By Looking for the best places to live in the UK? The country has long been a popular destination for people from around the world, thanks to its vibrant cities, rich history, and diverse cultures. Whether you’re an expat, single, or a family, there are plenty of options to choose from.
If you’re after the best places to live in terms of employment opportunities, then the South East of England is a great place to start. Many of its cities have made it onto the top 50 places to live in the UK list and offer stunning beauty and unique identities.
But if you’re after the highest health and happiness scores, you may want to look elsewhere. Whatever your preferences, this article will provide you with insights into the best places to live and work in the UK and what each one can offer.
1. London – Score 87.92
2. Manchester – Score 86.50
3. Reading – Score 84.50
4. Southampton – Score 83.70
5. Bristol – Score 89.83
6. Leeds – Score 87.83
7. Oxford – Score 89.83
8. Cambridge – Score 82.87
9. Edinburgh – Score 90.57
10. Birmingham – Score 89.83
11. Liverpool – Score 78.23
11 Best Places To Live In the UK
1. London – Score 87.92
London, the capital of the UK, is undoubtedly one of the best places to live in the country. It’s a world-famous city, known for its diversity, vibrancy, and vastness. Despite its size, London has a strong sense of community, making it an excellent place for families, singles, and expats alike.
London has long been a hub of finance and technology, attracting businesses and entrepreneurs from around the world. Its culinary scene is also one of the best globally, with an abundance of restaurants, pubs, and cafes to explore.
However, with all its allure, London can be an expensive city to live in, particularly when it comes to property prices. If you’re looking for more affordable options, the top 50 places to live in the UK include some fantastic cities outside of London that offer a more affordable lifestyle.
London is undoubtedly an excellent choice for those looking to live a healthy lifestyle while enjoying a thriving work environment and serene surroundings. As the economic hub of the UK, London offers numerous opportunities for learning, growth, and experience.
However, if you’re moving to London without concrete job security, it’s worth noting that competition for jobs can be high, given the city’s stable population. That said, London stands out for its flourishing trend of co-working spaces, which are increasingly popular among freelancers and entrepreneurs.
Whatever your interests, London is a city that never sleeps, and you’ll never run out of things to do. With its diverse communities, fantastic food scene, and numerous attractions, you’ll find something new to explore every day. However, if you’re looking for more affordable options, the top 50 places to live in the UK offer many excellent alternatives.
London is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for an exciting and diverse place to live, work, and explore. Here are some reasons why London stands out as a top destination:
- London is a sprawling metropolis with an unbeatable nightlife scene and an incredible range of culinary options. You’ll find everything from traditional British pubs to world-class Michelin-starred restaurants.
- As a global economic hub, London is home to some of the highest-paid work sectors in the world, including finance, tech, and media. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a high-paying job.
- For history and culture lovers, London offers some of the best attractions in the UK. From world-famous museums and galleries to iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London, there is no shortage of things to see and do.
- London has an extensive and well-connected transport network, making it easy to get around the city and surrounding areas. Plus, with a focus on work-life balance, many London employers offer flexible working arrangements, making it easier to achieve a healthy work-life balance.
- London is a city that attracts ambitious expats from around the world, making it an ideal place to network and find new career opportunities. Whether you’re a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, London offers ample job opportunities for those who are willing to work hard and seize opportunities.
2. Manchester – Score 86.50
Manchester, located in the north of England, is one of the best places to live and work in the UK. This city has long been a representation of British culture and identity and is particularly well-suited for those interested in pursuing a career in media. Compared to London, Manchester is more affordable and has a unique blend of arts, music, theatre, architecture, and more. Its vibrant atmosphere, coupled with top-notch restaurants, nightlife, and shopping districts, make it an unparalleled city to live in.
Manchester is a dynamic metropolis with job opportunities in sectors such as finance, digital media, biotechnology, and law. It is not only an excellent city for work and living, but it is also one of the best cities in the UK for students. This culturally diverse city has friendly locals who are always eager to engage in conversation.
With a high employment rate, Manchester is one of the best places in the UK to build a career and raise a family. Despite the pandemic, the housing market in the city has remained relatively stable, allowing expats to make significant savings. Additionally, the city boasts some of the best public transport networks in the UK, making it easy to get around.
