When you visit Manchester, you’ll soon understand why It’s the UK’s second-most populous city. Boasting a rich history, a thriving economy, and vibrant nightlife, the diverse city offers a lot.
In recent years, the city of Manchester has become increasingly popular, making it one of the most desirable locations to live in the UK. If you’re wondering if Manchester lives up to the other cities in the world, read on. In this article, we will be sharing everything you need to know about moving to Manchester. From the cost of living in Manchester to transport links and entertainment, we’re on hand to help you get to know the city a little better.
Why you should consider moving to Manchester
There are plenty of reasons you should consider Manchester as your new home, but we’ll start with just five;
- Liveability – In 2018, The Economists’ Global Liveability Index’ voted Manchester as the most liveable of UK cities. The rankings are determined by education, healthcare, crime rates and social stability. Manchester was also voted the third best city in the world by Timeout (2021), coming after only San Francisco and Amsterdam.
- Great transport – Manchester boasts an excellent public transport system. It’s easy to get around the city with a free shuttle bus service, regular tram service, and easy access to the M60, M62, and M6 to get around the North West and beyond. Furthermore, with four train stations linking to all the UK’s major cities and Manchester International Airport just 10 miles from the city centre, getting away from the city is convenient too.
- Excellent education – Manchester University was ranked 29th in the world by QS world university rankings in 2020. As home to a student population of over 80,000 students, Manchester plays home to a buzzing student scene.
- Value for money – Compared to many places in the south of England, average prices in Manchester are much more affordable. This is a huge factor in many people moving from London to Manchester to work in the city.
- Diversity – from culture and history to shopping and restaurants, Manchester is truly a city that offers something for everyone.
Trust us, if you’ve yet to visit, you need to experience it first-hand!
The cost of living in Manchester
Although Manchester is quickly becoming a hub of the UK, it’s much cheaper to live in than its capital. According to Expatisian, the cost of living in Manchester is 32% cheaper than in London and cheaper than 52% of cities in Western Europe.
The data also suggests that the cost of living in Manchester is around 5% cheaper than Bristol and on par with cities including Birmingham, Glasgow, York and Edinburgh.
According to Expatisian, the average cost of living in Manchester for a family of four is around £3,234, with single-person estimated monthly costs around £1,753.
Working in Manchester
Manchester is a metropolitan area offering plenty of job opportunities spanning a range of industries such as finance, sales, retail and wholesale distribution, construction, and marketing. As the job market in Manchester is slightly less competitive than London, it’s easy to see why the city is appealing to young talent keen to work their way up the ladder.
Getting around Manchester
As mentioned, transport links in Manchester are excellent, with several ways of getting around the city.
- Tram – find out more about the fast and frequent service that operates in the city here.
- Bus – in addition to comprehensive bus routes, Manchester also offers a free hop-on, hop-off bus service linking the city’s train stations, shopping and business areas. Click here to find out more information on routes and timetables.
- Bike – if you’re a keen cycler, you’ll be glad to know Manchester boast plenty of dedicated cycle paths and routes – to view the cycling maps and route plans, head to the Travel for Greater Manchester website.
- Rail – the city is also well served by a local and national rail network. You can see timetables, plan your journey and get tickets here.
- Car – if you’d prefer to drive in the city, you’ll find plenty of car parking facilities on the Government website here.
For the foodies
Whether you’re looking for a budget bite to eat or you’re keen to splash the cash, one thing’s for sure; you’ll be spoilt for choice in Manchester. As home to over 650 restaurants, you’ll always find something that will hit the spot in the city. Foodie hotspots around Manchester include the renowned Curry Mile in Rusholme through to the city’s first Michelin-starred restaurant, Mana, in Ancoats. You’ll never tire of the options available, with such a huge range of British and international cuisines, there’s truly something for everyone.
Nightlife
In addition to an array of restaurants and cafes, Manchester City Centre is also home to a buzzing nightlife scene, with bars and clubs aplenty. With new places seeming to pop up every month, there’s almost no end to Manchester’s evening entertainment. From much-loved pubs and iconic clubs, you can count on Manchester to deliver a great night out.
Entertainment
You won’t be short of things to do in the city either. There’s a lot to be appreciated from the Manchester Art Gallery and Science and Industry Museum to Spinningfields, The Trafford Centre and The Printworks. So, whether you’re into art & culture, sporting events or live music, the jam-packed entertainment calendar in Manchester is sure to keep you busy.
Retail therapy
Manchester is a pretty good spot for shopping too. From The Royal Exchange Manchester to the iconic Arndale and Trafford Centre, you can shop until you drop. The city offers an excellent selection of department stores like Selfridges, House of Fraser, and John Lewis alongside plenty of independent, boutique shops in and around the Northern Quarter. For big-name brands, there’s even a nearby designer outlet, Cheshire Oaks.
To summarise, Manchester is a fantastic city with a whole lot of heart. From lower living costs, excellent transport links, a thriving industry to a rich culture, friendly people, and incredible nightlife, you’ll soon see why many people fall in love with the Northern gem.
Victoria Riverside
Victoria Riverside is a landmark development nestled between the greenery of City River Park and the vibrant city centre. Located in Manchester’s emerging Red Bank neighbourhood, the development is home to 634 brand new apartments and townhouses.
Boasting spacious open living, plan areas, floor-to-ceiling windows, and picture-perfect views, this modern apartment complex is second to none. Plus, with lush green space, a shared lounge and a 24/7 gym, you’ll have all the amenities you need when you choose Victoria Riverside as your new home.
If you’re interested in buying a new home at Victoria Riverside, get in touch with our friendly team today, and we’ll take it from there.
Interested in buying a new home at Victoria Riverside, get in touch today.