Living in Chester: Is It the Right Place for You?

There’s no shortage of idyllic places to call home in the UK, but choosing the right spot can be a daunting task. To help narrow it down a bit, let us introduce you to the ever-lively Chester.

This quaint northwestern city, nestled near the border of England and Wales, blends a fascinating history with an energetic, modern lifestyle. From its iconic Roman walls and picturesque Rows to its growing food scene and green spaces, there’s plenty to love, but is it the right fit for you?

As some of the area’s top mortgage advisers, we’re here to share what daily life really looks like here, highlight some of the best places to live in Chester, and help you decide whether this unique city ticks all your boxes.

Is Chester a Nice Place to Live?

People living in Chester claim it offers the best of both worlds, flaunting plenty of character and an easy, manageable lifestyle. The city is known for its historic charm, good shops and restaurants, beautiful homes, and convenient transport links.

There’s also a fairly extensive range of neighbourhoods, from central streets full of history to quieter suburbs, which means there’s a good selection of nice areas to live in Chester. To add to that, if you’re thinking about living in Chester with family and getting a mortgage, it can be an appealing option thanks to its schools, community feel, and wide range of housing options.

What Are the Best Areas to Buy a House in Chester?

Lifestyle, local amenities, and community are certainly important when it comes to finding the right home, but house prices play a big part as well. So, where are the best areas in Chester to buy a house with affordable mortgage options? Luckily, there are several great places to choose from.

Some neighbourhoods may provide more space for your money, which can be great if you’re planning for the long term. Others offer more of an upbeat vibe, right in the midst of all the action, but you will likely have to pay more and compromise on a smaller property.

It’s important to focus on what matters most to you and balance that with what’s realistically within your budget.

With a bit of research, you’ll find that the Chester property market caters to a range of buyers. Think of this as your mini mortgage guide for the best neighbourhoods to buy a house in Chester.

Here’s a look at some pros and cons across a few popular areas:

Are There Any First-Time Buyer Schemes?

If you’re considering living here and trying to get onto the property ladder, there are several government schemes for first-time buyers in Chester that can help make homeownership more affordable.

Programs such as the First Homes Scheme can help you secure a discounted new-build, while shared ownership allows you to purchase a portion of a property and pay rent on the remainder. Some other options, such as the Lifetime ISA and low-deposit mortgages, can supplement your savings or cut a chunk out of your upfront costs.

It doesn’t hurt to learn exactly what you can apply for, especially since the first-time buyer schemes available in Chester can make the dream of owning your first home here a reality.

What Cultural and Social Activities Are Available in Chester?

One of the best parts about living here is that there’s always something going on, whether you’re into history, food, or just want to find ways to fill your weekends.

When it comes to cultural activities in Chester, there are quite a few theatres and galleries which hold events throughout the year. Storyhouse is a local favourite, hosting everything from live performances to film screenings. There are also plenty of seasonal events and festivals that pop up, especially in the warmer months.

If you’re just looking for everyday activities in Chester, there’s no shortage of options there, either. The city centre is compact and easy to explore, with lots of places to eat, drink, and unwind.

For those with kids, there are loads of family activities in Chester to keep everyone entertained, from the popular Chester Zoo to parks, soft play centres, and interactive museums. When the weather inevitably turns, you’ll still find plenty of indoor activities in Chester, including escape rooms, cinemas, and casual dining spots where you can easily spend a few hours.

What Are the Shopping and Dining Options in Chester?

A day out in Chester often feels more enjoyable than your typical high street trip. Thanks to the Rows, the city’s historic two-tiered shopping galleries, you can browse a wide range of famous labels and independent shops all in one visit.

When visiting the shops in Chester shopping centre, especially those in Grosvenor Centre and on the high street, you’ll easily stumble across popular brands, all within a stone’s throw of each other. It should be noted, however, that part of the charm here lies in experiencing the independent boutiques, gift shops, and little hidden gems you won’t find everywhere else.

If you’re not sure where to start your retail therapy journey, you can find a comprehensive list of shops in Chester on Visit Cheshire.

