Where is the best place to live in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is renowned for its historic charm, vibrant culture and stunning landscapes. Whether you're looking to move to the city for work, education or simply to enjoy its rich heritage, finding the best place to live in Edinburgh is crucial. 

In this guide, we will explore Edinburgh's various neighbourhoods. 

Where is the safest place to live in Edinburgh?

Safety is a top priority when choosing a place to live. Overall, Edinburgh is a very safe city and is home to several neighbourhoods that boast low crime rates and family-friendly environments. 

Stockbridge

Stockbridge (pictured above) is a picturesque area situated just a short walk from Edinburgh city centre. It's known for its quaint village feel, lined with cobblestone streets, charming cafes and boutique ships. Stockbridge is particularly popular among families and professionals due to its friendly community atmosphere and excellent variety of schools. Its proximity to the Royal Botanic Garden and Inverleith Park provides plenty of green spaces for outdoor activities, making it a top contender as the best place to live in Edinburgh.  

Morningside

Morningside is another safe neighbourhood in Edinburgh, located in the south of the city. It offers a mix of Victorian and Edwardian architecture, alongside many modern amenities. Morningside is well-regarded for its peaceful streets, exceptional school and a variety of local shops, cafes and theatres. The areas low crime rates make it one of the best places to live in Edinburgh for families and retirees. 

Costorphine

Located in the west of the city centre, Costorphine is a suburban area known for its safety and community spirit. It's home to Edinburgh Zoo and several parks, making it a great place for recreational activities. The area has a strong sense of community and with good schools and convenient transport links, Costorphine is considered to be the best place to live in Edinburgh for families. 

Where is the poshest place to live in Edinburgh?

For those seeking luxury, Edinburgh offers several neighbourhoods which could be the perfect place to call home. 

New Town

New Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is full off elegant Georgian architecture. Its grand townhouses, wide streets and beautiful squares are some of the greatest examples of urban planning. Residents can enjoy close proximity to Princes Street (pictured above), George Street and an array of high-end shops, expensive restaurants and wonderful cultural attractions. Living in New Town means being at the heart of Edinburgh's historical and cultural scene, which could make it the best place to live in Edinburgh for some. 

The Grange

The Grange is one of Edinburgh's most prestigious residential areas, located just south of the city centre. Known for its large Victorian and Edwardian houses, this suburb offers an idyllic environment with wide streets and beautiful gardens. The Grange's exclusivity and charm makes it the best place to live in Edinburgh for many affluent families and professionals seeking privacy within easy reach of the city hustle and bustle. 

Murrayfield

Murrayfield is well known for its luxury living in Edinburgh. Famous for Murrayfield Stadium, this area of the city boasts spacious homes, luscious gardens and a tranquil vibe. With close proximity to the city center and surrounding excellent schools to choose from, Murrayfield is the best place to live in Edinburgh for wealthy families and professionals.

Where is the most culturally rich place to live in Edinburgh?

For those who want a rich cultural experience, Edinburgh has neighbourhoods that are brimming with history, arts and entertainment.

Old Town 

Old Town is the historic heart of Edinburgh, famous for its medieval architecture and narrow cobblestone streets. It's home to iconic landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle (pictured above), the Royal Mile and St Giles' Cathedral. Living in Old Town means being surrounded by history, museum, theatres making it the best place to live in Edinburgh if you want to be amongst a vibrant cultural scene. 

Leith

Leith, once Edinburgh's port district, has become one of the city's most trendy areas. Located in the north of the city centre, Leith offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern living. The area is known for its lively waterfront scene lined with independent shops and a diverse range of dining options. Leith's community spirit, cultural attractions and affordable housing option make it one of the best places to live in Edinburgh for young professionals, families and those who are creative. 

In addition to personal preferences, the best place to live in Edinburgh can also be determined by who you are and your specific needs. This is important to consider when deciding where in Edinburgh you want to live. To help you make a decision, we have looked at the best places to live for families, students, professionals and retirees. 

Where is the best place to live in Edinburgh for families?

For families with children, proximity to good schools, parks and family-friendly amenities is essential.

Colinton

Colinton is a picturesque village-like suburb in the southwest of Edinburgh. It offers a peaceful environment with beautiful scenery, excellent schools and a strong sense of community. Colinton Dell and Spylaw Park provide ample green space for outdoor activities, making it one of the best places to live in Edinburgh for families. 

