How to plan your home move to Wales?

Wales is a diverse and historic nation within the UK, defined by its rugged coastline, soaring mountains and vibrant culture.  It functions as a distinct political and cultural entity with its own parliament, language and legal variations, while maintaining strong economic and transport links with the rest of the UK.

Interesting facts about Wales

• Wales has more castles per square mile than any other country in Europe.
• St Davids in Pembrokeshire is the smallest city in the UK, with a population of under 2,000 people.
• Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon) is the highest mountain in Wales and England, standing at 1,085 metres.
• The village of Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch on Anglesey has the longest place name in Europe.
• The Welsh language, Cymraeg, is spoken by approximately 30% of the population and is a key part of their identity.

Considering a house move to Wales?

Wales appeals to those seeking a lifestyle change. It attracts retirees, remote workers, nature lovers and young professionals out of Bristol or London.

House prices in Wales are generally lower than the UK average, though hotspots like Cardiff, the Gower Peninsula and popular coastal towns can command premium prices.

Before finalising your move to Wales, it’s worth spending time experiencing the region you are interested in. Visit Cardiff Bay to see the regeneration, or drive the Pembrokeshire Coast to understand the rural pace of life. Testing the commute across the Prince of Wales Bridge (M4) or the A55 in the north can help you assess connections to England, while listening to Radio Cymru or visiting a local market will give you a feel for the culture.

If you are moving from another part of the UK, we recommend thinking about the logistics early. At Pickfords, our nationwide network is supported by local experience across Wales to help ensure smooth and well-organised home and office moves.

Things to consider before deciding to move

1. Region: If you’re planning a house move and researching for local removals services in Wales, understanding the geography is vital.

• South East (Cardiff/Newport): Urban, diverse, best transport links to London.
• South West (Swansea/Gower/Pembrokeshire): Coastal beauty, slower pace, tourism-led.
• Mid Wales (Powys): Remote, agricultural, stunning landscapes (Brecon Beacons/Bannau Brycheiniog).
• North Wales (Bangor/Wrexham/Conwy): Adventure capital, strong Welsh language usage, links to Liverpool/Manchester.

Covering every postcode in Wales and the UK, Pickfords’ nationwide fleet is ready to move you within or from Wales to your new home. Select your nearest area.

2. Employment opportunities: Employment varies by region. Cardiff is a hub for media such as BBC, finance and government. The North and West rely more on tourism, energy and agriculture. Remote working has made rural Wales much more viable for professionals.

3. Schools and family life: Wales has its own education curriculum. Bilingual education is common, and learning Welsh is compulsory in schools up to age 16. The access to nature, beaches, mountains and forests, makes it an incredible place to raise active children.

4. Transport and commuting

• Rail: The great western main line connects South Wales to London (approx. 2 hrs from Cardiff). The North Wales coast line connects to Manchester/Holyhead.
• Road: The M4 is the main artery in the South; the A55 Expressway serves the North.
• Air: Cardiff airport makes international destinations accessible.

5. Lifestyle and social environment: Life in Wales is community-focused. Rugby union is the most popular sport and a major social driver. Eisteddfods, cultural festival, male voice choirs and hiking shape social life, making it ideal for those who value heritage and outdoors.

Best areas to live in Wales

Choosing the right area in Wales depends on your lifestyle priorities.

Cardiff (Caerdydd): The capital city is the economic powerhouse. Areas like Pontcanna and Roath offer trendy, leafy living with independent delis and parks. Cardiff Bay offers modern waterfront apartments. It is perfect for those who want a city career and night activities.

Swansea and the Gower Swansea: Offers city living right on the beach. The nearby Mumbles and Gower Peninsula are highly sought-after for their stunning coastline and village feel. It suits those who want a balance of urban amenities and surfing and beach life.

Monmouthshire: Located on the border with England, this area is known as the "Food Capital of Wales." It is affluent, scenic and very popular with commuters to Bristol. Towns like Abergavenny offer a high quality of life with festivals and mountains on the doorstep.

Conwy & Llandudno (North Wales): For those seeking heritage and views, the walled town of Conwy or the Victorian resort of Llandudno are top choices. They offer access to Snowdonia National Park and the A55, making them practical for those working in Chester or from home.

Pembrokeshire (Tenby/St Davids): If you dream of a coastal escape, Pembrokeshire is the place. It is quieter, tourism-focused and incredibly beautiful. Tenby is iconic with its colourful harbour and the countryside villages offer seclusion and space.

If you are moving to Wales from another part of the UK, it’s also worth considering the practical side of the move early on. Since long-distance moves often involve crossing the Severn or navigating countryside roads, considering removal companies that provide nationwide coverage supported by local knowledge of the Welsh valleys and coasts will ensure a smooth and efficient move.

Things to do in Wales

Life in Wales is an adventure. Residents enjoy climbing Pen y Fan, surfing at Rest Bay, and visiting the National Museum Cardiff. The country is famous for its National Trust sites, from Bodnant Garden to Rhossili Bay.

Wales’s location offers a unique lifestyle. You can be in a vibrant city in the morning and completely alone on a mountain peak in the afternoon. This accessibility to world-class nature is the defining feature of everyday life in Wales.

Frequently asked questions

• Is Wales a good place to live long-term?

Yes. Wales offers a lower cost of living compared to much of Southern England, combined with a high quality of life and strong sense of community.

• Is Wales suitable for families?

Yes, it is excellent for living with families. The focus on community, free prescriptions (under NHS Wales) and abundant outdoor space creates a healthy environment for children.

• What should I consider when arranging removals in Wales?

When planning removals in Wales, it’s important to factor in the terrain. Many rural properties in the Valleys or Snowdonia have steep, narrow access. In cities like Cardiff, parking permits are strictly enforced. Whether you are moving locally or from England, careful preparation regarding access is essential.

• How do removal companies in Wales support local and long-distance moves?

Experienced removal companies in Wales support a wide range of moves, from city apartments to remote farmhouses. Planning routes to navigate the winding roads of Mid Wales or the M4 traffic is key. For moves involving larger households or longer distances (cross-border), working with an established removals provider ensures reliability.

• Are office removals handled differently from home moves?

If you are planning to move your business and office in Wales, it requires a different approach. Business relocations in Cardiff or Swansea often involve city centre logistics, while rural business moves may require agricultural considerations.