Do you want to know what living in Nottingham is really like? Known as Robin Hood’s city, Nottingham is where ancient and modern life coexist harmoniously. But beyond the legends, what is daily life here actually like? Which areas are best to live in? Is Nottingham a nice place to live as a student? In this article, we’ll uncover the truth about life in Nottingham, from housing and cost of living to entertainment and education. Whether you’re planning to move or just curious about this fascinating city, keep reading to find out why Nottingham stands out as a fantastic place to live, work, and study.
Living in Nottingham: Is it a nice place to live?
Is Nottingham a good place to live? The answer is a resounding “yes”. Located in the heart of England, Nottingham is one of the key cities in the East Midlands, known for its rich industrial history and the legendary tales of Robin Hood. In recent years, its appeal has grown significantly, earning it a spot on The Times’ list of the best places to live in the UK in 2020. Overall, Nottingham is a highly livable city for several compelling reasons:
- Charming Blend of Tradition and Modernity. Nottingham is a spirited city where rich history and youthful energy coexist harmoniously. Its streets are lined with classic British-style buildings, many of which have been carefully renovated to house trendy restaurants, cafés, and boutiques.
- Affordable Cost of Living. Compared to larger cities in the UK, the cost of living here is much more affordable, with the average monthly living cost (excluding rent) around £821.4, significantly lower than in other major cities.
- Convenient Transportation. The city also boasts an excellent transport network, including well-connected train, bus, and road services, making it easy for residents to get around. With East Midlands Airport and Birmingham Airport nearby, international travel is also convenient.
- Relatively Low Crime Rate. As for safety, Nottingham’s crime rate is lower than that of London, offering residents a relatively secure environment.
Living in Nottingham: Best places to live in Nottingham
What’s it like living in Nottingham? Which areas are the best places to live? What makes them livable? Let’s dive in and explore!
Nottingham City Centre: The City Centre is one of the busiest and most popular areas in Nottingham. It offers a wide range of facilities, including shopping malls, restaurants, bars, and hospitals, all meeting the daily needs of residents. Although property prices in this area are relatively high, its prime location, abundant entertainment options, and vibrant urban atmosphere make it one of the most desirable places to live in Nottingham.
Beeston: Beeston is located in the southwest of Nottingham, adjacent to the University of Nottingham University Park Campus. It offers a variety of affordable apartments and terraced houses that cater to both students and young professionals. In addition, the nearby Wollaton Park, known for its stunning scenery, provides an ideal spot for residents to enjoy walks and outdoor activities.
West Bridgford: West Bridgford, situated just one mile south of Nottingham city centre, is a highly desirable area known for its excellent living environment and strong community atmosphere. This lively neighborhood offers a wide selection of spacious and comfortable homes, along with an abundance of restaurants, cafes, and gyms to meet the varied needs of its residents. With its perfect blend of convenience, community, and amenities, West Bridgford stands out as one of the best places to live in Nottingham.
House prices and rent prices in Nottingham
House prices
In 2024, the average property price in Nottingham is £243k, with a median price of £210k. Over the past twelve months, the average price has decreased by £2.5K (-1%). Established properties are priced at £242K, while newly built properties have a higher average price of £307K. The table below compares Nottingham’s property prices with those across England and Wales between January to December 2024.
| January 2024 to December 2024 |
Nottingham |
England &Wales |
|---|---|---|
| Average price |
£243k |
£346k |
| Median price |
£210k |
£274k |
Rent Prices
Last year, Nottingham’s rental market experienced remarkable growth, and this trend is set to continue in 2025. The need for rental properties has remained high, particularly in key areas such as the city centre, Beeston, and West Bridgford. One major factor driving this demand is the rising cost of homeownership, which has pushed more people towards renting. Additionally, Nottingham’s growing student population has contributed to the sustained demand for rental properties. While student housing remains in ample supply, the overall surge in demand has ultimately led to rising rental prices.