Fairmilehead

Fairmilehead, located at the southern edge of Edinburgh, is a family-friendly area known for its spacious homes and excellent schools. The neighbourhood offers easy access to Pentland Hills Regional Park, which provides numerous opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities. The areas great amenities make it the best place to live in Edinburgh for families. 

Where is the best place to live in Edinburgh for students?

Edinburgh is home to several universities and choosing the right neighbourhood can really enhance the student experience.

Marchmont

Marchmont is a popular area for students as it is close to the University of Edinburgh. It offers a vibrant atmosphere with numerous cafes, pubs and shops. The Meadows, a large public park, is a central feature and provides a great spot for relaxation and social activities. This makes it one of the best places to live in Edinburgh for students. 

Bruntsfield

Bruntsfield, adjacent to Marchmont, is another student friendly neighbourhood. It offers a lively community, a variety of restaurants and independent shops. The area is also within walking distance of the University of Edinburgh and Napier University, making it the best place to live for students. 

Where is the best place to live in Edinburgh for professionals?

For professionals, the ideal neighbourhood will balance convenience, amenities and a vibrant lifestyle. 

West End

West End is a bustling area of Edinburgh that offers excellent connections to the city centre and beyond, making it the best place to live in Edinburgh for professionals. The neighbourhood is known for its stylish Georgian architecture, trendy bars and high-end restaurants. With numerous offices and commercial spaces nearby, West End is a convenient and lively place to live. 

Leith

Leith is an increasingly popular place to live for professionals in Edinburgh due to its dynamic environment and excellent transport links. The area offers a mix of modern, stylish apartments and historic buildings, along with a vibrant waterfront and a range of dining and entertainment options. Leith's energetic vibe and cultural diversity make it one of the best places to live in Edinburgh for young professionals. 

Where is the best place to live in Edinburgh for retirees?

Retirees often seek neighbourhoods that offer tranquility, amenities and a strong sense of community. 

Cramond

Cramond is a peaceful village located on the outskirts of Edinburgh, along the Firth of Fourth. It's known for its picturesque waterfront, historic charm and a relaxed pace of life. With beautiful walking trails, a local golf course and a friendly community, Cramond is the best place to live in Edinburgh for retirees seeking a serene environment. 

Portobello

Portobello (pictured above), located to the east of the city centre, is Edinburgh's seaside suburb. It offers a relaxed lifestyle with sandy beaches, charming cafes and a vibrant community. The area has a mix of Victorian houses and modern developments, making it one of the best places to live in Edinburgh for retirees especially for those who enjoy coastal living and community activities. 

Best overall area to live in Edinburgh

While safety and luxury are important, finding a neighbourhood that offers a balanced mix of amenities, accessibility and lifestyle is key to choosing where to call home. Considering these factors, we have found the overall best place to live in Edinburgh. 

Leith

As mentioned earlier, Leith (pictured above) offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern living, making it our top choice. This bustling waterfront district has undergone significant transformation, evolving from a historic port to one of Edinburgh's most sought-after neighbourhoods. Its vibrant community, rich cultural attractions, diverse housing options and excellent connectivity to the city centre makes it an ideal place for a wide range of residents. Leith offers a welcoming and dynamic environment to call home! 

Edinburgh is a city that offers something for everyone, from safe and family-friendly neighbourhoods to luxurious escapes, vibrant student areas, professional hubs and tranquil retiree spots. No matter your priorities, you will find the perfect place to call home in this wonderful city. 

Explore the best places to live in Edinburgh and discover a neighbourhood that suits your needs and lifestyle. 

Moving to Edinburgh?

If you're considering a move to Edinburgh, let Pickfords help you make the transition seamlessly. Our experienced team specialises in removal services, ensuring that every aspect of your move is handled with care and professionalism. We understand that moving can be stressful, which is why we offer personalised solutions tailored to your unique needs. From packing and transportation to unpacking, we take care of everything so you can focus on starting a new chapter. 

Contact us today for a stress-free removal experience and start your new chapter in the best place to live in Edinburgh. No matter where you are moving to, we're here to make your move as smooth and enjoyable as possible.