Reasons to Choose Manchester as a Place to Live and Work in the UK:
- Manchester boasts a wide range of job opportunities with a high employment rate.
- The city offers an affordable cost of living compared to other major UK cities.
- It has a lively nightlife scene and an abundance of excellent restaurants.
- Manchester is a top choice for students, with several world-class universities.
- It is a culturally diverse city that celebrates modern British culture.
3. Reading – Score 84.50
Reading is a metropolitan town located in the county of Berkshire, just a short distance from London. This town offers the perfect blend of urban, suburban, and rural lifestyles and is well-known for its multicultural and friendly atmosphere. It is a vibrant and diverse town that provides a wide range of entertainment options. If you are looking to build a career in the UK, Reading is definitely a city to consider for living, studying, and working.
One of the main attractions of Reading is its bustling food and drink scene, with some of the best bars, pubs, and restaurants in the country. Along with excellent shopping and a thriving arts culture, Reading has something to offer everyone. As a university town, it also has a thriving IT sector and stable economic growth, making it one of the best places in the UK to live, work, and raise a family.
There are several reasons why Reading can be a great place to choose to live:
- Proximity to London: Reading is located close to London and can be easily accessed via a 30-minute train commute.
- Community and Nightlife: The town offers a warm and welcoming community with a vibrant nightlife scene, providing ample opportunities to socialize and enjoy entertainment.
- Affordable Housing: Compared to London, Reading offers more budget-friendly housing options, making it an attractive choice for those looking to save on living expenses.
- Booming IT Sector: Reading has a thriving IT sector and is home to many multinational corporations’ headquarters, which presents numerous job opportunities in the field.
- Diverse Employment Opportunities: In addition to the IT sector, Reading offers a variety of employment opportunities across different industries, providing a range of options for job seekers.
4. Southampton – Score 83.70
Situated on the south coast of England, Southampton is a thriving sea-side town that appeals to young professionals as one of the top cities to reside and work in the UK. Its rich naval and maritime history adds to its charm and allure as a major seaport for the country for centuries. The city offers an abundance of trendy bistros, restaurants, and café-bars, making it an enjoyable place to explore and relax.
Southampton is famous for being the departure point of the ill-fated Titanic, and it continues to attract those who appreciate seaside relaxation and water sports. The city’s academic reputation is impressive, attracting more than 30,000 students from around the globe. All of these factors contribute to making Southampton one of the best places in the UK to live and work contentedly.
Southampton has several compelling reasons for choosing it as a place to live and work:
- Affordable Housing: The city offers affordable housing options, making it an attractive choice for those looking to save on living expenses.
- Renowned Universities: Southampton boasts two highly regarded universities, making it an excellent location for students and academic professionals.
- Developing Cultural Hub: The city is rapidly emerging as a cultural hub, with many art galleries, museums, and music venues, providing a diverse range of entertainment options.
- Strong Sectors: With a robust marine industry, thriving retail sector, and bustling hospitality industry, Southampton offers numerous employment opportunities for those looking to work in these fields.
5. Bristol – Score 89.83
Bristol, located in the southwest of the UK, is a highly desirable place for families to live. Boasting diverse work sectors such as IT, manufacturing, and communications, Bristol has become a hub for start-up companies and earned the nickname “Mini London.” The city’s educational sector is also well-regarded, making it a popular choice for employers and employees alike.
Bristol’s growth is on an upward trajectory, making it an attractive location to live and work in the UK. The city’s scenic beauty is second to none and offers some of the best views in the country. Bristol is also recognized as one of the most eco-friendly cities in the UK, adding to its allure.
With a lively atmosphere similar to London, Bristol provides a safe and vibrant environment for students, young professionals, and families alike.
Bristol is an attractive choice for those looking to live and work in the UK for several reasons:
- Rich History and Heritage: The city boasts a rich history and heritage, with plenty of cultural and historical landmarks to explore.
- Entrepreneurial Opportunities: Bristol has become a hub for entrepreneurs, with many successful start-up companies and thriving businesses in a variety of sectors.
- Excellent Transport Links: The city has superb transport links, making it easy to travel locally and nationally.
- Beautiful Countryside: Bristol is located in close proximity to many beautiful English countryside areas, offering residents easy access to stunning scenery and outdoor activities.
