As a vibrant and multicultural city, London is the most popular destination for expats moving to the United Kingdom. But living outside of the capital opens up a whole new world of possibilities. Not only is the cost of living significantly cheaper outside of London, but you'll also be much closer to all that sumptuous British countryside. For inspiration, here's a guide to the 10 best places to live in the UK.
Birmingham, or Brum as the locals affectionately call it, is the second largest city in the United Kingdom. Despite this, it isn't on the radar of many expats moving to the UK. Immersed in its industrial heritage, Birmingham is a bustling and multicultural mix of museums, shops and canal-side restaurants. As many locals will gladly remind you, the city has more kilometers of canals than Venice.
Glasgow has been reinvented in recent decades. Once an overlooked industrial hub, it is now one of the most modern expatriate destinations in the UK. The bustling city centre is full of architectural gems that showcase Glasgow's heritage, while the modern River Clyde area looks to the future. The city's large student population and friendly residents make Glasgow a great place to live, with great restaurants, shops and parties.
The city's peculiar subway system, dubbed “A Clockwork Orange”, makes it easy to get around. Stretched along the south coast of England, Brighton is a bustling tourist town with something for everyone. From eclectic streets of bohemian North Laine to elegant regency houses that line the waterfront, Brighton has it all. The beach and pier are family favorites, while the city is also home to one of the largest LGBT communities in the United Kingdom. Despite being close to London, Brighton has plenty to offer expatriates in its own right. The Welsh capital of Cardiff is another city experiencing a revival.
Recent regeneration attempts have helped make it increasingly attractive to expatriates arriving in the UK. In the city center, shopping streets extend from Cardiff Castle and nearby is Estadio del Principado, a stadium full of people where you can watch the national rugby team play. Despite being the capital of Wales, Cardiff is one of the most affordable places to live on this list. Edinburgh is Scotland's cosmopolitan capital and one of the most beautiful cities in the United Kingdom. It centers around Edinburgh Castle, perched atop a rugged outcrop in the heart of the city.
The castle is surrounded by evocative old town and elegant Georgian-style new city. Edinburgh hosts two world-famous festivals - International Festival and Fringe Festival - making it Scotland's cultural capital. Leeds is located in West Yorkshire and offers rural life with all metropolitan touches you could ask for. Leeds is home to not one but three universities and some of best retail stores outside London. Thanks to its size there are plenty of employment opportunities too. Devon is one of England's most picturesque parts and one of favorite counties to live in UK.
Back in city trendy Montpelier area is great place to settle down if you're looking for lively neighborhood. Living in any one of these cities will give you an unforgettable experience as an expat in the United Kingdom. From job opportunities to green spaces, these cities have scored high in quality of life among expats living in England.
