The small island nation of the United Kingdom is one of the most sought-after countries for migrants. It is home to some fantastic cities that many international professionals and their families call home. If you are considering moving to the UK, you should consider some of these cities for your future. Since the UK has everything from Edinburgh and London to the picturesque Southampton and Glasgow, there are several excellent options to choose from.
Most families consider the UK for their future for the outstanding quality of life, excellent educational system, social benefits, and career opportunities. Additionally, the UK doesn’t restrict migration only to spouses and families but also has options for visas for partners.
When finalizing a city to settle down in, finding one that best suits your lifestyle and goals is crucial. Whether you are a student, expat, family, or looking to start a business and put down some roots, we have a ready option for you!
Let us look at some of the best cities to live in the UK.
Edinburgh:
The capital of the northern country of Scotland, Edinburgh in the UK, is its spiritual and cultural homeland. While London is more prominently known, Edinburgh tends to steal more hearts in the long term. Edinburgh has always been a port city known for its multicultural influence and trade. This impression remains unchanged even today.
Edinburgh has a great work-life balance for professionals with families. The educational institutions are some of the best in the world, and the career and business opportunities are endless. Apart from these positives, Edinburgh is steeped in history, has plenty of picturesque locations, and is known for its excellent nightlife and entertainment options.
Edinburgh has relatively low violent crime rates and is generally known as a safe place for children and women. It is a beautiful mix of old-world values with hustling-bustling urban modernity amid natural beauty.
Birmingham:
Birmingham, also known as the ‘second city,’ is a multicultural metropolis that is undergoing a transformation into a modern, highly urban area. The expatriate community in Birmingham outnumbers the locals, leading to diversity and acceptance that is hard to find in many other cities. Another plus point in Birmingham’s favour is that it has all the benefits of work, career, and educational opportunities like London, with the notable absence of an extravagant price tag.
Apart from the economic and social benefits, Birmingham is known for its excellent entertainment options, clubs, local pubs, and thumping nightlife. Many Londoners have been known to take weekend trips to Birmingham for the nightlife, music festivals, and great vibe.
Newcomers to the UK will find Birmingham a better option than London for its affordable housing, sound public transport system, fabulous shopping districts, fresh produce and food, and cheaper living expenses.
Manchester:
Manchester has been at the helm of British identity and culture for several centuries. Manchester is renowned for its nightlife, gastronomic experiences, multicultural food options, diversity, and welcoming people. Apart from these, it is also a central education hub in the UK, with a significant student population.
Working professionals in Manchester are mainly from manufacturing and media backgrounds, with some huge multinationals in the city. The manufacturing industry employs nearly 2 out of 10 individuals in Manchester, making the retail, wholesale, and export markets massive.
Families shifting to Manchester can avail the benefits of living in a modern city, with affordable housing (much cheaper than London), with an equal earning capacity. Besides the many universities and colleges, Manchester has plenty of schools, nurseries, and skill-based courses for professionals. Well, communicate School is a great place for those who want to learn English in Manchester.
Southampton:
Southampton, placed firmly on the southern coast of the UK, is known for its strategic maritime history and long-standing naval importance. Southampton is more laid back than many other cities in the UK and is known for its sailing culture. Water activities and options are endless, with many preferring the open seas to partying in pubs and nightclubs.
Southampton has several good educational institutes with affordable housing options, a multicultural environment, fresh air, and open seas. Predominantly a coastal town, families with small children should consider Southampton the ideal choice.
There are several work and career opportunities in Southampton for professionals, but not in as many fields and areas as London, Manchester, or Birmingham.
Other UK cities are also fabulous, like London, Reading, Glasgow, and Bristol. Irrespective of which city you choose to settle down in, you should ensure that there are enough opportunities for you to build a life and further your chosen career fields.
