The 10 Best Areas to Live in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is an endlessly exciting and vibrant city to live in.

Scotland’s capital is full of winding streets, charming buildings, and historic sites. Alongside its beauty, there are many reasons you should consider a move to Edinburgh. There’s plenty to do and see, with fascinating museums and galleries offering countless days out and numerous festivals to celebrate throughout the calendar. Shopping, amenities and green spaces are all in abundance, making it the perfect place for students, young families and professional couples alike. Learn more about what makes Edinburgh a nice place to live.

But in such a diverse city, how can you tell which areas in Edinburgh are the best to live in? We’re here to help you answer that question!

Where to Live in Edinburgh

Anytime you move to a new area, there’s a lot to consider. Large cities have many different areas and neighbourhoods, all of which cater to different lifestyles, budgets, and types of families. Understanding a bit more about the most popular areas in Edinburgh will help you choose which will be the ideal location for you. 

These Are the Best Areas to Live in Edinburgh

1. Stockbridge

Located a short walk from the main shopping area of Edinburgh, Stockbridge is an incredibly popular neighbourhood in this bustling city. Cobbled streets and charming homes stretch right from the city centre, providing a lovely living environment. Green parks, gardens and independent shops create a real village atmosphere so close to city amenities.

2. Marchmont

Marchmont is one of the largest residential areas in Edinburgh, popular for a number of reasons. Just about a mile south of the Old Town, the area has its fair share of coffee shops and eateries to keep you satisfied at all times of the day. The Meadows is just a short distance away, so green spaces for all kinds of outdoor pastimes are never far out of reach. The residential areas are full of Victorian and Edwardian-era homes, making any walk around Marchmont charming.

3. Holyrood

If you’re looking to live in the historic Old Town but want a quieter life, Holyrood is a promising area of Edinburgh to live in. You’ll find plenty to do for the whole family in the area. This includes museums, Holyrood House, as well as the ruins of Holyrood Abbey. Holyrood Park is a huge green space to enjoy, home to the iconic Arthur’s Seat.

4. Portobello

Portobello is definitely one of the best places to live in Edinburgh, voted as such in a number of publications. The area is popular among visitors and residents alike, the sandy beach and pedestrianised promenade offering a peaceful escape from the large city. Beachfront cafes and restaurants are excellent places to spend afternoons and evenings.

5. Potterrow

For students, Potterrow is an excellent place to live in Edinburgh. After all, it is the closest accommodation to Edinburgh University without living on campus. The student rooms in this area have everything you need to thrive while being in easy reach of everything you need in Edinburgh.

6. Tollcross

If you’re on a budget but still would like to live fairly centrally in the city, Tollcross could be a great option. It’s also popular among students looking to escape the campus atmosphere that can sometimes come hand in hand with other affordable accommodation types. Still close to the centre of town and the Meadows, there is lots to do and no shortage of places to hang out over drinks or dinner.

7. Morningside

If budget is not a problem and you’re after a higher quality of life, Morningside is a popular choice. Independent shops, great eateries and posh coffee shops make it a lovely place to live. The suburb is full of green pockets too. The community feel is a strong factor, so families with young children will feel right at home there. The only drawback is that Morningside lies a little further out of the centre of town. If you’re missing the action, buses will get you right to the centre of town in no time.

8. Corstorphine

This is another highly sought-after area of Edinburgh. A little further out of town, around 3 miles West of the city centre, Corstorphine is popular among families and commuters to both Edinburgh and Glasgow. Benefit from strong transport links and great schools in the area.

9. Colinton

South-west of the city lies Colinton, yet another suburb filled with green spaces and great schools. While so close to the bustling city, Colinton surrounds its residents with the atmosphere of a small village. Buses run regularly both to the city centre and to the airport, making getting around a breeze. There are also local bars and restaurants to meet friends and unwind.

10. Haymarket

Haymarket strikes the perfect balance between location and affordability. Residents living in Haymarket can benefit from the closeness of the city centre without feeling swamped by traffic and tourists. Central Edinburgh is just 10 minutes by foot, while trains run regularly from Haymarket station to further afield stations like Glasgow. Students will love spending time in local bars and restaurants, providing relaxed places to catch up. Haymarket is also a more affordable location than others on this list.

If you’re planning a move to Edinburgh, Bishop’s Move Edinburgh can help. If you are in the midst of removal planning, our Edinburgh storage facility can offer secure solutions to ease the move process. Get in touch with us today.