- Median Rent Price: about £1,200/month
- 1 bedroom rent price: about £800/month
- 2 bedrooms rent price: about £1,100/month
- 3 bedrooms rent price: about 1,300/month
Cost of living in Nottingham
Is Nottingham a nice place to live as a student? How much does a student typically spend per month in Nottingham? Compared to other major cities in the UK, the cost of living in Nottingham as a student is relatively affordable. Below is a table that provides an overview of different expenses. However, please note that these figures are for reference only, as actual costs may vary depending on individual circumstances.
| Items | Costs (Average) |
|---|---|
| Average Tuition |
Undergraduate Tuition Fee: £15,000 to £24,000/Year; Post-Graduate Tuition Fee: £17,000 to £30,000/Year |
| Housing & Accommodation |
A private studio or one-bedroom apartment: £700 to £920/Month Shared university accommodation: 360 to £840/Month |
| Food & Grocery |
£144 to £200/Month |
| Transportation |
£76/Month |
| Clothes |
£70/Month |
| Entertainment & Socializing |
£66/Month |
Shopping in Nottingham
Why live in Nottingham? One of its biggest draws is the diverse shopping options. Ranked among the top five shopping destinations in the UK, Nottingham is home to a variety of well-stocked chain supermarkets and department stores. For shopping enthusiasts, this city is nothing short of a paradise.
- Victoria Centre is the largest shopping mall in Nottingham, home to over 120 stores that cater to a wide range of shopping needs. It features well-known retailers such as John Lewis, Boots, Topshop, Monsoon, HMV, Dorothy Perkins, and The Gadget Shop, along with numerous cafés and food outlets. Whether you’re looking for trendy fashion items or everyday essentials like fresh fruits and vegetables, Victoria Centre offers a convenient and enjoyable shopping experience all in one place.
- The Exchange has been at the centre of Nottingham retailing for over 85 years and is the city’s oldest shopping arcade. Known for its elegant atmosphere, it features a selection of fashion boutiques, with a strong focus on womenswear, including popular brands like Oasis, Radley, and Karen Millen. Several charming cafés are also nestled within the arcade, offering a perfect spot to relax and unwind between shopping trips. If The Exchange doesn’t fully satisfy your shopping needs, take a stroll through the surrounding streets, where you’ll find an array of high-street brands and hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
- The Cornerhouse, a lively entertainment hub in the heart of Nottingham, is just a short walk from the Theatre Royal Concert Hall and Nottingham Trent University’s city campus. Designed by Benoy Architects and completed in 2001, it features a 14-screen cinema with IMAX, various bars and restaurants, a casino, a nightclub, and a comedy club. The Cornerhouse remains a key destination for leisure and nightlife in Nottingham, attracting over 4.5 million visitors annually.
Nightlife in Nottingham
Is Nottingham nice to live? What is its nightlife like? Which bars are the best in the city? Actually, as a dynamic hub with two universities, Nottingham is bustling with a great nightlife. Whether you’re looking for a quiet inn to enjoy a pint, a stylish bar for cocktails, or a trendy nightclub to dance the night away, the city promises an unforgettable experience.
1. Barrel Drop
Barrel Drop is a hidden gem tucked away in Hurts Yard, a quiet alley near Nottingham Market Square. A paradise for beer lovers, it offers a diverse selection of cask, bottled, and canned beers from various breweries. For those looking for alternatives, the bar also serves cider, wine, spirits, and soft drinks. Popular among locals, Barrel Drop is the perfect place to meet local people and immerse yourself in Nottingham’s lively pub culture.
Address: 7 Hurts Yard, Nottingham NG1 6JD
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 16:00 to 23:00
- Thursday to Saturday: 12:00 to 23:00
- Sunday: 12:00 to 22:00
2. Rescue Rooms
Rescue Rooms, located in the heart of Nottingham, is a popular bar known for its live music performances, frequently featuring well-known artists and bands. The bar offers a diverse nightlife experience: Monday is Local Newcomer Night, Tuesday is Student Night, Wednesday hosts Karaoke Night, Thursday brings Trivia Night, and Friday is Club Night. However, the highlight of the week is the much-anticipated “Stealth vs Rescued” on Saturdays, where guests can party in five music rooms and two terraces. With music styles ranging from disco to indie rock, there’s something for everyone.
Address: Masonic Pl, Goldsmith St, Nottingham NG1 5LB
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 16:00 to 3:00 (Closed on Sundays)
3. Boilermaker
Boilermaker is one of the most mysterious bars in Nottingham, tucked away inside an inconspicuous boiler shop on Carlton Street. Operating only in the evenings, it follows the secretive tradition of speakeasies. To gain entry, you must first interact with a “salesman” (who is actually a bouncer) before locating the door to the red secret room. Once inside, you can enjoy their renowned cocktails or opt for a simpler choice like wine or beer, perfect for a relaxed night out.
