Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city, is a cultural and historical hub that attracts people from all over the world.
Whether you’re moving to Edinburgh for the first time, or looking to relocate within the city, choosing the right neighborhood can be tricky.
There are several factors to consider, such as accessibility, amenities, and safety.
Top 10 Places to live in Edinburgh in 2023
In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to the best areas to live in Edinburgh:
- Morningside
- Stockbridge
- The Grange
- Portobello
- New Town
- Cramond
- Leith
- Bruntsfield
- Dean Village
- Granton
A Brief Introduction to Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a city that is steeped in history and culture. It’s home to iconic landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Mile, and Arthur’s Seat. The city’s rich history can be seen in the grand Georgian architecture of the New Town, as well as the cobblestone streets of the Old Town. Additionally, Edinburgh is known for its world-class festivals, such as the Edinburgh Fringe and the Edinburgh International Festival.
The City’s Rich History
Edinburgh has a fascinating history that stretches back over a thousand years. The city was founded in the 7th century, and went on to become the capital of Scotland in the 15th century. Over the years, Edinburgh has been home to kings and queens, scholars and artists, and has played a significant role in shaping Scottish culture and politics.
One of the most interesting periods in Edinburgh’s history is the Scottish Enlightenment, which took place in the 18th century. During this time, Edinburgh became a hub of intellectual and cultural activity, with philosophers, writers, and scientists gathering in the city to exchange ideas and debate the big questions of the day. Some of the most famous figures of the Scottish Enlightenment include philosopher David Hume, economist Adam Smith, and poet Robert Burns.
Edinburgh’s Unique Neighborhoods
Edinburgh is made up of several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm and character. From the upmarket New Town to the bohemian Leith, there’s something for everyone in Edinburgh.
The Old Town is perhaps the most famous of Edinburgh’s neighborhoods, with its winding streets and historic buildings. One of the most interesting parts of the Old Town is the Royal Mile, a street that runs from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Along the way, visitors can explore a variety of historic buildings and attractions, including St Giles’ Cathedral, the Museum of Edinburgh, and the Real Mary King’s Close.
The New Town, on the other hand, is a masterpiece of Georgian architecture and town planning. Built in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the New Town was designed to be a spacious and elegant residential area for Edinburgh’s wealthy citizens. Today, the New Town is home to a variety of high-end shops, restaurants, and cultural institutions, including the Scottish National Gallery and the Royal Scottish Academy.
Leith, meanwhile, is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood that has undergone significant regeneration in recent years. Once a bustling port town, Leith is now home to a variety of trendy bars, restaurants, and galleries, as well as the Royal Yacht Britannia, the former yacht of the British royal family.
Overall, Edinburgh is a city that offers something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just a good time. With its stunning architecture, world-class festivals, and unique neighborhoods, it’s no wonder that Edinburgh is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Area
Choosing the perfect area to live in Edinburgh can be a daunting task, especially if you’re new to the city. However, by considering a few important factors, you can make the process much easier. Here are some of the most important things to think about when choosing an area:
Proximity to Work and Schools
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing an area in Edinburgh is its proximity to your workplace and schools. If you work in the city center, you’ll want to choose an area that’s easy to get to by public transport or on foot. This will save you time and money on transportation costs. Similarly, if you have children, you’ll want to choose an area that’s close to good schools. Edinburgh has a wide range of excellent schools, so you’re sure to find one that meets your needs.
Public Transportation and Accessibility
Edinburgh has an excellent public transport system, including buses, trams, and a suburban railway network. When choosing an area to live in, it’s important to consider how easy it is to get around, especially if you don’t have a car. Living near a bus stop or tram station can make your daily commute much easier and more convenient. Additionally, if you enjoy exploring the city, you’ll want to choose an area that’s easily accessible to public transport links.
Local Amenities and Attractions
Edinburgh is home to a wide variety of local amenities, such as shops, restaurants, and cafes. When choosing an area to live in, consider what you need in your day-to-day life, and choose an area that can provide those amenities. For example, if you’re a foodie, you’ll want to choose an area with a good selection of restaurants and cafes. Similarly, if you enjoy shopping, you’ll want to choose an area with a variety of shops. It’s also worth considering what attractions are nearby, such as parks, museums, and galleries. Living in an area with plenty of local attractions can make your downtime much more enjoyable.
