Is Manchester a Nice Place to Live?

While Oasis might be the most iconic thing to come out of Manchester – we’d argue the city itself itself is indicative of an even bigger hit.

With a dynamic culture, diverse job opportunities, and affordable living costs compared to other major cities, it’s no surprise that Manchester holds a steady population growth with more and more people looking to call Manchester home.

And it’s not just the city centre that’s drawing attention. With Cheshire recently named among the best places to live in the UK, the surrounding areas are proving to be just as desirable for first-time buyers and property investors alike.

But what makes Manchester a good place to live?

In this article, we explore everything you need to know about living in Manchester, from its rich history, iconic lifestyle, best areas to live, and everything in between. Let’s jump in.

Origins of Manchester

The roots of Manchester actually date back to Roman times when it was first established as a civilian settlement that was commonly associated with the fort known as Mamucium.

Most notably, however, it was in the late 18th and 19th centuries during the Industrial Revolution that Manchester truly began to expand. Known for being the world’s first industrial city, Manchester rapid growth was driven by its affiliation in textile manufacturing, and was commonly renowned as the ‘Cottonpolis‘ for its creation and distribution of cotton.

While history tells the story of how Manchester centred itself at the heart of industrialisation and the UK, today the city is no longer reliant on industry, but instead offers a thriving cultural, commercial, and technological centre for all.

Celebrated areas like the Northern Quarter and Spinningfields demonstrate the success of Manchester’s combined industrial heritage with modern developments. Now, the city’s history can be seen in landmarks, such as the Manchester Town Hall and the famous red-brick warehouses that run parallel with the canals. The best of both worlds, Manchester has utilised the practicality and innovation of modernity to add to the charm of its heritage.

What Is the Quality of Life Like in Manchester

Football, music, food, and laughter – Manchester has something in store for everyone.

Whether you’re a blue city fan, red united fan, or are looking to be in the centre of one of the most musically gifted cities in the UK, Manchester really does offer a complete range of lifestyles.

So what’s available? 

If you’re considering a life in Manchester, then it won’t take long for you to quickly realise it offers a perfect blend of cosmopolitan living with open-green spaces and walking trails close-by.

In truth, the Manchester lifestyle is a mix of convenience and relaxation. While the city holds a stereotypical ‘loud’ nature for its world-class sporting venues, there are a variety of art scenes, restaurants, bars, and cafes all waiting to destress their visitors.

As outlined in the heritage, Manchester has become a mix of old and new innovations that allow residents to enjoy modern amenities while still embracing historical charm.

If you’re specifically focused on a fast-paced city lifestyle, then Manchester might be your perfect match. There is always something happening – whether it’s a live gig, an exhibition, or the South Manchester Food Festival, you will be kept busy with the ever-featured events and talents that visit the great city.

That being said, despite the hustle and bustle, there are plenty of parks and green spaces to unwind after a long day. While Heaton Park primarily steals the limelight as one of the largest municipal parks in Europe, there are plenty of beautiful green-spaces in the surrounding areas.

Additionally, Manchester’s commitment to sustainability is demonstrated in its green initiatives and the future holds great promise with plans to increase its investment in eco-friendly public transport options, recycling programs, and sustainable urban development.

The fact that Manchester offers urban living with easy access to nature makes it particularly attractive for first-time buyers who are planning to experience the best of both worlds.

Education and Employment Opportunities in Manchester

Home to several world-class universities, including the University of Manchester, The University of Bolton, Royal Northern College of Music, and Manchester Metropolitan University, it goes without saying that the city is known for its prosperous educational system.

While its academic prevalence might make it difficult to pinpoint the best colleges in Manchester, each educational institution is well-established and attracts students from all over the world. So, whether you’re pursuing undergraduate studies, postgraduate qualifications, or looking for late night classes to add another skillset to your arsenal, Manchester offers a broad spectrum of educational opportunities.

As we’ve noted the bustling and diverse lifestyles Manchester provides, it comes naturally that the city comes with a robust job market with opportunities presenting themselves in a multitude of industries.

Currently, Manchester is a leading city for media and digital industries, with organisations like the BBC and ITV based here. It’s also a hub for the creative and tech sectors, with more companies opening their doors in the city to tap into the pool of talented professionals.

Research by Glassdoor shows the top companies in Manchester include:

• IBM
• Microsoft
• NatWest Group
• Apple
• University of Manchester

Dubbed as the “second city” of the UK – after London – Manchester’s expanding economy is also reflected in its growing business sectors, including finance, retail, and healthcare.

In short: Manchester offers countless career opportunities across a range of industries.

This alone makes the city an excellent location for both professionals looking to advance their careers and first-time buyers who are looking to establish a foothold in a thriving city.

Activities, Food, and Culture in Manchester

Manchester fosters a large community and thriving cultural scene – in fact, the city can offer just about anything you can think of.

For the music lovers, this is a city that’s enriched by its musical history and is always buzzing with new talent and open mic nights. Known for being a music capital, Manchester is famous for being the birthplace of bands like Oasis, The Smiths, and Joy Division. As such, you will find venues like the O2 Ritz, Manchester Arena, and the Band on the Wall provide exclusive live music experiences that appeal for all musical tastes.

