Reading home move guide for 2026

Reading is one of the largest and most economically significant towns in the south-east of England, located in the historic county of Berkshire. Sitting at the heart of the Thames Valley, Reading provides strong employment opportunities, excellent transport connectivity and a growing urban lifestyle, making it one of the UK’s most popular destinations for commuters, professionals and families.

Reading also attracts a large student population and boasts one of the busiest railway stations outside London. It plays a central role in Berkshire’s economy and is often described as the UK’s most important town.

Interesting facts about Reading, Berkshire

• Reading lies at the meeting point of the River Thames and River Kennet, shaping its historic role as a trading and industrial centre
  
• It is a core part of the Thames Valley economic corridor, often referred to as the UK’s “Silicon Valley”
  
• The town hosts the world-famous Reading Festival, attracting international artists and visitors every summer
  
• Reading has one of the strongest job markets in the UK after London, particularly in technology, finance and professional services
  
• Journey times to Paddington can be as short as 23–30 minutes by train

Considering a house move to Reading, Berkshire?

If you’re planning to move to Reading, it’s important to understand that this is a career-driven society with a fast pace of life compared to many other Berkshire locations.

Reading appeals most to:

• Professionals working in London or the Thames valley
  
• Graduates and students linked to the University of Reading
  
• Remote workers who want excellent connectivity without living in London
  

Property prices are higher than the national average, reflecting demand, proximity to London and a strong local economy. However, many residents find that salaries and career opportunities offset the higher cost of living.

As demand for housing in Reading continues to grow, choosing professional for home removals is essential.  Pickfords provides professional and reliable removals and self storage units in Reading. So whether you’re moving home or office, our dedicated team can put together a moving plan that’s ideal for you.

Things to do before planning a move to Reading

Before committing to a move, spending time in Reading as a local rather than a visitor can help you decide if it fits your lifestyle.

• Travel into London during peak commuting hours to test train reliability and crowd levels
  
• Explore both sides of the River Thames, particularly Caversham versus south Reading
  
• Visit neighbourhoods at different times of day to understand traffic and noise levels
  
• Walk through Forbury Gardens, the Oracle riverside and residential streets
  
• Research school catchment areas early, as they significantly influence house prices
• Speak to our move experts to understand availability, parking requirements and realistic moving timelines, especially if you are relocating during peak commuting periods.
  

Things to consider before deciding to move

Neighbourhood: Reading has distinct contrasts between areas. The town centre offers apartments, late night activities and convenience, while outer neighbourhoods provide quieter, family-friendly living.

Popular residential areas include:

• Caversham: more green space, rural feel
  
• Earley & Lower Earley: suburban, family-oriented with strong schools
  
• Tilehurst: affordable housing with good rail links
  
• Kennet Island : modern developments popular with professionals
  

Employment: Reading’s economy is one of its biggest strengths. Major employement opportunities span across departments such as:

• Technology and software
  
• Finance and consulting
  
• Telecommunications and data services
  
• Education and research
  

Many residents work locally, while others commute to London, Slough or Oxford.

Schools and family life: Reading offers a mix of high-performing state schools and respected independent schools. Areas such as Caversham and Earley are especially popular with families due to school quality and green space.

Transport and commuting: Getting around Reading is one of its biggest advantages.

• Reading Station is a national rail hub with services across the UK
  
• The Elizabeth Line provides direct access to central London
  
• The M4 motorway connects Reading to London, Heathrow, Bristol and South Wales
  
• Heathrow Airport is approximately 40 minutes away by car or rail
  

Lifestyle and social environment: Life here is fast-paced and career-focused attracting many international students and professionals every year. Social life centres around restaurants, riverside walks, gyms, cultural events and festivals as compared to other towns. The presence of a large student population keeps the town lively, while surrounding Berkshire villages offer quieter alternatives for those wanting more balance.

