Living in Sheffield: Is It the Right City for Families?

Living in Sheffield is to be in a city that champions a rich industrial heritage, thriving cultural scene, and an abundance of green spaces. Known as the ‘Steel City’, Sheffield has evolved into the perfect place for families with a unique mix of vibrant communities, cultural attractions, and family-friendly events.

But deciding to move isn’t always so straightforward. And while Sheffield is a wonderful destination for most, there are a lot of moving parts that families need to consider. Schools, neighbourhoods, affordable housing, job opportunities, and whether there are enough parks and activities for children all play an important role.

So, is living in Sheffield the right choice for you?

In this article, we cover everything you need to know about Sheffield. From its rich history to today’s living costs, property options, amenities, schools, and neighbourhoods, by the end of this article, you’ll know whether Sheffield is the right city for you to call home. Let’s begin.

The History of Sheffield

Once known as the heart of the UK’s steel industry, Sheffield is renowned for playing a pivotal role during the Industrial Revolution. Its innovative steel production, particularly in cutlery and tools, earned the city an international reputation and is often referred to as the “City of Steel”,  helping shape its economic and cultural identity for generations.

Beyond its industrial past, Sheffield’s history can be seen in the very streets where families live and play. From rows of Victorian terraces to impressive civic buildings, strolling through areas like Ecclesall or the city centre, reveals these historic touches everywhere – from ornate doorways and ironwork to old town squares – giving Sheffield a sense of character and warmth that families can feel in everyday life.

The city evolved significantly over the 20th century, transforming former industrial areas into modern residential and commercial spaces while preserving its historical character. Today, families living in Sheffield can enjoy a city that combines modern amenities with a strong historical backbone – creating a sense of continuity and community alongside the conveniences that we now all desire in everyday life.

Is Sheffield an Affordable City to Live In?

Sheffield is considered to be one of the most affordable cities to live in the UK. Housing, groceries, transport, and everyday expenses are all generally lower than in larger cities such as London or Manchester. In addition, rent and property prices remain below the national average, while public services and utilities are accessible to most households.

Each of these factors has made Sheffield a very attractive location for families who are looking to balance a quality of life with realistic and manageable living costs.

The latest data from Numbeo shows that day-to-day living expenses in Sheffield – including groceries, utilities, transport, and leisure – are more affordable than in many other major UK cities. For example:

• The estimated monthly costs for a family of four are £2,627.3 (excluding rent)
• The estimated monthly costs for a single person are £771.5 (excluding rent)
• Sheffield is 28.6% less expensive than London (excluding rent)

Overall, Sheffield manages to offer modern conveniences and opportunities without the financial pressures often found in larger UK cities. Families can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle with less stress over everyday costs, whether that’s spending time in local parks, exploring cultural events, or simply enjoying meals out together.

Average Property Prices in Sheffield

Sheffield’s housing market offers a wide-range of properties that appeal to all walks of life. From Victorian terraces in Sharrow and Walkley to semi-detached homes in suburban areas like Ecclesall or Millhouses, and modern city-centre apartments, there is something for every lifestyle and budget.

According to the latest data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the average house prices in Sheffield was £215,000. Naturally, these averages vary depending on the property type:

• Flats and maisonettes have an average price of around £135,000.
• Terraced houses average approximately £190,000.
• Semi-detached homes are around £250,000.
• Detached properties can exceed £350,000.

Overall, the average property prices has seen an annual change of 0.7%, demonstrating a steady and consistent demand across Sheffield’s property market:

The ONS also records the average rental costs in Sheffield. Taking the data by property type, average rents were:

It’s important to note that the exact costs of properties will vary between property types and neighbourhoods. Suburban areas tend to offer larger homes with gardens at competitive prices, ideal for families seeking space and convenience.  On the other hand, properties in the city-centre may be pricier, reflecting their proximity to cultural amenities, schools, and transport links. Understanding these differences helps buyers identify areas that suit both their budget and lifestyle.

Thinking about buying a property in Sheffield?

At Boon Brokers, our dedicated mortgage advisers can help find you the mortgage deal that matches your needs. As a fee-free, whole-of-market broker, we compare products from over 100+ lenders to find the mortgage that is right for you. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to purchase a larger family home, our expert team can guide you through the entire mortgage process, from start-to-finish, completely fee-free.

Does Sheffield Have Good Parks and Outdoor Spaces?

Sheffield has a variety of parks and open outdoor spaces that are perfect for picnics, walks, and family events. With City, district, and local parks all too choose from, Sheffield boasts over 80 parks and green spaces for residents to choose from.

These parks in Sheffield provide both relaxation and recreation for people of all ages. Below, we have listed our top 5 parks in Sheffield, each offering a variety of outdoor attractions that  cater to families:

• Graves Park

Known for being the largest park in Sheffield, Graves Park features easy access to woodlands, a small farm, playgrounds, and sports fields, making it a fantastic choice for large families with multiple interests for a perfect day out.

• Endcliffe Park

Endcliffe Park is one of the best locations that offers scenic riverside trails, expansive open fields, and well-equipped children’s play areas. It is perfect for family picnics, casual strolls, or weekend outings, and importantly, provides a safe and welcoming environment where kids can play and adults can relax.

