UK.

There are several factors to consider when choosing a place to live in the UK. There can be a dozen or more to take into account, but we listed five of the most critical factors you should consider for your decision.

Affordability

This aspect may seem a no-brainer, but the most crucial factor is to choose an area that you can afford. It is impractical to live in an expensive place with no financial security. Most people would prefer to live in an area where they have more money to spend and save. Thus, you should choose a house or a property first that is affordable.

House prices in the UK vary depending on the location. Typically, properties in big cities are more expensive than the ones in towns and villages. Houses near the centre of a city also tend to be more costly than those in the outskirts. Needless to say, properties in London are the most expensive in the UK. 

It’s one thing to afford a house and a property, but it’s another thing to afford to live in an area. To determine the affordability of a place, you should also consider the cost of living. Aside from the housing costs, research about the place’s expenditures such as utilities, groceries, health care, and education costs. If the area is far from your work, then you should also consider transportation costs.

Location

Aside from affordability, you should also choose a location that will satisfy your wants and needs. Each place has its advantages, so you need to identify which of these places align with your needs. For example, if you want to live in a busy area with good infrastructure and easily accessible by road, you should consider living in a city. On the other hand, if you want to live in a peaceful and relaxing area, consider living in the countryside.

Another aspect you should look for in the location is the availability of amenities. It is advisable to look for an area where necessities such as hospitals, shops, supermarkets, and offices are accessible. You might also want to check the availability of amenities such as gyms, recreational parks, and self-storage facilities. If you are moving to a small flat in an expensive place such as London, consider renting a London self storage for your belongings.

Safety

Living in an area that would give you peace of mind should also be one of your priorities. Although properties in a high crime area tend to be more affordable, you should prioritize safety, especially if you have children. A quick Google search can give you the crime rates and statistics for various areas in the UK. You can check crime rates on websites such as the UK Crime Statistics site.

Opportunities

Living in a new location signifies a fresh start in life, so it is vital to choose a place that provides you with many growth opportunities. Start by analysing employment opportunities. Employment opportunities in the UK may vary from area to area. Research about employment rates and job availability in the area. It is advisable to choose a location that allows career flexibility. This factor is crucial to consider if you do not want to have a long and busy commute to work.

Aside from job opportunities, income levels for jobs can also vary from state to state. Income level is usually higher in places where the cost of living is high, so make sure to balance these factors. If you are an investment banker, you might want to consider living in a big city such as London and Glasgow.

If you have children, you also would want them to have the best opportunities in life. Thus, take into account the quality of education when choosing a location in the UK. Research on the schools around the area and check their accessibility to your new home.

Community

Moving to a new area can be difficult and lonely, so you would want to get the most help possible so you can adjust to your new home. You can research the community feel of different areas and decide where you would like to live. Cities and towns in the UK usually have community websites, so make sure to check these sites to find out about the community vibe. 

You can also research online the various events and clubs you can join to get involved in the community.  Occasions vary from area to area. For instance, big cities such as London host massive events and exhibits while large towns such as Paisley host unique festivals such as The Spree Festival. Make sure to keep checking these events to experience your new home’s community spirit.

These are just five of the many relevant factors you should consider when moving to the UK. There are more things to consider, so make sure to research a lot to make your move worth it!