Best neighbourhoods to live in Reading, Berkshire

Reading offers a range of neighbourhoods that suit different lifestyles, from town-centre living to quieter residential areas. Choosing the right location often depends on commuting patterns, housing budgets and long-term plans.

For young professionals

• Reading town centre is popular with professionals who value convenience and connectivity. The area offers modern apartment developments, easy access to Reading Station and a wide choice of restaurants, gyms and cultural venues. It suits those commuting regularly to London or working within Reading’s commercial districts.
• Kennet island appeals to professionals seeking newer housing in a more residential setting. Located close to major business parks and the M4, it provides good road access while remaining within reach of the town centre. Purpose-built apartments and houses make it particularly suitable for those looking for low-maintenance living.

For families

• Caversham is one of Reading’s most sought-after family areas. Situated north of the River Thames, it offers a village-style atmosphere, access to green spaces and a strong selection of schools. The area is well connected to the town centre while maintaining a quieter residential character.
• Earley and Lower Earley attract families looking for spacious homes, established neighbourhoods and good local amenities. These areas benefit from reputable schools, parks and convenient road and rail links, making them suitable for longer-term family living.

For students

• Areas around the University of Reading campus are well suited to students due to their proximity to lecture halls, libraries and campus facilities. Purpose-built student accommodation and shared housing are common, with good bus connections to the town centre.
• Central and east Reading also offer a range of shared housing options for students and recent graduates. These areas provide easy access to local shops, transport links and social venues, while remaining within commuting distance of the university.
  

Things to do and explore in Reading, Berkshire

Reading offers a mix of local leisure activities and easy access to nearby towns and countryside, making it suitable for both everyday living and weekend exploration.

• Walk or cycle along the River Thames and River Kennet, using well-maintained riverside paths
  
• Shop, eat and socialise around the Oracle Shopping Centre and surrounding town-centre streets
  
• Visit Reading Abbey to explore the town’s historic heritage
  
• Relax in Forbury Gardens, a central green space close to shops and offices
  
• Attend live music performances and cultural events throughout the year
  
• Take part in annual events such as Reading Festival, local food markets and riverside activities
  

Other places to consider close to Reading

• Wokingham – a quieter, family-friendly town with a more residential feel
• Henley-on-Thames – known for its riverside setting and rowing tradition
• Maidenhead – Thames-side town with Elizabeth Line connections to London
• Slough – a major employment centre with convenient access to Heathrow Airport
• Oxford – a historic city suitable for day trips, located within easy reach by road or rail
• London – under 30 minutes by train
  

Planning the practical side of your home move to Reading

Once you have decided that Reading may be the right location for you, it is worth considering the practical aspects of moving at an early stage. As a busy commuter town, Reading experiences high traffic volumes, limited parking in some residential areas and strong demand for removal services throughout the year. These factors can influence both availability and cost.

Understanding how moves are typically managed in Reading can help you plan more effectively, particularly if you are relocating from outside Berkshire or moving into a central location.

What affects removal costs in Reading, Berkshire?

Removal costs in Reading vary depending on several factors, including:

• Distance between your current home and Reading
  
• Size and layout of the property being moved
  
• Ease of access, including parking restrictions and apartment access
  
• Time of year and day of the week
  
• Additional services such as packing or temporary storage
  

Typical removal costs to consider

While every move is different, approximate costs often fall into the following ranges:

• As per a report of 2025, average house removal for 1bedroom apartment can average between  ~£400–£830+
• Costs may increase depending on distance, volume and service requirements
  

Use Pickfords’ cost calculator to get a free removal quote for your home or business move.

Frequently asked questions

• Is Reading, Berkshire a good town to live in? 

 Yes. Reading offers strong career opportunities, excellent transport links and access to quality schools and leading university, making it one of the most desirable towns in the South East part of England.

• Is Reading expensive compared to other Berkshire towns?
  

Property prices are relatively higher than the other UK county, but reasonable if compared to other major towns and cities. Salaries and job availability often offset living costs.