Revealed: the British city with the best quality of life (2024)

FAQs

Which city in the UK has the best quality of life? ›

Edinburgh was also named the UK's best place to live in a national survey conducted by the resident review site, HomeViews. Locals cited its green spaces, local amenities, safety, public transport, and great pubs and restaurants among its top attractions.

London, city, capital of the United Kingdom. It is among the oldest of the world's great cities—its history spanning nearly two millennia—and one of the most cosmopolitan. By far Britain's largest metropolis, it is also the country's economic, transportation, and cultural center.

The Scottish seaside town of North Berwick in East Lothian has been named the best place to live in an annual guide. It topped a list of 72 locations chosen by The Sunday Times to represent the best of the UK in the annual Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide.

Ann Arbor is the best U.S. city for quality of life. More than 90% of the city's residents live less than a 10-minute from a public park, according to the U.S. News and World report. A 2023 SmartAsset study report says Ann Arbor saw its Gen Z population — those ages 18 to 24 — grow the fastest in 2022.

This list of towns and cities in England ordered by population, defined as built-up areas and compiled by the Office for National Statistics after the 2021 UK Census. London is not defined for the census as a built-up area, the city of Birmingham is therefore has the highest population.

Colchester is said to be the oldest recorded town in Britain on the grounds that it was mentioned by Pliny the Elder, who died in AD 79, although the Celtic name of the town, Camulodunon appears on coins minted by tribal chieftain Tasciovanus in the period 20–10 BC.

Politically, too, New York may be more like England than any other American state. In both England and New York, geographically small, densely populated urban islands stand out from the expanses of countryside around them.

Boston. Known for its rich history and colonial-era architecture, Boston has a certain charm reminiscent of London or Dublin.

It's no surprise that New York City is home to the most amount of Brits. However, Portsmouth, is where you are most likely to run into one.

What part of England has the nicest people? ›

Newcastle. And the winner out of all the friendliest cities in the UK? Newcastle takes top spot thanks to its lively locals, engaging social scene and ease of access for first time visitors. It's family-friendly and safe, with heaps of culture and makes visitors soon feel like locals.

Scotland is a beautiful country to live in. The natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands, the Argyll Coast and the Isle of Skye are unmatched. For those looking for a quieter pace of life, Scotland is a great place to consider. In comparison to England, the cost of living is significantly lower, as are property prices.

Cost of Living:

If you're looking for an affordable places to live in the UK, Lancaster is your best bet. With average monthly rent being only around £567 in the town and £440 outside of the city—Utility bills costing an approximate £172—Lancaster has got you covered.

The UK generally offers a more favorable work-life balance compared to the USA, as work hours tend to be shorter and vacation time more generous. The UK is more ethically diverse, whereas the USA is more racially diverse. Both countries provide various cultural and outdoor activities.