An urban metropolis that has seen significant development over the years, Leeds is a popular choice to settle down – and for good reason. The Sunday Times even named it as one of the best places to live in the UK based on the city’s variety of job prospects, education opportunities, and wealth of amenities.
If, like many people, you’re thinking of moving to Leeds but aren’t sure where to start, we’ve put together a guide for everything you need to know.
What is Leeds known for?
What was once a mill town during the Industrial Revolution is now a thriving city known for its shopping arcades, art scene, and independent music venues. People from all over the country visit to purchase luxury goods from high-street names, such as Louis Vuitton and Harvey Nichols, and dance the night away at Leeds Festival during the August Bank Holiday each year.
Aside from this, there are also plenty of attractions to explore in the city, including the Industrial Museum, City Museum, and Royal Armouries Museum.
Why do people want to live in Leeds?
Leeds is home to a number of different service and industrial sectors, including digital and retail, education, health, and creative. Outside of London, it hosts one of the largest business centres, with an estimated output of more than £13 billion each year.
From a career perspective, the opportunities are endless, especially for young professionals. The salaries for these positions are also very competitive, ensuring residents have the perfect work-life balance.
What properties are available in Leeds?
For a major city, the prices in Leeds are surprisingly affordable without compromising on quality. While a detached or semi-detached property will set you back more, you can easily find a terraced property or flat under £200,000. If you’re looking for something more modern, there are plenty of new build homes catering to a range of family sizes and buyers.
As with any city, deciding exactly where to plant roots depends on your budget and preferences. Horsforth has continuously been ranked as one of the best places to live in Yorkshire, offering a country feel and community spirit that bodes well with young couples and families alike. A short 15-minute train ride will also take you into Leeds city centre.
Roundhay is another solid choice, located a mere 5-minute drive from the centre. It provides the perfect mix of chain and independent stores and green spaces, including one of the largest parks in Europe.
Young professionals may prefer the likes of Chapel Allerton, which is again a short distance from the centre. The area has great schools, delis, well-known businesses, and low prices, perfect for those at the start of their career.
How do you get around Leeds?
Having a car is a luxury for getting around rural areas where walking isn’t an option. However, this isn’t as necessary when living in the city. Even though Leeds is a huge place, it has an extensive public transport system that makes getting around a breeze.
The train station is well connected, with regular services to other major cities, and there are 60 bus services that run throughout Leeds and the surrounding areas. This means you’re always guaranteed to reach your destination in good time.
Top photo by Illiya Vjestica on Unsplash
