Thinking about moving to Edinburgh? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Edinburgh.
Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is a place of contrasts. It’s a city where ancient castles and modern architecture coexist, where the hustle and bustle of city life is balanced by the tranquility of beautiful parks and gardens. But like any city, living in Edinburgh has its pros and cons. In this article, we will delve into the advantages and disadvantages of making Edinburgh your home.
Pros of Living in Edinburgh
One of the most significant advantages of living in Edinburgh is its rich history and culture. The city’s Old Town and New Town are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, offering a wealth of historical landmarks and attractions. For instance, the iconic Edinburgh Castle, which sits atop Castle Rock, provides a glimpse into Scotland’s past. The Royal Mile, a historic street stretching from the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, is lined with shops selling traditional Scottish goods, from kilts to whisky.
Edinburgh is also a city of festivals. The most famous of these is the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world’s largest arts festival. Every August, performers from around the world descend on the city, transforming it into a global stage. The Edinburgh International Book Festival and the Edinburgh International Film Festival are also highlights of the city’s cultural calendar.
Another advantage of living in Edinburgh is its accessibility to nature. Despite being a city, Edinburgh is home to several beautiful parks and green spaces. The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a haven for plant lovers, while Holyrood Park, with its ancient volcano Arthur’s Seat, offers stunning views of the city. The city’s location also makes it easy to explore the rest of Scotland, from the scenic Highlands to the beautiful beaches of the East Coast.
Edinburgh is also known for its high standard of education. The city is home to several top-ranking universities, including the University of Edinburgh and Heriot-Watt University. There are also numerous volunteering opportunities for students and residents alike, such as at the Edinburgh Food Project, which works to combat food poverty and hunger.
Finally, Edinburgh is a relatively safe city. According to Numbeo, a website that collects user-contributed data about cities and countries worldwide, Edinburgh’s safety index is higher than the UK average. This makes it an attractive place for families and individuals seeking a secure living environment.
Cons of Living in Edinburgh, Scotland
Despite its many advantages, living in Edinburgh also has its downsides. One of the main disadvantages is the cost of living. According to the cost of living index by Numbeo, Edinburgh is one of the most expensive cities in the UK. Rent, in particular, can be quite high, especially in popular areas such as the Old Town and New Town. The cost of groceries, dining out, and other everyday expenses can also add up.
Another downside of living in Edinburgh is the weather. Scotland is known for its unpredictable climate, and Edinburgh is no exception. The city experiences a lot of rainfall throughout the year, and winters can be particularly cold and dark. While some people might enjoy the changing seasons, others might find the weather challenging.
Edinburgh’s popularity as a tourist destination can also be a disadvantage for residents. During peak tourist season, especially during the summer festivals, the city can become crowded. This can lead to increased noise, traffic, and longer waits at restaurants and attractions. It can also make it more difficult to find accommodation, as many properties are rented out as holiday lets.
While Edinburgh is generally safe, like any city, it does have areas with higher crime rates. According to Police Scotland data, areas such as Leith and the city centre have higher levels of crime compared to other parts of the city. However, it’s worth noting that these areas are also some of the most densely populated, which can skew the statistics.
Finally, while Edinburgh offers many job opportunities, particularly in sectors such as finance, technology, and tourism, competition can be fierce. The presence of several universities in the city means that there is a steady supply of graduates vying for jobs. This can make it more challenging for newcomers to find employment.
