Situated in the Yorkshire and Humber region, Leeds stands as one of the UK's most vibrant and diverse cities, serving as a hub for culture and commerce. With a population of approximately 812,000, the city boasts a lively culture, thriving nightlife, and a wide range of professional opportunities making it a favoured destination for expats living in England. Leeds accommodates various budget preferences when it comes to housing. However, it's advisable to select a neighbourhood that aligns with your specific needs. Let's now delve into a closer examination of Leeds' neighbourhoods and the associated types and costs of accommodations available.
Why live in Leeds
Yorkshire Dales National Park offers a great escape on a good-weathered weekend. However, one of the most wonderful things about living in Leeds is that you don't have to leave the city to enjoy nature and clear your mind. Leeds is home to one of the biggest city parks in Europe, Roundhay Park, with a vast area of parkland, lakes, woodland, and seasonal gardens. Besides sports activities such as tennis, golf, and fishing, you can indulge in birdwatching. Life in Leeds revolves a lot around cricket and rugby. The Yorkshire County Cricket Club is among the best globally, and the Leeds Rhinos rugby team is among the most successful in Super League history.
If you are into art and culture, the Henry Moore Institute is a centre for studying and enjoying sculpture. If you want to delve into the history and heritage of the city where you'll live and work for the next few months, visiting the Leeds City Museum is a must. It provides an informative introduction to your new home! Leeds has a long film tradition and inspired JRR Tolkien, the author of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings.
Good to know:
Marks and Spencer, one of the UK's most iconic grocery stores, started in Leeds Kirkgate Market in 1884.
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Leeds International Film Festival
The most popular neighbourhoods in Leeds
Leeds has some of the coolest neighbourhoods in England, offering a variety of accommodation types, activities, and, of course, costs. There's something for every expat, whether solo expats, professionals, or arriving in Leeds with their family. So, here are some recommendations for central neighbourhoods, quieter suburbs, and anything in between.
Leeds Waterfront
Leeds Waterfront is in the city centre, boasting the most urban and attractive lifestyle in Leeds, as well as an efficient transportation network, diverse culture, and social scenes. It is located next to the River Aire, making it the ideal place to enjoy a riverside living space. The presence of quirky converted, red brick buildings such as Dye Works and Engine House make Leeds Waterfront unique and offer the possibility of living in an utterly urban setting at a cost. Leeds Waterfront's inhabitants mainly comprise professionals and commuters of all ages.
Chapel Allerton
Chapel Allerton is another bustling suburb. It is one of the most popular places to live in Leeds. It is a five-minute walking distance from the city centre. Its proximity and wide range of bars, independent cafés, shops, and delis contribute to its attractiveness. Every year, the neighbourhood hosts the Chapel Allerton Leeds Festival, filled with food stalls, live music, and art workshops.
Horsforth
Young people trying to escape the stressful city centre are the string behind this neighbourhood's popularity. It is a well connected and vibrant suburb where getting around is easy, the nightlife is superb, and there are several shops and parks for convenience's sake. Most of its inhabitants are young professionals, families, and commuters. Horsforth is known for the Hall Park, with a cricket pitch, Japanese garden, and skate park — making it an ideal place to socialise or exercise.
Roundhay
Roundhay has several attractions, with the main one being the beautiful Roundhay Park. If you want green spaces and urban areas, Roundhay is your shot. There are several delis, shops, and a good transportation network in this neighbourhood. This is a preferred option for young professionals, couples, and families due to Roundhay's proximity to major employers. The Leeds City Council can be found in this neighbourhood and is an important source of employment.
Alwoodley
One of the most affluent areas in Leeds is Alwoodley. Living in this area is expensive since the best schools in Leeds are located here. Commuters also find it to be the perfect place because it is close to the ring road. Alwoodley is home to several fabulous sites like Tudor House (characterised by the steeply pitched roof with a facade that's covered in brick and accented with half-timber framing) and other notable architectural buildings. If you are a golf player, this neighbourhood is known to have some of the best golf clubs in West Yorkshire. Most of its inhabitants are families and locals who are in their 30s.
Leeds Campus
Leeds is a university city, with many international students studying at one of the city's higher education institutions. Part of the Russell Group, the University of Leeds is one of the top universities in the country and Europe. Its campus is one of the largest in the UK. Students find it perfect for accommodation solutions as they can focus fully on their student life while paying affordable rent prices. Still, the campus is very close to the city centre, allowing for weekend outings and party nights.
Headingley
Many consider Headingley as a student area. Many locals also enjoy staying here thanks to its shops, bars, and cafés. With two train stations, commuting is easy. This neighbourhood is especially popular with students and young commuters aged between 20 and 30. This area is also home to Headingley Stadium, which hosts world-class cricket and rugby events.
Other nice neighbourhoods in Leeds
Not so well-known, but there are some other locations that are worth considering in Leeds as they are often more affordable and offer a quality of life.
The Northern Quarter
Northern Quarter is located in the city centre. It comprises several mills and factory buildings converted to apartments. It is also close to the regenerated market area and Victoria Gate. This neighbourhood is inhabited by people of various backgrounds and ages.
Oakwood
Oakwood is located between Harehills and Roundhay, with its identity lying between the two. Oakwood offers a top-quality urban lifestyle and access to several bars, cafes, etc. Living here is cheap, the cost is around 25% lower than in Roundhay. This neighbourhood is favoured by young people, couples, and families. Oakwood's location is prime with just a 10-minute drive or a 20-minute bus journey to the centre.
Rodley and Caverly
If you're looking for a peaceful and beautiful environment, Rodley and Caverly are the two-canal side areas to explore. Although far away from the city centre, it is close to Horsforth and comprises several bars, cafes and pubs and offers a village feel. It is particularly appreciated by young families and couples.
Holbeck
Holbeck is an upcoming area worth considering where rent is still considered affordable. It comprises many residential buildings like Granary Wharf. This neighbourhood mainly attracts creative minds, young professionals, and commuters in their mid-20s and early 30s. As part of its history, Holbeck hosts Britain's oldest social club.
Types of accommodation in Leeds
Leeds offers various types of accommodation options, but you are advised to research thoroughly before relocating there. Consider the different neighbourhoods, your budget, and the kind of accommodation that best suits your needs. From student halls, traditional houses, and cottages to apartments, there is something for everyone. Since it's the country's third-largest job market, there's high demand for accommodation throughout the year, and many new expats arrive annually to live and work in Leeds.
Rent prices generally vary according to the neighbourhood and type of accommodation. According to Numbeo, rent in Leeds can be around £844 for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre and £1,606 for a three-bedroom house.
Good to know:
Since Leeds used to be a leading industrial region, you can find several factories that have been converted into living and working spaces.
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