• Sheffield Botanical Gardens

Sheffield Botanical Gardens is simply beautiful, with a fantastically well-maintained space with seasonal floral displays, elegant greenhouses, and winding walking paths. Visitors can explore diverse plant collections, enjoy quiet moments in nature, and participate in family-friendly educational events, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and learners alike.

• Millhouses Park

Millhouses Park combines open green spaces with a gorgeous boating lake. Most popular with families and sports enthusiasts, the park offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking paths, and offers a versatile space for both leisure and outdoor actives.

• Rivelin Valley Nature Trail

The Rivelin Valley Nature Trail is best suited to the outdoor adventurers, and offers a more rugged wilderness experience with trails that follow the river, picturesque waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. Ideal for families who enjoy hiking or exploring nature, it offers an immersive, educational, and adventurous escape from the city.

Whether you’re searching for a casual leg-stretch, a perfect spot for a weekend picnic, or a more adventurous hike, living in Sheffield offers easy access to parks and green spaces, allowing families to enjoy the outdoors and make the most of their time together.

What Cultural and Entertainment Options Are There in Sheffield?

Home to students, professionals, and families alike, Sheffield has a thriving cultural scene that offers something for everyone. From theatres and galleries to live music venues and outdoor festivals, there are a huge variety of events that residents can enjoy, including both paid and free activities in Sheffield.

Some of the city’s key cultural and entertainment highlights include:

• Crucible Theatre

The Crucible Theatre is world-renowned for its high-quality productions, including classic dramas and cutting-edge contemporary plays. Families can indulge in a host of performances together while the theatre also is home to a variety of workshops and community events that make it a hub for local engagement.

• Leadmill

As one of Sheffield’s oldest and most iconic live music venues, Leadmill hosts a diverse range of performances, from local bands to international acts. It’s certainly a more lively atmosphere, but attracts students, families, and music lovers alike, making it a vibrant and inclusive centre, known for live music in Sheffield.

• Millennium Gallery

The perfect place for art lovers, the Millennium Gallery showcases contemporary and historical art, design, and craft exhibitions. Visitors can take part in family-friendly workshops, interactive displays, and guided tours. The gallery’s central location and rotating exhibitions make it a perfect destination for both casual visitors and dedicated art enthusiasts.

• Sheffield Winter Gardens

For the green fingered, Sheffield’s Winter Gardens is a tropical glasshouse in the heart of the city, filled with exotic plants, peaceful seating areas, and vibrant greenery. Visitors can explore the diverse plant life, attend seasonal events, or simply enjoy a quiet moment away from the ‘hustle and bustle’ of working or city life.

• Festival Square (Tudor Square)

While not a permanent public space, Festival Square puts on shows throughout the year. Visitors and residents come to watch a variety of outdoor concerts, markets, and seasonal festivals, enjoying live performances, craft markets, and cultural celebrations. These events create a lively atmosphere, encouraging social connections and making Sheffield’s city centre a community hub for all ages.

With this eclectic mix of traditional attractions, modern entertainment, and community venues, living in Sheffield provides a plethora of opportunities to experience the arts, music, and culture in a number of different ways. Whether you’re a music lover with a heart set on attending regular live gigs, an art enthusiast looking to explore the latest exhibition, or enjoying a free family festival, the city offers entertainment options that cater to every walk of life.

Are Sheffield’s Schools Well-Regarded?

Yes, Sheffield is widely recognised for the quality of its education, offering a multitude of schooling options, including two highly regarded universities. The city’s strong academic reputation alongside its diverse learning opportunities, makes it a standout choice for families who are looking to prioritise education alongside affordable living.

While the best schools in Sheffield will depend on your own unique criteria and aims, many primary and secondary schools in Sheffield are recognised for their academic standards, community spirit, and extracurricular opportunities. In addition, the city also provides excellent special education provision and higher education pathways for older students.

Below we’ve highlighted some of the most sought-after primary and schools in Sheffield:

• Ecclesall Primary School

A highly regarded primary school known for its warm community feel and engaging teaching style. Eccelesall performs strongly in core subjects while encouraging creativity and curiosity, with a unique focus on outdoor learning.

• Dore Primary School

Rated highly in their recent Ofsted report, Dore Primary blends academic excellence with a nurturing approach to personal development, making it one of the most sought-after schools in Sheffield for young families.

• Silverdale School

Consistently ranked among Sheffield’s top-performing secondary schools, Silverdale is known for its impressive GCSE and A-Level results, as well as its inclusive and supportive environment.

• Tapton School

Achieving a rating of ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted, Tapton School is one of Sheffield’s leading state schools, offering a balance of academic excellence, sporting achievements, and extracurricular opportunities.

• Sheffield High School for Girls

One of Sheffield’s leading independent schools, Sheffield High School for Girls is renowned for its strong academic results, exceptional pastoral care, and a wide range of extracurricular opportunities designed to support students’ personal development.

Beyond primary and secondary education, Sheffield provides outstanding opportunities for further academic development through its world-renowned universities:

• University of Sheffield

A world-class institution and member of the Russell Group, the University of Sheffield is recognised for its research excellence and outstanding student experience. It plays a major role in the city’s economy and cultural life.