As for the food scene here, Chester definitely holds its own. You’ll find a good selection of casual spots, cosy pubs, and more upscale dining if you’re celebrating something special.

Here’s a brief list of good restaurants in Chester, based on local reviews:

• Bread and Butter – Traditional, bistro-style fare
• Maray Chester – Middle Eastern cuisine
• Basement 85 – Wine bar with tapas-style offerings
• Upstairs at the Grill – Michelin-recommended, modern European restaurant
• Covino – Cosy Michelin Guide hotspot with an extensive wine list
• Chef’s Table – Elevated, seasonal menu featuring locally sourced food

How Good Are Chester’s Transport Links?

When it comes to getting around, transport in Chester is pretty straightforward and works well for both commuters and locals alike.

Public transport in Chester is reliable enough for most needs, with regular bus services connecting different neighbourhoods and nearby towns. Chester Station is also a big plus, offering direct links to cities like Liverpool, Manchester, and even London, which makes commuting or weekend trips nice and easy.

What Is the Cost Of Living in Chester?

The cost of living in Chester tends to sit somewhere in the middle. It’s not as high as bigger cities like Manchester or London, but it’s not the cheapest either. With that said, many people find it offers good value for the lifestyle it provides. Luckily, living costs in Chester, including groceries, eating out, and transport, are fairly reasonable.

To understand how house prices affect living costs in Chester, you’ll want to know how Chester fares price-wise compared to neighbouring cities. To give some perspective, we’ve included information on exactly that below.

How Vibrant Is Chester’s Nightlife?

Nightlife in Chester might not be as full-on as bigger cities, but that’s part of its appeal. It’s lively without feeling overwhelming. Whether you’re after a relaxed evening or something a bit more upbeat, there’s a good mix to choose from.

You’ll find plenty of cosy pubs, stylish bistros, and a handful of bars and clubs in Chester that stay open late. They all cater to different tastes, from cocktail spots and wine bars to more energetic dance floors. If you prefer something right in the middle, there are also several pubs with live music in Chester, which are perfect for a casual night out with friends.

Which Chester Neighbourhoods Are Best to Live In?

If you’re interested in living in Chester and buying a house, the decision on where to reside really comes down to what kind of lifestyle you’re after. The city has a nice combination of central, character-filled areas and quieter, more residential suburbs.

Hoole is often regarded as one of the best areas to live in Chester, thanks to its quaint shops, cafés, and tight-knit community. Handbridge is another popular choice, especially if you want to be close to the city centre but still enjoy a slightly more relaxed pace. For families, areas like Upton and Vicars Cross tend to stand out for their good schools and properties with more space.

Should You Move to Chester?

So, is moving to Chester the right choice for you? For many people, it comes down to the balance it offers. You’ve got historic charm, a relaxed pace of life, and just enough going on to keep life interesting without feeling hectic.

However, as discussed, property prices can vary quite a bit by area, and the more popular neighbourhoods do come at a premium. For anyone moving to Chester and getting a mortgage as a first-time buyer, the good news is that there are plenty of options and schemes available to help you start putting down roots.

Now that we’ve gone over the important things to know before moving to Chester and buying a house, hopefully, your decision will be a bit easier. With that said, it’s worth taking the time to explore different areas and get a feel for what best suits your lifestyle.

Get in Touch With a Mortgage Broker

If you’re on the hunt for a mortgage broker in Cheshire, look no further. At Boon Brokers, we provide a completely fee-free mortgage service, giving you access to a broad selection of lenders and deals.

There are plenty of mortgage options for first-time buyers in Chester, too, from low-deposit offerings to government-backed schemes that can make becoming a homeowner a bit more manageable. Our team takes the time to understand your finances, your plans, and what’s important to you so we can match you with a mortgage that genuinely suits your needs.

The key is getting the right mortgage advice for buying a house in Chester early on, so you know exactly where you stand before you start viewing properties. With our help, the entire process will feel much more straightforward and a whole lot less stressful.

It’s important to remember that your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.