Edinburgh is the capital and a stunning city in Scotland. With so many great attractions and perks, this city might be a fantastic location to call home. 

In this article, we discuss life in Edinburgh. Hence, if you’re considering this city as your next place to live in, then keep reading!

Is Edinburgh a good place to live in?

Edinburgh is a good place to live in. Despite a relatively high cost of living, it offers a lot of career opportunities, reputable universities, stunning tourist attractions, vibrant festivals and events, and a great nightlife. 

The city is also quite safe, which puts a lot of residents’ minds at ease.

Let’s take a look at each of these factors up close.

1. Cost of Living

On average, Edinburgh’s cost of living is £1,457. It ranked 30th out of 277 cities in the UK in terms of the most expensive cities. 

Here are the prices of some factors affecting cost of living according to Numbeo:

2. Job Opportunities

Edinburgh has a low unemployment rate of 7.2%. Human health and social work, retail and repair, financial services, and education are the industries with the most job openings in the city. 

In addition, the city is well-known for its software and digital technology, renewable energy and engineering, creative, and food and beverage industries. 

3. Safety

Crime Rate

The average crime rate in Edinburgh falls at 31.07. The higher the number is, the more crimes there are. 

Safety Scale 

On the other hand, Edinburgh’s average rate on the safety scale sits at 68.93. In this scale, the higher the number is, the more ‘safe’ a city is considered.

4. Education

Edinburgh is regarded as one of the greatest cities in the United Kingdom for providing high-quality options for education. The city also boasts a large number of students, accounting for 12% of the city population. 

University of Edinburgh, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh Napier University, 

Queen Margaret University and Scotland’s Rural College University are among the finest universities in the city with high recognition in several student world rankings.

There are numerous public and private primary and secondary institutions in Edinburgh as well. Some of these include Abbeyhill Primary School, Holyrood High School Edinburgh and Erskine Stewart’s Melville Junior School.

5. Transportation System

UK residents commend Edinburgh’s transportation system, which helped the city become the finest location to live in the United Kingdom. 

Buses, trams, taxis and rental bikes are the modes of transportation used in Edinburgh. 

Take a look at the rough computation of each mode’s fare:

Meanwhile, bike rentals are accessible through the Edinburgh Cycle Hire app. Available to iPhone and Android users, the app allows you to simply book your chosen bike varieties like electric or pedal. 

6. Locals

Edinburgh’s locals are known for their kind and welcoming demeanour. Given the reputation of the Brits’ tendency for stuffy formality, this makes the city a more appealing place to live.

7. Tourist Attractions

Edinburgh, a visually appealing city, has numerous tourist attractions worth seeing! Here are some sights you can visit: 

Edinburgh Castle

For centuries, Edinburgh Castle was home to several queens and monarchs. It now houses several attractions such as the National War Museum, Crown Jewels, and the Great Hall. 

The castle is also close to the city’s retail centre, making it convenient to visit. 

National Museum of Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland houses a wide range of items that allow you to explore Scotland’s history from its beginnings to the present. 

The museum also stages a variety of exhibitions and events suitable for people of all ages, so there’s something for everyone. 

The Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is a well-known street adorned with stunning historic structures, churches and townhouses. It is one of the busiest streets in Edinburgh, connecting Edinburgh Castle with the Palace of Holyroodhouse. 

Among the many attractions in the neighbourhood are the People’s Story Museum, Castle, and the Tolbooth Museum. 

The Writer’s Museum, which is also located on the Royal Mile, houses the historic writings, portraits, and manuscripts of prominent writers Sir Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson, and poet Robert Burns. 

Palace of Holyroodhouse and Holyrood Abbey

The Palace of Holyroodhouse and Holyrood Abbey have a long history. It is the queen’s official palace and has hosted various royal weddings, including those of James II and James IV.

Inside, you’ll see images of Scottish rulers, dress up in the family area, and have a cup of tea at the cafe. 

8. Events & Festivals

Edinburgh Science Festival

Held every April each year, the Edinburgh Science Festival is a two-week celebration of scientific achievements all over the globe. You can participate in activities such as chemical labs, pub quizzes, and even slime creation. 

The events are appropriate for all ages, so if you are travelling with children, the Edinburgh Science Festival is a must-see in the city. 

Edinburgh International Film Festival

The Edinburgh International Film Festival showcases everything, from indie to well-known Hollywood films. 

There are also several seminars and courses available for those interested in becoming more involved in the film business. The festival is a two-week celebration held every year in June.

Scottish Real Ale Festival

At the Scottish Real Ale Festival, you can taste the greatest beers in town! During this festival, hundreds of ales queue up. 

You can sample ales from across the world while munching on your favourite snacks. 

There will also be live music, so you will not get bored! 

9. Shopping Centres / Restaurants

Edinburgh is known for the well-known Princes Street, Waverley Mall, and Ocean Terminal where you can shop to your heart’s content.

Princes Street also hosts a weekly Farmers Market with plenty of fresh local vegetables.

There are both small and major fashion centres in the city, as well as several restaurants worth visiting. 

Nightlife

Edinburgh has something for everyone, from bars to pubs to nightclubs! In fact, residents consider the city to have a vibrant nightlife that both locals and visitors enjoy. 

Because it is located in the centre of the New Town, George Street is where most people go for a night out. Some of the venues you may go for a great night include Lulu Bar and Nightclub, Bourbon Nightclub, and Why Not.

Where are the best places to live in Edinburgh?

Portobello, Newington and Leith are the best places to live in Edinburgh. 

Get to know these neighbourhoods as we delve into each of them below!

1. Portobello

Portobello is one of Edinburgh’s best places to live in, situated about 3 miles west of the city centre. The neighbourhood has its own sandy beach peppered with charming cafés and restaurants, making it a popular seaside destination.

There is also a wonderful sense of community here. Several local boutique stores, restaurants, bars and a food market contribute to this recognition.

It is easily accessible by bus and train – you can travel to and from anywhere in Scotland from Portobello. 

The neighbourhood also provides buyers with a diverse assortment of home types – whether you need a 1- or 4-bedroom property.

According to Zoopla, the average property price in Portobello is £348,330.

2. Newington

Newington is lined with stores, restaurants, and pubs that cater to all tastes. It is also near the Meadows, a prominent public park featuring a children’s play area and tennis facilities.

Back in the day, Newington was purely rural. The area’s architecture was defined by Victorian tenement flats seen across Edinburgh along Newington Road, which transitions into huge detached homes along Minto Street.

Now, there is a house suitable for everyone, thanks to new construction and older semi-detached buildings. According to Zoopla, the average property price in Newington is £473,907.

This neighbourhood is also close to the city centre, so a variety of activities are easily accessible when you want to unwind from the stresses of everyday life.  

3. Leith

Leith was named one of the finest locations to live in the UK in 2020. It is also home to a variety of restaurants, cafes and pubs. 

The majority of homes in Leith are new-build apartments, which contributes to the area’s revitalised vibe.

Meanwhile, the average property price in Leith is £271,564, according to Zoopla.

FAQs on Living in Edinburgh