• Sheffield Hallam University

Offering a wide selection of vocational and professional degrees, Sheffield Hallam has a strong focus on employability and innovation, attracting students from across the UK and internationally.

This breadth of educational choice means families living in Sheffield can be confident that their children have access to high-quality education at every stage. For parents, this provides reassurance, knowing their children can grow, learn, and thrive in a supportive, local environment.

What Job Opportunities Are There in Sheffield?

There is a broad spectrum of employment opportunities in Sheffield, from advanced manufacturing and engineering to healthcare, digital industries and public services. Once famous for its manufacturing of steel, today, Sheffield provides a more holistic variety of jobs that align with different skills and ambitions.

Clearly illustrated in the table, Sheffield offers a range of jobs across a wide-range of sectors, catering to almost every professional path imaginable. So, whether you’re a recent graduate, a specialist seeking your next move, or a family relocating for work and quality of life, living and working in Sheffield offers solid career opportunities.

If Sheffield has made it onto your radar as a potential location for your home, then understanding exactly how much you can borrow, and exploring the most suitable mortgage options is a great place to start.

As a fee-free, whole-of-market mortgage broker, our dedicated team of advisers provides expert, impartial guidance to ensure you have access to the most competitive mortgage products available. At Boon Brokers, we listen to your requirements and long-term goals, comparing products across the market of lenders to find the mortgage that matches your every need.

What Are the Best Neighbourhoods to Live in Sheffield?

Deciding which is the best neighbourhood in Sheffield to live in will wholly depend on your preferred lifestyle, priorities, property type, and desired amenities. However, Sheffield as a whole is known for having a distinct mix of neighbourhoods, each offering its own blend of character, community, and convenience.

From peaceful suburbs surrounded by greenery to the busier inner-city areas filled with independent shops and cafés, Sheffield has a neighbourhood to suit every lifestyle and budget.

Below, we have created a short overview of some of the best areas to live in Sheffield:

Living in Fulwood

Fulwood is one of the city’s most desirable suburbs, offering a village-like feel with leafy streets, spacious homes, and a welcoming community. Its proximity to the Peak District makes it ideal for families who enjoy outdoor activities, while its excellent schools and local amenities add to its appeal.

Living in Ecclesall

Ecclesall is another top contender for those living in Sheffield. Known for its blend of traditional housing, green spaces, and vibrant shopping areas, like Ecclesall Road, residents will have access to reputable schools and family-friendly parks. Simply, Ecclesall is often considered one of the best areas to live in Sheffield for families.

Living in Dore

Located on the city’s southwest edge, Dore combines countryside tranquillity with easy city access. With its large detached homes, reputable schools, and village charm, Dore is a typically sought-after area for families who are seeking a quieter lifestyle, without sacrificing too much convenience of city life.

Living in Kelham Island

Once an industrial hub, Kelham Island has transformed into one of Sheffield’s trendiest districts. It’s home to stylish apartments, craft breweries, and independent restaurants, making it perfect for young professionals and creatives looking for a lively, urban atmosphere.

Living in Crookes

Popular with students and first-time buyers, Crookes offers a strong sense of community and easy access to both the University of Sheffield and the city centre. With its mix of character homes, cosy pubs, and scenic views, it’s a neighbourhood that feels both social and relaxed.

Is Sheffield a Good Place to Live?

While the answer to the question “Is Sheffield a nice place to live?” will depend on your personal preferences and lifestyle  – Sheffield is often praised as one of the UK’s most welcoming and affordable cities, and a perfect place to raise a family.

Life in the city is relaxed but varied. Areas like Fulwood and Ecclesall are most popular amongst families, while Kelham Island and Crookes broaden their attraction to include young professionals looking for trendy cafés, markets, and nightlife.

The city as a whole offers a variety of green spaces, and provides residents with easy access to enjoy the outdoors, whether for weekend walks or trips to the Peak District.

Overall, Sheffield blends opportunity, convenience, and lifestyle in a way few UK cities can. From affordable housing and excellent schools to culture, community, and outdoor spaces, it’s no wonder that Sheffield is considered one of the best cities to live in England. 

Get in Touch with a Sheffield Mortgage Broker

For most, the first step to securing a dream home is to secure the best mortgage deal. If you have your heart set on moving to Sheffield, then Boon Brokers is here to help you.

By working with Boon Brokers – a trusted mortgage broker in Sheffield – we can help you understand your finances and mortgage options. Our dedicated mortgage experts will listen to your needs and long-term goals, explaining the range of mortgage options that are available and match you with a variety of deals that fit your needs.

As a fee-free mortgage broker, we specialise in helping buyers secure the most suitable mortgage deals, all without a cost to your pockets. With whole-of-market access, we have a wide selection of lenders and products, giving you greater choice and flexibility when financing your move.

From handling the paperwork to liaising with lenders, our experts can help you compare rates, explain lender requirements, and manage the process from application to completion.

Contact Boon Brokers today to start your Sheffield property journey and find the mortgage that matches your every need.