Safety and Crime Rates
While Edinburgh is generally a safe city, crime rates can vary from neighborhood to neighborhood. Do some research and choose an area that has low crime rates and a good reputation for safety. This will give you peace of mind and ensure that you feel comfortable in your new home. Additionally, living in a safe area can help to lower your home insurance costs.
By considering these important factors, you can choose the perfect area to live in Edinburgh. Whether you’re looking for a bustling city center location or a quiet suburban area, there’s sure to be an area that meets your needs.
Top Neighborhoods for Families
Choosing the right neighborhood for your family is an important decision. You want to find a place that is safe, has good schools, and offers plenty of amenities and activities for your family to enjoy. Here are some additional details about the top neighborhoods for families in Edinburgh:
Morningside
Morningside is a sought-after neighborhood that has become increasingly popular with young families and professionals. It’s located just south of the city center, making it an ideal location for those who want to be close to the action but still enjoy a quieter, residential area.
One of the biggest draws of Morningside is its excellent schools. The area is home to several highly-rated primary schools, including South Morningside Primary School and St Peter’s RC Primary School. For older children, Boroughmuir High School is located nearby.
In addition to its schools, Morningside is known for its green spaces. The area is home to several parks, including Braidburn Valley Park and Morningside Park. These parks offer plenty of space for children to run around and play, as well as opportunities for picnics and outdoor activities.
For those who enjoy shopping and dining out, Morningside has plenty to offer. The area is home to a variety of independent shops and cafes, as well as several supermarkets and convenience stores. There are also several pubs and restaurants in the area, offering everything from traditional Scottish fare to international cuisine.
Stockbridge
Stockbridge is a charming neighborhood located just north of the city center. It’s known for its picturesque Georgian architecture, independent shops and cafes, and proximity to the Water of Leith, a beautiful riverside walkway.
For families, Stockbridge is an excellent choice due to its excellent schools. The area is home to several highly-rated primary schools, including Stockbridge Primary School and Flora Stevenson Primary School. For older children, Broughton High School is located nearby.
In addition to its schools, Stockbridge offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The Water of Leith walkway is a popular spot for families to enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride. There are also several parks in the area, including Inverleith Park and the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.
For those who enjoy shopping and dining out, Stockbridge has plenty to offer. The area is home to a variety of independent shops and cafes, as well as several supermarkets and convenience stores. There are also several pubs and restaurants in the area, offering everything from traditional Scottish fare to international cuisine.
Cramond
Cramond is a coastal suburb located to the northwest of the city center. It’s a popular area for families due to its excellent schools, green spaces, and easy access to the beach.
One of the biggest draws of Cramond is its proximity to the beach. The area is home to Cramond Beach, a popular spot for families to enjoy a day out. The beach offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles.
Cramond is also known for its excellent schools. The area is home to several highly-rated primary schools, including Cramond Primary School and Davidson’s Mains Primary School. For older children, The Royal High School is located nearby.
In addition to its schools and beach, Cramond offers plenty of green spaces for families to enjoy. The area is home to Cramond Park, a large park that offers plenty of space for children to run around and play. There are also several walking and cycling paths in the area, including the Cramond to Leith Walkway.
For those who need to commute to the city center, Cramond has good transport links. The area is served by several bus routes, making it easy to get to and from the city center.
Overall, Edinburgh has plenty of great neighborhoods for families to choose from. Whether you’re looking for excellent schools, green spaces, or easy access to local amenities, there is sure to be a neighborhood that meets your needs.
Best Areas for Young Professionals
If you’re a young professional looking for the perfect place to live in Edinburgh, you’re in luck. The city has a variety of neighborhoods that are popular with people just like you. Here are some of the best areas to consider:
Leith
Leith is a neighborhood located to the north of the city center. It’s a vibrant and lively area that’s popular with young professionals for many reasons. For starters, it’s home to a thriving arts and culture scene, with galleries, theaters, and live music venues all within easy reach. The area is also known for its variety of independent shops, cafes, and bars, which offer plenty of options for socializing with friends or meeting new people. And if you need to get into the city center, Leith has good transport links, with buses and trams running regularly.