- Green Reputation: Bristol is renowned for being one of the UK’s greenest cities, with a strong commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly initiatives.
6. Leeds – Score 87.83
Leeds is widely considered to be one of the best places to live in the UK due to its affordable cost of living, high level of happiness, and employment opportunities. As the largest city in Yorkshire, Leeds offers a fantastic shopping experience with a wide variety of retailers, contributing to the city’s thriving economy. Visitors to Leeds can enjoy some of the best hotels, nightclubs, food stalls, restaurants, and cocktail bars in the UK.
Leeds is also a top destination for higher education, with three universities, two of which are situated in the city center. The city is known for its diverse and cosmopolitan atmosphere, making it a peaceful and ideal location to live and work. With its welcoming environment, Leeds is frequently regarded as one of the best places to live in the UK, particularly for students and young professionals.
There are several reasons why choosing Leeds could be a great decision:
- Leeds boasts three highly regarded universities, offering excellent educational opportunities and resources.
- The city of Leeds is known for its picturesque scenery and charming architecture, making it a delightful place to live and explore.
- With a thriving economy and diverse industries, Leeds offers abundant job opportunities, making it a great destination for those looking to establish their careers.
7. Oxford – Score 89.83
Oxford is a world-renowned city, famous for its stunning scenery and exceptional amenities. It is home to one of the largest and most esteemed universities globally, Oxford University, making it an excellent location for academics and teachers. With a thriving hi-tech community, the city offers fantastic work opportunities for young professionals.
Beyond its academic reputation, Oxford is a cosmopolitan destination with a vibrant nightlife, boasting legendary pubs, live music venues, and restaurants. It hosts a plethora of events, from music to art and comedy shows, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy. For those seeking a more peaceful experience, Oxford has several beautiful parks and museums to explore.
Oxford’s picturesque landscapes, tranquil rivers, and stunning views make it a popular tourist destination in the UK. In recent years, the city has gained a strong reputation as a leading hub for hi-tech industries, particularly in computing and health tech. With its perfect blend of history, culture, and innovation, Oxford is a fantastic place to live, work, and explore.
There are several compelling reasons to choose Oxford as a place to live and work:
- Oxford is home to one of the UK’s most renowned and respected universities, Oxford University, which offers exceptional academic and professional opportunities.
- The city boasts an impressive array of architectural marvels that are a sight to behold and a testament to its rich history.
- Oxford is located near the stunning Oxfordshire countryside, providing easy access to picturesque natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
- With its stunning natural beauty, including rivers and landscapes, Oxford offers a visual treat to visitors and residents alike.
- Oxford has a thriving job market, with many of the world’s top companies choosing to base their headquarters in the city. This high employment rate offers excellent opportunities for professionals and job seekers.
8. Cambridge – Score 82.87
Cambridge is a beautiful city that is globally recognized for housing one of the most prestigious universities in the world. Together with Oxford and London, it is part of the ‘Golden Triangle’. Cambridge is consistently praised as one of the best places to live in the UK, offering a perfect blend of cosmopolitan and cultural heritage. The city boasts of its abundant green spaces, cleanliness, and a vibrant social life with a great selection of restaurants, pubs, hotels, and marketplaces.
With its low unemployment rates, Cambridge has earned the reputation of being one of the most beloved cities in the UK. It has also gained the nickname of the UK’s Silicon Valley due to its diversity in fields such as research and development, pharmaceuticals, tourism, and creative industries. It is home to tech giants such as Microsoft and Huawei, which is why it comes as no surprise that the city has become a hotspot for technology and artificial intelligence research.
In addition to its cultural and historical significance, Cambridge also offers excellent job opportunities with a convenient location that allows for easy access to nearby cities. With just an hour’s train journey to London and cities in East Anglia such as Norwich, Cambridge is a bustling modern city that has a thriving business and technology industry. Its rich history and culture add to the charm of this dynamic city.
There are several reasons why Cambridge is an excellent choice to live and work:
- Cambridge boasts reliable transportation links to London, making it easy to access the UK’s capital city.
- Crime rates in Cambridge are low, ensuring a safe and secure environment for residents.
- The city is surrounded by stunning landscapes, perfect for a leisurely stroll and relaxation, as it is located close to the countryside.
- Cambridge has a flourishing economy and plenty of employment opportunities, making it an ideal location for those seeking career advancement.
