The best cities for starting your career and buying a home
If you’re considering relocating to start your career (or pivot into a new one), but aren’t sure where to go, you’ve come to the right place. Here, we’re exploring the best cities with employment and homeownership opportunities for first time buyers. Get ready to broaden your horizons in one of these thriving locations.
London
According to Trust For London, almost half of the inner London population comprises people in their early twenties to early forties, credited to the fact that they came to the capital for their careers. Considering the diverse range of industries based in the capital, from finance and law to fashion and media, it’s easy to understand why so many people choose to move here. Plus, the job market includes many entry-level roles and graduate schemes, making it an attractive place to start your career as you mean to go on in one of the world’s leading economic hubs.
If you’re considering moving to the capital, you may be wondering what options are available to you as a young professional. If you’re a first time buyer in London, you could be eligible for Shared Ownership or London Living Rent, two buying schemes that can be a more affordable route to homeownership compared to buying on the open market.
Brighton
Due to its coastal setting, Georgian heritage, and liberal culture, Brighton has long attracted creative people wanting to call the city home. Alongside this artistic community, the city’s thriving industries span digital, finance, advanced engineering, and health and life sciences. Thousands of businesses in Brighton operate in these sectors and provide employment opportunities, making it an ideal location for Gen Z individuals seeking a place for their careers to flourish. If you’re a member of this generation, you could realise your dream of owning a home with Shared Ownership, ideal for first time buyers in Brighton.
Cambridge
The technology industry in Cambridge represents 18% of UK tech at large, making the city a hub for employment. It’s home to prominent tech firms and startups, specialising in everything from cyber security to biomedicine, with many offering work opportunities for graduates. Whether staying on after studying at the university or moving here for a job, you could find your perfect home as a first time buyer in Cambridge through the likes of Shared Ownership and Discount Market Sale.
Bristol
If you’re seeking a career in aerospace or media, Bristol could be the ideal location for you. This city in South West England is synonymous with British aircraft manufacturing, from planes to hot air balloons. Alongside nearby Bath, it’s also the third-largest media hub in the UK, with the region hosting over 190 production companies across the TV and film, gaming and animation sectors. As a Bristol resident and first time buyer, you could be eligible for Shared Ownership homes in the city, including resales and new builds.
Leeds
Leeds is the UK’s leading legal and financial centre outside of London. Additionally, the local economy is powered by the digital, creative and construction industries, resulting in a diverse job market. The city also offers a lower cost of living than some other major cities in the UK, making it a viable location for starting your career and potentially purchasing a home. If you think it could be the place for you, explore Shared Ownership properties and other home-buying schemes perfect for first time buyers in Leeds.
Newcastle
There’s lots on offer for first time buyers in Newcastle, including lively nightlife, a growing economy and Shared Ownership options, making it ideal for young professionals seeking work-life balance. Even better, this North East metropolis is one of the least expensive cities to live in the UK. Regarding employment opportunities, you can expect to find roles in key industries such as healthcare and education, as well as developing sectors like technology and digital marketing. Plus, when it comes to getting on the property ladder in Newcastle during the early stages of your career, Shared Ownership provides an accessible path to buying a home.
At Share to Buy, we make your choice easier with a selection of new-build homes and resale properties across England, available through alternative homeownership schemes such as Shared Ownership. Get your home-buying journey underway using our property portal.