Bristol, the largest city in the southwest of England and the eighth largest in the UK, is home to a diverse population of around 472,000. It has become a favoured destination for expats due to its moderate climate, striking natural beauty, and the dynamic job market. Renowned for its vibrant multicultural atmosphere, Bristol hosts various social and cultural events throughout the year. The city and its picturesque surroundings offer a harmonious blend of cosmopolitan living, serene countryside escapes, and waterside lifestyles.
Bristol presents an array of opportunities for expats, whether their stay is long-term, short-term, or somewhere in between. An additional perk of living in Bristol is its proximity to London and Cardiff, just a 90-minute train ride away. If you're seeking an affordable and less crowded alternative to London in the UK, Bristol might be the perfect fit for you!
Why live in Bristol
What makes a real difference when budgeting your life in Bristol compared to London is the cost of accommodation, which is significantly less in Bristol. According to the Numbeo global database, for a single person in Bristol, you need about £970 per month for living costs without rent. Rent varies between £700 for a one-bedroom flat and £1500 for a three-bedroom property. Talent.com estimates the average salary in Bristol to be £35,000. On top of that, in Bristol, you will have more time for yourself, leisure activities, and family moments since commuting in Bristol is faster and easier due to the city's size and population. Besides, Bristol has one prime centre and few hubs dotted around the city like London.
Living and working in Bristol means enjoying the coast and countryside either on foot or through the many cycle trails on the weekends. Some of the natural highlights that are easily accessible from Bristol are the Cotswolds rolling hills, the coastlines of Cornwall and Devon, and scenic Wales. The city is also renowned for its culinary scene, bustling nightlife, independent shops, and unique festivals such as the Bristol International (hot air) Balloon Fiesta, Bristol Harbour Festival, and Upfest, Europe's largest street art and graffiti festival.
Everyday life in Bristol is as calm as you want it to be. Bristol has a great community feel, and people are keen on volunteering their free time and skills. If you wish to give back to the community, check out Bristol's Second Step mental health charity. If you are commuting, Bristol has two train stations: Bristol Temple Meads railway station serving the city centre and Bristol Parkway on the South Wales Main Line in the northern suburbs of Bristol. Rural Somerset and South Gloucestershire are easily accessible, meaning that one can live there to enjoy a peaceful lifestyle and commute to work in busier Bristol. On the weekends, you can even cycle to the historic city of Bath along the scenic Railway Path.
Good to know:
Llandoger Trow is the most famous pub in Bristol. This Tudor-style bar was initially used to accommodate pirates, soldiers, and sailors and has many secret tunnels discovered during its refurbishment in the 1960s.
The most popular neighbourhoods in Bristol
The city is divided into three districts, catering to different budgets, tastes, and lifestyles. In any case, it's a good idea to make sure you carry out your personal research on each area before choosing the one that suits you best. Since COVID-19, the lifestyle of people in Bristol has also changed, with many moving to the suburbs and voluntarily leaving the city centre for more indoor and outdoor space in their homes. Therefore, demand has risen, meaning that rent is also rising for specific types of accommodation and particular locations.
Redcliffe and the City Centre
Undoubtedly, the city centre is the most popular area in Bristol thanks to its amazingly bustling social life and the number of companies it is home to. Getting around the city is easy, thanks to the top-notch transportation network. However, accommodation can be costly. Redcliffe, a commercial hub, is the core of the city centre, surrounded by the River Avon and the Floating Harbour. Here, you will admire medieval landmarks such as the Gothic-style St Mary Redcliffe Church and the 200-year-old iconic Temple Meads railway station. The area is in high demand, mainly due to the new waterfront development, selling out before construction.
Good to know:
St Mary Redcliffe Church is a Grade 1 listed building in Bristol. A Grade 1 building is a site of historical, architectural, and national importance in the UK.
Totterdown
A reasonable option for living is Totterdown, especially for those with a low budget. It is an elevated urban village which is located beside the train stations. The area is hippy, innovative and comprises several pubs. Surrounded by hills, Totterdown also boasts about its many colourful houses that create a unique ambience. The developing creative centre, referred to as Paintworks, provides excellent work–life balance thanks to its cultural space in a riverside industrial estate.
Good to know:
Totterdown is renowned for its iconic, brightly colored houses, Instagram-worthy graffiti, and whimsical artworks that can be found throughout the neighborhood.
Clifton
If you're looking for an area with large and beautiful terraced houses and squares, Clifton suburb is the place to be. This neighbourhood has many cultural attractions, including museums and art galleries. Clifton also comprises many boutiques and independent coffee shops, among other Georgian symmetrical architecture, all of which make Clifton's streets worth exploring and discovering. You've likely encountered or glimpsed the Clifton Suspension Bridge spanning the River Avon and the striking Avon Gorge. This iconic landmark is not only synonymous with Clifton, but also represents Bristol as a whole, offering panoramic views.
Good to know:
Avon Gorge has over 30 kinds of plants, making it one of the UK's best botanical gardens.
Montpelier and Kingsdown
Montpelier and Kingsdown have become famous thanks to their bohemian multicultural and urban feel. It has stunning views which attract a lot of visitors. Montpelier offers a similar standard of living to Clifton, but it is slightly cheaper. Kingsdown borders Montpelier, and it has a much calmer atmosphere. It is characterised by its Georgian houses, cobbled streets and squares, and an all-important view of Bristol.
Good to know:
Montpelier is a bohemian hotspot, home to several tea rooms and cosy cafes.
Redland and Cotham
Another popular place to live in Bristol is Redland and Cotham. Prices here are on the higher end, but the area's atmosphere and its conveniences ultimately justify the accommodation cost. It is close to the best schools in Bristol, with several green spaces, picturesque spots, and Victorian houses.
Good to know:
Most Redland and Cotham inhabitants are young families, couples, and professionals. It is also popular for second- and third-year University students. Other popular areas in Bristol include Stoke Park, Bishopston, Fishponds, and Bedminster.
Types of accommodation in Bristol
In Bristol, your accommodation search will span apartments, different types of houses (e.g., semi-detached and detached), studios, and rooms in shared accommodation, most popular among students. Compared to other northern cities, Bristol is relatively more expensive to rent and buy, but it accommodates a variety of tastes and budgets. Rent prices vary according to the area and the accommodation type. According to Zoopla, if you want to buy a two-bedroom flat in Bristol, you will have to be ready to pay about £250,000.
Bristol accommodation is in high demand, and maybe the Bristol housing market won't be able to accommodate everyone's needs, so it is best to research thoroughly and follow proactive steps as highlighted below:
- Sort all essential documents out;
- Subscribe for the available property alerts list;
- Do online research and meet agents in person;
- Be quick to visit the accommodation of your choice;
- Respond and close the deal early.
Tip:
Keep an eye on Expat.com's England housing tab for newly available properties in the city. In addition, join the England forum to ask questions about accommodation in Bristol or spread the word that you are looking for a house or apartment yourself. Expat.com's community is always keen to help!
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