Moving to Manchester: Why everyone loves this northern city
Considering the bee is its official symbol (and one you’ll see references to all over the city), it makes sense that Manchester is a buzzing metropolis. This energetic atmosphere attracts students, professionals and families alike, contributing to its growing population which is projected to increase from 600,000 to 630,000 over the next few years.
Boasting a rich cultural scene, developing neighbourhoods, excellent transport links and more, Manchester offers a lot to those who call it home. If you’re considering moving to Manchester, here’s an overview of what you can expect from living in this city.
The benefits of living in Manchester
Manchester is a popular alternative to London thanks to its lower cost of living (a whopping 20.7% less than the capital) and thriving industries with excellent job opportunities. Key sectors include manufacturing, technology and life sciences, but the city is also a hub for fashion, media and sports, with world-renowned companies, established businesses and ambitious startups integral to the local economy.
The best areas to live in Manchester
Manchester has diverse neighbourhoods catering to different lifestyles, ensuring something for everyone. If you don’t currently own a home in the UK and want to know what your home-buying options are in Manchester, Shared Ownership could be your ideal solution. This first time buyer scheme enables you to purchase part of your home and pay subsidised rent on the part you don’t own, with the option to buy more shares in the future.
New-build developments with Shared Ownership homes in Manchester include L&Q at Victoria Riverside in Red Bank, right next to the Green Quarter and Victoria Station, and Islington Wharf from Latimer by Clarion Housing Group in New Islington, a regenerated area forming part of Ancoats, which The Times has previously named one of the best places to live in the UK.
Manchester’s cultural and music scene
From shopping in Manchester Arndale and the Jewellery Quarter to nights out in the Northern Quarter, you’ll never be short of things to do in Manchester city centre. There’s a wide range of cultural attractions to experience. You can delve into history at the Manchester Museum and the Imperial War Museum North, or explore art exhibitions at the Manchester Art Gallery, the Whitworth and HOME.
Manchester’s creative legacy is rooted in music, having produced legendary acts including Oasis, The Stone Roses and The Chemical Brothers, to name a few. Today, Manchester remains a top destination for live music and entertainment, with numerous venues across the city, from small clubs to vast arenas.
Manchester public transport links
Manchester city centre and the surrounding neighbourhoods are well connected by the local public transport links, including buses and trams. The city has three train stations – Piccadilly, Oxford Road and Victoria – providing services to key destinations in the North and the rest of the UK. Manchester is also bike-friendly, with dedicated cycle lanes and routes throughout the city. Manual and electric bikes can be hired from various locations, ensuring you can easily get around on two wheels.
At Share to Buy, we make your choice easier with a selection of new-build homes across England, available through alternative homeownership schemes such as Shared Ownership. Get your home-buying journey underway using our property portal.