- It is home to one of the most prestigious and best universities in the world, making Cambridge a hub of knowledge and innovation.
9. Edinburgh – Score 90.57
Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is a rapidly growing and innovative city that offers an excellent quality of life, making it one of the best places to live and work in the UK. The city has a rich cultural heritage and is home to numerous museums, art galleries, medieval streets, and remarkable architectural examples. It is also the home of the Royal Bank of Scotland, making it a popular choice for those seeking financial services and banking in the UK.
Edinburgh has everything to offer for a peaceful and fulfilling lifestyle, with a range of green spaces, hiking routes, and stunning destinations to explore. As a port city, Edinburgh has a beautiful seaside town vibe and a vibrant modern atmosphere. The city has low crime rates, high levels of employment and educational opportunities, making it an ideal location for young professionals and families.
Edinburgh is renowned for hosting the world-famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival and offers the best cultural services and art celebrations. The city has a flourishing economy, welcoming people, and a rich heritage, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an exceptional quality of life with great career opportunities.
Edinburgh is an exceptional city to live and work in, offering a range of benefits:
- As the capital of Scotland and a financial hub, Edinburgh provides ample opportunities for those in the finance and banking sectors.
- The city offers excellent employment opportunities in various fields, making it an exciting and vibrant place to live and work.
- Edinburgh has a reputation for offering some of the finest contemporary courses, making it an ideal location for those seeking higher education.
- The city has relatively low crime rates compared to other parts of the country, making it a safe and secure place to live.
10. Birmingham – Score 89.83
Birmingham, located in the heart of the West Midlands of England, is commonly known as the ‘second city’. It is an ideal location for those seeking excellent career opportunities, making it one of the best cities to live and work in the UK. The city is globally renowned for its booming business, commerce, and industry sectors, and it is the second-largest multicultural modern metropolitan area in the UK, after London, offering a lower cost of living.
Birmingham is a vibrant and diverse city, with a plethora of shopping centers, galleries, and entertainment options to keep you entertained. Food enthusiasts will find a diverse range of restaurants, serving cuisines from around the world, making it one of the best places to eat in the UK. Birmingham has a thriving expat community, making it an attractive destination for those new to the country.
The city’s nightlife is vibrant, with a plethora of pubs and bars that rival those in London. With its thriving economy and diverse range of career opportunities, Birmingham is an excellent location for families and individuals looking to relocate to the UK.
Why Birmingham is a Great Choice:
- Centrally located within the UK, making it easily accessible from all parts of the country.
- Affordability – Birmingham offers lower living expenses compared to other major UK cities.
- A diverse and inclusive community with people from different ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
- Rich history and heritage, with plenty of historical landmarks and attractions to explore.
- A thriving business environment with increasing opportunities for career growth and development.
11. Liverpool – Score 78.23
Liverpool is a city with a lot to offer, making it one of the most renowned places to live and work in the UK. The city has a rich cultural heritage, with stunning examples of architecture and numerous heritage sites to explore. In addition, Liverpool has a vibrant and cosmopolitan culture, with excellent local amenities that cater to all.
One of the biggest advantages of Liverpool is its affordability, with a lower cost of living compared to other major cities in the UK. The friendly and welcoming nature of the locals is also a major plus point. There are plenty of options for entertainment, tourist attractions and green spaces to enjoy in Liverpool.
Moreover, Liverpool provides an excellent work-life balance and is continually growing and developing as an exciting city to live and work in. The city has become one of the fastest-growing regional economies in the UK, attracting several reputable companies to set up their headquarters there.
Transportation in Liverpool is also efficient and convenient, providing easy access to the rest of the English Northwest. With three top universities, Liverpool offers excellent education opportunities for students.
Overall, Liverpool is a fantastic place to explore, whether on the weekends or as a permanent resident. Its many advantages make it a great choice for anyone looking to live and work in the UK.
Reasons to Consider Liverpool:
- A city with a wealth of culture and heritage, offering numerous architectural landmarks and heritage sites to explore.
- A vibrant atmosphere permeates the city, with a lively cosmopolitan culture and a range of local amenities that cater to all.
- Conveniently situated close to other major UK cities, Liverpool offers easy access to other economic powerhouses in the region.
