Living in a big city has many benefits, and can be a fantastic experience. Most city centres offer endless opportunities both in terms of personal and work life. They’re typically vibrant atmospheres, and people tend to have an optimistic outlook while living there. However, for those who have never experienced living in the city centre, it may be a problematic change compared to residing in the suburbs.
If you’re considering relocating to a large city, or you have a job offer in the area, below is a list of quick tips you might find useful. Of course, there are universal benefits to living in a metropolitan centre that living elsewhere doesn’t.
Regeneration areas
While a building site isn’t necessarily the best place to set up camp, and can be off-putting as a viewer of a flat or home, many regeneration areas are fine to live near. City councils putting millions of pounds into areas gives them a lot of potential, which means that while you’re living there, you will see the area develop. Liverpool and Manchester are north-west areas that are undergoing substantial regeneration schemes right now. It’s predicted that these areas will triple in value when the developments and restoration are finished. This also means you’ll be living in the centre of the new community. Property companies like RW Invest recommend living and investing in a city that is on the increase in terms of value. Those of you who love indulging in a brand-new world will want to consider the regeneration areas.
Public transport links
Living in the city centre, you will have access to your workplace within a few minutes walk. However, public transport links are still essential to consider. If the system in your city provides a wide area of coverage, you won’t need to own a car (which can be an unnecessary expense). This alone will save you tons of money every year. Whether it’s a tram service or train, if there’s a cheap way to get around, it should be used. Not only is a public transport option eco-friendlier, but it also gives you time to relax on the way to work. Manchester has an efficient Metrolink available to those living across the city, which is why it’s popular with so many locals.
North or South City
Whether you like it or not, there is a north-south divide in England. This refers to the cultural, economic and social difference between the two. In terms of purchasing a house or property, you will have to consider the difference in prices. Property prices vary widely across the country, and it can be shocking to learn how much people will purchase it for depending on the city. For example, a two-bed house in Liverpool has an average price of around £92,000. Whereas, the same property down in Brighton can cost upwards of £330,000. The value of your property is a crucial factor if you’re moving to another city, so this should be considered before putting an offer on a home you love.
Employment opportunities
Throughout the country, there are endless employment opportunities, but depending on the area, you will see specific sectors thrive. This should be a great way to see if your career will improve when working in that particular city. Manchester is a perfect location, as the city centre has a vibrant media community, whereas Sheffield thrives in the steel industry. You may already have a job lined up, but you should still look for a city you know you’ll fit into.