Address: 36 Carlton St, Nottingham NG1 1NN
Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday: 17:00 to 1:00
- Saturday: 14:00 to 1:00
- Sunday: 19:00 to 1:00
Travelling in Nottingham
Is Nottingham a good place to live? When it comes to transportation, absolutely! Nottingham boasts an award-winning integrated transport system, with multiple operators working together to deliver outstanding service to residents and visitors alike.
1. Walking
Recently, City Walk has once again sparked a trend in Nottingham. Walking is an excellent way to get around, especially for students. While walking, you can not only appreciate the beauty of Nottingham but also gain a deeper understanding of the city’s culture, history, and lifestyle.
2. Cycling
Cycling is one of the best ways to explore Nottingham and is particularly popular among students. Nottingham has been recognized as one of the most bike-friendly cities in the UK, with various bicycles and e-scooters available for rent at multiple docking stations around the city. For students on a tight budget, cycling is also a great way to save money.
3. Buses
Nottingham has a well-developed bus system with numerous routes and frequent services, primarily operated by two different companies.
- NCT (Nottingham City Transport): This company operates routes such as the Orange Line and Pink Line. Passengers taking an NCT bus must prepare exact change unless they have a bus card. A single ticket costs £2.50, but students can get a discounted fare of £2 by showing their student ID. NCT also offers a dedicated app, NCTX Buses, where passengers can check bus schedules and purchase tickets, with student fares set at £2 per journey.
- Trent Barton: This company operates key routes such as eighteen, i4, indigo, rainbow one, and skylink. Unlike NCT, Trent Barton buses provide change when paying with cash. Besides, the company offers a discount card called the Mango Card, which allows students to enjoy a 20% fare reduction. However, it’s important to tap the card both when boarding and alighting, as fares on some routes are distance-based. Forgetting to tap out may result in being charged the full fare for the entire route.
4. Trams
Nottingham is one of the few cities in the UK with a tram system, which connects residential areas and key municipal facilities. Tram tickets come in various types, including single, round-trip, unlimited day pass, weekly pass, seasonal pass, and group tickets. For frequent tram users, purchasing a Mango Card is a cost-effective option.
Tips: In addition to the Mango Card, you can also opt for Nottingham’s unique Robin Hood Card, which allows travel on all buses, trams, and trains within the city. It is available in monthly, quarterly, half-yearly, and annual passes, with discounted rates for students, making it another cost-effective choice.
Restaurants in Nottingham
Is Nottingham a good place to live? In terms of foods, the answer is definitely yes. Food is a vital part of student life, and enjoying delicious meals adds to the overall satisfaction. Fortunately, Nottingham boasts a wide variety of excellent eateries, ranging from traditional British pub fare to exotic Indian curry houses, catering to all tastes.
1. Las Iguanas
Las Iguanas is a Latin American restaurant that serves authentic dishes full of the rich flavors of the region, guaranteed to delight your taste buds. From spicy burgers to unique curries, their menu offers a variety of choices to suit all preferences. For those eager to try something new and looking for a distinctive restaurant in Nottingham, this is an excellent choice. Their famous cocktails are perfect for enjoying with friends, but if you’re looking for a place to enjoy a light lunch and kickstart your day in Nottingham, it’s also a great choice.
Adress: 4 Chapel Quarter, Chapel Bar, Nottingham, NG1 6JS
2. Son of Steak
Son of Steak is a trendy and modern steakhouse located in the historic old town of Nottingham, serving succulent steaks. Since its opening in 2017, it has built a strong reputation for its exceptional service and high-quality beef. You can try their signature flat iron steak, paired with their unique sauces and a refreshing mango mojito for a perfect dining experience.
Address: Trinity Sq, Nottingham NG1 4AF, UK
3. Bistrot Pierre
Bistrot Pierre is one of Nottingham’s finest French restaurants, part of a nationwide chain with 20 locations across the UK, each serving authentic French classics. The Nottingham city centre branch has become one of the city’s most popular dining spots, partly due to its excellent value for money. You can book a special set menu before watching a local performance and enjoy a delicious meal at a reasonable price. If you prefer à la carte, their Burgundy-style beef stew is consistently praised. In addition, don’t miss their exquisite caramel pudding to top off your meal perfectly.
Address: 13-17 Milton St, Nottingham NG1 3EN, UK
Top universities in Nottingham
Living in Nottingham as a student is both exciting and colorful. Nottingham is home to two prestigious universities, the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University, which collectively attract over 60,000 undergraduate students.
