Making a choice on a place to live has a major impact on your lifestyle both socially and financially. Suburbs or City Centre? the decision will undoubtedly shape or even change your future.

Below is a brief comparison on some of the factors you may want to consider when making that big decision. This question is particularly prevalent since the pandemic in which we have noticed increased enquiries for suburban life but what will happen in the long term?

City Centre (Downtown)

Social multi-cultural atmosphere

Manchester is a melting pot for both international students and young professionals with the universities injecting a young vibrant culture into the city that seems to pick you up and take you along for the ride. From Malaysian restaurants to alternative shopping centres there is something for everyone.

The ‘Mancunian’ temperament is surprisingly one of the warmest in the UK; nothing is too much effort and they’re always keen for some light hearted chat with a stranger – Especially when it comes to football chit-chat.

In summary feeling at home in the City Centre is easy to grasp socially and logistically. To help there are also great websites such as Meetup or Internations.

Transport

Transport in the City and Greater Manchester is fantastic, served by a well-run interconnected Tram, Rail and Bus routes, getting places is relatively easy. There are three main trains station in the city, Piccadilly, Oxford Road and Victoria tempting you with quick links to other major cities in the UK.

If its international transport that is required Manchester Airport to the South of the City is the 3rd largest in the country; with direct routes throughout Europe, North America and Asia.

One of the most convenient treasures of Manchester City Centre is you can WALK EVERYWHERE; the circumference of the centre is only just over 1 mile so everything can be reached by foot. Alternatively, if you’re not feeling too energetic then you also have the free bus system that runs throughout the City Centre.

Entertainment

There is no lack of diversity when it comes to things to do in the city. Museums are abundant and the architecture of the historical buildings are stunning even for the most travelled connoisseur.

If it’s more indulgent fun you are looking for, there are more bars and restaurants in Manchester to keep up with. They are plentiful but reasonable in price and if you are a savvy diner, there are offers on dining throughout the year. Keeping ahead of its peers when it comes to fresh ideas, Manchester has some of the most stimulating dining experiences.

It goes without saying there are two fantastically successful football clubs that the city is absorbed by, which pumps excitement into the city at least twice a week. A great tourist attraction but also anyone can become an adopted fan of the red or blues.

The Suburbs

Cost

Suburban life in Manchester is a little cheaper than the City with an approximate 10% – 20% saving when comparing equivalent rental properties. Not only this but from a social perspective eating / drinking out can be cheaper also with an average saving of 20% – 30%. With this in mind, the savings in the suburbs can soon add up to hundreds each month.

A lot of the popular suburbs tend to be South of the City with areas such as Didsbury, Chorlton, Cheadle and Altrincham liked by both families and young professionals. There are plenty of suburban gems not so well known too with the likes of Monton, Urmston and Prestwich all being great places to live as well as offering great rental value.

All of the above areas have the important fundamentals of good transport networks, pleasant village / town centres as well as good schooling and a community feel.

Space

In summary feeling at home in the City Centre is easy to grasp socially and logistically. To help there are also great websites such as

Not only do the suburbs offer more living space, the surrounding areas are more open with a range of parks, cycle routes and sporting fields all nearby for you to enjoy and unwind. This is certainly something to contemplate as not only do the outdoors have a positive impact on your physical and mental health but also your spouse and children.

Schooling

All of Greater Manchesters suburbs offer a range of state schools, with many of the popular suburbs having a selection of good and outstanding schools as rated by Ofsted. In addition to this, many suburbs will also have private schooling options for those families who prefer this route.

When relocating to Manchester and state schools are to be considered, please note that many of the popular state schools can be full and have waiting lists. If you wish for your children to join in an academic year then it is worthwhile to do your research on schooling availability prior to choosing a rental property. If the plan is for your children to join the following academic year (September) then primary applications have to be in by mid January and secondary applications by the end of October.

Should you wish for any further information or advice on specific areas please feel free to contact us for a no obligation chat on +44 (0) 161 282 5558 or myself personally at andrew.white@dmrelocation.com