Edinburgh is one of the most desirable cities to live in the UK, known for its historic charm, world-class universities, vibrant cultural scene, and diverse neighbourhoods. But choosing where to live in Edinburgh can feel overwhelming — each area offers a different lifestyle, budget range, and community feel. During my own year living in Edinburgh while completing my master’s degree, I quickly learned how dramatically neighbourhoods can shape daily life: the calm of residential streets in Marchmont, the student buzz around Newington, and the convenience of Leith’s transport links all left very different impressions. Whether you’re a student, young professional, or moving with family, this 2025 guide breaks down the best areas to live in Edinburgh, comparing rental prices, transport, schools, and local amenities to help you find the ideal place to call home.
Why People Move to Edinburgh
Excellent Education & Academic Atmosphere
With institutions like the University of Edinburgh, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh Napier University, and other higher-education establishments, Edinburgh draws students from around the world. As someone who studied there, I found the campus libraries, student-friendly cafés, and academic resources second to none. Many people settle here not just for study, but for long-term career or research opportunities, which makes the city’s student vibe contribute to a broad, international community.
Rich History, Culture & Vibrant Lifestyle
Medieval alleyways, Georgian architecture, global-renowned festivals and a thriving arts scene make Edinburgh both beautiful and spiritually rich. Living in the city means museums, galleries, concerts and cultural events are never far away — sometimes on your doorstep. This blend of heritage and modern life offers a richness hard to find elsewhere.
Convenient Transport & City Connectivity
Edinburgh may not be a mega-metropolis, but the transport links make it easy to get around. Buses, trams, and good rail connections mean commuting from many suburbs to city centre or campus is reasonable. When I lived there, I found I could easily reach central areas or student hubs in 15–30 minutes — a huge plus compared with many big cities.
Growing City with Dynamic Population & Opportunity
The city keeps growing: according to the latest official data, the council area population of Edinburgh exceeded 530,000 as of mid-2024, marking continued growth and migration. That growth helps fuel a vibrant job market, especially for finance, tech, education, and services — but it also means demand for housing remains high, making it increasingly important to choose your district carefully.
Best Areas to Live in Edinburgh
| Area | Suitable For | Key Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Leith | Young professionals, creatives, international residents | Trendy waterfront lifestyle, diverse food scene, affordable housing, ranked among world’s coolest neighbourhoods |
| New Town | Professionals, high-income renters, city-centre lifestyle seekers | Georgian architecture, premium shopping, excellent transport, central location |
| Stockbridge | Young families, professionals, artistic residents | Village feel, independent shops, cafés, quiet streets, close to city centre |
| Newington | University students, academics, young renters | Walking distance to University of Edinburgh, lively atmosphere, affordable shared flats |
| West End | Students, professionals commuting from Haymarket | Excellent transport hub, affordable rents, diverse food options, close to West End cultural venues |
| Fountainbridge | Students, young professionals | Modern apartments, canal-side cafés, cinemas, close to multiple universities |
| Old Town | Tourists, short-term visitors, history lovers | UNESCO heritage sites, medieval architecture, walkable to all major attractions |
| Grassmarket | Tourists, photographers, culture lovers | Colourful streets, independent shops, Harry Potter atmosphere, central location |
| Portobello | Families, retirees, beach lovers | Relaxed seaside lifestyle, sandy beach, community vibe, affordable hotels |
Best Areas to Stay in Edinburgh For Young Professionals
Leith
Why live here: Leith is Edinburgh’s harbour district — vibrant, multicultural, and full of character, and is recognized as one of the best places to live in Edinburgh. It offers a mix of old-port charm and modern renovation, with riverside walks, cafés, bars, and a steadily growing number of young residents and creatives.
What I experienced: I remember spending early evenings strolling along the docks after work — the sea breeze, the mix of historic buildings and new developments, and a laid-back but lively vibe made Leith feel like a refreshing alternative to the busy city core.
What to consider: Rents and prices are rising as Leith becomes more popular, and parts can get lively (especially evenings). Shared flats may be easier to find than one-bedrooms if you’re budget-conscious.
New Town
Why live here: Classical Georgian architecture, proximity to city centre workplaces, excellent transport, and a balance of convenience and prestige. Edinburgh New Town is an excellent fit if you want a central base with easy access to shops, offices, and culture.
Good for: Professionals working in finance, law, or corporate offices — or anyone who wants to enjoy city life with minimal commuting.
Caveat: As you’d expect, central living comes with higher cost, and the bustle means less “quiet suburban calm.”
Stockbridge
Why live here: Stockbridge is just a 10-minute walk from Princes Street, but with a relaxed, almost “village-in-the-city” atmosphere. Independent shops, quiet lanes, and leafy surroundings create an environment of quiet elegance, making it widely considered Edinburgh’s best place to live for professors and senior academics seeking tranquility near the city center.
What drew me: A friend and I once spent a weekend strolling along Stockbridge’s narrow streets, cafés and charity shops; it felt peaceful yet connected. For someone who works full-time but craves calm off-hours, Stockbridge hits the sweet spot.
Good for: Those wanting near-centre convenience but with a quieter, more residential vibe than New Town or Old Town.
Best Areas to Live in Edinburgh for Students
Newington
Rent Prices:
- Shared Flats: £400 – £650 per month for a room in a shared flat.
- One-Bedroom Apartments: £700 – £1,000 per month, depending on the property’s location and condition.
Newington is home to a significant student population due to its proximity to the University of Edinburgh. This makes it a lively and dynamic area, particularly during the academic year.
The area boasts several historical and cultural sites, including the Surgeons’ Hall Museums, the Queen’s Hall, the Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat, providing excellent opportunities for outdoor activities.