- QS World University Rankings 2025: 108
- UK University Rankings 2025: 30
The University of Nottingham, established in 1881, is a prestigious world-renowned institution located in Nottingham. As a member of the UK’s Ivy League, the Russell Group, and one of the founding members of the M5 University Alliance, the university holds a prominent position in global academia. The university spans 330 acres and boasts a picturesque campus, considered one of the most beautiful in the UK. Its main campus (University Park Campus) is located in the heart of Nottingham, with additional campuses at Jubilee Campus and a teaching hospital (Queen’s Medical Centre). Some smaller campuses are situated across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire, while the university also has international campuses in Semenyih, Malaysia, and Ningbo, China. The university of Nottingham is organized into five faculties, with over 50 schools, departments, institutes, and research centres. It is particularly strong in disciplines such as medicine and health sciences, engineering, computer science, and artificial intelligence.
2. Nottingham Trent University
- QS World University Rankings 2025: 592
- UK University Rankings 2025: 45
Nottingham Trent University, situated in the heart of Nottingham, was founded in 1843 and granted university status in 1992. The university comprises three main campuses: City Campus in the city centre; Clifton Campus about 30 minutes from the city centre; and Brackenhurst Campus, a 40-minute drive away. Known for its high-quality teaching and practical approach to education, the Nottingham Trent University is one of the most popular universities in the UK and enjoys a strong academic reputation. It received excellent ratings in the most recent Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) evaluation, with its Chemistry, Business, and Arts departments being recognized as “outstanding” by the Higher Education Funding Council for England. Its renowned programs include Design and Arts, Business Management and Economics, and Media and Communications.
Accommodation in Nottingham
Are you looking to apply to the University of Nottingham or Nottingham Trent University? One of the first things you’ll need to consider after you get an offer is finding suitable accommodation. Fortunately, uhomes.com offers a wide range of student accommodation in Nottingham to suit various budget and preferences. Whether you’re looking for studios, en-suites, non-suites, shared rooms, and bedroom apartments, uhomes.com provides an extensive selection of properties in convenient locations around the city. With advanced search filters, you can easily narrow down your options by budget, location, room type, and amenities. Some of the best student accommodations in Nottingham include Winfield Court, Archer House, and Morriss House.
Conclusion about living in Nottingham
In summary, living in Nottingham means enjoying an affordable and convenient lifestyle in one of the UK’s most dynamic cities. With reasonable house prices, relatively low cost of living compared to other major UK cities, diverse shopping, lively nightlife, a well-connected transport system, distinctive restaurants, and prestigious universities, the city offers an attractive environment for both students and professionals. If you’re looking for a comfortable place to live in Nottingham, take a look at uhomes.com. With a wide range of properties available, I’m sure you’ll find one that suits your preferences.
FAQs about living in Nottingham
Is Nottingham a nice city to live in?
Yes, Nottingham is a highly livable city, thanks to its charming blend of tradition and modernity, affordable cost of living, convenient transportation, and a relatively low crime rate.
Is Nottingham a multicultural city?
Yes, Nottingham is a multicultural city, with a rich and diverse population. According to the 2021 Census, 43% of its residents come from ethnic minority backgrounds. The city celebrates its multiculturalism through various cultural events and festivals, such as the Nottingham Mela Festival, Nottingham Carnival, and St. Patrick’s Day.
Does Nottingham have good night life?
As a large city with two major universities, Nottingham boast a dynamic nightlife with a wide range of bars, clubs, and live music venues that cater to all tastes. Whether you’re looking for a quiet inn to enjoy a pint, a stylish bar for cocktails, or a trendy nightclub to dance the night away, the city promises an unforgettable experience.
How safe is it to live in Nottingham?
| Nottingham’s Crime Rate |
110 crimes per 1,000 people (35% higher than the national average) |
|
|---|---|---|
| Most Dangerous Areas |
Castle |
150 crimes per 1,000 people |
| St. Annes |
156 crimes per 1,000 people |
|
| Hyson Green & Aboretum |
139 crimes per 1,000 people |
|
| Safest Areas |
Nuthall East & Strelley |
49 crimes per 1,000 people |
| Wollaton West |
65 crimes per 1,000 people |
|
| Clifton West |
94 crimes per 1,000 people |
|
| Most Common Crimes |
violence and sexual offences anti-social behaviour shoplifting |
|
Is Nottingham a good place to raise a child?
Yes, Nottingham is a great place to raise a child, since it offers high-quality schools, abundant green parks and open spaces, as well as a wide range of family-friendly activities. Moreover, the affordable cost of living also makes it an attractive choice for families.
