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Edinburgh’s Best Neighborhoods: Here are the 12 safest places where you can live in the city!
Remember that feeling of moving to a new city? Butterflies in your stomach, excited for adventure—but then you have that niggling worry if the place you’re considering is safe? Been there, done that here in Edinburgh!
Don’t get me wrong, I love this city and I think it’s incredible! But between deciphering cryptic rental ads and picturing yourself dodging shadowy figures at night, finding a new home can be stressful.
Well, now, I’m here to share my experience as I’ve already done the detective work on Edinburgh’s safest areas. With this, you’ll find the best place for you to live in, making you feel right at home!
Stockbridge
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Stockbridge will surely stand out to those who are looking for a quaint, village-like suburb that’s within walking distance from the city center. It provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle, whilst still being close to the heart of city
The allure of Stockbridge lies in its undeniably charming atmosphere – terraced houses, cobbled streets, and lush green spaces. Moreover, the neighborhood boasts an affordable cost of living, making it especially appealing to families and older people.
When it comes to leisure and culture, you won’t be disappointed at Stockbridge! There are a ton of things to do, from visiting cultural attractions like the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art to exploring the diverse dining options.
New Town
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Despite its urban setting, New Town is at the heart of a vibrant cultural scene. In fact, it’s recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, adorned with many well-preserved buildings that contribute to its charming allure.
The area’s liveliness doesn’t stop there. New Town is a central location with excellent public transportation links, making it a breeze to get from place to place as everything’s within reach.
Having said that, New Town’s strong community ties ensure that there’s always something for its residents to do, from community groups to local markets.
Old Town
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If you enjoy being where the life of the party is at, then Old Town is a great neighborhood to consider. Filled with Edinburgh’s top pubs, restaurants, entertainment facilities, and more, Old Town is where most tourists flock when visiting the city.
Just like its name, Old Town has a rich history filled with many historical landmarks and attractions. Thus, it offers a unique blend of modern and traditional, which creates a unique character for this quaint neighborhood.
Another great thing about Old Town is its diverse housing options. From modern townhouses to quaint flats, there is something for different preferences and budgets.
Leith
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If waterfront living is in your list of must-haves in a neighborhood to live in, then you should definitely check out Leith. Located by the Firth of Forth, many residents of Leith have breathtaking views.
Apart from that, Leith is also known for being one of the most hip places to be in Scotland. It’s home to several famous pubs such as Teuchters Landing and Innis & Gunn taproom along with a number of outdoor recreational areas.
But here’s the hitch: the cost of housing in Leith can be pretty high due to fierce competition. Nevertheless, to many, that’s a small price to pay to live in such a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood.
Morningside
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Morningside is the ideal choice for a village feel whilst still in the city. Despite Morningside’s period homes and tree-lined streets, it boasts excellent public transportation links, modern duplexes, and several reputable schools.
Considered a family-friendly area, Morningside is filled with green spaces where residents can enjoy leisurely walks and picnics. It also hosts many local events such as markets and festivals.
Apart from that, Morningside offers a variety of dining and entertainment options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. Hence, you’ll never run out of places and activities to enjoy and help you unwind.
Bruntsfield
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Located a mere 20-minute walk south of the city center, Bruntsfield stands as a prestigious and well-established neighborhood. Even with the convenience of city living, Bruntsfield isn’t as busy, maintaining a quieter, more residential feel.
Many properties in Bruntsfield are a mix of Victorian, Edwardian, and Modern with charming architectural designs and lush gardens. Thus, choosing a home in this neighborhood may be difficult.
Catering to residents of all ages, Bruntsfield is also a great choice for all ages because it boasts a ton of recreational facilities. From fitness centers to playgrounds, there’s something to do for everyone.
The Grange
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Nestled among Edinburgh’s affluent neighborhoods, The Grange exudes elegance and prestige, attracting Scotland’s discerning residents. Here, high-quality housing reigns supreme, showcasing a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary architecture.
If you prefer exclusively residential areas, The Grange is an ideal choice. Dominated by homes, the neighborhood offers a tranquil and secluded atmosphere.
Families will find The Grange particularly appealing, given its proximity to several prestigious schools. Institutions like Craigmount, the Ministers Daughters College, and St Andrews contribute to the area’s reputation for educational excellence.
Marchmont
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Marchmont’s prime location near the city center makes it an ideal choice for those working or studying in Edinburgh. Its proximity ensures a convenient lifestyle for residents who value easy access to the city’s amenities.
The diversity of Marchmont is another standout feature, attracting residents from various backgrounds and walks of life. This diversity enriches the community, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere that many appreciate.
As a sought-after area, Marchmont offers a diverse range of housing options to suit different preferences and budgets, from modern apartments to charming townhouses.
Haymarket
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Haymarket is a fantastic choice for those with a passion for travel, thanks to its superb transport links via the well-connected Haymarket train station. This makes commuting within Edinburgh and beyond incredibly convenient.
Diversity thrives in Haymarket as it’s home to individuals from all walks of life backgrounds, enriching the area’s social fabric. This is reflected in Haymarket’s culinary scene, with a plethora of restaurants.
Haymarket manages to maintain a more relaxed and laid-back vibe compared to some of Edinburgh’s busier areas. Thus, it isn’t as crowded as you think it may be. The cost of living is rather affordable as many of its residents are young professionals and students.
Corstorphine
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Corstorphine has rightfully earned its reputation as the “real suburbs of Edinburgh,” boasting spacious lot sizes and a tranquil atmosphere that’s particularly appealing to families.
Despite its suburban charm, Corstorphine doesn’t skimp on amenities or entertainment options. Residents can enjoy a variety of shops, leisure parks, and restaurants right on their doorstep, ensuring there’s always something to do close to home.
Corstorphine’s convenient location near the M8 motorway and Edinburgh airport makes commuting and travel exceptionally easy, too.
Tollcross
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For those looking to crack down on their rent budget, we think Tollcross is definitely worth considering as it’s one of the more affordable areas in our list. Because of its close proximity to several schools and universities, you can expect the cost of living to be student-friendly.
Having mentioned that, Tollcross can get a little crowded and rowdy especially during school-related celebrations. Nevertheless, it’s a great place to live if you don’t mind the vibrant atmosphere and making friends with young people.
Speaking of, Tollcross has an exciting nightlife filled with must-visit pubs and restaurants. But if that isn’t your cup of tea, Tollcross also has scenic parks and trails for those who like the quiet outdoors.
Portobello
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Portobello offers a delightful beachside escape that’s conveniently close to Edinburgh’s city center, located just 3 miles or approximately 5 kilometers away. It strikes the perfect balance between the tranquility of coastal living and the accessibility of urban amenities.
With its picturesque charm reminiscent of a movie-like small town, Portobello boasts a vibrant and welcoming community. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the variety of recreational activities available, ranging from scenic cycling routes to exhilarating surfing sessions on the waves
Endlessly endearing, it’s way too easy for many to fall in love with Portobello. In fact, it was recognized as the Best Neighborhood in the UK and Ireland in 2020, a testament to its unique character and desirability.