The neighborhood is well-served by public transport, with several bus routes connecting it to the city centre and other parts of Edinburgh. This makes commuting easy for both students and professionals.
Housing in Newington varies from traditional tenement flats to modern apartments, providing a range of options to suit different needs and budgets. Rent prices are generally affordable, especially for students
West End
Rent Prices:
- Shared Flats: £350 – £600 per month for a room in a shared flat.
- One-Bedroom Apartments: £650 – £900 per month, depending on the property’s location and condition.
West End is a vibrant and residential neighborhood located to the west of Edinburgh’s city centre. The neighborhood is close to Haymarket, a major transport hub with train, tram, and bus services. This provides excellent connectivity to the rest of Edinburgh and beyond, including direct links to Edinburgh Airport.
The neighborhood offers a wide range of amenities, including local shops, supermarkets, cafes, and eateries. The area caters to various tastes and needs, providing a mix of independent stores and well-known chains. Edinburgh’s West End is also best known as a cultural hub, home to the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, Arthur’s Hall and the Edinburgh Farmers’ Market.
Dalry is known for its relatively affordable housing options compared to other parts of Edinburgh. This makes it an attractive choice for students and young professionals looking for budget-friendly accommodation.
Fountainbridge
Rent Prices:
- Shared Flats: £400 – £650 per month for a room in a shared flat.
- One-Bedroom Apartments: £700 – £1,000 per month, depending on the property’s location and condition.
Fountainbridge is a an urban neighborhood located southwest of Edinburgh’s city centre. It has transformed from an industrial area into a dynamic urban district through significant redevelopment. This area now features modern residential complexes, office spaces, and leisure facilities.
Fountainbridge boasts various shops, supermarkets, cafes, and restaurants. The area’s culinary scene includes diverse options, from casual eateries to fine dining. The neighborhood is close to several educational institutions, including Napier University ,the University of Edinburgh, the Edinburgh College of Art and the Open University. making it a convenient location for students.
Rent prices are generally competitive, offering good value for the location.
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Best Areas to Live in Edinburgh for Families
Old Town
The average price for a property in Old Town is £322,013 over the last year.
Edinburgh Old Town is the historic heart of Scotland’s capital, characterized by its medieval street layout and numerous historic buildings. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts millions of visitors each year. It is one of the best parts to live in Edinburgh for families.
Edinburgh’s Old Town retains many buildings from the European Middle Ages and the Scottish Reformation, including St Giles’ Cathedral, the Church of Scotland Cathedral, the Surgery Building, the Royal Museum of Scotland, the University of Edinburgh, and the Scottish Parliament Building. Wander through the streets of the Old Town and explore the distinctive buildings, pubs, restaurants, and shops lining the streets while listening to the music of the Scottish bagpipes playing in your ears.
The accommodation prices in this area are much higher other areas, at least 200￡per night, because most lodgings are located near famous attractions. However, this experience is absolutely worthwhile! Staying here for a few days will be one of the most unforgettable experiences of your life!
Grassmarket
The average sold price for a property in Grassmarket in the last 12 months is £429,167.
Do you know where the most colourful neighbourhood in Edinburgh is? As you walk along the Grassmarket to Victoria Street, look at the stone-paved road curving upwards in a perfect arc and the colourful shops selling all sorts of goods on both sides, you’ll see Diagon Alley in real life.
Starting at the Elephant Café, turn right and you’ll see the famous statue of Bobby. Head down the curved Candlemaker Row to the Grassmarket from Bobby’s junction. On the way to the Grassmarket, you’ll also pass the famous grey Friar’s Cemetery, where J.K. Rowling was inspired by the names of many of the characters in her books, including Professor McGonagall and Voldemort, amongst others, on the gravestones.
Colourful Victoria Street is also one of Edinburgh’s favourite streets for photographers – it’s a sight to behold, whatever the weather. The winding streets of Edinburgh’s Old Town are often reminiscent of scenes from Harry Potter. Many consider Victoria Street to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley, and it’s become one of the must-visit stops in Edinburgh for Harry Potter fans worldwide. Over 90% of the shops in Grassmarket are independent. From vintage and antique to Edinburgh’s designer labels, there’s something for everyone.
You can rent a B&Bs here for some days, enjoying the local features and take pictures in this picturesque neiborhood!
Portobello
The average sold price for a property in Portobello in the last 12 months is £369,000.
Portobello is a charming coastal suburb located to the east of Edinburgh’s city centre. Known for its sandy beach and seaside atmosphere, Portobello offers a unique blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. It is a popular destination for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy the beach, outdoor activities, and a relaxed lifestyle.
Portobello offers a variety of shops, pubs, and restaurants, catering to different tastes and needs. There are also several parks and green spaces for outdoor activities. Schools and medical facilities are available, making it a family-friendly area. It is a best place for retirees to spend their rest of life.
There are many affordable hotels and B&Bs near Portobello. The price are approximately £90-150 per night according to different demands.
FAQ
Which area of Edinburgh has the cheapest houses?
According to the survey results, Stockbridge is the cheapest neighbourhood in Edinburgh. The average sold price for a property in Stockbridge, Edinburgh, in the last 12 months is £329,913.
What are the shopping districts in Edinburgh?
1. Princes Street
2. George Street
3. Multrees Walk
4. The West End
5. The Grassmarket and Victoria Street
6. Stockbridge
7. Bruntsfield and Morningside
8. The Royal Mile
Which month has the best art scene in Edinburgh?
August is undoubtedly Edinburgh’s most artistic month. The Edinburgh International Festival of the Arts, the oldest and most extensive arts festival in history, returns from 2 to 25 August. Every August, top artists and rising art stars worldwide converge here to showcase their inspiration and creativity.