Feeling cultural? The Manchester Art Gallery, Lowry Centre, and the Museum of Science and Industry are just some of the fantastic cultural attractions that are easily accessible to those living in the city.

Additionally, the city plays host to major events such as the Manchester International Festival – next to be seen this 2025 summer –  which brings together talent from across the globe to create exciting performances every two years.

It goes without saying that for sports enthusiasts, Manchester is also home to two of the world’s most famous football clubs: Manchester United and Manchester City. Both teams have a huge fan base, and football matches are often at the heartbeat of city life – particularly on match day!

Living Costs in Manchester: Is It Affordable?

When it comes to affordability, the average living costs in Manchester are relatively cheap compared to other cities like London, making it the ideal home for both professionals and students.

While the entire UK has seen an increase in house prices, Manchester has seen an influx in first-time buyers with an average house purchase being £231,000.

Additionally, the latest data from the Office for National Statistics shows that renting is cheaper than renting in the North West:

On average, renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre typically costs between £800 – £1,100 per month. But if you’re looking for an even more affordable option, areas like Levenshulme and Fallowfield are seeing rent prices starting around £600 – £700 per month.

Everyday utilities and your local amenities are also very accessible, with the average monthly cost of gas, electricity, and water for a standard apartment running between £200 – £300.

While the actual cost of groceries, dining out, and public transport will always be dependent on your individual budget and costs, Manchester once again demonstrates a comparable low cost.

As such, in the context of affordability, Manchester stands as an attractive city for both young professionals and families looking for value without sacrificing quality.

Is Manchester a Safe Place to Live?

Safety is always a primary concern when considering a new city to move to, especially for family units.

The safest places to live in Manchester tend to be suburban areas with a strong sense of community over the inner city areas.

To provide you with some examples, neighbourhoods like Didsbury, Chorlton, and Altrincham are consistently rated among the safest places to live in Manchester. These areas offer a peaceful environment while still being well-connected to the city centre.

For those looking for a more vibrant atmosphere, areas like the Northern Quarter or Ancoats are lively, though it should be noted that they have a much more urban feel.

What Are the Best Areas in Manchester to Live?

When it comes to choosing the best areas to live in Manchester, there are plenty of options to choose from, and it really depends on your specific lifestyle and exactly what you’re looking for.

But to help in your search, we’ve provided our top 4 areas that we think you should consider:

1. Northern Quarter

Perfect for both young students and established professionals, the Northern Quarter is one of Manchester’s most sought-after districts. Known as the heart of the city, the Northern Quarter consists of a lively neighbourhood known for its independent shops, vintage stores, street art, and modern cafes.

The Northern Quarter is the social hub for all nightlife, with an eclectic mix of bars, pubs, and restaurants to explore.

2. Didsbury

Didsbury is a great match for those looking for a relaxed and natural lifestyle. Being a leafy suburb located just 4 miles from the city centre, Didsbury is perfect for families thanks to its excellent schools, parks, and community atmosphere.

Notably, Didsbury is also home to a variety of independent boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, with the area being well-connected by public transport, making it easy to commute into the city centre.

3. Chorlton

A truly unique area, Chorlton is known for its strong community and spirit, with eco-friendly initiatives and quirky streets. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a laid-back lifestyle with easy access to the city centre.

With a mix of independent shops, cafes, and green spaces like Chorlton Water Park, this area is perfect for those seeking a vibrant, creative community.

4. Sale

Ironically, Sale is a suburb that is perfect for those looking for more affordable housing options. Naturally, the area provides a quieter, suburban feel while still being relatively close to the city centre.

Home to good schools, parks, and local shops, Sale is an excellent choice for families looking for great value and excellent local facilities.

Is It Worth It to Buy a Property in Manchester?

For most people, the decision to buy a property is a big commitment and knowing whether it is the right time or not will wholly depend on your personal and financial commitments.

On the other hand, Manchester has a growing economy with increased job opportunities and a property market that is showing comparably cheaper opportunities than other major cities.

Knowing the best areas to buy a house in Manchester will also depend on your personal budget and lifestyle preferences. While in this article we have explored areas that are best for students, professionals, and families, your dream location will always depend on your personal preferences.

In short: For families, areas like Didsbury and Chorlton offer a great mix of green spaces, excellent schools, and local amenities. For those looking for a more lively community with easy access to city and nightlife, the Northern Quarter would be ideal.

Find a Property in Manchester with a Mortgage Broker

Buying a property or deciding on moving to a new area is a big decision. Thankfully, that’s why we’re here to help you.

As a whole-of-market, fee-free mortgage broker, Boon Brokers offers impartial guidance tailored to your individual circumstances. We’ll help you explore the full range of mortgage products available across the market and identify the options that align with your financial goals, whether you’re buying your first flat in Didsbury or upgrading to a family home in Chorlton.

Ready to take the next step? Contact Boon Brokers today for a free consultation to discuss how you can secure a competitive mortgage and make your dream move to Manchester.