New Town
The New Town is an upmarket area located in the heart of the city. It’s known for its grand Georgian architecture, which gives it a sense of history and elegance. But despite its high-end reputation, the New Town is also a popular area for young professionals who want to be close to the action. The area has a great selection of shopping and dining options, with everything from luxury boutiques to trendy cafes and restaurants. And if you’re looking for a night out, you’ll be spoiled for choice with the many bars and clubs in the area. Of course, living in the New Town can be pricey, but many young professionals find that the convenience and excitement of the area are well worth the cost.
Bruntsfield
Bruntsfield is a neighborhood located to the south of the city center. It’s a popular area for young professionals for several reasons. For one thing, it has good transport links, with buses and trams running regularly to the city center. But perhaps more importantly, Bruntsfield has an excellent selection of independent shops, cafes, and bars, which give the area a unique and vibrant character. And if you’re looking for green spaces, Bruntsfield has plenty to offer, including Bruntsfield Links, which is a large public park that’s perfect for picnics, jogging, or just relaxing with a book on a sunny day.
So there you have it – three of the best areas for young professionals in Edinburgh. Whether you’re looking for culture, convenience, or just a great place to hang out with friends, these neighborhoods are sure to have something to offer.
Most Affordable Neighborhoods
Gorgie
Gorgie is an affordable neighborhood located to the west of the city center. It’s well-connected by public transport and has a good selection of local amenities, including shops, cafes, and restaurants. Gorgie is also home to the Tynecastle Stadium, the home ground of Heart of Midlothian Football Club.
Granton
Granton is a coastal suburb located to the north of the city center. It’s an up-and-coming area that’s popular with young professionals and families. Granton has good transport links to the city center, as well as a variety of local amenities.
The Grange
The Grange is an upmarket area located to the south of the city center. It’s known for its grand Victorian and Edwardian architecture, as well as its excellent selection of shops and cafes. The Grange is also home to several prestigious schools and is well-connected by public transport.
Merchiston
Merchiston is an affluent area located to the southwest of the city center. It’s known for its grand Georgian townhouses and excellent schools. Merchiston is also home to several green spaces, including Harrison Park and the Union Canal.
Murrayfield
Murrayfield is an exclusive area located to the west of the city center. It’s home to Murrayfield Stadium, the home ground of the Scottish National Rugby Team. Murrayfield is also known for its grand Victorian and Edwardian architecture, as well as its excellent shopping and dining options.
Exploring Edinburgh’s Hidden Gems
Dean Village
Dean Village is a picturesque neighborhood located to the northwest of the city center. It’s known for its charming cobbled streets and quaint cottages. Although it’s a quiet residential area, Dean Village has a good selection of local amenities, including shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Portobello
Portobello is a coastal suburb located to the east of the city center. It’s known for its sandy beach and historic promenade, as well as its good selection of independent shops and cafes. Portobello is also home to several excellent schools and has good transport links to the city center.
Duddingston
Duddingston is a historic village located to the east of the city center. It’s best known for its beautiful loch and nature reserve, as well as its charming Old Town area. Duddingston is a peaceful and scenic area that’s popular with walkers and nature enthusiasts.
Making Your Decision
Weighing the Pros and Cons
When making your decision about where to live in Edinburgh, it’s important to weigh up the pros and cons of each area. Consider what’s important to you, such as proximity to work, schools, or local amenities.
Visiting the Neighborhoods
If possible, it’s a good idea to visit the neighborhoods you’re considering before making a decision. Take a walk around the area, visit the local shops and cafes, and get a sense of what it’s like to live there.
Finding Your Perfect Home in Edinburgh
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly neighborhood, a luxury apartment, or an affordable suburb, Edinburgh has something for everyone.
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Use the tips in this article to help you make an informed decision, and find your perfect home in this beautiful city.
